Competitiveness is the result of investments in people, knowledge, technology, infrastructure and institutions that compel enough economic confidence but also stimulate entrepreneurship and risk-taking. In all those areas, our country needs clear policy changes.

In the Netherlands an innovative procedure has been chosen. Instead of saltless compromises there is an exchange of desiderata of each party. Also in our country enough taboos exist to be broken.

Marc De Vos proposes to combine reduced unemployment benefits with enhanced investment towards new work, using the budget of current employment plans for tailor-made support for the unemployed.

Marc De Vos calls upon all parties not to let Ford Genk’s workers to go the way of their plant. A modern “social plan” can emphasize new work, with more solidarity among the workers. Bridge pensions are asocial for all concerned.

After the announcement of Ford to close the factory in Genk, many are left with the feeling of being a victim of high level power games.

Do we need more admissions tests in higher education? Do admission tests result in shortage? Some lessons from Flanders.