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<title>Itinera Institute - Publications and presentations</title>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org</link>
<description>Itinera Institute - Publications and presentations</description>
<image>
<url>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/web/sources/img/logo_itinera.jpg</url>
<title>Itinera Institute - Publications and presentations</title>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org</link>
</image>
<copyright>Copyright 2012, Itinera Institute</copyright>
<language>en</language>
<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
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<title>Euro-policy in the balance: too little, but not (yet) too late</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos offers a broad reflection on the crisis management of the euro. Notwithstanding all the tribulations, the basic direction is right albeit incomplete. But the European politicians are playing a historic poker game with a different timing than the financial markets. It is therefore improbable that the Eurozone will come through the crisis intact.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/euro-policy-in-the-balance-too-little-but-not-yet-too-late/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/euro-policy-in-the-balance-too-little-but-not-yet-too-late/</guid>
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<title>Belgium divided between strike and anti-strike </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Jean Hindriks and Laurent Hanseeuw shed lights on the popular opposition against the general strike taking place this Monday 30 January. They explain the apparent paradox stating that powerful labor unions can be useful safeguard against inopportune strikes. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgium-divided-between-strike-and-anti-strike/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgium-divided-between-strike-and-anti-strike/</guid>
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<title>Presentation Marc De Vos: Happiness and politics</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-marc-de-vos-geluk-en-politiek/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-marc-de-vos-geluk-en-politiek/</guid>
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<title>Presentation Vandenbroucke Happiness and politics</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-vandenbroucke-happiness-and-politics/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-vandenbroucke-happiness-and-politics/</guid>
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<title>Hooray for the European criticism!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The intervention of the European commission is to be considered a sign of progress on the road towards European integration and a positive consequence of the current crisis.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/hooray-for-the-european-criticism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/hooray-for-the-european-criticism/</guid>
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<title>Why our public debt needs to be reduced</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos and Ivan Van de Cloot explain why the Belgian public debt is problematic. We will over many years, unfortunately, have to pay the debt bill of the past in order to build the future.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-our-public-debt-needs-to-be-reduced/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-our-public-debt-needs-to-be-reduced/</guid>
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<title>In Europe, we need to move!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Laurent Hanseeuw recalls the issue of factor mobility, and labor mobility in particular, in the constitution of an optimal currency zone. When comparing to the US, European workers are reluctant to move, even in their own state. Languages are a natural barrier, but they are many others which policymakers should cope. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/in-europe-we-need-to-move/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/in-europe-we-need-to-move/</guid>
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<title>Happiness and politics: a plea for bright thinking</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Saying that the height of the GDP is our best standard for well-being, is just as twisted reasoned as saying that the Gross National Happiness is our best standard, argues Frank Vandenbroucke in a reaction to the discussion essay by Marc De Vos on happiness and politics.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/happinessandpoliticspleaforbrightthinking/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/happinessandpoliticspleaforbrightthinking/</guid>
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<title>VAT reduction for the catering industry: who benefits? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Laurent Hanseeuw and Jean Hindriks analyze the effects of a VAT reduction for the catering industry, introduced in Belgium in 2010. First, they review the economic fundamentals pleading for such a favorable rate. Then they analyze the impact of this reduction based on the reasons which have been used to justify such a reduced rate. We can conclude that the impact has been fairly modest when it comes to job creation and that the sector remains heavily exposed to the black economy.   ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/vatreductioncateringindustry/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/vatreductioncateringindustry/</guid>
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<title>Less trains is not the solution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is inconceivable to weaken rail transport in Belgium as the demographic, economic en environmental needs push us rather to strengthen it. How to justify then the suppression of almost 200 trains by December 2012?]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/less-trains-is-not-the-solution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/less-trains-is-not-the-solution/</guid>
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<title>The euro crisis : everything you always wanted to know, but never dared to ask</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Etienne de Callata&#255; explains the economic fundamentals which lie at the basis of the euro crisis. He then details the consequences this crisis could have and possible solutions we could reach. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-euro-crisis-everything-you-always-wanted-to-know-but-never-dared-to-ask/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-euro-crisis-everything-you-always-wanted-to-know-but-never-dared-to-ask/</guid>
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<title>The future will be bright, if we want it to be</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos opens the new year with a dose of optimism. In the short run many lights are red. But if we undertake the right reforms then the weather at the end of the tunnel will be better than at its beginning.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-future-will-be-bright-if-we-want-it-to-be/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-future-will-be-bright-if-we-want-it-to-be/</guid>
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<title>Savings in education: 3 pillars</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Our most important winning card for the future are our youth, hence the importance of clear recommendations towards government and education policy. The Itinera Institute offers a platform to Carl Van Keirsbilck, who suggests three pillars that can lead in a simple way to recurrent savings without touching on the quality of our education system.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/savings-in-education-3-pillars/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/savings-in-education-3-pillars/</guid>
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<title>Call for a broad pension strategy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos responds to the demonstrations against pension reform. The debate is poisoned by a combination of denial, fundamentalism and utopic spinning. He argues for a general mobilization for a broad pension strategy, carried by visionary realism.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/call-for-a-broad-pension-strategy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/call-for-a-broad-pension-strategy/</guid>
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<title>Relieve the traffic: trifling work in the short term</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since some weeks the reserve road on the E313 road is accessible to traffic during peak hours. One could consider reducing the number of paths during peak hours and have an express bus use the reserve road instead. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/relieve-the-traffic-trifling-work-in-the-short-term/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/relieve-the-traffic-trifling-work-in-the-short-term/</guid>
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<title>Healthcare: From star to cash cow? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Lieven Annemans analyses the potential impact of budgetary restrictions in our healthcare system. He pleads for more quality-friendliness in the payment system if we want to maintain a solidary and internationally renowned healthcare system. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcare-from-star-to-cash-cow/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcare-from-star-to-cash-cow/</guid>
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<title>Do not obstruct, but construct</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos responds to the union march against the government. The protesters underestimate the situation and the government offers too little positive perspective through structural reforms. We are not reforming too much but too little.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/donotobstructbutconstruct/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/donotobstructbutconstruct/</guid>
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<title>From Dexia to energy invoices</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Laurent Hanseeuw and Ivan van de Cloot recall the structure of a liberalized energy market and the appropriate regulation it requires. Political projects which intend to maintain, or even rise, revenues for municipalities via the so-called distribution tariffs should be avoided. The losses related to Dexia&#8217;s fall should be compensated by other means.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/from-dexia-to-energy-invoices/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/from-dexia-to-energy-invoices/</guid>
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<title>Reclaiming Happiness from Politics</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Happiness is back, both in the sciences and in politics. While the economy is suffering from a systemic crisis, the time is ripe for an explicit happiness agenda that seeks to steer society consciously towards personal wellbeing. This essay &#8211; the first discussion paper in the series &#8220;Back to Basics&#8221; &#8211; embraces happiness as a relevant policy concern but refutes fundamentally the terms and the purpose of the current happiness revival. It ends with a call to save happiness from politics, and instead promote it through careful facilitation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reclaiming-happiness-from-politics/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reclaiming-happiness-from-politics/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/en/doc/dp_1_uk_final%20versionfor%20website_uk.pdf" length="455083" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>The Budget 2012 through the Itinera Lens</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The government passes the European exam but misses structural reforms. Itinera calls on the new government to implement, within this term, structural reforms and to keep additional fiscal measures in reserve.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/thebudget2012theitinerapointofview/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/thebudget2012theitinerapointofview/</guid>
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<title>Video: budgetary reflections IVDC</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videobudgetaryreflections/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videobudgetaryreflections/</guid>
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<title>Vid&#233;o: La Belgique a-t-elle trafiqu&#233; ses comptes?_Jean Hindriks</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labelgiqueatelletrafiquesescomptesjeanhindriks/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labelgiqueatelletrafiquesescomptesjeanhindriks/</guid>
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<title>Reform in Italy is also important to us </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Italy need better an economic performance than in the last ten years. For this structural reform in the field of pensions, tax policy, labour market, innovation and others are essential. We thus share not only common interests with Italy but also many challenges. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reform-in-italy-is-also-important-to-us/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reform-in-italy-is-also-important-to-us/</guid>
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<title>Comparison between Belgium and the Netherlands: tables and figures</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Itinera organised a Belgium-the Netherlands on &#8220;working longer&#8221;. The Netherlands proved to be not the best student in the class. Nevertheless, they beat Belgium on about all parameters characterizing an age-friendly labour market.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/comparisonbetweenbelgiumandthenetherlandstablesandfigures/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/comparisonbetweenbelgiumandthenetherlandstablesandfigures/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: working longer in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ All the political parties are talking about it. The Generation Pact wanted to realize it. But will we manage to create an age-friendly labor market? Marc De Vos pleads for a new Age Pact that must prepare our labor market for the imminent demographic changes. It consists of structural reforms that must be implemented gradually, temporary measures that will have an immediate effect, and a general mobilization through more symbolism.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationworkinglongerinbelgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationworkinglongerinbelgium/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: working longer in the Netherlands</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Judith Roosblad from the Council for Work and Revenue makes an evaluation of the situation of older workers on the Dutch labor market. She also analyses the policy initiatives that have thus far been taken. Compared to Belgium, the Netherlands are further in the modernization of the labor market when it comes to facilitating longer careers: less pre-pensions, an active approach to lay-offs, and a more visionary way of looking at the career of the future. Moreover, the Dutch pension system is more adapted to demographic imbalances thanks to an important capitalization component and an increase of the legal pension age.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationworkinglongerinthenetherlands/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationworkinglongerinthenetherlands/</guid>
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<title>Working longer in the Netherlands</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Judith Roosblad from the Council for Work and Revenue makes an evaluation of the situation of older workers on the Dutch labor market. She also analyses the policy initiatives that have thus far been taken. Compared to Belgium, the Netherlands are further in the modernization of the labor market when it comes to facilitating longer careers: less pre-pensions, an active approach to lay-offs, and a more visionary way of looking at the career of the future. Moreover, the Dutch pension system is more adapted to demographic imbalances thanks to an important capitalization component and an increase of the legal pension age. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/working-longer-in-the-netherlands/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/working-longer-in-the-netherlands/</guid>
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<title>Working longer: a policy agenda from a Belgian perspective</title>
<description><![CDATA[ All the political parties are talking about it. The Generation Pact wanted to realize it. But will we manage to create an age-friendly labor market? Marc De Vos pleads for a new Age Pact that must prepare our labor market for the imminent demographic changes. It consists of structural reforms that must be implemented gradually, temporary measures that will have an immediate effect, and a general mobilization through more symbolism. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/workinglongerapolicyagendafromabelgianperspective/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/workinglongerapolicyagendafromabelgianperspective/</guid>
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<title>A study year&#8217;s value</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Laurent Hanseeuw and Brieuc Van Damme are skeptical of prolonging the studies to become a teacher in Flanders. It increases costs for students and reduces the supply of teachers. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-study-years-value/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-study-years-value/</guid>
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<title>Does Belgium cheat? Nonsense!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ German scientists distrust the quality of economic data on Belgium, using the Benford law. This law enables to find potential irregularities in accounting books. Jean Hindriks squashes the  rumour  and explains why Belgium distances itself from this &#8220;accounting rule&#8221; in order to cope better with budgetary rules.   ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-belgium-cheat-nonsense/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-belgium-cheat-nonsense/</guid>
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<title>Tackling with the roots of the european crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The European strategy known as kicking the can down the road has proven to have been counterproductive. A vigorous solution cannot escape the need for decisive measures for both insolvent countries and the too big to fail banks. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tackling-with-the-roots-of-the-european-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tackling-with-the-roots-of-the-european-crisis/</guid>
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<title>Video: a modern and effective public sector: Jean Hindriks</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videopublicsectorjeanhindriks/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videopublicsectorjeanhindriks/</guid>
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<title>Video: From #NoGov to #GoodGov</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videofromnogovtogoodgov/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videofromnogovtogoodgov/</guid>
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<title>Video: Housing in times of scarcity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videohousingintimesofscarcity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videohousingintimesofscarcity/</guid>
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<title>Video: How to keep health care affordable?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videohoegezondheidszorgbetaalbaarhouden/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videohoegezondheidszorgbetaalbaarhouden/</guid>
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<title>Video: Pension reform by Jean Hindriks</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videopensionreformbyjeanhindriks/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videopensionreformbyjeanhindriks/</guid>
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<title>Itinera and the clash of ideas</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is crucial for democracy to have an open mind towards opposite visions as this reduces the risk  that similar people harbor ever more extreme  opinions in their own incrowd. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/itinera-and-the-clash-of-ideas/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/itinera-and-the-clash-of-ideas/</guid>
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<title>The Dexia Saga</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In a sane banking system there is a difference between saving and investing on the one hand, and speculation on the other. A sane banking system takes responsibility for the consequences of wrong choices instead of passing the bill on to the tax payers. The Dexia saga painfully shows that we have a long way ahead of us, says Ivan Van de Cloot. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-dexia-saga/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-dexia-saga/</guid>
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<title>Will we need to outsource care for the sick and elderly to foreigners? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the short term, foreign nurses can help coping with the shortages of our white economy. In the long term we will need structural solutions, says Brieuc Van Damme. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/will-we-need-to-outsource-care-for-the-sick-and-elderly-to-foreigners/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/will-we-need-to-outsource-care-for-the-sick-and-elderly-to-foreigners/</guid>
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<title>From #NoGov to #GoodGov</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The report &quot;From #NoGov to #GoodGov&quot; is a constructive contribution to the negotiations, from a strategic and long-term perspective. The emphasis lies on the major challenges facing the new government, with 45 concrete recommendations for a vigorous policy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fromnogovtogoodgov/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fromnogovtogoodgov/</guid>
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<title>Higher education: end the tuition-fee fetishism </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Jean Hindriks and Laurent Hanseeuw counter the current fetishism that surrounds the university tuition-fees. They recall that universities are underfinanced and students with modest backgrounds are the first victims thereof. They plead for an open debate on the refinancing of higher education. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/higher-education-end-the-tuition-fee-fetishism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/higher-education-end-the-tuition-fee-fetishism/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: From #NoGov to #GoodGov</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The report &quot;From #NoGov to #GoodGov&quot; is a constructive contribution to the negotiations, from a strategic and long-term perspective. The emphasis lies on the major challenges facing the new government, with 45 concrete recommendations for a vigorous policy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationfromnogovtogoodgov/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationfromnogovtogoodgov/</guid>
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<title>Involve babyboomers when financing nursing homes </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The extra subsidies of Flemish Minister for wellbeing Vandeurzen for the construction and renovation of eldercare infrastructure will not be enough to satisfy the growing needs of an ageing population. Thanks to intelligent schemes, babyboomers can finance care infrastructure partly by themselves. If official care initiatives do not need to face new tax increases that is, says Brieuc Van Damme. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/involve-babyboomers-when-financing-nursing-homes/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/involve-babyboomers-when-financing-nursing-homes/</guid>
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<title>The road to a modern unemployment insurance</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos argues for a modern unemployment insurance, through a combination of degressive benefits, progressive career support and eventual societal service. This also settles the debate on time limits for benefits, and on the waiting benefits for the young.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/de-weg-naar-een-moderne-werkloosheidsverzekering/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/de-weg-naar-een-moderne-werkloosheidsverzekering/</guid>
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<title>A crisis plan : 2 new possible solutions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ On the eve of the social and economic negotiations of the future government, Jean Hindriks, economist specialized in the public sector, proposes two concrete measurements to re-organize labour to get out of the crisis.  A &#8220;knowledge lift&#8221; for formation and labour and halftime pension.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-crisis-plan-2-new-possibilities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-crisis-plan-2-new-possibilities/</guid>
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<title>Taxing or getting rid of fat? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Following a new fat tax in Denmark, Brieuc Van Damme recalls the negative externalities implied by junk food and pleads for the introduction of a similar tax in Belgium. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/taxing-or-getting-rid-of-fat/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/taxing-or-getting-rid-of-fat/</guid>
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<title>The budgetary and fiscal challenges for the next government</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot and Etienne De Callata&#255; draw an overview of the budgetary challenges for the next government. The focus should be on savings and efficiency. New government resources are necessary but these should go together with structural reforms. In the short term, Itinera pleads for enshrining a budgetary rule in the constitution and the appointment of a commission of experts. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetfiscalchallenegs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetfiscalchallenegs/</guid>
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<title>The long-term declared disabled employee caught in its statute</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The way in which incapacity to work is defined is vulnerable to critique: we are either fully valid, either fully invalid. That has to change. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-long-term-declared-disabled-employee-caught-in-its-statute/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-long-term-declared-disabled-employee-caught-in-its-statute/</guid>
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<title>Modernize dismissal</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos pleads once more for a modern dismissal law with a pillar re-employment and pre-financing. This will not happen unless it is integrated into the coalition negotiations.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/modernize-dismissal/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/modernize-dismissal/</guid>
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<title>A G-0 world</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees how the G-20 is becoming a talk shop where only collective threat can produce collective action. Globalization is not globally managed, but the subject of a cabal of limited interest clubs with their own agenda.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ag0world/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ag0world/</guid>
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<title>Financing university without taboo</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Laurent Hanseeuw and Jean Hindriks highlight the structural underfinancing of universities and the segregation it induces. They plead for a refinancing of our universities via the so-called deferred tuition fees&#8217; system. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/financing-university-without-taboo/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/financing-university-without-taboo/</guid>
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<title>Selling Belgacom? Yes, but&#8230;</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is likely that the next government plans to sell its shares in Belgacom, the main telecom operator in Belgium. Laurent Hanseeuw explains this makes sense on economic and governance aspects. However, one should avoid to proceed to such a disinvestment for budgetary purposes. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/selling-belgacom-yes-but/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/selling-belgacom-yes-but/</guid>
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<title>&#8220;BHV&#8221; casts its shadow</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees how &#8220;BHV&#8221; casts a long shadow, also on the budget for 2012. He fears for &#8220;Royco Minute Soup&#8221; while the budget should follow from strategic vision and structural reforms.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bhv-casts-its-shadow/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bhv-casts-its-shadow/</guid>
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<title>Presentation:The quest for growth</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationthe-quest-for-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationthe-quest-for-growth/</guid>
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<title>The quest for growth</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The West is facing huge challenges. Decreasing budget deficits and controlling government debt have become universal priorities in no time. But maybe we can grow ourselves out of our problems? Without growth the necessary reforms will be more painful and take more time. In this analysis, Johan Albrecht discusses the importance of productivity and the determining ingredients of the growth recipe. Meanwhile, the author is skeptical about the diminishing industrial capacity of most advanced economies. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-quest-for-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-quest-for-growth/</guid>
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<title>How to refinance our universities?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since higher education has been decentralized in Belgium, public financing of universities in both communities has almost been frozen. Students&#8217; coaching has been continuously scrapped for the last forty years; which certainly does not help the graduation rate. Communities budgets have almost no room to increase means significantly. Therefore, tuition fees need to be increased. In order to avoid creating new hurdles for higher education&#8217;s accessibility, one should implement the so-called deferred tuition fees. Meanwhile, more scholarships should be given to young people from modest backgrounds. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-refinance-our-universities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-refinance-our-universities/</guid>
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<title>Reducing the influence of principal rating agencies: easier said than done</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For reducing the influence of the three principal rating agencies, one should actively stimulate the creation of other agencies.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reducing-the-influence-of-principal-rating-agencies-easier-said-than-done/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reducing-the-influence-of-principal-rating-agencies-easier-said-than-done/</guid>
