ENTERPRISES : DEBATE OPENS ON HOW TO MANAGE RESTRUCTURING DURING CRISIS.

The European Commission is exploring ways of reducing the harmful consequences of restructuring operations (reorganisation, shutdown, merger, acquisition, staff reduction, outsourcing or relocation of companies). Against the backdrop of massive layoffs due to the crisis, it launched a public consultation of stakeholders, on 17 January, its aim being to identify best practices and help enhance synergy between employees' representatives, companies, public authorities and EU institutions.

A green paper ( Restructuring and anticipation of change: What lessons from recent experience?') - accompanied by a Commission staff working document ( Restructuring in Europe 2011') - raises a number of questions related to the lessons from the crisis, economic and industrial adaptation and the role of regional and local authorities.

From 2002 to 2010, more than 11,000 restructuring cases were registered by the European Restructuring Monitor, with a ratio of two jobs created for every job lost. From 2008 to 2010, this ratio rose to two and a half to one.

The working document describes the impact of the economic and financial crisis on labour markets and the responses of different stakeholders, in particular through social dialogue. It also illustrates European action to anticipate change and develop skills and stresses the role of EU funds in support of restructuring processes.

The green paper raises the following questions, among others...