The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, or Eurofound, has opened its historical archives and transferred them to the Historical Archives of the European Union. In doing so the Agency aims to contribute to public information on the history of the European Union and to further enhance transparency on the functioning of the EU Institutions.
The transfer of the historical archives is in accordance with Council Regulation No. 2015/496 (EU), and the subsequent framework agreement between the European Commission and the EUI, whereby EU institutions are required to deposit their historical archives at the Historical Archives of the European Union, following the 30 year rule. This regulation also applies to the agenices Eurofound and CEDEFOP, the two most longstanding agencies of the EU.
The documents transferred cover from when Eurofound became operational in 1976 and include the 1987 review of the remit and functioning of the Agency by the European Parliament and the European Commission. The latest transfer covers the period 1988-1990 and comprises 68 A4 archival boxes relating to the Governing Board, Bureau, and Committee of Experts. The files have been digitised to enhance transparency and accessibility for citizens across the Union.
In a recent press release concerning the opening of the archives, Eurofound Executive Director Ivailo Kalfin said, ‘Much has changed in Ireland and in Europe since President Patrick Hillery officially opened Eurofound’s offices at Loughlinstown in Dublin in 1978. These archives show the progress that has been made, and the enduring determination of women and men across Europe to improve the work and lives of all citizens. I am very pleased to see them made more accessible and for Eurofound to contribute to the European Union’s burgeoning history.’
Eurofound is one of the first decentralised agencies in the EU, having been established by regulation in 1975 (shortly after Cedefop). It provides information, advice and expertise on working conditions and sustainable work, industrial relations, labour market change and quality and life and public services, to support the EU Institutions and bodies, Member States and Social Partners in shaping and implementing social and employment policies, as well as promoting social dialogue on the basis of comparative information, research and analysis.
Consult the Eurofound holdings at the HAEU.
Image provided courtesy of Eurofound - © Eurofound