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<title>Green arms&#8217; race: China floors the West</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains how China is gaining advantage in the development of a green economy. China uses the open world market where it can en abuses it where it musts. Western companies have the choice between demise and collaboration, making Chinese state capitalism more dominant or corrupting.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-armsrace-china-floors-the-west/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-armsrace-china-floors-the-west/</guid>
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<title>Why 9/15 is more important than 9/11</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos gives his vision on 9/11. The collapse of Lehman Brothers is for him of greater historical significance, but in ten years&#8217; time it can also be the reverse.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-915-is-more-important-than-911/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-915-is-more-important-than-911/</guid>
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<title>Libyan oil : will there be an occidental altruism ? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The potential uprising of a democratic State in Libya highlights the question of the oil rent&#8217;s utilization. Laurent Hanseeuw explains the importance of a limited use of this rent in order to avoid economic and political issues that are created by such a money flow.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/libyan-oil--will-there-be-an-occidental-altruism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/libyan-oil--will-there-be-an-occidental-altruism/</guid>
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<title>Less fiscal spendings for less fiscal pressure</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Among the austerity measures and the necessary reforms proposed in the note by formateur Di Rupo, more attention should be given to the necessity to simplify our tax system.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/less-fiscal-spendings-for-less-fiscal-pressure/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/less-fiscal-spendings-for-less-fiscal-pressure/</guid>
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<title>Analysis: Your money or your life? A plea for more cost effectiveness analyses in Belgian healthcare. </title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/your-money-or-your-lifea-plea-for-more-cost-effectiveness-analyses-in-belgian-healthcare4/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/your-money-or-your-lifea-plea-for-more-cost-effectiveness-analyses-in-belgian-healthcare4/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: Your money or your life? A plea for more cost effectiveness analyses in Belgian healthcare. </title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/your-money-or-your-life-a-plea-for-more-cost-effectiveness-analyses-in-belgian-healthcare2/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/your-money-or-your-life-a-plea-for-more-cost-effectiveness-analyses-in-belgian-healthcare2/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/20110913_Your%20money%20or%20your%20life_Presentation.pdf" length="4246036" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>Your money or your life? A plea for more cost effectiveness analyses in Belgian healthcare. </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Belgian healthcare system&#8217;s affordability is at stake. 85-90% of the expense growth can be attributed to the permanent intake of medical innovations. Only by reimbursing the technologies shown to have an acceptable relationship between costs and health effects, can we avoid to have an uncontrollable expense increase. At unchanged policy, 2/3rds of the government budget would go to the national health insurance in 2060. Lieven Annemans and Brieuc Van Damme diagnose Belgium&#8217;s cost-effectiveness policy and formulate concrete recommendations to improve it. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/your-money-or-your-life-a-plea-for-more-cost-effectiveness-analyses-in-belgian-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/your-money-or-your-life-a-plea-for-more-cost-effectiveness-analyses-in-belgian-healthcare/</guid>
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<title>No more fiscal gifts!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Today adequacy of the tax distortion between savings accounts and other forms of savings is being questioned. Unfortunately the proposed solutions are not the right ones. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-more-fiscal-gifts/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-more-fiscal-gifts/</guid>
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<title>Shall immigration be a solution to the ageing ? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Immigration can help attenuate the ageing cost but only if Belgium takes measures which permit to reap fully the positive effects of immigration and reduce its costs.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/immigration-solution-or-ageing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/immigration-solution-or-ageing/</guid>
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<title>What after refusal of the eurobonds ? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ As Germany has blocked the introduction of Eurobonds, alternatives have to be considered. Mechanisms for an orderly exit of a member country, debt reduction schemes have to be considered to open up a new perspective for countries without building castles in the air. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-after-refusal-of-the-eurobonds/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-after-refusal-of-the-eurobonds/</guid>
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<title>Why a crisis tax on the super-rich is no solution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains that we need first and foremost to reform taxation for better governance en more strong shoulders in the economy. Rather than through a symbolic crisis tax, the super-rich can serve the country much more through experience, ideas, and a broad culture of philanthropy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-a-crisis-tax-on-the-superrich-is-no-solution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-a-crisis-tax-on-the-superrich-is-no-solution/</guid>
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<title>Double Dip is only the beginning</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees six crises that trouble our times: financial, public debt, the growth model, the welfare state, the political system, and all of us who are used to having more for less. There is no need for despondency but we have to take our responsibility in unity and with vision.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/double-dip-is-only-the-beginning/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/double-dip-is-only-the-beginning/</guid>
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<title>More quality for Belgium&#8217;s healthcare &#8211; Di Rupo&#8217;s note analyzed</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Now that the negotiations for a new government and a reform of the state are on the political agenda again, it is useful to analyze some specific themes of Di Rupo&#8217;s note more thoroughly. Lieven Annemans takes up the challenge for healthcare. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/more-quality-for-belgiums-healthcaredi-rupos-note-analyzed/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/more-quality-for-belgiums-healthcaredi-rupos-note-analyzed/</guid>
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<title>Deliver us, Lord, from job plans!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos nuances the figures for Belgian job creation and criticizes expensive job plans with plenty of waste and perverse effects. Individual counseling and activation is much more efficient. Eliminating wasteful job plans is a duty in times of budgetary scarcity.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/deliver-us-lord-from-job-plans/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/deliver-us-lord-from-job-plans/</guid>
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<title>Creating, instead of debating, economic value </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The creative forces in Greece were too much diverted to a competition for government resources rather than for wealth creating initiatives.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/creating-instead-of-debating-economic-value/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/creating-instead-of-debating-economic-value/</guid>
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<title>Eliminate the meal vouchers</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees only one solution for the fraud with meal vouchers: abolish the vouchers. All exemptions generate needless complexity. We can best replace them by overall tax reduction. That will also ensure economic progress.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/eliminate-the-meal-vouchers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/eliminate-the-meal-vouchers/</guid>
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<title>Renewable energies in Flandres. What will be the extra cost per family in 2020 ?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Green energy has a cost and it is eventually supported by consumers. The expected expansion of green energy for 2020 could lead to a yearly additional cost between 106&#8364; and 159&#8364; for a family in Flanders. The precise amount depends on the discount allocated to industrial users to protect their international competitiveness. The bigger their discount, the bigger shall be the bill for families.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/renewable-energies-in-flandres-what-will-be-the-extra-cost-per-family-in-2020-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/renewable-energies-in-flandres-what-will-be-the-extra-cost-per-family-in-2020-/</guid>
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<title>We are living beyond our means</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees an age of debt everywhere. Our prosperity and welfare are partly rooted in illusion or exploitation, at the expense of the next generation. We will have to become poorer in the upcoming years, in order to become richer again.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/we-are-living-beyond-our-means/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/we-are-living-beyond-our-means/</guid>
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<title>The real lesson of the eurocrisis: less is more</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees a pattern behind the euro-crisis: European hubris in the face of national realities. The members of the European Union have made a habit out of committing the European Union to run while they are only willing to walk themselves. The key lesson of the Euro-crisis is therefore that less can indeed be more.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-real-lesson-of-the-eurocrisis-less-is-more/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-real-lesson-of-the-eurocrisis-less-is-more/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/mdv_56_uk.pdf" length="157403" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>The bill for the Euro-crisis will hit Belgium too</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees only three ways to pay the bill for the euro-crisis. The easiest path is stealth redistribution among the European tax payers. Belgium will have to bear its share of the burden.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-bill-for-the-euro-crisis-will-hit-belgium-too/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-bill-for-the-euro-crisis-will-hit-belgium-too/</guid>
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<title>The Greek-European tango </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan van de Cloot thinks we will come to a rational analysis of the European debt crisis only if we admit responsibility should be shared between Greeks authorities, European politicians and private investors. The goal is not to consider, as it is often the case, everyone is guilty which makes de facto no one responsible but to share the unavoidable burden on the three stakeholders. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-greek-european-tango/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-greek-european-tango/</guid>
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<title>A family affair	</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Etienne de Callata&#255; analyses the splitting of family allowances policy between communities as it has been proposed in Di Rupo&#8217;s nota. He sees two essential positive points: the refusal to create sub-nationalities in Brussels and the financial responsibility implied on communities. He nonetheless regrets Di Rupo has not looked at children education costs policies through an integrated view.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-family-affair/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-family-affair/</guid>
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<title>The negative side of diploma inflation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos underscores the lowering standards of university education. He warns for a negative spiral of diplomatosis, with ever more students obtaining ever more degrees that are worth ever less.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-negative-side-of-diploma-inflation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-negative-side-of-diploma-inflation/</guid>
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<title>Plea against the degradation of our hospital financing </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Today&#8217;s hospital financing is no longer adapted to the evolutions hospital care is undergoing. Jeroen Trybou and Brieuc Van Damme plead in favor of complete transparency of the financial flows through a thorough evaluation. We also need to put an end to the wrong financial incentives. A better hospital financing will be good for your health, and in the end, that&#8217;s what it&#8217;s all about.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/plea-against-the-degradation-of-our-hospital-financing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/plea-against-the-degradation-of-our-hospital-financing/</guid>
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<title>Presentation Hospital Financing Event </title>
<description><![CDATA[ This is the presentation from the hospital financing event of July 5th, 2011.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-event-hospital-financing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-event-hospital-financing/</guid>
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<title>Chinese money serves Chinese geopolitics</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos warns for a Chinese agenda behind loans and investments. China considers itself to be more than a country: a civilization-state. Chinese money is an instrument of a geopolitical strategy that is potentially threatening to the West.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/chinese-money-serves-chinese-geopolitics/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/chinese-money-serves-chinese-geopolitics/</guid>
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<title>Towards a new organization and financing of our hospitals: what opportunities for improvement?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Today&#8217;s hospital financing is no longer adapted to the evolutions hospital care is undergoing. This is the main conclusion of a report by Jeroen Trybou, health economics researcher at Ghent University, on behalf of Itinera. The way hospitals are being financed is not transparent and fragmented. We plead in favor of complete transparency of the financial flows. This is an essential condition for a serious debate.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-new-organization-and-financing-of-our-hospitals-what-opportunities-for-improvement/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-new-organization-and-financing-of-our-hospitals-what-opportunities-for-improvement/</guid>
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<title>Is the Parti Socialiste the objective ally of Flemish nationalism?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees the Belgian crisis as an issue of party politics: will the success of the Flemish nationalists be durable or not? The Walloon political parties are currently the objective allies of the NV-A. In the meantime, the 2012 local elections are around the corner.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/is-the-parti-socialiste-the-objective-ally-of-flemish-nationalism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/is-the-parti-socialiste-the-objective-ally-of-flemish-nationalism/</guid>
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<title>No age fetishism in pension reform</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos nuances the discussion on the legal retirement age. What really matters is the actual work that our society requires as the solidarity contribution that entitles one to a pension. An adjustment to demographics is unavoidable and needs to be decided as soon as possible. But we need to work longer now if we are to have the Baby-Boomers share in the burden.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-age-fetishism-in-pension-reform/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-age-fetishism-in-pension-reform/</guid>
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<title>No investments, no integration </title>
<description><![CDATA[ There are indeed problems with youngsters from foreign origin. But that insecurity doesn&#8217;t necessarily need to be a fatality of Belgium&#8217;s big cities, says Brieuc Van Damme. The integration levers are known to all: more investments in human capital, a dynamic labor market and efficient law enforcement. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-investments-no-integration/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-investments-no-integration/</guid>
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<title>State payment delays&#8230; Be careful with austerity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Jean Hindriks and Laurent Hanseeuw show the worrying payments delay of the public sector in Belgium and the negative consequences it can have on the economy. Moreover, dramatic delays recorded in Southern European Countries highlight that austerity can push governments to further delay their payments. In a time when Belgium opts for budgetary restrictions, one should keep off following a trend with numerous pernicious effects&#8230; ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/state-payment-delays-be-careful-with-austerity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/state-payment-delays-be-careful-with-austerity/</guid>
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<title>How Belgium resembles Greece</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos remarks that Belgium also has the Greek disease. We too have a culture where fraud is not only tolerated, but even openly defended. This is an existential problem when the whole of society faces a budgetary challenge of many billions.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-belgium-resembles-greece/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-belgium-resembles-greece/</guid>
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<title>The institutional crisis yields a symbolic parliament</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees how parliament, in the absence of a real government, improvises at the surface with symbolic issues. Without an overarching governmental vision, parliament becomes its own victim and leaves society with legislation that is ineffective and full of perverse effects.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-institutional-crisis-yields-a-symbolic-parliament/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-institutional-crisis-yields-a-symbolic-parliament/</guid>
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<title>Only a demand driven sector can really satisfy the &#8216;mediors&#8217; </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Some coast towns have difficulties providing in enough eldercare infrastructure because of the phenomenon of double ageing they face. In this opinion piece, Brieuc Van Damme discusses why the current system is at the very core of this problem and how personalized budgets can help. By financing eldercare from a supply-side perspective, we deny two essential features of the new seniors, the so-called &#8216;mediors&#8217;. They want more budgetary and geographical freedom in the organization of their care. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/only-a-demand-driven-sector-can-really-satisfy-the-mediors/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/only-a-demand-driven-sector-can-really-satisfy-the-mediors/</guid>
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<title>Cooperation between generations will lead to a new &#8216;grand design&#8217; for our welfare state </title>
<description><![CDATA[ We can hardly feel the effects of ageing and there are the first generational conflicts already. The societal divides will no longer be vertical, but between the different age groups. In this opinion piece Brieuc Van Damme analyses where the recent indignation from the youngsters comes from and suggests a new &#8216;grand design&#8217; for our welfare state. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/cooperation-between-generations-will-lead-to-a-new-grand-design-for-our-welfare-state/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/cooperation-between-generations-will-lead-to-a-new-grand-design-for-our-welfare-state/</guid>
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<title>It&#8217;s the economy, stupid!!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos nuances the victorious claims of how social security saved us from the crisis. Belgium owes its relative better performance mostly to economic and demographic factors, some of which actually bode ill for our future growth potential.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/itstheeconomy-stupid/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/itstheeconomy-stupid/</guid>
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<title>The Constitution is being abused into a political instrument</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos attacks the political manipulation of the Belgian Constitution. Depending on the issue, this transpires as strict adherence or cavalier disregard. The infamous &#8220;F&#233;d&#233;ration Wallonie-Bruxelles&#8221; is an example of the latter: a political coup d&#8217;&#233;tat, but with no teeth or guns.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-constitution-is-being-abused-into-a-political-instrument/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-constitution-is-being-abused-into-a-political-instrument/</guid>
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<title>Pension&#8217;s solutions in an ageing country</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot approves that finally the pension debate is again on the table. In 2011 we cannot longer believe in financing the ageing costs without breaking down the taboo of 65 as the end of the career. As long as responsibility is taken, everyone can make his career choices in full freedom. The notional pension system makes sure it is the contributions to the system which determine the rights and no longer the fetish of the age of a person.Ivan Van de Cloot approves that finally the pension debate is again on the table. In 2011 we cannot longer believe in financing the ageing costs without breaking down the taboo of 65 as the end of the career. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pensions-solutions-in-an-ageing-country/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pensions-solutions-in-an-ageing-country/</guid>
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<title>The new law on family reunion copes with symptoms, not the real problems</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The federal parliament has just voted a new law on family reunion, strengthening dramatically migrant&#8217;s ability to come via this channel. According to Laurent Hanseeuw, the problem is that the new law offers only a quantitative response: reduce immigration. The key question is much more to better integrate migrants on our labor market. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-new-law-on-family-reunion-copes-with-symptoms-not-the-real-problems/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-new-law-on-family-reunion-copes-with-symptoms-not-the-real-problems/</guid>
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<title>The budgetary challenge is a fundamental societal choice</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos argues that the budgetary crisis is a systemic crisis. Improving the system is therefore the only sustainable solution. That means giving priority to efficiency gains over austerity, and to tax reform over tax increases. If we want to draw the lessons from the crisis and start the future with a clean sheet, we have no choice: we need to reform structurally and strategically.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-budgetary-challenge-is-a-fundamental-societal-choice/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-budgetary-challenge-is-a-fundamental-societal-choice/</guid>
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<title>What is at stake with family reunion in Belgium?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Laurent Hanseeuw analyses Belgium&#8217;s new legislation on family reunion. The main issue in our country remains the weak labor market integration of non-European immigrants. Nonetheless, the law will probably only have an impact on the size of immigration flows and presents no real solutions to increase migrants&#8217; integration. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-is-at-stake-with-family-reunion-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-is-at-stake-with-family-reunion-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>Who is to blame for NIMBY?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos defends the rule of law. Rules apply to everybody and every citizen has the right to have them enforced by independent judges. The authorities should respect their own rules. Politicians have to guard zoning and planning. &#8220;Not in my backyard&#8221; is caused by too little backyard.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/who-is-to-blame-for-nimby/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/who-is-to-blame-for-nimby/</guid>
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<title>Can a working couple still afford a new house? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ With a relatively low interest rate, a new house building project of 220 000&#8364; can be afforded by 20,6% of the households in our country as long as they manage to come up with 50 000&#8364; own funding. In the typical case of a working couple with two children, 68% can afford such a house but only 18% can finance it without any equity fund (50 000&#8364;). The reduction of building activities could be the consequence of rising costs for housing projects which make potential households fleeing this market. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-a-working-couple-still-afford-a-new-house/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-a-working-couple-still-afford-a-new-house/</guid>
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<title>Great potential for Philanthropy in Belgium </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot presented on the second Day of the Philanthropy the first Index of Philanthropy. This was a combined initiative of the Fondation Roi Baudouin and Itinera Institute and the analysis points to a great potential for philanthropy in our country. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/great-potential-for-philanthropy-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/great-potential-for-philanthropy-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>An effective public sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In all OECD countries, public sector employment is decreasing, but not in Belgium. Given the challenges of ageing and budgetary consolidation, it would make more sense adding public service to the civil servants instead of adding civil servants to the public services. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/un-service-public-efficace/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/un-service-public-efficace/</guid>
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<title>No elegant exit from Euro-malaise</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sketches the scenarios for the endgame in the euro-crisis. It will hurt and it will last a long time. In the meantime the political project of European unification is crumbling. Europa is bleeding on all fronts. It tries too much and therefore achieves too little. If it continues down this path, it risks drowning itself.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-elegant-exit-from-euro-malaise/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-elegant-exit-from-euro-malaise/</guid>
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<title>The pensions: concerns us all</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The social contract is ruptured.  We have to re-establish confidence between generations through a new social contract]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-pensions-concerns-us-all/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-pensions-concerns-us-all/</guid>
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<title>Black swan in the Middle-East</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot makes an economic analysis on the awakening in the Middle East and states these countries constitute the demographic antipode of Western Europe which is characterized by an ageing wealthy population which is afraid of changes as it has a lot to lose.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/black-swan-in-the-middle-east/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/black-swan-in-the-middle-east/</guid>
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<title>Belgian voluntarism is political illusionism</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos is astounded by the multi-year plan that Belgium has presented to the European Union. Voluntarism is really political illusionism that once more masks the seriousness and urgency of the situation for a tame public opinion.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-voluntarism-is-political-illusionism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-voluntarism-is-political-illusionism/</guid>
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<title>Energy chaos in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos regrets the energy chaos in Belgium. Governments fail to make real or sustainable choices and are addicted to the taxation Baxter of a mismanaged energy sector. Instead of policy we have conflicts of interests between politics and energy players.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/energy-chaos-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/energy-chaos-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>Debt crisis as a vulcano with sporadic eruptions </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot hopes Belgium can square the circle of reducing debt while continuing to grow. Maybe our country can succeed doing this as our industry rides in the slipstream of the German success of exporting to Asian growth markets. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/debt-crisis-as-a-vulcano-with-sporadic-eruptions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/debt-crisis-as-a-vulcano-with-sporadic-eruptions/</guid>
