Goteborg, 18 November 2017 _ CECOP welcomes the joint proclamation of the European Pillar of Social Rights by the European Council, the European Commission and the European Parliament during the Social Summit held Friday 17 November in Gothenburg, Sweden. EU institutions and Heads of State have given a strong message of hope to European citizens who are now awaiting concrete action that would keep up with the European social model. Cooperatives in industry and services particularly hail the recognition that economic and social progress are intertwined and hope to see a drastic shift of EU policies towards encouraging investment, including social investment, rather than putting austerity pressure on member states. Being essential allies given their contribution to a competitive economy aimed at quality employment and social progress, cooperatives in industry and services expect to see the Pillar’s principles and rights legally enforceable through the adoption of concrete implementation measures or legislation. ***END***