Ref. Ares(2015)4588529 - 26/10/2015
Ref. Ares(2017)3665888 - 20/07/2017
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Directorate-General for Trade
Directorate E - Neighbouring countries, USA and Canada
USA and Canada
Brussels,
USA and Canada
Meeting Report
Meeting Report between Commissioner Malmström and ETUC - 15 January 2015
Participants:
Bernadette Segol, Art. 4.1b
(ETUC)
Commissioner Malmström (CM), Jolana Mungengová, Art. 4.1b
Summary:
Welcomed meeting Commissioner, and while ETUC recognised that CM is in listening
mood, ETUC was ready to be on the talking front.
ETUC noted that the "fresh start" should not only relate to trade but rather concern all
EU policies and contribute to increasing confidence of workers and EU citizens in the
EU system. It should not be about saying things differently but about a different practice
and about delivering now. ETUC concerned that some parts of its membership base is
also turning towards more extremism.
ETUC recalled that it is not an anti-trade or anti-globalisation movement as it recognises
that trade can contribute to increasing employment (ie ETUC did not oppose the EU-FTA
with Korea). But trade agreements should also bring quality jobs, social rights and
respect EU values.
On trade agreements, ETUC opposes the inclusion of ISDS provisions and believe that
labour and social provisions should be enforceable to ensure they mean something in
practice.
TTIP ISDS
Long exchange on the outcome of the public consultation. ETUC noted that its single
contributuon to the consultation must be taken as more than one voice, given the weight
this organisation has in the EU. CM recalled briefly the methodology used to take into
account all the views expressed and recognised the strong scepticism of the majority of
respondents.
ETUC noted how difficult it is becoming for it to maintain its current pro-TTIP approach
given the political pressure on ISDS and the internal pressure from its members on this
particular area. Ms Segol clearly indicated that she would not engage in a political battle
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