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<title>Democracy in times of economic turmoil</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot points out that democratically elected leader shouldn&#8217;t avoid necessary reforms. Key is to show that after difficult choices have been made, economic prosperity is again achievable. Gentle healers make stinking wounds. Experience has demonstrated that even drastic measures can be digested if one can present a positive perspective on the long term. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/democracy-in-times-of-economic-turmoil/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/democracy-in-times-of-economic-turmoil/</guid>
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<title>More equality is no panacea</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos offers some personal perspectives on the thesis that more equality automatically implies more societal wellbeing. Economic growth is critically needed and implies inequalities. Without growth there can be no social security that guarantees wellbeing into the future. Inequalities have downsides, but more equality is no free lunch.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/more-equality-is-no-panacea/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/more-equality-is-no-panacea/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: A modern and effective public sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/amodernandeffectivepublicsector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/amodernandeffectivepublicsector/</guid>
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<title>Not banker bonuses, but bank profits are the problem.</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos gives an alternative reading of the hysteria surrounding banker bonuses. The real issue is not the bonuses, but the profits that come from explicit or implicit state support. Governments should tackle this underlying disease, rather than focusing on the symptom.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/not-banker-bonuses-but-bank-profits-are-the-problem/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/not-banker-bonuses-but-bank-profits-are-the-problem/</guid>
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<title>Will Belgium become the Italy of the North?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees Italy as a possible future version of Belgium that will become reality if we maintain the politics of denial and impasse. The budget is the first major appointment. Will we go for genuine restoration, or just for cosmetics?]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/will-belgium-become-the-italy-of-the-north/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/will-belgium-become-the-italy-of-the-north/</guid>
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<title>A modern and effective public sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In all OECD countries, public sector employment is decreasing, but not in Belgium. Given the challenges of ageing and budgetary consolidation, it would make more sense adding public service to the civil servants instead of adding civil servants to the public services. Other major challenges such as global labour mobility, increasing democratic pressures and the digital revolution will ask a thorough mutation of the organization and production structures of public services in Belgium. In his analysis, Senior Fellow Jean Hindriks recommends 10 domains of reform, going from simplification, coordination and clarification to enhanced mobility and excellence. After Professor Hindriks&#8217; presentation, high-level civil servants will respond. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-modern-and-effective-public-sector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-modern-and-effective-public-sector/</guid>
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<title>The right price per kWh?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Johan Albrecht puts forward that the distribution costs of electricity in Belgium are one third higher than in the rest of the Euro zone. They account for 37% of the electricity bill. Brussels leads the field and is 82% more expensive than the capitals of our neighboring countries. The importance of the distribution costs is underexposed in the debate on our country&#8217;s electricity prices. The author wants to put these high network costs at the very center of the debate, as the risks of these costs continuing to increase in the future is real because of a not carefully designed policy framework for renewable energy projects. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-right-price-per-kwh/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-right-price-per-kwh/</guid>
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<title>The Chinese economy on an unsustainable path </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot points out that China&#8217;s neomercantile policy is not sustainable. On the one hand this creates international tensions and on the other hand internal monetary policy risks losing traction. While America is spreading new money everywhere, until now Chinese central bankers succeeded in draining the surplus money but everybody realizes how delicate this exercise is. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-chinese-economy-on-an-unsustainable-path/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-chinese-economy-on-an-unsustainable-path/</guid>
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<title>How can we solve the white economy&#8217;s HR problem? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The care sector is angry. The wages are not in line with the irregularity of the working hours. The pressure is high too. The sector needs more money and more people. This is, in a nutshell, one of the most worrisome social challenges we will have to face in the nearby future. Brieuc Van Damme analyses why supply and demand are out of balance on the &#8216;white&#8217; labor market and advances concrete policy proposals to help solving the sector&#8217;s HR problem. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-can-we-solve-the-white-economys-hr-problem/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-can-we-solve-the-white-economys-hr-problem/</guid>
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<title>The &#8220;Fries-revolution&#8221;: revolutionaries or reactionaries?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos is critical about the demands of the so-called &#8220;Fries-revolution&#8221;. Real revolution is about giving more, not about claiming more. One cannot fill a hole by digging other and deeper ones.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-fries-revolution-revolutionaries-or-reactionaries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-fries-revolution-revolutionaries-or-reactionaries/</guid>
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<title>Skipping a year at school: beyond the myths. </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Our education system needs to focus on gaining skills, not on every pupil achieving a certain level of skills. Minimal standards do make sense, but we need to be aware that a certain group has already got the required level in the beginning of the school year. Not considering accelerating this group constraints education to occupational therapy. This report from Carl Van Keirsbilck and Ivan Van de Cloot argues that pupils and students should be allowed to skip a year more often in Flanders. It is fundamental to accurately detect these gifted children through recurring standardized tests above level. The authors also hope that the issue of children with an educational advance will not be forgotten in the secondary education reform plans. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/skipping-a-year-at-school-beyond-the-myths/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/skipping-a-year-at-school-beyond-the-myths/</guid>
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<title>Towards a more demand driven care sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Our policymakers only modestly take into account the aspirations of their care needing citizens. They want to have their say en be given the possibility to compose and pay for their care basket. A bigger demand injection in other words and personal care budgets will achieve just that. Foreign examples have shown that by doing so new initiatives have seen the light. Furthermore, economists expect the increased dynamism will translate into lower prices and better quality, fellow Brieuc Van Damme says.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-more-demand-driven-caresector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-more-demand-driven-caresector/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Bye-bye Globocop</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos tells us that we now experience the beginning of the end of the American period. The US cannot pay its imperial status any longer. That is a primer with worldwide implications and a new geopolitical reality follows for Belgium and Europe. Either we escape from our responsibilities or the new game will cost us blood and money.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bye-bye-globocop/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bye-bye-globocop/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The european economy in existential crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van De Cloot points out that three fundamental institutions of economic prosperity are at stake: market regulation institutions that prevent abusive market power, social institutions that legitimize the market are becoming unsustainable, and finally market stabilizing institutions like exchange rate mechanisms, budget and monetary rules that are under pressure because of the euro crisis. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/de-europese-economie-in-existentile-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/de-europese-economie-in-existentile-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why Belgium is heading for the wall</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos contests Belgium&#8217;s good news show. The economic context is temporarily favourable. But we are on the threshold of the great awakening from years of non-governance, in budget, pensions, labour market, and healthcare. The resigning government has the pedagogical duty to raise awareness among the general public.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-belgium-is-heading-for-the-wall/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-belgium-is-heading-for-the-wall/</guid>
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<item>
<title>The Japanese disaster is also an economic catastrophy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot points out that origins of wealth are very complex and lie deeper than reconstructing physical, financial or even human capital. The silver lining for Japan is that the tsunami didn&#8217;t affect the deeper institutions although confidence and other forms of social capital are under pressure. The challenge for Japan is to make sure that there&#8217;s no permanent damage to its productive potential.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-japanese-disaster-is-also-an-economic-catastrophy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-japanese-disaster-is-also-an-economic-catastrophy/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Presentation: Reflections on fiscal policy 2011 &#8211; 2015</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reflections-on-fiscal-policy-2011/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reflections-on-fiscal-policy-2011/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: Reforming Belgium&#8217;s fiscal system: from necessity to opportunity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-reforming-belgiums-fiscal-system-from-necessity-to-opportunity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-reforming-belgiums-fiscal-system-from-necessity-to-opportunity/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Reflections on fiscal policy 2011&#8211;2015</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Itinera Institute has asked fiscal expert Axel Haelterman (KULeuven and Freshfields) to give his view on our country&#8217;s fiscal future. Haelterman identifies 5 important reform domains: fiscal simplification, fiscal investigations and procedures, a reallocation of the fiscal burden, exploring new fiscal horizons, and the regionalization of certain fiscal competences. With this report, the Itinera Institute merely wishes to provoke the debate. The opinions expressed are those of the author. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reflections-on-fiscal-policy-20112015/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reflections-on-fiscal-policy-20112015/</guid>
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<title>Reforming Belgium&#8217;s fiscal system: from necessity to opportunity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Most industrialized countries have problems with their public finances. Fiscal reforms have become a must. How does are fiscal system look like today and what are our options? What are the basic principles to respect when reforming a fiscal system? Senior Fellow Etienne de Callata&#255; tries to answer these questions through the concrete application of a consumption tax. The paper is a part of the Fast Forward series. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reforming-belgiums-fiscal-system-from-necessity-to-opportunity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reforming-belgiums-fiscal-system-from-necessity-to-opportunity/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Palace revolution in the Flemish eldercare</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Zorgnet Vlaanderen, the most important actor in the eldercare sector, wants to do away with the renovation and construction subsidies of nursing homes. A good idea, says Brieuc Van Damme, because the VIPA subsidies are counterproductive. Instead of financing bricks, government should use the subsidies to help make quality care accessible for the poorest elders.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/palace-revolution-in-the-flemish-eldercare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/palace-revolution-in-the-flemish-eldercare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why gender quota are no solution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos takes issue with gender quotas for company boards. Quality, not gender, must remain the touch stone. Quotas are cosmetic measures that do not address causes. Government must fight discrimination, not organize it. A society with equal opportunities is not one with equal results.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-gender-quota-are-no-solution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-gender-quota-are-no-solution/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why is there a gap between Flemish and French-speaking schools?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Hindriks and Verschelde review the possible reasons for the regional divergence in educational attainments. They suggest that the gap between Flemish and French-speaking pupils can be compared to the difference between girls and boys in learning attitudes and motivations. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-is-there-a-gap-between-flemish-and-french-speaking-schools/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-is-there-a-gap-between-flemish-and-french-speaking-schools/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/10_jh.pdf" length="222544" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>A new growth path for Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This Euractiv paper pushes forward the numerous opportunities brought by green energy investment and the general switch towards a low-carbon economy. The different dynamics throughout Europe -either by sector or by regions - are reviewed and proposals are written down to make Europe shifting in the right direction. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-new-growth-path-for-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-new-growth-path-for-europe/</guid>
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<title>Cross-border care EU: How to choose the best hospital?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This study by the &#8216;health consumer powerhouse&#8217; makes a cross-border comparison between 5 EU countries on the disposable of information to patients by hospitals and medical institutions. Though information is increasingly available for patients, significant efforts are still to be done in order to empower the &#8216;consumer&#8217; as the key decider once facing health choices.   ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/cross-border-care-eu-how-to-choose-the-best-hospital/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/cross-border-care-eu-how-to-choose-the-best-hospital/</guid>
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<title>Efficiency of activation's policies</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In its latest release, the journal &#8216;Regards &#233;conomiques&#8217; looks at the efficiency of employment activation policies put in place by the federal government since 2004. The report reminds the broad lines of the activation policies and discusses their impact on Belgium&#8217;s labor market. Several proposals with regards to incitation policies are introduced in order to encourage a swift and smooth come-back on the labor market for all unemployed.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/efficiency-of-activation-policies/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/efficiency-of-activation-policies/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Family reunification in Belgium </title>
<description><![CDATA[ This study tries to give an accurate statistical snapshot of family reunification in Belgium, using several data sources.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/family-reunification-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/family-reunification-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>Flanders within Europe's top regions? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ &#8216;Vlaanderen in actie&#8217; is a platform put in place by the Flemish government in order to bring Flanders at the top of the European regions by 2020. The goal is to make Flanders a top region with respect to several indicators in different fields, from the economic climate to the environment and education. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/flanders-within-europe-top-regions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/flanders-within-europe-top-regions/</guid>
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<title>New contract for pensions is necessary</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This new report from the Dutch planning office shed the lights on the Dutch pension funds&#8217; increasing deficit. They call for a thorough reform of the pension contract in order to avoid an impoverishment of future retirees while guaranteeing a balance in intergenerational solidarity. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/new-contract-for-pensions-is-necessary/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/new-contract-for-pensions-is-necessary/</guid>
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<title>New French integration policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In a second intermediary report, the French government assess the &#8216;revenu de solidarit&#233; active&#8217;s efficiency (rSa). The rSa is a policy that has been introduced in 2009 which replaced other integration and solidarity policies in France. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/revenu-de-solidarite-active/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/revenu-de-solidarite-active/</guid>
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<title>The Bologna process</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report/presentation of the European Commission looks at the improvement of higher education in Europe since the famous Bologna reforms. It first gives an overview of the main steps of the process before discussing its evaluation up until today.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-bologna-process/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-bologna-process/</guid>
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<title>The cost of tax expenditures in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In this HIVA report (KUL), the authors sum up the cost of tax expenditures in Belgium as a whole. They start with an overview of our tax system before analyzing in detail several highly visible policies such as the notional interests and the &#8216;title-services&#8217;. Hence, they run an international comparison of our present tax system. Their conclusions are breathtaking: tax expenditures cost enormously for the state&#8217;s budget and increase inequality between taxpayers. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-cost-of-tax-expenditures-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-cost-of-tax-expenditures-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>Presentation:Healthcare barometer: Information to the patient: expectations and solutions for the 21st century</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationhealthcare-barometer-information-to-the-patientexpectations-and-solutions-for-the-21st-century/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationhealthcare-barometer-information-to-the-patientexpectations-and-solutions-for-the-21st-century/</guid>
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<title>Healthcare barometer:Information to the patient: expectations and solutions for the 21st century</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Together with Knack and Le Vif, the Itinera Institute presents the results of its 2010 healthcare barometer.  Three out of four responding physicians expect patient information to be improved. Doctors want to be able to properly answer their patients when facing questions such as: &#8220;Which hospital for which pathology? How much should I get back from the social security?, etc.&#8221;  To make this happen, doctors will need necessary instruments  in order to accurately inform patients. Development of trusted and approved websites about healthcare, public computers in hospitals, a and better information and education of physicians will all be required to achieve those goals. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcare-barometerinformation-to-the-patient-expectations-and-solutions-for-the-21st-century/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcare-barometerinformation-to-the-patient-expectations-and-solutions-for-the-21st-century/</guid>
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<title>A region must be empowered to enact what the rest of the world does</title>
<description><![CDATA[  In a federal state, it is not acceptable that a Region would be prevented from implementing a policy which is a general practice in peer countries. The rest of the World must inspire us in our policy choices. The principle of &#8216;benchmarking&#8217; should therefore be included in our institutional reforms next to the other key principles such as responsibility, solidarity and collaboration. One cannot impose to a region a federal policy which way too different from policies prevailing in Belgium&#8217;s peers. That tells us Etienne de Callata&#255;&#8217;s last paper.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-region-must-be-empowered-to-enact-what-the-rest-of-the-world-does/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-region-must-be-empowered-to-enact-what-the-rest-of-the-world-does/</guid>
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<title>Revolution in the making</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot makes an economic analysis on the awakening in the Middle East. The desire for political freedom becomes stronger as a population becomes more prosperous, but we witness that in our current age the mobilization of opposition that can make regimes tumble becomes easier.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/revolution-in-the-making/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/revolution-in-the-making/</guid>
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<title>We need to break through the crisis of the Belgian consensus model</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos diagnoses the ongoing difficulties with the new inter-sectorial bargaining agreement. Our consensus model is failing. Politicians and social partners stare at each other and freeze our democracy into one big Stockholm Syndrome. In the absence of political leadership, only a collective awakening to urgency and necessity can force a breakthrough.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/we-need-to-break-through-the-crisis-of-the-belgian-consensus-model/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/we-need-to-break-through-the-crisis-of-the-belgian-consensus-model/</guid>
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<title>The poor percentage. Searching for the meaning of a 15% poverty rate</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Johan Albrecht reflects about poverty measurement. Poverty is a relative and hardly measurable concept with one certitude: we are better poor in a rich country.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/johan-albrecht-reflects-about-poverty-measurement-poverty-is-a-relative-and-hardly-measurable-concept-with-one-certitude-we-are-better-poor-in-a-rich-country/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/johan-albrecht-reflects-about-poverty-measurement-poverty-is-a-relative-and-hardly-measurable-concept-with-one-certitude-we-are-better-poor-in-a-rich-country/</guid>
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<title>Healthcare opinion: how to combine quality, accessibility and effectiveness?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The most important challenge for the future is to secure a sustainable healthcare system. Our system should hence provide the people with accessible prevention and healthcare in an efficient and equitable manner. In their analysis, Fran&#231;ois Daue and Lieven Annemans offer some recommendations to improve health policy in order to deliver the optimal health for all with disposable means.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcareopinion/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcareopinion/</guid>
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<title>Healthcare: how to combine quality, accessibility and effectiveness?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The most important challenge for the future is to secure a sustainable healthcare system. Our system should hence provide the people with accessible prevention and healthcare in an efficient and equitable manner. In their analysis, Fran&#231;ois Daue and Lieven Annemans offer some recommendations to improve health policy in order to deliver the optimal health for all with disposable means.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcare-how-to-combine-quality-accessibility-and-effectiveness/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/healthcare-how-to-combine-quality-accessibility-and-effectiveness/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: Healthcare:how to combine quality, accessibility and effectiveness?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationhealthcare-how-to-combine-quality-accessibility-and-effectiveness/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationhealthcare-how-to-combine-quality-accessibility-and-effectiveness/</guid>
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<title>A new institutional design for Belgium&#8217;s healthcare system</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The future organization of the system of health care and health insurance is one of the main challenges for our society. In this Re-Bel paper, Eric Schokkaert and Carine Van de Voorde first situate Belgium in the broader spectre of the large international variety in healthcare institutions. They then describe the main challenges for these systems and the way they try to cope with them. One possibility is to move in the direction of the model of regulated competition and they consider the potential desirability of that move in Belgium. Finally the issues of transparency and interpersonal solidarity in the Belgian context are discussed. A refreshing alternative in the light of Belgium&#8217;s current political negotiations. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-new-institutional-design-for-belgium-healthcare-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-new-institutional-design-for-belgium-healthcare-system/</guid>
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<title>A new understanding of poverty</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Within our developed western societies &#8211; most of them with efficient social security schemes &#8211; it is now significantly more difficult and controversial to clearly define what poverty is about. Indeed, poverty includes nowadays social, financial and sometimes even cultural aspects. In this British study, the author proposes new poverty&#8217;s indicators (in absolute and relative terms) in order to further analyze poverty and push forward new policies which could adequately cope with modern precariousness. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-new-understanding-of-poverty/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-new-understanding-of-poverty/</guid>
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<title>CREG study on the electricity law&#8217;s modification</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In 2009 The European council and Parliament have adopted a new directive relative to the organisation of the European electricity market. This directive has recently been translated into Belgian law through the modification of the 1999&#8217;s electricity law. The CREG, the electricity &amp; gas regulator in Belgium, releases a study on the modification this new legal framework will have on the organisation of the Belgian electricity market and its potential positive impact for consumers.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/creg-study-on-the-electricity-law-modification/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/creg-study-on-the-electricity-law-modification/</guid>
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<title>European bank stress-tests: third time lucky?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Systemic bank crises are always difficult to resolve. In Europe, the difficulty is compounded by cross- order interdependencies. Policy paralysis throughout 2009 and 2010 has resulted in precariousness the banking system that puts a serious drag on the old continent&#8217;s recovery. An even more dramatic consequence is to force the euro zone to systematically choose bail-outs over restructurings, whenever one of its members faces macroeconomic difficulties. Systemic banking crises are almost never self-correcting: even with low central-bank rates, retained earnings cannot plug all holes after a major shock. Unless one decides to commit an ever larger amount of tax-payer&#8217;s money, policymakers need to tackle fundamental banking problems, not the least in Belgium.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-bank-stress-tests-third-time-lucky/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-bank-stress-tests-third-time-lucky/</guid>
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<title>Is the Minimum Wage a Pull Factor for Immigrants?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This IZA paper studies the impact of the minimum wage on immigration and the analysis focuses on the US minimum wage increase of 1996 and 1997. The findings show that States in which the growth of expected wages was relatively large (around 20%) exhibit inflow rate increases that are four to five times larger than States in which average wages grew 10% less. Moreover, placebo tests confirm that the policy did not affect the immigration of high wage earners.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/is-the-minimum-wage-a-pull-factor-for-immigrants/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/is-the-minimum-wage-a-pull-factor-for-immigrants/</guid>
