17-07-2024
In the lead-up to the next European Commission mandate, the wishlists from the European People’s Party (EPP), the Socialists & Democrats (S&D), and the Greens/European Free Alliance (Greens/EFA) for von der Leyen’s second term provide a unique glimpse into their priorities. These documents encompass a broad range of socio-economic and environmental goals, but are these groups considering the long-term impacts of their plans and the effects of the proposed policies on future generations?
EPP’s Commitment to Intergenerational Fairness
The EPP’s wishlist outlines various priorities aimed at strengthening Europe’s resilience and growth. Notably, the EPP emphasises the need for a “Pact for Intergenerational Fairness.” This pact proposes a youth and elderly proof check on all EU legislation, ensuring that laws do not disproportionately favour one generation over another. This initiative aims to balance the needs of young people and the elderly, acknowledging the demographic challenges Europe faces. However, the omission of robust climate action could undermine the very future they aim to protect.
S&D’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
The S&D wishlist presents a more forward-looking plan focusing on social progress, climate action, and fair taxation. Their “Climate & Just Transition Agenda 2040” aims to set an ambitious intermediate climate target for 2040, with a strong emphasis on social inclusivity and protection during the green transition. This approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability and social justice. However, the S&D’s agenda still lacks a clear framework for assessing the long-term impacts of their policies on future generations.
Greens/EFA: A Comprehensive Forward-Looking Approach
The Greens/EFA wishlist presents a comprehensive approach to sustainability and intergenerational equity. Their priorities include ambitious climate policies, social justice, and democratic renewal. Their “Green New Deal” aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2040, going beyond the current EU targets. The Greens/EFA also emphasise the importance of youth engagement and empowerment, recognising young people as key stakeholders in shaping Europe’s future. Even in this case, the wishlist lacks a functional tool to assess the impact of policy in the long run.
The Need for a Future Generations Impact Assessment
There is a clear need for stronger and more explicit commitments to future generations. The EPP’s proposal for a Pact for Intergenerational Fairness is a step in the right direction in procedural terms. The S&D’s and Greens/EFA’s detailed social and environmental agendas could benefit from incorporating a long-term impact assessment framework. A Future Generations Impact Assessment would fill this gap, ensuring that policies are evaluated for their long-term implications. The upcoming Commission has a critical role in ensuring that today’s decisions do not compromise tomorrow’s opportunities. All parties should commit to a truly intergenerational agenda.