Labor Markets and Social Security in the Entrepreneurial Society

Abstract

Increasing the availability of skilled labor to small and innovative ventures is imperative if entrepreneurship and innovation are to flourish within the European Union. Building up a qualitatively and quantitatively fitting labor force is always a challenge for new, growing ventures, but Europe’s labor market and social security systems tend to create specific barriers to such growth. By aiming for neutrality and portability in social security systems, we propose reforms that will increase the mobility and flexibility of labor, while maintaining a generous level of social security and labor protection. As competencies in labor markets and social security are concentrated at the member state level, the proposals made in this chapter mainly speak to policymakers at that level. Moreover, our proposals extend the scope of what is traditionally considered entrepreneurship policy.