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<title>Tax revenues and tax reforms in the EU</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The financial and economic crisis resulted in severe challenges for public finances in many EU Member States. Tax revenue, which had been boosted during the boom years by tax-rich growth and rising asset prices, plummeted as a consequence of the automatic stabilisers inherent in the tax system, a reversal of the revenue windfalls from asset prices and the discretionary measures taken in support of domestic demand. Against this background, this European Commission report analyses tax revenue developments and recent tax reforms in EU Member States. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-revenues-and-tax-reforms-in-the-eu/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-revenues-and-tax-reforms-in-the-eu/</guid>
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<title>Unesco education report: reaching the marginalised</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This edition of the EFA Global Monitoring Report 2010, reaching the marginalized, comes at a time of great uncertainty. We are still grappling with the far-reaching impact of the global financial and economic crisis not only on the world&#8217;s banking systems, but on all areas of human development &#8211; including education. We are at a crossroads. Either we continue with business as usual and risk undoing the considerable progress made over the past decade, or we use this crisis as an opportunity to create sustainable systems which promote inclusion and put an end to all forms of marginalization. The gains achieved since the Education for All and Millennium Development Goals were adopted in 2000 are undeniable: great strides have been made towards universal primary education, increased participation in secondary and tertiary education and, in many countries, gender equality.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unesco-education-report-reaching-the-marginalised/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unesco-education-report-reaching-the-marginalised/</guid>
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<title>What Drives the Demand for Temporary Agency Workers?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Temporary agency employment has grown steadily in most European countries over the past three decades as part of the general trend towards increased employment flexibility. Yet to this day, it remains an open question what drives the demand for temporary agency workers. This LASER paper examines, first, whether the deregulation of temporary agency employment is responsible for the growth of the flexible staffing industry. The analysis reveals, moreover, that temporary agency employment exhibits strong cyclical behavior and correlates with main economic indicators in real time, like production indices and real GDP. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-drives-the-demand-for-temporary-agency-workers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-drives-the-demand-for-temporary-agency-workers/</guid>
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<title>Who is afraid of a Japanese decade?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For the second time in a decade, central banks around the world have responded to the collapse of an asset bubble by moving aggressively to ease monetary policy, a tactic explicitly justified by the need to avoid a Japanese-style &#8216;lost decade&#8217;. The problem, however; as argued in this commentary, is that Japan never lost a decade&#8230; The reason is simple: Japan&#8217;s overall growth rates have been quite low, but growth was achieved despite a rapidly shrinking working-age population. With regards to its working-age population, Japan has actually outperformed comparing to most other rich countries. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/who-is-afraid-of-a-japanese-decade/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/who-is-afraid-of-a-japanese-decade/</guid>
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<title>Financing Belgium&#8217;s regions and communities: analysis of the &#8220;Vande Lanotte proposal&#8221;</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The reform proposal of the regions and communities&#8217; financing, put forward on January 3rd by the Royal conciliator Johan Vande Lanotte, is an important step towards the institutional evolution of Belgium. It could significantly inspire a political agreement that will eventually be found. An in-depth analysis of Vande Lanotte&#8217;s note is therefore crucial, although acknowledging the time pressure under which the Royal conciliator had to finalize his proposal.  In this respect, the reader should keep in mind that this analysis from Etienne de Callata&#255; mainly focuses on still-to-be-improved proposals, but does not enumerate the numerous merits of Vande Lanotte&#8217;s note. Five fundamental observations emerge from de Callata&#255;&#8217;s analysis. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-belgian-regions-and-communities-financing--analysis-of-the-vande-lanotte-proposal/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-belgian-regions-and-communities-financing--analysis-of-the-vande-lanotte-proposal/</guid>
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<title>The Belgian regions and communities financing opinion: analysis of the &#8220;Vande Lanotte proposal&#8221; </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The reform&#8217;s proposal of the regions and communities&#8217; financing, put forward on January 3rd by the Royal conciliator Johan Vande Lanotte, is an important step towards an institutional evolution of Belgium. It could significantly inspire a political agreement that will eventually be found. In this article, the authors mainly focus on still-to-be-improved proposals and highlight five fundamental observations.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-belgian-regions-and-communities-financinganalysis-of-thevande-lanotte-proposal/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-belgian-regions-and-communities-financinganalysis-of-thevande-lanotte-proposal/</guid>
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<title>The special financing law for dummies</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Given its crucial role in the ongoing governmental negotiations, The Special Financing Law (SFL) has been in the spotlights for over 4 months now. In fact, this is a good thing as politicians often find the law way too technical for a thorough public debate and, according to them, only specialists are able to have an opinion on the matter. We firmly disagree. That something would be too complex to explain, for those who believe in a democratic &#8211; and therefore informed &#8211; debate, is a dubious point. It is up to the experts to reduce complexity and explain the fundamental political choices to an enlarged public. In this paper we try to meet this need by explaining the SFL in a comprehensive and understandable way.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-special-financing-law-for-dummies/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-special-financing-law-for-dummies/</guid>
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<title>The inter-sectorial agreement: a Belgian compromise too far</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos detects a typical Belgian compromise in the new inter-sectorial bargaining agreement. The glass is half-full and half-empty: the social partners have played their roles as curators but have failed in their responsibility of reformers. Especially the construction of a uniform protection for blue collar and white collar workers misses a historical opportunity for modernizing dismissal protection.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-inter-sectorial-agreement-a-belgian-compromise-too-far/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-inter-sectorial-agreement-a-belgian-compromise-too-far/</guid>
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<title>Why are the prices of the cheapest houses increasing the quickest? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The prices of the cheapest houses have increased by 51% on average between 2005 and 2009. The prices of the most expensive houses only increased by 23%. Because of the rising construction costs thousands of potential investors turned to the secondary housing market. More people with relatively less means are thus competing for the same amount of existing and a priori affordable houses, authors Johan Albrecht and Rob Van Hoofstat say. This results in a more aggressive purchasing strategy from the households. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-are-the-prices-of-the-cheapest-houses-increasing-the-quickest/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-are-the-prices-of-the-cheapest-houses-increasing-the-quickest/</guid>
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<title>A step-by-step plan to regionalize the unemployment insurance</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reacts to the quarrel about the possible regionalization of unemployment insurance with a concrete step-by-step plan. The existing regional competences in labour market policy can be strengthened, resulting in a better labour market for all. The combination of autonomy and solidarity can be achieved through an appropriate financing mechanism.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-step-by-step-plan-to-regionalize-the-unemployment-insurance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-step-by-step-plan-to-regionalize-the-unemployment-insurance/</guid>
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<title>Beautiful Belgian tradition</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Dave Sinardet recalls the benefits of prohibiting the accumulation of political mandates. In regards with the decree recently approved by the Walloon Parliament, he regrets the lack of action on the Flemish side and traces back the political context leading to this immobilism.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/beautiful-belgian-tradition/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/beautiful-belgian-tradition/</guid>
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<title>Conflict and stability</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the US the shift of power to the Far East creates a lot of unease. Countries like Belgium should also reflect on the shifting power structures, says Ivan Van de Cloot.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/conflict-and-stability/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/conflict-and-stability/</guid>
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<title>Proposal: Finding the right budgetary path</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/findingtheightbudgetarypath/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/findingtheightbudgetarypath/</guid>
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<title>Finding the right budgetary path</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium not only has to cut its deficit but also needs budget surpluses to consolidate public debt. It&#8217;s important not to be blinded by cyclical improvements as they will be dwarfed by new costs due to ageing. An ad hoc austerity committee can start preparing by identifying savings which will be predominantly expenditure cuts given our high tax burden.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/finding-the-right-budgetary-path/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/finding-the-right-budgetary-path/</guid>
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<title>Finding the right budgetary path: presentation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium not only has to cut its deficit but also needs budget surpluses to consolidate public debt. It&#8217;s important not to be blinded by cyclical improvements as they will be dwarfed by new costs due to ageing. An ad hoc austerity committee can start preparing by identifying savings which will be predominantly expenditure cuts given our high tax burden.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/finding-the-right-budgetary-path-presentation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/finding-the-right-budgetary-path-presentation/</guid>
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<title>Pessimism in the Old West</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Rising economies from the Far East are increasingly putting pressure on the Old West. However, there is no reason why progress in say China should go at the expense of our prosperity. Structural measures are the best remedy against pessimism. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 07 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pessimism-in-the-old-west/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pessimism-in-the-old-west/</guid>
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<title>The Baby-boom Generation needs to take up its responsibility now</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reflects on the new year. The year in which the first Baby-boomers reach the legal retirement age must be the year when this generation takes up its responsibility. The intergenerational solidarity upon which our welfare state is built is becoming a Ponzi scheme on the back of the young generation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-baby-boom-generation-needs-to-take-up-its-responsibility-now/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-baby-boom-generation-needs-to-take-up-its-responsibility-now/</guid>
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<title>The papy-boom has started. What now?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ While the rest of Europe awakens to put order into their public finances and to prepare the pension shock, Belgium goes back to bed with its institutional problems. But the problem needs to be addressed now. With half a million pensioners more within the next 10 years the pension crisis has become acute. Moreover, the legal pensions are too low and their financing too uncertain. All the productivity gains of the past years have already been used. According to Jean Hindriks and Isabelle Martin, the real solution consists of creating more jobs and have people working longer, not only in theory but in practice. This is a collective responsibility as we will need to create more than a hundred new jobs every day in order to maintain a balanced pension budget. Together we can manage this challenge. We need a treaty between generations and the social partners.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-papy-boom-has-started-what-now/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-papy-boom-has-started-what-now/</guid>
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<title>Looking for 24 000 new homes per year.Does supply follow the yearly increase in demand for housing? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Belgian housing prices have increased by one third since 2005. Structural factors can partly explain this price explosion. The difference between the yearly increase in the demand for houses and the yearly increase in the supply of new houses is central to this analysis. We conclude that there&#8217;s a shortage of 20 to 24 000 new houses per year for total housing supply to evolve at the same pace as total housing demand. This relative undersupply results in upward price pressure and is a consequence of a considerable increase in external migration since 2004 and the stabilisation or even shrinkage of the new estate activity during that same period. Moreover, the high real estate prices do not have a positive impact on the supply of extra houses through renovation or reconversion activities. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/lookingfor24000-new-homes-per-year-does-supply-follow-the-yearly-increase-in-demand-for-housing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/lookingfor24000-new-homes-per-year-does-supply-follow-the-yearly-increase-in-demand-for-housing/</guid>
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<title>Another Copernican revolution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Etienne de Callata&#255; scrutinizes the German reforms of the past couple of years that have improved the country&#8217;s socioeconomic performance. When comparing with Belgium he has serious doubts about the revolutionary nature of the measures discussed during the institutional negotiations. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/another-copernican-revolution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/another-copernican-revolution/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: Turning necessity into opportunity: working longer, at last!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/turningnecessityworking/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/turningnecessityworking/</guid>
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<title>Turning necessity into opportunity: working longer, at last!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees how all political parties acknowledge the necessity of working longer while the reality on the labour market does not follow, notwithstanding the Generation Pact. The crisis has again put older workers in the firing line. A new Generation Pact is not necessary: we need to address the root causes of the marginalisation of older workers on the labour market. He proposes an action plan with measures for both the short term and the medium term. The Itinera Institute calls upon policy makers and social partners to urgently implement structural reforms that will yield an age-friendly labour market to the benefit of everybody, including the worker.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxxxxxxxxxxxx/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxxxxxxxxxxxx/</guid>
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<title>How the crisis is exposing our national character</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees in national crisis policies an expression of the national character, in several countries. In Belgium one makes due. That mentality was our strength in times of foreign rule. But it is a major weakness in times of domestic political crisis.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 02 Dec 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-the-crisis-is-exposing-our-national-character/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-the-crisis-is-exposing-our-national-character/</guid>
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<title>The time of boom and bust</title>
<description><![CDATA[ We are living through turbulent times which shed a new light on the foundations of our system. During the period of Bretton Woods the economy knew more stability which could be inspiring for the way forward.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-time-of-boom-and-bust/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-time-of-boom-and-bust/</guid>
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<title>The curtain falls on Ireland</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Irish story once again shows that banks being too big to fail can be fatal for small open economies. They should rationally be more risk adverse towards risks of systemic banks.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-curtain-falls-on-ireland/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-curtain-falls-on-ireland/</guid>
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<title>15 proposals for the employment of the young and the old</title>
<description><![CDATA[ We have a problem: our social model is confronted with a demographic situation that is radically different from the period it was designed. In 1945 people stopped working when they were 65 and the life expectancy was on average 68 years, says this report from the French Institut Montaigne. Today, people leave the labour market at 60 and men live 78 years and women even 84 years on average. Moreover, the part of the population that bears the double costs of higher studies and pensions has sensibly decreased. We don&#8217;t have a choice: more young people and more old people need to get to work to feed the social security pot. This report discusses 15 ways of how this can be done.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/15-proposals-for-the-employment-of-the-young-and-the-old/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/15-proposals-for-the-employment-of-the-young-and-the-old/</guid>
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<title>Can we make schools responsible for the performances of their students?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Flemish educational system is a high performer according to international research. The most recent PISA 2006 figures confirm that no other country has a higher score for math and that only a handful of countries are doing better in sciences (Finland and Hong Kong) and reading (Korea, Finland and Hong Kong). But there&#8217;s also a downside. Although the achievements in Flanders are very good on average, there are huge differences between pupils (knowledge inequality). There is also a strong correlation between the performance of Flemish students and their socioeconomic background (social inequality). How can we achieve good education for every child? Is the central question of this Leuvens Economisch Standpunt. The author thereby investigates whether it makes sense to make the schools partly responsible for the results of their students.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-we-make-schools-responsible-for-the-performances-of-their-students/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-we-make-schools-responsible-for-the-performances-of-their-students/</guid>
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<title>Currency wars?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A widespread currency war is in prospect. Because many countries are simultaneously seeking to improve their trade position, they are seeking a more competitive exchange rate. However, a weaker exchange rate of one country implies a stronger rate for some other country or countries. The questions are: Who is to accept this outcome and how will it be decided who that is to be? The aim of this Peterson Institute policy brief is to illuminate how such issues should be determined and to advance policy implications for how to rebalance global demand.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/currency-wars/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/currency-wars/</guid>
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<title>Does inequality make us sick ?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The idea that income inequality would negatively affect personal health is a controversial issue. Some find it really troublesome that income inequality, and not (only) levels of absolute income, would affect someone&#8217;s health. This CBS analysis states that this negative inequality effect is said to run via the individual&#8217;s psychological perception and interpretation of inequality by making social comparisons. &#8220;The significance of the negative inequality effect is to remain a much debated topic, and consensus is a long way off&#8221;, author Stijn Rottiers concludes.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-inequality-make-us-sick-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-inequality-make-us-sick-/</guid>
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<title>Effects of the proposed regional income tax on the regions&#8217; receipts</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Fiscal autonomy is the political issue of the past couple of months. Negotiations between Flanders and French speaking Belgium have been tripped up by it several times. It is essential that the financial consequences of a new, modified finance law are correctly being represented. No political or societal debate can benefit from wrong representations of the consequences of certain choices. On the contrary, only an open debate that takes nobody for a fool can and will lead to an agreement. This is the purpose of this Leuvens Economisch Standpunt that uses a calculation model that differs from all computations presented so far as it takes into account the taxation burden for every Flemish, Walloon and Brussels family. This allows to truly representing the progressivity effects of the proposed reform. Macro computations cannot do this. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/effects-of-the-proposed-regional-income-tax-on-the-regions-receipts/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/effects-of-the-proposed-regional-income-tax-on-the-regions-receipts/</guid>
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<title>Green R&amp;D investments in times of financial uncertainty</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Achieving global energy security, climate change and access goals will require nothing short of an energy revolution. There are different technological possibilities at hand: low carbon energy technologies (LCETs), including energy efficiency in buildings, industry and transport; the near decarbonisation of the electricity sector through rapid acceleration in the use of renewable energy and of cleaner, higher efficiency coal combustion and carbon capture and storage (CCS); and the introduction of a new generation of advanced vehicles. This International Energy Agency report seeks to inform decision makers seeking to prioritise RD&amp;D investments in a time of financial uncertainty.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-rd-investments-in-times-of-financial-uncertainty/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-rd-investments-in-times-of-financial-uncertainty/</guid>
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<title>Projecting future healthcare expenditures in the EU </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Predicting the future evolution of health care expenditure is one of crucial challenges facing the European Union and its Member States in the context of the demographic and social changes currently taking place. This, however, is a complex undertaking. This European Commission paper provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical background, practical aspects of projecting health care expenditure and the actual results of the projections undertaken in the context of long-term budgetary forecasting. The model incorporates the most recent developments in demography and epidemiology and draws on new insights from health economics.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/projecting-future-healthcare-expenditures-in-the-eu/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/projecting-future-healthcare-expenditures-in-the-eu/</guid>
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<title>The Economic Consequences of &#8220;Brain Drain&#8221;</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Brain drain has long been a common concern for migrant-sending countries, particularly for small countries where high-skilled emigration rates are highest. This IZA paper presents the results of innovative surveys which tracked academic high-achievers from five countries to wherever they moved in the world in order to directly measure at the micro level the channels through which high-skilled emigration affects the sending country.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-consequences-of-brain-drain/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-consequences-of-brain-drain/</guid>
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<title>Working and Ageing</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With the ageing issue, raising the labour-market participation of ageing people has become a relevant option in the attempt to preserve the sustainability of the pension systems and to avoid big labour-market shortages. This study from the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP) analyzes the link between ageing, performance, learning and working, and the factors enabling or hampering people to continue working at advanced age. It also shares reflexions and recommendations about the policies that could match individual and organization needs and stimulate older workers&#8217; motivation to work longer.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/working-and-ageing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/working-and-ageing/</guid>
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<title>Do not expect too much of a very expected reform</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium&#8217;s institutional organisation is a problem and the distribution of competences between the federal state and the regions needs to be clarified. Although Etienne de Callata&#255; pleads for a necessary reform he warns that this reform will not solve our country&#8217;s troubles overnight. Reforms in other domains are needed as well. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/do-not-expect-too-much-of-a-very-expected-reform/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/do-not-expect-too-much-of-a-very-expected-reform/</guid>
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<item>
<title>How the social negociations can go beyond the wage norm</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos vents frustration at the recurrent black-and-white debate on wage moderation in Belgium. We need a broader social compact and a new consensus on competitiveness and a better labour market. That can break the tunnel vision on the bi-annual wage norm.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-the-social-negociations-can-go-beyond-the-wage-norm/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-the-social-negociations-can-go-beyond-the-wage-norm/</guid>
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<title>What comes after multiculturalism ?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos acknowledges the death of multiculturalism. He formulates three subsequent priorities: selective immigration with efficient enforcement, a broad strategy to combat exclusion, and the reassessment of nationality as the crowning of integration. The latter demands the rediscovery of identity.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-comes-after-multiculturalism-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-comes-after-multiculturalism-/</guid>
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<title>Grey gold &#8211; How the babyboomers can make eldercare a success story </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The debate on ageing has been going on for quite a few years, but nothing has actually been done. The clock keeps ticking&#8230; With this book we want to stimulate the reform process, and offer a new reference frame for the debate. All too often the debate is focussed on the costs and burdens. Eldercare is more than retirement homes, homecare and care for the demented. In this book we offer concrete policy proposals on the financing of eldercare, on how the available money is best spent (we strongly believe the elderly are best placed to make such decisions, and not the care facilities), on how we can resolve the personnel shortage, and how we can prepare our houses and neighbourhoods for the 3rd age.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxxxxxxxxxx/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxxxxxxxxxx/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Grey gold &#8211; How the babyboomers can make eldercare a success story: Memento </title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/grey-gold-how-the-babyboomers-can-make-eldercare-a-success-story/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/grey-gold-how-the-babyboomers-can-make-eldercare-a-success-story/</guid>
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<title>Grey gold:How the babyboomers can make eldercare a success story: Executive Summary </title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/x/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/x/</guid>
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<title>The green car runs on emotions. How economically rational is it to invest in ultra-efficient cars?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The additional cost of green or extremely efficient vehicles can be compensated by a lower fuel cost. To recover the higher economic cost of the most efficient diesels (3.8 l / 100 km) compared to &#8216;average&#8217; diesel (4.5 l / 100 km) , one has to drive every year at least 35 000 kilometers, say Johan Albrecht. In Belgium, cars are on average used for 15 000 kilometers per year. Because of the rather low usage rate of vehicles, fiscal discounts of 3 and 15% are very expensive measures to save fossil energy. These fiscal discounts furthermore have a high opportunity cost. 

