Annual growth survey 2013. Communication from the Commission.

Abstract

The on-going economic and financial crisis in the EU has been a catalyst for deep change. Its impact can be seen in the profound restructuring of our economies which is currently taking place. This process is disruptive, politically challenging and socially difficult – but it is necessary to lay the foundations for future growth and competitiveness that will be smart, sustainable and inclusive. In order to continue with the necessary reforms, the EU needs to be able to show that our policies are working, that they will deliver results over time and that they will be implemented fairly in terms of the impact on our societies. Correcting the problems of the past and putting the EU on a more sustainable development path for the future is a shared responsibility of the Member States and the EU Institutions. Recognising that our economies are closely intertwined, the EU is now reshaping its economic governance to ensure better policy responses to current and future challenges. This Annual Growth Survey launches the European Semester for 2013 and sets out how this shared responsibility can be used to drive change across the EU, laying the foundations for a return to growth and job creation.