Socioeconomic models for the knowledge society
The European socio-economic models of a knowledge-based society' (ESEMK) project studied the diversity of socioeconomic models in Europe and the factors that influence them. Researchers investigated whether a specific European socioeconomic model could emerge that is distinct from other models existing in the developed world. Analytical tools were developed to investigate changes taking place at the societal and company levels and how they interact with one another. Researchers examined how the European model can be altered by changes to employment and financial practices in organisations. The consortium examined whether a model that includes social protection and corporate governance will emerge, or whether Europe is headed towards a more market-based model. In addition, the social-political equilibrium that supports the European model was studied to determine which models may be associated with it, and whether they are viable. Results from the ESEMK model will help policymakers to decide whether European-level institutions can replace national-level institutions as the drivers for the implementation of a European socioeconomic model.