Download the press release here]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-green-car-runs-on-emotions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-green-car-runs-on-emotions/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The country should function better</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Dave Sinardet analyses the Belgian political negotiations. Reforming the country in the general interest is more than trying to find win-win deals between Flemish and Francophone parties. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-country-should-function-better/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-country-should-function-better/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Unavoidable austerity can also be useful</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains why austerity is necessary and inevitable in Europe and Belgium. But the essence is smart austerity through structural reforms that have been postponed for too long. Austerity will hurt in the short run but should benefit us for ever afterwards.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unavoidable-austerity-can-also-be-useful/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unavoidable-austerity-can-also-be-useful/</guid>
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<title>How to measure of the added value of the public authorities</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot looks at the way the added value of the public authorities is measured. The traditional approach consists in measuring the government output via de costs in de national accounts. But this implies that we develop other measuring tools in order to control the government effectiveness.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-measure-of-the-added-value-of-the-public-authorities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-measure-of-the-added-value-of-the-public-authorities/</guid>
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<title>No evident solution to the monetary chaos</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reflects on the monetary chaos. The globalization crisis has reached a turning point. Will the West tolerate that China rewrites the rules in its own interests, or will it rise to defend a fair globalization for all?]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-wage-norm-crisis-institutional/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-wage-norm-crisis-institutional/</guid>
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<title>Education at a glance 2010</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Following the crisis, the governments must ensure the durability of public finances while seeking to develop the growth potential of their economy in the long run, and answer the demographic and technological changes on the labour market. For this purpose, the performances and the output of the systems of education must be more constant. This OECD report provides a series of relevant indicators so that each country can carry out a study of its system in the light of results from abroad. 
]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-at-a-glance-2010/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-at-a-glance-2010/</guid>
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<title>Education towards citizenship in Flemish schools</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Children are encouraged to become responsible and active citizens, with rights and obligations. Schools are one of the very first places of integration in society. One of the tasks of teaching consists in educating towards citizenship. This report of the Fondation Roi Baudouin analyzes the supply and demand of this kind of education in Flemish schools. The supply is still too fragmented and should rather be adapted to the various types of schools.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-towards-citizenship-in-flemish-schools/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-towards-citizenship-in-flemish-schools/</guid>
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<title>Fiscal policy after the crisis in the EU Member States</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since the crisis, public finances strongly lost balance all over Europe. Governments try to adopt the necessary policies and reforms for a budgetary strictness, without discouraging the economic revival. This report of the European commission studies the evolution of the revenues from taxes as well as the recent tax reforms in Europe. Considering the high tax pressure on the labour market, how can we modify the structure of our tax system to generate new incomes without slowing down the demand? Experiences of our neighbours help us judging which measures should be taken and which ones to avoid.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fiscal-policy-after-the-crisis-in-the-eu-member-states/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fiscal-policy-after-the-crisis-in-the-eu-member-states/</guid>
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<title>Inequalities between men and women in the world</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report of the World Economic Forum sketches the inequalities between men and women in the world throughout the world in 2010. It shows us the strong correlation between low inequalities and economic competitiveness of a country. Belgium makes true progress compared to last year, while passing from 19th in the 14th place in the ranking of the countries having the weakest inequalities between men and women in various fields such as the level of education, the wages, the access to highly qualified employment, the life expectancy, etc. The Scandinavian countries are still in the lead, and remain a true model for Belgium and others countries in the fight against sex inequalities.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/inequalities-between-men-and-women-in-the-world/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/inequalities-between-men-and-women-in-the-world/</guid>
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<title>Living planet 2010: Biodiversity, biocapacity and development</title>
<description><![CDATA[ What is the ecological footprint of Belgium? Up to what point do we exploit the natural resources of our planet? In this report the WWF establishes a series of indicators of the health of our biosphere and proposes series of recommendations intended to mitigate amongst others the overconsumption of the rich countries. At the present time, the Earth takes one year and half to produce the natural resources that we consume and to absorb waste which we generate in the one year space.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/living-planet-2010-biodiversity-biocapacity-and-development/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/living-planet-2010-biodiversity-biocapacity-and-development/</guid>
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<title>The impoverishment of Wallonie is not a threat but a reality</title>
<description><![CDATA[ According to Etienne de Callata&#255; we shouldn&#8217;t worry about Wallonia&#8217;s impoverishment as a consequence of institutional reform, but as a current reality.  We should therefore develop a long-term strategy that raises GDP per capita in a durable way.  To obtain a win-win situation the debate should focus on labour market an social security reform.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impoverishment-of-wallonie-is-not-a-threat-but-a-reality/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impoverishment-of-wallonie-is-not-a-threat-but-a-reality/</guid>
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<title>The origins of income inequality</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A lot of recent work in the labour economics literature has focused on the growing income inequality in the US and some countries in Europe. According to this Eurostat study, the real source of this inequality on the labour market is the job and skills polarisation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-origins-of-income-inequality/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-origins-of-income-inequality/</guid>
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<title>The sustainability of reforms in the pension system in Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Many countries already reformed their pension system. But are these reforms sufficient to counter the demographic impact? Or do they reduce the generosity of the old system too much? This report of the Centre of Analysis of Social Exclusion (London School off Economics) analyzes the sustainability of the pension system, taking into account these reforms. It also makes some political considerations and in addition justifies pushing back the retirement age.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-sustainability-of-reforms-in-the-pension-system-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-sustainability-of-reforms-in-the-pension-system-in-europe/</guid>
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<title>Trade crisis? What trade crisis?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report of the National Bank of Belgium analyzes the evolution of international trade in 2008 and 2009 and tries to explain Belgium&#8217;s decreasing exports. If the growth rate of our trading partners&#8217; GDP had not decreased that much, if the exchanges of consumer durables and capital equipment had been less affected than the exchanges of other categories of goods and if the financial variables and the participation in chains of world value had not weakened, Belgian exports would have fared better. Demand factors thus explain most of our international market share drawback. But this cannot be used as an excuse to do nothing about it.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/trade-crisis-what-trade-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/trade-crisis-what-trade-crisis/</guid>
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<title>What healthcare benefits of a cleaner Europe? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is estimated in this Health and Environmental Alliance report that cleaner air in Belgium resulting from the achievement of a 30% rather than a 20% reduction in emissions would result in public health benefits of between &#8364;320 million and &#8364;923 million per year from 2020. The costs of implementing the rise to a 30% target would amount to 150% of the possible public health benefits though.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-healthcare-benefits-of-a-cleaner-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-healthcare-benefits-of-a-cleaner-europe/</guid>
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<title>A social Europe needs austerity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reflects on the unions&#8217; European demonstration against austerity. Lax budgetary policy prior to the crisis, the missed opportunity of the Lisbon strategy, and the haphazard preparation of ageing have made the toll of the crisis very heavy. Austerity is not an option: it is a duty. Its terms can and should be debated, but our social model cannot survive without reforms and sound budgets.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-social-europe-needs-austerity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-social-europe-needs-austerity/</guid>
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<title>Avoiding a limited perspective in politics</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot insists on the importance of hearing all reasonable opinions in a societal debate.  A recent example is the reform of secondary education in Flanders. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/avoiding-a-limited-perspective-in-politics/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/avoiding-a-limited-perspective-in-politics/</guid>
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<title>The wage norm crisis is institutional</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains how unions and employers both have their share of the truth in the discussion for wage development over 2011-12. We need an institutional framework that allows for variation between sectors and companies. Failing that, no priority strategy can be chosen without a strong government.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-wage-norm-crisis-is-institutional/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-wage-norm-crisis-is-institutional/</guid>
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<title>Where is the Chinese danger for our export economy?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos warns for increasing nationalism and protectionism in China. The rise of Chinese state capitalism can become a Trojan horse for the West. An assertive Western trade policy, built upon a trans-Atlantic understanding, is essential.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/where-is-the-chinese-danger-for-our-export-economy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/where-is-the-chinese-danger-for-our-export-economy/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/Nota%2059uk_MDV.pdf" length="133738" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>Information on quality of care: lessons from abroad</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Itinera Institute offers a platform to Pierre-Yves Geoffard, professor at the Paris School of Economics. He discusses the inequality in access to the health system which is more than a matter of money: the access to information on the quality of care also plays a big role. Despite the development of specific health IT, communication of this information remains poor. In France, different initiatives have been launched to improve the access to information on the quality of care and to help spread the key indicators. What lessons can we learn from France? How can we improve the access to this information?
]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/geoffard/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/geoffard/</guid>
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<title>Stronger capital rules, enforcing them now</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The new rules that the international financial community agreed upon through the Basel committee last weekend include higher capital buffers. According to Ivan Van de Cloot these will make sure that the financial sector pays a part of the costs whenever taken risks go bad.  Both profits and losses should be privatised. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/stronger-capital-rules-enforcing-them-now/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/stronger-capital-rules-enforcing-them-now/</guid>
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<title>Decline is the alternative for reform and austerity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos criticizes the unions&#8217; demonstration against pension reform and austerity. Working longer is crucial to absorbing the enormous demographic shift, to keeping pensions affordable and decent and to balancing the solidarity between the generations. Obstinate resistance postpones the necessary until it becomes inevitable and very painful.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/decline-is-the-alternative-for-reform-and-austerity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/decline-is-the-alternative-for-reform-and-austerity/</guid>
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<title>The crisis is our collective failure</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains how the budgetary crisis is our collective failure: neglect prior to the crisis and self-interest after the crisis. The morality of our crisis tale is that we have the duty to pass on the economy in better health to the next generation. Austerity to improve and by improving is the key ingredient of successful fiscal consolidation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-crisis-is-our-collective-failure/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-crisis-is-our-collective-failure/</guid>
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<title>Solutions for Brussels</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Within the framework of the governmental negotiations on Brussels, Ivan Van de Cloot analyses the budgetary situation of our capital as well as its capacity to reimburse its debt. In the light of the relative uncertainty of the reorganisation of our country he advances lines of thinking and solutions about the difficulties and challenges that a capital as ours has to deal with. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/solutions-for-brussels/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/solutions-for-brussels/</guid>
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<title>Towards a mature system of financing ?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium&#8217;s political complexity too often hampers effective and efficient policymaking. Given the precarious budgetary situation of the federal state we need to thoroughly reconsider our country&#8217;s financial mechanisms. In his analysis, Ivan Van de Cloot insists on the importance of expense responsibility and on the fact that there are several ways to achieve that goal. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-mature-system-of-financing-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-mature-system-of-financing-/</guid>
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<title>A sound fiscal relation between the federal and the regional level </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium&#8217;s political complexity too often hampers effective and efficient policymaking. Given the precarious budgetary situation of the federal state we need to thoroughly reconsider our country&#8217;s financial mechanisms. In his analysis, Ivan Van de Cloot insists on the importance of expense responsibility and on the fact that there are several ways to achieve that goal. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-sound-fiscal-relation-between-the-federal-and-the-regional-level/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-sound-fiscal-relation-between-the-federal-and-the-regional-level/</guid>
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<title>The Great Recession&#8217;s real labor market legacy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos offers perspectives on the differing labour market performances among countries during the Great Recession. The main cause is economics, not labour market policies. But the crisis has further deepened the rift between insiders and outsiders on the labour market, while the temptation for more political management of the labour market is continuing.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xx/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xx/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/Nota%2053_recession_MDV.pdf" length="156323" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>What we do ourselves we do better (maybe): What state reform for a better labour market in Belgium?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos presents a pragmatic road map for the debate on devolution for a better labour market. He sees three scenarios &#8211; Mini, Medium, Maxi &#8211; with a total of sixteen topics for regionalization of labour market policy. He proposes to focus on three priority clusters: unemployment policy, transition policy, and target group policy. It is moreover essential to construct sustainable organization and financing, including policies to incentivize the regions. For this he sketches three options: Logic, Predictability, and Refinement.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxx/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxx/</guid>
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<title>Regionalize the use of unemployment benefits</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos makes three proposals to fortify the regional capacity for more job opportunities in Belgium: competence over control and sanctions, master of the suitable job description, and the use of unemployment benefits. In this way, one overcomes old dogmas while having the best of three worlds.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/regionalize-the-use-of-unemployment-benefits/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/regionalize-the-use-of-unemployment-benefits/</guid>
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<title>The rise of the health economy: challenges, opportunities and options for reform</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Demographic, scientific and technological evolutions are increasingly putting financial strain on Belgium&#8217;s healthcare system. Both public and private healthcare expenditures are on the rise. Without thorough, structural reforms we risk the unfortunate but inevitable decline of a system previously renowned for its quality and accessibility. The purpose of this article is to offer some food for thought on healthcare policy reform in Belgium. We will focus on new roles for all the actors of the healthcare system, new financial and non-financial incentives for the healthcare providers and organisations to accept and expand these new roles, and a broader (horizontal?) reorganisation of the system placing the patient and the pathology at its very core (also known as the continuum of care). In their conclusion, Marc De Vos and Brieuc Van Damme plead for a better reflection on healthcare funding.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxx/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxx/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/health_12_NL.pdf" length="457904" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>More cushions to face a volatile food market</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Only two years after the food crisis of 2008, something is wrong again with our food production. According to Ivan Van de Cloot we have to look beyond our short-term self interest. Not only should we evaluate what a change of the European agricultural policy will do with farmers in the South, but we should also learn from recent experiences to develop a more sustainable agricultural production. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/more-cushions-to-face-a-volatile-food-market/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/more-cushions-to-face-a-volatile-food-market/</guid>
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<title>Football World Cup 2018: economic opportunity or own-goal?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium &amp; the Netherlands are putting themselves forward to organize the 2018 World cup. According to Johan Albrecht and Ruben Laleman, the word cup could be a nice economic opportunity if a clever investment strategy is put in place.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/footballworldcup2018economicopportunityorowngoal/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/footballworldcup2018economicopportunityorowngoal/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Austerity measures and the need of political coordination (2)</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Even if we manage to save 22 billion Euros, that will not be enough to cushion the magnitude of our public debt and the increasing costs of ageing after 2015, says Ivan Van de Cloot. In order to face these two challenges, we will need more coordination of European policies. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Retire the Claeys Formula </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos qualifies as a necessary evil the so-called &#8220;Claeys Formula&#8221; that has been used to calculate redundancy periods for over 35 years. The formula symbolizes a discriminatory and outdated dismissal system. It is high time for a modern and uniform dismissal law that allows the formula to retire.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why the battle for democracy remains important</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reflects on the international decline of democracy. He sees democracy discredited, both through impotence and unwillingness. But rich authoritarian regimes are dangerous. The West must continue to defend democracy and spread its ideals.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-the-battle-for-democracy-remains-important/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-the-battle-for-democracy-remains-important/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Belgium&#8217;s migration policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In its third annual report, the Centre for Equal Opportunities and Opposition to Racism analyzes Belgium&#8217;s migration policies throughout 2009.  Contrary to the preceding year, 2009 turned out to be the year in which the federal government came into action, carrying out a regularization based on the principle of &#8216;enduring anchoring&#8217;.  While the topic of economic migration has ceased to be a priority since the economic crisis has hit the country, the Centre continues to plead for a transparent, clear-cut and proactive migration policy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgium-migration-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgium-migration-policy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Data Privacy Principles for Innovation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Technological innovation, particularly in information technology, is at the heart of economic growth.  Widespread digitization of the economy is critical in ensuring robust economic growth and thus a higher standard of living.  One barrier to more rapid progress to a digitally enabled society is the fear by some people that this will entail a loss of privacy.  In this respect, there have been come privacy related concerns regarding the introduction of the eHealth-platform in the Belgian healthcare sector.  This paper by The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation intends to provide an answer to these concerns.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/data-privacy-principles-for-innovation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/data-privacy-principles-for-innovation/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Income and diversity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is widely known that there is an income gap between native Belgians and non-Western immigrants in Belgium.  This report by the Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy quantifies this gap for four different categories of immigrants, focusing on employment as an explanatory factor. The gap turns out to be substantially smaller for immigrants who acquired the Belgian nationality.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/income-and-diversity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/income-and-diversity/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Low-carbon jobs</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Government action on climate change promises economic opportunity.  Stimulating new economic activity around green energy production will generate growth and offer new, skilled employment to workers. This paper by The Global Climate Network shows that globally millions of &#8216;low-carbon&#8217; jobs will be created, that these &#8216;low-carbon&#8217; jobs are likely to outnumber job losses in carbon-intensive sectors and that the jobs created will on the whole attract above-average salaries.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/low-carbon-jobs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/low-carbon-jobs/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Pensions reform: why and how</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A much debated topic is the precarious financial situation of the Belgian pension system.  Drastic structural reforms are inevitable to keep the current repartition system afloat.  This report by the French Institut Montaigne brings up a number of interesting ideas in this respect.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pensions-reform-why-and-how/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pensions-reform-why-and-how/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Propositions for a sustainable healthcare system</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Although Western Europe&#8217;s healthcare systems are of relatively high quality, they face a number of threats regarding their financial sustainability.  In this respect, a much debated topic in Belgium has been the legally anchored growth rate of 4,5% in the healthcare budget.  This note by the French Institut Montaigne suggests three main fields of reform for the coming years: reinventing health insurance, improving the access to an adapted healthcare and assessing the quality of healthcare.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/propositions-for-a-sustainable-healthcare-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/propositions-for-a-sustainable-healthcare-system/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Total tax contribution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With an average total tax rate of 52%, companies in Belgium continue to bear one of the heaviest overall tax burdens at an international level. In recent years, no significant reduction in the overall tax burden has taken place.  Instead, 20 additional taxes have been identified since 2007. These are the highlights of the second Total Tax Contribution report by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the Federation of Enterprises in Belgium.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/total-tax-contribution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/total-tax-contribution/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Transfers and regional growth</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Interregional redistribution in Europe, and more specifically in Belgium, curbs the economic growth of the less prosperous regions. Based on an econometric analysis, this Vives report suggests that a hypothetical reduction in interregional redistribution of 1/3 would lead to an annual increase in economic growth by 0,30 percentage points in Flanders and 0,42 percentage points in Wallonia, thus resulting in a convergence of both regions&#8217; economic performance.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/transfers-and-regional-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/transfers-and-regional-growth/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Wage evolution and labour market</title>
