SOCIAL INEQUALITIES OF THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC SPACE IN THE CONTEXT OF GLOBAL TRANSFORMATIONS

Abstract

Introduction. In a context of increasing global economic transformations, both external and internal challenges for the economic space of the European Union grow. In this context, social inequalities between EU member states are deepening, which requires the search for new methods and approaches to overcoming social imbalances, i.e. characterize the social orientations of the European Union and assess the state of social inequalities between the member states, identify possible risks for its deepening and ways to reduce the negative consequences for the EU economy and national economies. Methods. Abstract and logical, historical methods, methods of system analysis and theoretical generalization, analysis, synthesis and comparison are used to achieve the goal in the study. Results. It is established that the global economic crisis has become a catalyst for social and economic reforms in the EU countries and strengthened social stratification. The basis of legal regulation of the European concept of social justice is revealed. The existence of social inequalities of the European economic space and polarization of countries by the level of social justice is confirmed. It is substantiated that the European social model under the influence of EU enlargement, global transformations and crisis phenomena has significantly weakened. The basic measures for overcoming social inequality in the European economic space are determined, in particular: implementation of innovative approaches to the processes of social coordination and cohesion of countries, strengthening social responsibility of business, implementation of state employment programs, development of inclusive social security programs, inter-institutional partnership, coordination of national migration programs within the EU, etc. Discussion. The proposed measures will enable to achieve social integration and unity for the European Union and its member countries, implement productive reforms that reduce gaps in social and economic development of countries and are aimed at achieving social justice.