Developing a wellbeing economy approach at EU level

8.10.2019

Question for written answer E-003146-19
to the Commission
Rule 138
Aileen McLeod (Verts/ALE)

Scotland is leading the way in promoting the need for a wellbeing economy that puts the wellbeing of citizens and the protection of the planet at the core of economic policymaking, ensuring that the economy works better for all citizens and that the environment is protected for future generations. In 2017, Scotland took the lead in establishing a new network called the Group of Wellbeing Economy Governments, bringing together as founding members Scotland, Iceland and New Zealand to challenge the acceptance and use of GDP as the ultimate measure of a country’s success, and promote collective wellbeing. Steps taken by the Finnish EU Presidency to prioritise an ‘economy of wellbeing’ approach in EU economic policymaking are welcome.

Given that the move towards a wellbeing economy which puts people and the planet first is now the objective of a growing number of governments, such as Scotland, Iceland and New Zealand, as well as international bodies including the OECD, would the Commission consider hosting another ‘Beyond GDP’ high-level conference, building on the conference held in 2007 to explore alternative ways of measuring wellbeing?