<description><![CDATA[ To what degree do shortages and surpluses on the labour market lead to wage increases and wage restraints respectively?  The degree to which these labour market conditions affect wages is called wage flexibility.  This report by the Research Department of the Flemish Government analyses wage flexibility in Belgium, its regions, its neighbouring countries and the EU15, both at an industry level and at a macroeconomic level.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wage-evolution-and-labour-market/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wage-evolution-and-labour-market/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Bring more talent to schools: bring the best staff into schools with better starting pay and intense selection </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bring-more-talent-to-schools-bring-the-best-staff-into-schools-with-better-starting-pay-and-intense-selection/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bring-more-talent-to-schools-bring-the-best-staff-into-schools-with-better-starting-pay-and-intense-selection/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Give more responsibility to schools: provide an external evaluation based on densely and clearly defined targets </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/give-more-responsibility-to-schools-provide-an-external-evaluation-based-on-densely-and-clearly-defined-targets/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/give-more-responsibility-to-schools-provide-an-external-evaluation-based-on-densely-and-clearly-defined-targets/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Slow greening of the fiscal system in the employment area</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Greening the fiscal system is a good idea in times of large budget deficits. It seems more difficult to quickly and profoundly change a system that predominantly taxes labour though. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/slow-greening-of-the-fiscal-system-in-the-employment-area/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/slow-greening-of-the-fiscal-system-in-the-employment-area/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Strive for more equity in schools: adopt a no child left behind policy </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strive-for-more-equity-in-schools-adopt-a-no-child-left-behind-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strive-for-more-equity-in-schools-adopt-a-no-child-left-behind-policy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Strive for more mobilisation in schools: involve parents and the community network to participate to lift up education</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strive-for-more-mobilisation-in-schools-involve-parents-and-the-community-network-to-participate-to-lift-up-education/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strive-for-more-mobilisation-in-schools-involve-parents-and-the-community-network-to-participate-to-lift-up-education/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why do we persist to underinvest in energy R&amp;D?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Yes, we need better renewable energy technologies. Yes, free markets fail to provide appropriate incentives for radical energy R&amp;D-projects. So yes, governments stepped in and created several incentive schemes. But no, most renewable energy technology companies do not seriously invest in R&amp;D...]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/whydowepersisttounderinvestinenergyrd/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/whydowepersisttounderinvestinenergyrd/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/ja_48_energy.pdf" length="144587" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>Give more autonomy to schools: give back the power to teachers and principals</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/give-more-autonomy-to-schools-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/give-more-autonomy-to-schools-/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Policy reform is ageing&#8217;s real challenge</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos vents his frustration at the occasion of the umpteenth annual report of Belgian Commission on Ageing. The preparation for Ageing has simply failed. The figures do not match. Only strong policy reform and a clear growth strategy can save us. We do not need commissions that calculate budgets, but rather commissions that advise on reform.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/policy-reform-is-ageing-real-challenge/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/policy-reform-is-ageing-real-challenge/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make governments push &amp; pull new energy technologies</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-governments-push--pull-new-energy-technologies/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-governments-push--pull-new-energy-technologies/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Reduce the complexity of the fiscal and parafiscal wage structure</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reduce-the-complexity-of-the-fiscal-and-parafiscal-wage-structure/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reduce-the-complexity-of-the-fiscal-and-parafiscal-wage-structure/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Refine and improve the application of the wage standard</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/refine-and-improve-the-application-of-the-wage-standard/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/refine-and-improve-the-application-of-the-wage-standard/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Create learning effects through targeted experiences in the fight against poverty</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-learning-effects-through-targeted-experiences-in-the-fight-against-poverty/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-learning-effects-through-targeted-experiences-in-the-fight-against-poverty/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Empower civil servants</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/empower-civil-servants/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/empower-civil-servants/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Link a &quot;poverty test&quot; to fiscal measures</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/link-a-poverty-test-to-fiscal-measures/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/link-a-poverty-test-to-fiscal-measures/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Link the debate on poverty to social mobility</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/link-the-debate-on-poverty-to-the-social-mobility/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/link-the-debate-on-poverty-to-the-social-mobility/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make a &quot;New Deal&quot; for an agefriendly labourmarket, where working longer becomes more realistic, and early retirement disappears</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-a-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-a-/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make the cost of government more transparent</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clarifier-les-couts-dans-le-service-publique/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clarifier-les-couts-dans-le-service-publique/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make the public sector accountable</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/test/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/test/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Mobilise for diversity on the labour market</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/mobilise-for-diversity-on-the-labour-market/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/mobilise-for-diversity-on-the-labour-market/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Put a price on CO2</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/put-a-price-on-co2/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/put-a-price-on-co2/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Stop wasting our human capital!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos condemns the widespread waste of Belgium&#8217;s only natural resource: human talent. In migration and integration, in education, and on the labour market waste is ubiquitous. We need a broad policy strategy for human capital, without dogmas. The clock of demography is ticking ominously.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/stop-wasting-our-human-capital/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/stop-wasting-our-human-capital/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Strengthen the levers for social mobility</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strengthen-the-levers-for-social-mobility/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strengthen-the-levers-for-social-mobility/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Create individual career accounts </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-individual-career-accounts/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-individual-career-accounts/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Cut back in the amount of job schemes</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/cut-back-in-the-amount-of-jobschemes/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/cut-back-in-the-amount-of-jobschemes/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards a better and more modern single employment status for both blue collar and white collar workers </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this languague]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-better-and-more-modern-single-employment-status-for-both-blue-collar-and-white-collar-workers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-better-and-more-modern-single-employment-status-for-both-blue-collar-and-white-collar-workers/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Turn temporary unemployment into a volontary insurance regime, combined to activation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/turn-temprary-unemployment-into-a-volontary-insuranceregime-combined-to-activation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/turn-temprary-unemployment-into-a-volontary-insuranceregime-combined-to-activation/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Austerity measures and the need of political coordination </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Even if we manage to save 22 billion Euros, that won&#8217;t be enough to cushion the magnitude of our public debt and the increasing costs of ageing after 2015, says Ivan Van de Cloot. In order to face these two challenges, we&#8217;ll need more coordination of European policies. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/austerity-measures-and-the-need-of-political-coordination/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/austerity-measures-and-the-need-of-political-coordination/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Coordinate industrial policy at European level</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/coordinate-industrial-policy-at-european-level/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/coordinate-industrial-policy-at-european-level/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Use public funds only to support activities with an already established base of private knowledge and R&amp;D </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/use-public-funds-only-to-support-activities-with-an-already-established-base-of-private-knowledge-and-rd/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/use-public-funds-only-to-support-activities-with-an-already-established-base-of-private-knowledge-and-rd/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Allow children to skip a level if they are up to it</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/allow-children-to-skip-a-level-if-they-are-up-to-it/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/allow-children-to-skip-a-level-if-they-are-up-to-it/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Assess public investments based on clear objectives </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/assess-public-investments-based-on-clear-objectives/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/assess-public-investments-based-on-clear-objectives/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Create &#8220;kangaroo classes&#8221; in every school or in every association of schools</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-kangaroo-classes-in-every-school-or-in-every-association-of-schools/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-kangaroo-classes-in-every-school-or-in-every-association-of-schools/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Invest public funds only in promising areas ; do not favour entire sectors </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/invest-public-funds-only-in-promising-areas--do-not-favour-entire-sectors/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/invest-public-funds-only-in-promising-areas--do-not-favour-entire-sectors/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Reserve public funds for new technologies only </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reserve-public-funds-for-new-technologies-only/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reserve-public-funds-for-new-technologies-only/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Systematically screen school children, in order to identify gifted children at an early age</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/screen/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/screen/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The price of health</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Health is our most valuable good. No wonder we do everything to preserve our psychological and physical integrity, whatever the cost. But because of budgetary frontiers, our social security will not be able to reimburse all the new treatments to come. Brieuc Van Damme pleads for an objective evaluation of medical treatments based on the generated gains for public health. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-price-of-health/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-price-of-health/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Train teachers, Pupil Guidance Centres and Education Inspectors to guide gifted children</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/train-teachers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/train-teachers/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Europe 2020 and Belgium: the challenges</title>
<description><![CDATA[ What do we have to do in order to achieve a better and sustainable growth after the crisis? What are the main challenges in our social and economic policy? What choices does Belgium have to make after the federal elections of June 13th? 

The European Commission aims to inspire with the &#8220;Europe 2020&#8221; strategy. 

During a conference day organised by the Itinera Institute and the European Commission, prominent speakers from the political, economic and academic world debated on the main themes of this European strategy and its application in Belgium.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/europe-2020-and-belgium-the-challenges/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/europe-2020-and-belgium-the-challenges/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>There is no alternative for austerity and reform</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains why the international economic context further complicates the Belgian scene. Slower growth and the risk of a double dip require level-headed policy. The state can do no more. Austerity and reform are inevitable. A stable and strong government is necessary.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/there-is-no-alternative-for-austerity-and-reform/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/there-is-no-alternative-for-austerity-and-reform/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Allow demotion as a means to extend careers</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/allow-demotion-as-a-means-to-extend-careers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/allow-demotion-as-a-means-to-extend-careers/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Allow pensioners to cumulate and combine</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/allow-pensioners-to-cumulate-and-combine/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/allow-pensioners-to-cumulate-and-combine/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Change the nomenclature for the reimbursement of medical expenses</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/change-the-nomenclature-for-the-reimbursement-of-medical-expenses/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/change-the-nomenclature-for-the-reimbursement-of-medical-expenses/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Create a coordinating body which puts the patient first and which aligns all parties involved</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-a-coordinating-body-which-puts-the-patient-first-and-which-aligns-all-parties-involved/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/create-a-coordinating-body-which-puts-the-patient-first-and-which-aligns-all-parties-involved/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Double the IT budget in healthcare</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/double-the-it-budget-in-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/double-the-it-budget-in-healthcare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Hospitals must specialize in surgery where they reach a critical mass</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/hospitals-must-specialize-in-surgery-where-they-reach-a-critical-mass/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/hospitals-must-specialize-in-surgery-where-they-reach-a-critical-mass/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Limit the &#8220;equal periods&#8221; in the calculation of pension amounts</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/limit-the-equal-periods-in-the-calculation-of-pension-amounts/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/limit-the-equal-periods-in-the-calculation-of-pension-amounts/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Tax income from labour and pensions in the same way</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-income-from-labour-and-pensions-in-the-same-way/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-income-from-labour-and-pensions-in-the-same-way/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicate at least an extra 100 milion euros per year to prevention</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/elk-jaar-minstens-100-miljoen-euro-extra-besteden-aan-preventie/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/elk-jaar-minstens-100-miljoen-euro-extra-besteden-aan-preventie/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Democracy needs economic growth</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot warns for the consequences of stagnating economic growth. In parts of the world where the economy is stationary, more resources are invested in the exploitation of others. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/democratie-needs-economic-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/democratie-needs-economic-growth/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Develop a policy to speed up investments in renewable energy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/develop-a-policy-to-speed-up-investments-in-renewable-energy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/develop-a-policy-to-speed-up-investments-in-renewable-energy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Evaluate recent measures in the fight against poverty and inequality</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evaluer-les-recentes-mesures-de-lutte-contre-la-pauvrete-et-de-promotion-de-legalite-des-chances/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evaluer-les-recentes-mesures-de-lutte-contre-la-pauvrete-et-de-promotion-de-legalite-des-chances/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Generalize complementary pensions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/generalize-complementary-pensions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/generalize-complementary-pensions/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Give absolute priority to obesity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/absolute-voorrang-geven-aan-de-strijd-tegen-de-zwaarlijvigheid/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/absolute-voorrang-geven-aan-de-strijd-tegen-de-zwaarlijvigheid/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Increase the budget for R&amp;D into &#8220;green&#8221; energy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/increase-the-budget-for-rd-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/increase-the-budget-for-rd-/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Individualize pension rights</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/individualize-pension-rights/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/individualize-pension-rights/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make recruitment and appointments in the public sector more objective</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language

]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-recruitment-and-appointments-in-the-public-sector-more-objective/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-recruitment-and-appointments-in-the-public-sector-more-objective/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make the labour market age-conscious</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-the-labour-market-age-conscious/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-the-labour-market-age-conscious/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Move to a single statute for civil servants</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/move-to-a-single-statute-for-civil-servants/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/move-to-a-single-statute-for-civil-servants/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Promote annuities to safeguard pensions in the future</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promote-annuities-to-safeguard-pensions-in-the-future/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promote-annuities-to-safeguard-pensions-in-the-future/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Promote job satisfaction in the public sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promote-job-satisfaction-in-the-public-sector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promote-job-satisfaction-in-the-public-sector/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Promote mobility in the public sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not avaiable in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promote-mobility-in-the-public-sector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promote-mobility-in-the-public-sector/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Simplify management plans in public administration</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/de-overheid-moet-eenvoudigere-beheersplannen-nastreven-met-een-beperkt-aantal-duidelijke-en-strategische-doelstellingen/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/de-overheid-moet-eenvoudigere-beheersplannen-nastreven-met-een-beperkt-aantal-duidelijke-en-strategische-doelstellingen/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Specify the results of public administration</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/het-overheidsbeleid-moet-door-onafhankelijke-structuren-en-aan-de-hand-van-key-performance-indicators-beoordeeld-en-opgevolgd-worden/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/het-overheidsbeleid-moet-door-onafhankelijke-structuren-en-aan-de-hand-van-key-performance-indicators-beoordeeld-en-opgevolgd-worden/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Strive for excellence in the public sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strive-for-excellence-in-the-public-sector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strive-for-excellence-in-the-public-sector/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Switch to a system of notional accounts to safeguard pensions in the future</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/switch-to-a-system-of-notional-accounts-to-safeguard-pensions-in-the-future/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/switch-to-a-system-of-notional-accounts-to-safeguard-pensions-in-the-future/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Train all health workers in the economics of healthcare, in management and in IT </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/train-all-health-workers-in-the-economics-of-healthcare-in-management-and-in-it/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/train-all-health-workers-in-the-economics-of-healthcare-in-management-and-in-it/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Draw up a long term strategic plan for the health sector, managed by the government</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/plan/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/plan/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Publish the data on the quality of hospitals </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Not available in this language]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/publish-the-data-on-the-quality-of-hospitals/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/publish-the-data-on-the-quality-of-hospitals/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Hit parade of the election promises: how to finance? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ In these election times the political parties seem to have forgotten the harsh economic reality. The programmes propose a series of expenses but say very little about how they should be financed. Jean Hindriks and Isabelle Martin wonder how parties will be able to keep their word given the budgetary and demographic challenges our economies face. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/hit-parade-of-the-election-promiseshowtofinance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/hit-parade-of-the-election-promiseshowtofinance/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Austerity through reform in public governance and in healthcare</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos supports the austerity goals but stresses that austerity needs to be tied to clever and structural reform. Linear cost reduction is the easy way that will not necessarily yield effective public governance and efficient healthcare. Structural reform can turn the crisis into a great opportunity.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/austerity-through-reform-in-public-governance-and-in-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/austerity-through-reform-in-public-governance-and-in-healthcare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>No endless negotiations in times of crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The financial markets are still very nervous about government debts. Governments cannot seriously expect to print bonds endlessly and see their problems vanish into thin air. Our population cannot be sacrificed because of a lack of decisiveness in turbulent times. In fact, we cannot even afford long government negotiations and vagueness about our determination to solve the budgetary challenge, Ivan Van de Cloot says.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-endless-negotiations-in-times-of-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-endless-negotiations-in-times-of-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Common-sense and realism have to stop the culture of promises</title>
