A Journey from Berlin to Bucharest: Rails, Reflections and Border Checks
Jacob Lippold reminisces about taking the train to join our General Assembly in Bucharest and talks about the future of European international rail.
For chances without borders
Incomes in Europe have been increasing over the past few decades, but the growth has been uneven, leading to persistent inequalities across the EU. The labour market is divided, with some workers having stable jobs while others face insecure working conditions and fewer rights.
Additionally, severe skill shortages in areas with potential for sustainable growth hinder the participation of young people and women in the workforce.
The lack of cohesive social mechanisms in Europe further worsens the situation, leading to high poverty rates and tarnishing the EU's image as a symbol of prosperity and equality. At Volt, we see these challenges as opportunities to create a more productive and fair work environment through the use of technology and the establishment of a European Social Union.
Embracing automation, AI, and green technologies can boost productivity, create new jobs, and raise wages. Remote work and robust workers' rights are also crucial elements for ensuring fair working conditions and harmonising standards across the EU. Additionally, we are proposing a common minimum EU tax base for direct taxation to end tax competition between Member States and facilitate tax harmonisation.
With these reforms, we can support all citizens and guarantee their rights, ultimately enhancing prosperity and equality across the EU.
A Truly European Social Union
Volt will advocate for the creation of an EU Ministry of Finance that can prepare Europe for future challenges and opportunities. We propose a ‘European Basic Income’ to provide a step ladder for those escaping poverty, and to harmonise tax procedures so ensure true free movement throughout Europe.
European Welfare for All
We want to guarantee basic social protections for all Europeans by harmonising policies around pensions, healthcare, parental leave, childcare and unemployment insurance. We will also ensure universal access to affordable, quality childcare to support working families and give all children the best start in life.especially support working women.
Protection of Workers' Rights
Volt will level up labour laws and standards across Europe to strengthen protections for all types of employment. We will monitor for abuse while also promoting flexibility and independence for self-employed and gig workers. Volt therefore wants to create binding policies that incentivise gender equality and ethical practices in businesses.
Ensure democracy at work and protect remote workers
Flexibility and work-life-balance are key to Europeans’ welfare both at work and at home. We believe strong EU regulations requiring companies to offer remote work options wherever practical will secure the future of employment. Additionally, we will amplify workers’ voices through board-level representation and policies supporting collective bargaining and cooperative business models. Unions will be protected on a European level.
More themes
The 5+1 Challenges
Volt has defined 5+1 fundamental Challenges that need to be tackled in each European country and in Europe as a whole.
Why 5 + 1 Challenges?
The 5 Challenges are basically the same for every country, but their implementation can be adapted on the national level to take into account local realities.
The +1 Challenge – our proposal to reform and strengthen the EU – is identical across all our national programmes.
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01
Smart State
Education and digitalisation are key elements of the 21st century
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02
Economic Renaissance
An innovative economy must be the engine of society's progress
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03
Social Equality
No-one should be left behind - no matter their gender, income, religion. or origin
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04
Global Balance
Europe needs to assume responsibility for its role in global challenges
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05
Citizen Empowerment
People must be empowered to influence politics beyond elections alone
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+1
EU Reform
We love the EU - this doesn't mean there is no room for improvement