Europe 2020 strategy for a smart, inclusive and sustainable growth: a first evaluation

Abstract

In this paper, an analysis of the Europe 2020 strategy indicators has been carried out, in order to identify in what socio-economic conditions European Countries have reached 2019. The strategy defined three priorities for growth in the European countries: Smart growth (developing an economy based on knowledge and innovation), Inclusive growth (fostering high employment, and ensuring social and territorial cohesion) and Sustainable growth (promoting a more resources-efficient, greener and more competitive economy). These goals were declined in eight headline indicators, and thus measurable targets, making governments "accountable" to the citizens and to the Commission. The indicators are related to employment, research and innovation, climate change, renewables and energy, education and poverty. For each indicator, a benchmark has been set, and the eight indicators are subject to regular statistical monitoring and reporting. Europe2020 is perhaps not a complete set of indicators for measuring the progress of societies and the quality of life of their citizens, but it is a very important recognition of European institutions that GDP alone is not enough and that it must necessarily be integrated with measures that take into account equity and sustainability . After 10 years, the EU has not reached the target identified in 2010, and Italy in 2019 was well behind the other countries in the EU.