<description><![CDATA[ One week before the elections savings are the subject of the day, at least in Flanders. The voters finally get the debate they deserve: what recovery policy do we need to realize a structural budgetary effort of 22 billion Euros? According to Marc De Vos, Ivan Van de Cloot and Brieuc Van Damme, the gap between the needed budgetary efforts and what is being promised in the election programmes is astonishingly deep however.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jun 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/common-sense-and-realism-have-to-stop-the-culture-of-promises/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/common-sense-and-realism-have-to-stop-the-culture-of-promises/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Evaluation of tax evasion in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In 2008, the fight against tax evasion gave rise to &#8364;4billions. However, according to many social partners, this fight is far from being won and has to be strengthened. In this period of budgetary crisis, extra revenues would be more than needed to restore the stability of our public finance and face the financing issue of ageing. By using two different evaluation methods, this DULBEA report highlights us on the scope of current tax evasion and convinces us to adjust our fight.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-evasion-in-belgium-evaluation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-evasion-in-belgium-evaluation/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Fostering sustainability in Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Europe has been substantially hit by the crisis and is now confronted to huge budgetary deficits and public debts. Growth has to come back while austerity measures are needed to restore some stability in the public finances. This IMF report studies the signs of recovery in Europe compared to the rest of the world and makes its recommendations in terms of macroeconomic, financial and prudential policies, to manage and stabilise capital inflows.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fostering-sustainability-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fostering-sustainability-in-europe/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Migrants&#8217; income in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This CSB report confirms results previously published in other studies: wages and labour market opportunities are on average lower for migrants than for autochthones.  Immigration and integration policies should therefore be adapted and improved. Our country needs to take the appropriate measures to activate immigrants on the labour market which will contribute to our economy&#8217;s growth.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migrants-income-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migrants-income-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The 1st pillar pensions in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In January 2008, the average legal pension in Belgium was equal to 1155&#8364; but could more of less vary with the pension regime, the age, the career, etc. But is this amount sufficient to maintain the purchasing power of elderly people and preserve them from poverty? Which role has to be given to the 2d and 3d pillars? This report from the Federal Plan Bureau analyses our 1st pillar pension system and its efficiency to respond to social objectives. In one word, it provides interesting figures and reflections to feed the pension and ageing debate.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-1st-pillar-pensions-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-1st-pillar-pensions-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The impact of age on the reservation wage</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How can we stimulate older workers to stay longer in the labour force? What is the minimum wage employers have to offer for them to accept a job? Age influences the willingness to work and the ease of movement on the labour market. In this report from the Steunpunt Werk en Sociale Economie (KUL), the author uses these two employability concepts and their relation with age to analyze the relation between age and the reservation wage. This relation is complex but helps us to better tackle the ageing challenge.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-age-on-the-reservation-wage/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-age-on-the-reservation-wage/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The impact of the Bologna process</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With the Bologna process, many important reforms in higher education have been achieved. This report from Eurydice makes an evaluation of the progresses and failures realized in terms of student mobility, lifelong learning, quality assurance and social dimension of higher education. With the crisis and the necessary return of growth, our countries have to learn from each other, make their education system even more efficient and provide their citizens with the levels of education and skills required by a globally competitive, knowledge-based society.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-the-bologna-process/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-the-bologna-process/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Wage differences between men and women in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report from the Center for Equal Opportunities points out that the wage difference between men and women amounted to 11.69% in 2007, against 12.47% in 2006. This report studies the factors influencing this difference - professional and individual characteristics, and the family situation- and provides a list of political recommendations aimed at pursuing the reduction of this wage difference.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wage-differences-between-men-and-women-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wage-differences-between-men-and-women-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The figures of realism on budget and ageing</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains how Belgium faces a daunting budgetary challenge, with major austerity in the short-run and the need for budget surpluses in the medium term. At the same time, structural reforms in social security are inevitable and economic potential must improve, while state reform will crown it all. The following government will be on of blood, sweat, toil, and tears.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-figures-of-realism-on-budget-and-ageing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-figures-of-realism-on-budget-and-ageing/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>A stable euro requires more economic potential</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos argues that the real euro-crisis is not today&#8217;s fiscal profligacy, but tomorrow&#8217;s economic potential. The cardinal issue for the euro is whether its member states will be able to avoid a welfare state trap: will they be able to reform before such reform becomes mutilation that furthers decline, instead of reversing it. Political scapegoating needs to stop. Structural reforms to boost growth and competitiveness are essential.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-stable-euro-requires-more-economic-potential/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-stable-euro-requires-more-economic-potential/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/en/doc/mdv_OpinionTemp_uk37.pdf" length="132019" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>A European response to the speculation twister</title>
<description><![CDATA[ If your house burns down because of imprudence, don&#8217;t worry, firemen will come. It is the insurance company you may have trouble with. By analogy, the EU can help the Greek and other economies, but cannot bail them out. We can blame the financial market&#8217;s speculative irrationality, but that doesn&#8217;t mean that a certain number of countries will not have to push for fundamental reforms in order to be creditworthy. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-european-response-to-the-speculation-twister/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-european-response-to-the-speculation-twister/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Evolutions of the Belgian pension schemes</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium is not prepared for ageing.  There is no need to panic, however, appropriate immediate action is essential.  The red book about pensions evaluates the situation and the evolution of the pensions, and recommends a plan to maintain our pension scheme.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evolutions-of-the-belgian-pension-schemes/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evolutions-of-the-belgian-pension-schemes/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Executive Summary:Pensions: Itinera&#8217;s little red book</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium is not prepared for ageing.  There is no need to panic, however, appropriate immediate action is essential.  The red book about pensions evaluates the situation and the evolution of the pensions, and recommends a plan to maintain our pension scheme.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/summary/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/summary/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Note on reforming Belgian pensions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium is not prepared for ageing.  There is no need to panic, however, appropriate immediate action is essential.  The red book about pensions evaluates the situation and the evolution of the pensions, and recommends a plan to maintain our pension scheme.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/note-on-reforming-belgian-pensions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/note-on-reforming-belgian-pensions/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/MEMO%204_pp.pdf" length="244486" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>Pensions: Itinera's little red book</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium is not prepared for ageing.  There is no need to panic, however, appropriate immediate action is essential.  The red book about pensions evaluates the situation and the evolution of the pensions, and recommends a plan to maintain our pension scheme.


]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pensions-itineras-little-red-book/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pensions-itineras-little-red-book/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation:Itinera's little red book on pensions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium is not prepared for ageing. There is no need to panic, however, appropriate immediate action is essential. The red book about pensions evaluates the situation and the evolution of the pensions, and recommends a plan to maintain our pension scheme.

]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationitineras-little-red-book-on-pensions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationitineras-little-red-book-on-pensions/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/PPT%20pensions-JH%20IVDC.pdf" length="3059802" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>Time to put the pension system on ABS</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium is not prepared for ageing.  There is no need to panic, however, appropriate immediate action is essential.  The red book about pensions evaluates the situation and the evolution of the pensions, and recommends a plan to maintain our pension scheme.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/time-to-put-the-pension-system-on-abs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/time-to-put-the-pension-system-on-abs/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/everaert_6.pdf" length="194173" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>Gender and time utilisation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Institute for the equality of women and men has made a thorough analysis of the differences and similarities of time utilisation of Belgian women and men. On top of the general differences between the genders, the researchers analyse time spent on caring for others, paid and unpaid labour, the combination of professional and private life, and leisure time. Differences between women and men according to family type, education level, revenue and age are also discussed in the report.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/gender-and-time-utilisation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/gender-and-time-utilisation/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How Do Labour Markets Affect Crime?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For nearly 50 years academics have been studying how labour markets affect crime. This literature is characterized by an intriguing puzzle &#8211; the large gap between the theory and empirical work. To solve the puzzle, this IZA paper discusses a few very important empirical problems that until the last 10 years have not been systematically addressed. The author concludes that recent research consistently provides evidence to buttress the contention that labour market opportunities have important effects on crime, especially property crime.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-do-labour-markets-affect-crime/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-do-labour-markets-affect-crime/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Long-term care in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report describes the organization of the Belgian long-term care system. According to the Plan Bureau it can be characterized as a mixed system with extensive public care provision and substantial support from informal care mainly within the family. While the current volume and quality of services appears to be adequate, the future increase in the number of dependent elderly persons over the next two decades as a result of demographic ageing can be expected to become a serious challenge, both in terms of required formal and informal care capacity and financially.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/long-term-care-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/long-term-care-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The economic and social role of Internet intermediaries</title>
<description><![CDATA[ As the Internet has grown to permeate all aspects of the economy and society, so too has the role of Internet intermediaries that give access to, host, transmit and index content originated by third parties or provide Internet-based services to third parties. They enable a host of activities through both wired and increasingly, mobile technologies. By doing so, they have brought unprecedented user and consumer empowerment through greater information, facilitating product and price comparisons and creating downward pressure on prices. This, and more, is discussed and analysed in this OECD report.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-and-social-role-of-internet-intermediaries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-and-social-role-of-internet-intermediaries/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards a resource-efficient transport system</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Between 1990 and 2007, transport sector greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 26% in Belgium, against 16% in France and 11% in Sweden. We have no choice but making our transports less polluting if we want to meet the EU&#8217;s 2020 environmental objectives. This report from the European Environment Agency gives us an overview of the main policy options available to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-resource-efficient-transport-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-resource-efficient-transport-system/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Unions and Upward Mobility for Immigrant Workers</title>
<description><![CDATA[ On average, immigrant workers earn less than their autochthon peers. In the literature, it is often suggested that this is due to a lesser understanding of the host country&#8217;s labour market and the possibilities to benefit from some sort of protection. This report reviews the characteristics of the immigrant workforce and analyzes the impact of unionization on the pay and benefits of immigrant workers. After controlling for systematic differences between union and non-union workers, this CEPR paper says, union representation substantially improves the pay and benefits received by immigrants.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unions-and-upward-mobility-for-immigrant-workers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unions-and-upward-mobility-for-immigrant-workers/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Belgian chocolate and pharmaceutical innovation </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Innovation is important for Belgium&#8217;s healthcare system. Fran&#231;ois Daue discusses the innovation initiatives and legal evolutions of the beginning of the year. From this analysis he develops three minimal dimensions for a more global reflexion and an integrated innovation policy. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-chocolate-and-pharmaceutical-innovation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-chocolate-and-pharmaceutical-innovation/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Belgium&#8217;s elections are too important to boycott.</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reacts against the grassroots movement to boycott Belgium&#8217;s early elections in June. He shares must of its frustration but underscores the historical importance of the elections. We not only have a date with the political class on June 13, but also with the next generation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgiums-elections-are-too-important-to-boycott/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgiums-elections-are-too-important-to-boycott/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The cost of Belgium's political structure</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In a well managed company there is a clear strategy and the company&#8217;s structure is fashioned in order to reach that target. A political structure is more complex because there&#8217;s a lot of disagreement on the strategy to follow. It remains nevertheless crucial to manage the administration as efficiently as possible, which is absolutely not the case in Belgium today.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-cost-of-the-politic-structure/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-cost-of-the-politic-structure/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Video: Green cars: the salvation of the car industry?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It&#8217;s all over the news, and politicians talk about it non-stop: Green cars are the ultimate answer to the decaying car industry. Everyone agrees that we need a solid industrial policy, but should the government invest massively in green cars? For Johan Albrecht, environmental economist and senior fellow at the Itinera Institute, the answer is a straightforward no.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-cars/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-cars/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Executive Summary: Will the green car save the Flemish car assembly industry?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ &#8216;The green car can save Opel Antwerp.&#8217; Is this popular statement really making sense? Can policies to support the development of green cars guarantee employment benefits in the short run or is this simply utopian thinking?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/executive-summary-will-the-green-car-save-the-flemish-car-assembly-industry/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/executive-summary-will-the-green-car-save-the-flemish-car-assembly-industry/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation: Victor Heylen, a car industry analyst, reacts.</title>
<description><![CDATA[ &#8216;The green car can save Opel Antwerp.&#8217; Is this popular statement really making sense? Can policies to support the development of green cars guarantee employment benefits in the short run or is this simply utopian thinking?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationvictor-heylen-a-car-industry-analyst-reacts/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationvictor-heylen-a-car-industry-analyst-reacts/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation: Will the green car save the Flemish car assembly industry?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ &#8216;The green car can save Opel Antwerp.&#8217; Is this popular statement really making sense? Can policies to support the development of green cars guarantee employment benefits in the short run or is this simply utopian thinking?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-will-the-green-car-save-the-flemish-car-assembly-industry/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-will-the-green-car-save-the-flemish-car-assembly-industry/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards a new vehicle industry in Flanders: reaction of Wilson De Pril, Agoria</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-new-vehicle-industry-in-flanders/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-new-vehicle-industry-in-flanders/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/2010_Forum1%20veh%20ind.pdf" length="142810" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>Will the green car save the Flemish car assembly industry?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ &#8216;The green car can save Opel Antwerp.&#8217; Is this popular statement really making sense? Can policies to support the development of green cars guarantee employment benefits in the short run or is this simply utopian thinking?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/will-the-green-car-save-the-flemish-car-assembly-industry/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/will-the-green-car-save-the-flemish-car-assembly-industry/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>China can also be Belgium&#8217;s locomotive</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos identifies three big trends in our post-crisis world. Slow growth, high unemployment and public debt are the West&#8217;s destiny. But the developing countries are a bright spot for us. China &amp; co are not only competitors, but increasingly also our potential customers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/china-can-also-be-belgiums-locomotive/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/china-can-also-be-belgiums-locomotive/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>What is the matter with Belgium?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sketches Belgium&#8217;s regime crisis. He explains how the surreal and symbolic division over &#8220;BHV&#8221; has fundamental value, but that it is also only the precursor of internal divisions over very real policy reform issues.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-is-the-matter-with-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-is-the-matter-with-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Can we afford a political crisis?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot analyses the impact of a political crisis on the financial markets. It&#8217;s a good thing financial crises require extra risk premiums from countries with a credibility problem. This can discipline them to push for structural reforms so as to improve their long term solvability. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-we-afford-a-political-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-we-afford-a-political-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Belgian exports are losing ground </title>
<description><![CDATA[ During the past decade Belgium has been losing export market shares when it comes to industrial products. But this report from the Plan bureau wants to underscore a structural weakness in the first place: the geographic orientation of Belgium&#8217;s export is very unfavourable which leads to market share losses. The favourable product specialisation can only partly offset this. And, we are losing competitiveness as well, the authors know.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-exports-are-losing-ground/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-exports-are-losing-ground/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Effective ways to realise policy reforms in health systems</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Sometimes it is argued that the content of a reform is less important in determining whether or not it receives public and legislative approval than the timing of the proposal; the way in which the reform is presented; the discussions with stakeholders; and a multitude of other factors. This OECD report studies the factors lying behind successful implementation of reforms in health systems.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/effective-ways-to-realise-policy-reforms-in-health-systems/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/effective-ways-to-realise-policy-reforms-in-health-systems/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Effectively fighting obesity </title>
<description><![CDATA[ In an attempt to contain rising trends in obesity and associated chronic diseases, many governments have implemented a range of policies to promote healthy lifestyles. Evaluations of the cost-effectiveness and distributional impacts of such interventions are rare and narrow in terms of numbers of options considered. In this report, an economic analysis was developed jointly by the OECD and the WHO with the aim of strengthening the existing evidence-base on the efficiency of interventions to tackle unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/effectively-fighting-obesity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/effectively-fighting-obesity/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The future of public debt</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since the start of the financial crisis, industrial country public debt levels have increased dramatically. And they are set to continue rising for the foreseeable future, the authors of this Bank of International Settlements publication warn us. Their projections of public debt ratios lead them to conclude that the path pursued by fiscal authorities in a number of industrial countries is unsustainable. Drastic measures are necessary to check the rapid growth of current and future liabilities of governments and reduce their adverse consequences for long-term growth and monetary stability.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-future-of-public-debt/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-future-of-public-debt/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Wealthcare or healthcare?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ After the US, the debate about Belgium&#8217;s cost efficiency in healthcare can begin. The rise of the &#8216;health economy&#8217;, spectacularly increasing public and private expenditures for healthcare, is the next step of our economic development process. This will compel us to make important choices. Brieuc Van Damme pleads for the creation of a High Authority for Healthcare that would have to make sure that the scarce resources are only being invested when public health truly benefits. 

