Vera Pirimova
STRATEGIES AND TRENDS FOR STABILIZATION
OF THE ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
AND BULGARIA
Summary:
The study classifies the comparative characteristics, the major problem areas and the challenges for the economic growth of the EU and Bulgaria in the context of the "Europe 2020" strategy. The main structural weaknesses are the lower growth rates, the relatively high unemployment rates, the insufficient level and the un-optimized structure of employment, and the social problems and differentiations between the EU countries. These weaknesses were singled out on the basis of statistical data and empirical analysis of the economic developments in the EU during the period 1970-2010, and mainly during the last twenty years. The structural weaknesses of regional economies are even more obvious in the process of integration and intensifying competition with third countries, especially in terms of intensive economic globalization. To overcome the highlighted economic and social problems we definitely need to take certain measures on national level as well as coordinated policies within the EU. Our efforts must be focused primarily on stimulating investments (particularly in advanced technologies), solving problems of the development of the European educational systems, development and implementation of environmental technologies. Thus we can achieve greater competitiveness and improve the quality and sustainability of economic growth in the EU and Bulgaria.
