Interim report on the follow up to the Hampton Court meeting

At Hampton Court on 27 October 2005 the Heads of State and Government of the European Union had a fruitful discussion on Europes response to globalisation. The Communication of the Commission European values in the globalised world helped to focus the discussion on the challenges and opportunities ahead of us. All agreed that Europe needs economic reforms and social modernisation to safeguard its values. At the end of the informal meeting the Commission was asked to take the lead in further work on research and development, universities, demographic challenges, energy, migration and security. It was agreed that this work will not lead to new processes or structures but will be mainstreamed into existing channels. President Barroso announced that he will present a concept paper on the external projection of the European Union in the world. Swift and firm efforts in all these areas are essential to boost Europes response to globalisation.

This interim report consists of two parts. Part 1 sets out the general approach followed and the actions taken since the Hampton Court meeting. In part 2 additional information is given on the way the Commission is taking work forward in each Hampton Court work stream.