]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wealthcare-or-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wealthcare-or-healthcare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Obesity can damage the environment</title>
<description><![CDATA[ On average, Belgians are getting heavier and our body mass index keeps increasing, new research showed us. On top of the healthcare and budgetary costs, there are obesity-related costs that we often tend to forget, says Brieuc Van Damme, those for the environment. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/obesity-can-damage-the-environment/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/obesity-can-damage-the-environment/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>A financing bill that offers breathing space and seeks accountability </title>
<description><![CDATA[ There&#8217;s a widespread consensus that financing ageing will be one of the biggest policy challenges for the years to come. This is not different for Belgium or its neighbours. In Belgium with its complex federal structure, however, a couple of extra dimensions have to be taken into account. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-financing-bill-that-offers-breathing-space-and-seeks-accountability/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-financing-bill-that-offers-breathing-space-and-seeks-accountability/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Calimero and the car</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Etienne de Callata&#255; analyses the evoked reasons for Opel Antwerp&#8217;s closing. We should be careful with unique explanations given the multifaceted and diverse economic reality and be even more cautious for a Calimero complex. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/calimero-and-the-car/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/calimero-and-the-car/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Interview with the new Senior Fellows</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Itinera Institute attracted 3 new Senior Fellows, all specialists in their field. What made them take this step?Lieven Annemans, Dave Sinardet and Etienne de Callata&#255; explain.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/interview-with-the-new-senior-fellows/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/interview-with-the-new-senior-fellows/</guid>
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<title>Poverty and Health: proposals and solutions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Poverty and bad health often go hand in hand. But it does not have to so. Lieven Annemans makes some recommendations to improve the situation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/poverty-and-health-proposals-and-solutions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/poverty-and-health-proposals-and-solutions/</guid>
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<title>The European Union needs more economic union</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sees how the Eurocrisis is undermining the European Union. Europe still serves first and foremost its Member States, and not vice-versa. This is bad news for Europe, for the smaller Member States, and for Belgium in particular. The Eurocrisis is an opportunity for more economic union.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-european-union-needs-more-economic-union/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-european-union-needs-more-economic-union/</guid>
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<title>Asset-based measurement of poverty</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the EU, we say that people with a disposable income (adjusted for family size) below 60 percent of the median national income are at risk of poverty. But are income flows sufficiently precise and accurate to evaluate households&#8217; economic well-being and poverty rate? Real and financial assets are essential to meet everyday life needs and to face adverse income shocks. This report from the Institute for Research on Poverty studies how wealth can be integrated into the analysis of poverty and defines asset-based measures of poverty, taking into account potential empirical and conceptual problems.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/asset-based-measurement-of-poverty/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/asset-based-measurement-of-poverty/</guid>
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<title>Comparison of Belgian Regions&#8217; and Communities&#8217; public expenditures</title>
<description><![CDATA[ To which extend do public expenditures differ between Regions and Communities in Belgium? Do they use it for the same goals? This CEPRE (FUNDP) report presents the structure of their respective public expenditures. By doing so, the authors can draw some conclusions about the implicit priorities behind these budgetary choices. With respect to Flanders, Wallonia would spend relatively more money in economic expansion and professional training while Flanders would invest relatively more in applied and scientific research.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/comparison-of-belgian-regions-and-communities-public-expenditures/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/comparison-of-belgian-regions-and-communities-public-expenditures/</guid>
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<title>Labour market policies for seniors</title>
<description><![CDATA[ To reach the Lisbon objective of a 50% employment rate for workers older than 55, in 2007 Flanders developed labour market policies for seniors. This report from the Steunpunt WSE evaluates the performance of these policies and shows the aspects to improve. Between 2001 and 2009, the employment rate for the 55-64 year old workers has increased from 25.3% to 35% in Flanders. The demographic challenge will require those type of improvements all over the country, however.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-market-policies-for-seniors/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-market-policies-for-seniors/</guid>
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<title>The Internet Economy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Internet has become a part of many people&#8217;s daily activities, like shopping. According to this report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, e-commerce is estimated to generate $400 billion annually. No doubt that the economic and societal benefits provided by the commercial Internet are numerous. This report sheds a light on these e-advantages. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-internet-economy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-internet-economy/</guid>
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<title>The political economy of Intergenerational income mobility</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Children have talent by nature and parents privately invest in their children&#8217;s human capital to make it grow. But for people living in disadvantaged socioeconomic conditions, public education can make the difference and offer them economic opportunities they would not have otherwise. This IZA report investigates the importance of redistributive and progressive educational policies in the improvement of social mobility. It also demonstrates how the interaction between private and collective decisions determines the equilibrium level of social mobility. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-political-economy-of-intergenerational-income-mobility/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-political-economy-of-intergenerational-income-mobility/</guid>
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<title>Active labour market policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Over the last two decades, active labour market policies (ALMP) have developed significantly in many OECD countries and budgetary investments have followed accordingly. This paper from the Sixth Framework Programme (EC) investigates four types of ALMP: incentive reinforcement, employment assistance, occupation and human capital investment. It studies the ones implemented in six Western European countries over the last twenty years and shows how political, institutional and ideational determinants influenced them. Here is another occasion to learn from our neighbours&#8217; experiences.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/active-labour-market-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/active-labour-market-policy/</guid>
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<title>Competition and regulation in Belgium, 1997-2004</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Competition in product markets is weaker in Belgium than on average in the EU and the competition intensity seems to be higher in manufacturing than in services. These are the mains conclusions reported in this Federal Planning Bureau paper. With two indicators of market competition, the authors try to evaluate the changes in market competition in our country &#8211;and in the EU- between 1997 and 2004. They also study to which extend regulation has had an impact on the degree and variation of competition.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/competition-and-regulation-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/competition-and-regulation-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>How clean cars and climate policy can create jobs</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Worldwide the automobile sector has suffered from the economic crisis. Many experts say that the sector has to use the crisis as an opportunity to turn to clean cars. This report from the Center for American Progress evaluates, for the US, the economic costs and benefits associated with advanced-technology vehicles. Investing in fuel-saving technologies and providing the automobile market with more efficient cars will create a lot of new jobs. To guaranty the introduction of new technologies in the US and in Europe, however, governments have to implement strong comprehensive energy and climate legislation and incentives for manufacturers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-clean-cars-and-climate-policy-can-create-jobs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-clean-cars-and-climate-policy-can-create-jobs/</guid>
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<title>Income retirement security and gender inequalities</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report from Annika Sunden, is about one of the most important aspects in the pension debate: the retirement income security. For both men and women, there is a substantial income reduction once they retire. However, older women face a higher risk of poverty than older men. The author confronts some country experiences around pension systems and gender inequalities. She also makes some recommendations aimed at improving pension systems so as to reduce gender inequalities in retirement. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/income-retirement-security-and-gender-inequalities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/income-retirement-security-and-gender-inequalities/</guid>
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<title>Bridge or tunnel: don&#8217;t forget the taxpayer</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Often, public investments are not based upon economic arguments but turn out to be a real horse trading. Economists, on the other hand, always plead in favour of weighing social benefits against societal costs (including potential pernicious effects on health and environment). Public authorities oblige everybody to financially support their projects. It is only normal they should manage that money well.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 02 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bridge-or-tunnel-taxpayer/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bridge-or-tunnel-taxpayer/</guid>
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<title>Bank taxes are no substitute for financial reform.</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos warns for a &#8220;tobacco scenario&#8221; for the financial sector, with taxes as an alternative for financial reregulation. Taxing bank profits merely addresses a symptom, while leaving the underlying problem unaddressed.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bank-taxes-are-no-substitute-for-financial-reform/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bank-taxes-are-no-substitute-for-financial-reform/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/en/doc/NOTA%2025%202010%20MDV.pdf" length="116655" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>Video: Budgettary recovery in bad times</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-budgettary-recovery-in-bad-times/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-budgettary-recovery-in-bad-times/</guid>
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<title>The Belgian pension system is not very generous, but not for everybody</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The government has approved the account on pensions delivered by the green book. The debate will continue, the objective being to put together a white book in which will figure concrete proposals to reform Belgium&#8217;s pension system. Jean Hindriks has thoroughly examined the pension problem for several weeks now and gives his first impressions. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-belgian-pension-system-is-not-very-generous-but-not-for-everybody/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-belgian-pension-system-is-not-very-generous-but-not-for-everybody/</guid>
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<title>Video with Ivan Van de Cloot: Interview De Tijd - tensions in the eurozone</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ivan Van de Cloot underlines that we cannot reduce the Greek crisis to a confidence problem in one member state only. Let's hope the Euro zone as a whole will be able to draw appropriate lessons.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-with-ivan-van-de-cloot-interview-de-tijd---tensions-in-the-eurozone/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-with-ivan-van-de-cloot-interview-de-tijd---tensions-in-the-eurozone/</guid>
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<title>Age, wage and productivity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Studies on the effect of age on productivity and wages find contradicting results. Some studies find that if workers grow older there is an increasing gap between productivity and wages, i.e. wages increase with age while productivity does not or does not increase at the same pace. However, other studies find no evidence of such an age related pay-productivity gap. This IZA study performs an analysis of the relationship between age, wage and productivity. If we want to keep older people at work, this is an important issue for our labour market policy, and one that is indeed accompanied by a reasonable dose of controversy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/age-wage-and-productivity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/age-wage-and-productivity/</guid>
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<title>Budget and labor reform are crucial for the pension debate</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos finds the current political proposals on pension reform too informal, too vague and not sufficiently penetrated with the gravity of the budgetary crisis.  The pension problem is foremost a budgetary problem, and working longer is not sufficient without a labour market reform.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budget-and-labor-reform-are-crucial-for-the-pension-debate/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budget-and-labor-reform-are-crucial-for-the-pension-debate/</guid>
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<title>Migration and the rise of far right</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In recent years, the popularity of new radical right-wing parties with anti-immigrant platforms has increased across Europe. Far from reflecting a short term trend triggered by the current economic downturn, the rise of the new radical right indicates a deep economic and social malaise affecting western European societies. This Policy Network paper warns political parties and the wider public not to dismiss the new radical right as fanatical parties operating on the fringe of politics, but rather to embark on careful examination of their political discourse.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migration-and-the-rise-of-far-right/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migration-and-the-rise-of-far-right/</guid>
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<title>Scientific support of our federal healthcare policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Recently, Belgium&#8217;s Court of Audit submitted a report on the scientific support of our federal healthcare policy to the Parliament. The report examines if and how the federal government has put into place a research system, how it works and is being financed, its capacity, output and the way in which government makes use of all this knowledge. Now that &#8216;evidence based medecine&#8217; is becoming standard, it&#8217;s legitimate to ask for &#8216;evidence based policy making&#8217; too. This, however, has not been the case in Belgium so far.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/scientific-support-of-our-federal-healthcare-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/scientific-support-of-our-federal-healthcare-policy/</guid>
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<title>Crisis for the economic and financial models</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The recent financial and economic crisis has highlighted the omissions of the models used by the central banks and the commercial financial institutions. This IRES (UCL) article sheds some light on the weaknesses of these models and suggests some lines of thought, based on the recent literature, for a more accurate representation of the financial and macro-monetary world.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/crisis-for-the-economic-and-financial-models/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/crisis-for-the-economic-and-financial-models/</guid>
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<title>Ideas for improving innovation policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How can we enact the policies we need to compete in today&#8217;s globalised economy? Undoubtedly, creativity and innovation will play a key role. Europe 2020, Europe&#8217;s new strategy to provide the building blocks for growth that will be sustainable in the future, builds on what has been achieved and the lessons learned from the Lisbon strategy, its predecessor. But more lessons can be learned, and not the least from our Atlantic allies. This ITIF article advances 8 innovative ideas to spur innovation, and therefore growth and protection.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ideas-for-improving-innovation-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ideas-for-improving-innovation-policy/</guid>
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<title>International benchmarking of healthcare quality</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There is growing interest in the systematic assessment and international benchmarking of quality of care provided in different healthcare systems, and major work is under way to support this process through the development and validation of quality indicators that can be used internationally. This is not an easy thing to do, as cross-national data comparison remains a challenge. This RAND report focuses on the three quality domains, namely effectiveness of care, patient safety and patient experience. The objective is to assess the causes underlying international differences and determining what actions may be appropriate to take to improve health outcomes.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/international-benchmarking-of-healthcare-quality/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/international-benchmarking-of-healthcare-quality/</guid>
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<title>Rethinking climate change strategy for national governments</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Copenhagen has been seen by many as a setback for global action on climate change. But in truth it could provoke the rethink that has long been needed as national governments hold the key to our long-term prosperity. By fostering public support, this Policy Network paper argues, the opportunity to secure wealth creation and employment from the process of low-carbon transition is waiting to be grasped.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/rethinking-climate-change-strategy-for-national-governments/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/rethinking-climate-change-strategy-for-national-governments/</guid>
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<title>The Impact of terrorism on the Employment and Earnings of European Muslims</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This IZA paper estimates the impact that Britain's July 2005 bombings had on the labor market outcomes of UK residents who are either Muslim by religious affiliation or whose nativity profiles are similar to the terrorists. The authors find a 10 percentage point decrease in the employment of very young Muslim men relative to non-Muslim immigrants accompanied by consistent declines in real earnings and hours worked. We need to minimize these potential impacts, for discrimination and futureless situations are the cradle of terrorism.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-terrorism-on-the-employment-and-earnings-of-european-muslims/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-terrorism-on-the-employment-and-earnings-of-european-muslims/</guid>
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<title>The Oosterweel junction revisited </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Antwerp&#8217;s traffic jams, and even more so the suggested solutions, continue to mobilise media and public opinion. This LES paper (KUL) assesses the Oosterweel junction, a new tunnel under the river Scheldt, that aims to alleviate the congestion on the existing tunnels and on the Ring of Antwerp. The authors&#8217; model is used to compare alternatives with and without the new tunnel. The alternatives include different combinations of tolls and bans on trucks. The cost-benefit analysis concludes that the first priority is not to build new capacity but to remove the pricing distortions on the existing capacity. The alternatives that include a pricing reform are the only ones that generate a positive net benefit; almost all scenarios that include the new tunnel have a negative net benefit.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-oosterweel-junction-revisited/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-oosterweel-junction-revisited/</guid>
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<title>Choosing failure or success</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Why do we tackle crucial problems so insufficiently ? It is because they are too tricky or because we do not manage to acknowledge them or to adopt an action plan? Pure economic issues of unemployment, poverty, pension financing, competition en public debt are more complex than ecological issues but we still defer the moment when we will deal with them.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/choosing-failure-or-success/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/choosing-failure-or-success/</guid>
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<title>Economic growth is the most important policy priority</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos comments the pitiful socio-economic situation in Belgium. In the next years, each government will have three inevitable priorities: budgetary recovery through saving and taxation, economic recovery with more growth and jobs, and a fundamental social security reform, both in the organization and in the financing. Economic recovery is the most important, but it also requires a mentality shift from politicians and administrations. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/economic-growth-is-the-most-important-policy-priority/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/economic-growth-is-the-most-important-policy-priority/</guid>
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<title>The 10 commandments for a succesful Industrial Policy in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since we only think about it in times of crisis,Belgium fails in terms of industrial policy.
We urgently need to determine the conditions for government support.
The Itinera Institute established the 10 commandments for a succesful industrial policy.
]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/industrieel-beleid/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/industrieel-beleid/</guid>
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<title>State capitalism is the real enemy of fair free-trade</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A new study from the World Trade Organization reports no significant intensification of trade or investment restriction since September 2009. This is good news for anyone who values global prosperity, and that includes Belgium. But Marc De Vos warns us of a more fundamental threat: the rise of state capitalism right after the crisis. The trend to State-led economic development goes against the principles of free trade, the same principles that gave us more global welfare.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/state-capitalism-is-the-real-enemy-of-fair-free-trade/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/state-capitalism-is-the-real-enemy-of-fair-free-trade/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/NOTA%2020%20MDV.pdf" length="113907" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>A higher State Pension Age in the UK</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the UK, a higher State Pension Age (SPA) has been accepted by the government as one of the solution to the ageing challenge. It will gradually increase from 65 to 68 years between 2024 and 2046. In Belgium, such a measure is very unpopular among trade unions and politicians. In this report, PwC analyzes this measure in the UK in terms of fiscal benefits, public finances, workers&#8217; opportunities and employers&#8217; attitudes. With the perspective of a SPA increase, PwC gives an agenda for action to the economic agents implied in the process.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-higher-state-pension-age-in-the-uk/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-higher-state-pension-age-in-the-uk/</guid>
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<title>European Cities accommodating diversity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With increasing migration flows, governments increasingly face integration issues, and not the least in our capital. Local governments have a role to play mainly as providers of public goods and services but also as policy-makers and employers. In the context of a European project (DIVE), this paper from the Migration Policy Group provides concrete recommendations to European cities to promote diversity and equality within the context of a local integration strategy. The performance of Amsterdam, Rome, Leeds, Berlin and London is analyzed with respect to defined benchmarks. We can undoubtedly learn from some of their good practices.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-cities-accommodating-diversity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-cities-accommodating-diversity/</guid>
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<title>The high cost of low educational performance</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Experiences from some OECD countries prove that it is worth making some efforts in educational system reform. Through different scenarios on the increase of school performance in terms of PISA points, this OECD report shows how the improvement in educational quality and later in the labour force&#8217;s skills can impact on future well-being. By refusing educational reform programmes, we take the risk of inflicting high economic costs to society, the authors conclude.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-high-cost-of-low-educational-performance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-high-cost-of-low-educational-performance/</guid>
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<title>The healthcare sector: daring to look at 2020</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With two interesting studies in less than two months, 2010 promises to become a fascinating year for Belgian healthcare. The ideas presented in these studies are appealing for two reasons: first because the authors reason in the middle and long term, and second because they dare questioning the current way of working. One thing is sure: the future needs a new vision and new solutions. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-healthcare-sector-daring-to-look-at-2020/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-healthcare-sector-daring-to-look-at-2020/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Philanthropy, also in times of crisis </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Philanthropy could be considered as an economic activity that creates welfare: a donation of 500 Euros, for example, means that the act of giving is worth more to the donator than the given amount of 500. The receiver&#8217;s welfare will increase too, and therefore we could speak of a philanthropy multiplicator effect. Encouraging philanthropy by fiscal means can thus be seen as creating value added.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/philanthropy-also-in-times-of-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/philanthropy-also-in-times-of-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Administrative costs in Belgium </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Between 2006 and 2008, administrative costs have decreased by 23% to reach &#8364;5.92 billions. To what extend can these costs be an obstacle to companies&#8217; development and functioning in Belgium? Did the administrative simplification process have the expected impact? This Federal Plan Bureau report allows us to know how the self-employed and companies perceive all this.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/administrative-costs-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/administrative-costs-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Exiting from crisis intervention policies</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Now that the crisis is progressively disappearing, what to do with the crisis-related intervention measures? Even if we want to restore and guaranty economic recovery, maintaining such measures on the long run is not recommended at all. It would in fact distort private initiative, financial and fiscal policies and risks stirring up inflation. In this IMF paper, the authors make recommendations on exiting from those measures. It exposes the main principles and guidelines to follow when defining new fiscal, monetary and financial policies.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/exiting-from-crisis-intervention-policies/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/exiting-from-crisis-intervention-policies/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The Walloon innovation system </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Like other Belgian and European regions, Wallonia knows that innovation remains an important trigger of economic growth. This Federal Plan Bureau publication makes an evaluation of the Walloon innovation system of 2007. The involvement of high schools and universities into research and the ability of the private sector to mobilize resources for research receive good marks. However, investments in innovation is relatively low for services compared to those in the industry. Public effort in R&amp;D and the use of permanent training on the labour market have to be reinforced too. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-walloon-innovation-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-walloon-innovation-system/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Combating poverty and social exclusion</title>
<description><![CDATA[ 2010 has been designated the European year for combating poverty and social exclusion. We can only hope Member States will make progression in this field. This Eurostat publication presents a wide range of statistics useful for policy purposes. It can help governments to evaluate the effectiveness of their anti-poverty strategy and to readapt it on the basis of best practices abroad. Knowing and measuring are the first step, acting the second.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/combating-poverty-and-social-exclusion/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/combating-poverty-and-social-exclusion/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Evidence against carbon trading and real solutions for climate change</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How effective is carbon trading as a method of reducing greenhouse gas emissions? Is it more effective than a carbon tax? In the way towards 2020 and its objectives of CO&#178; emissions reduction, many experts do not agree about the best way to mitigate climate change. In this paper from Friends of the Earth, the author explains why carbon trading isn&#8217;t the best option. She rather urges governments to invest in green power and energy efficiency, and to introduce stronger regulations and carbon taxes.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evidence-against-carbon-trading-and-real-solutions-for-climate-change/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evidence-against-carbon-trading-and-real-solutions-for-climate-change/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Retire later or work harder?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The guaranty of future pensions&#8217; payment is strongly related to the participation rate on the labour market. According to this IZA report, we will either have to work harder or work longer if we want to increase this rate. Both options influence employers&#8217; decisions to invest in human capital, but will in the first place depend on a number of workers&#8217; characteristics (job satisfaction, need of money, etc). The authors investigate the British labour market and present this trade-off both theoretically and empirically and its impact on labour input.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/retire-later-or-work-harder/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/retire-later-or-work-harder/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Clean Technology Research, Development and Innovation in China</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Our ability to deploy effective technologies, on a scale large enough to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, depends on two key factors: the direction, and the pace, of technological innovation. The pace of technological innovation depends on a range of factors including, critically, the presence of effective domestic policies to spur research and innovation. This working paper of the World Resources Institute examines efforts made by China &#8211; the world&#8217;s largest gross emitter of greenhouse gases &#8211; to create an enabling environment for R&amp;D and innovation in the field of clean technology.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clean-technology-research-development-and-innovation-in-china/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clean-technology-research-development-and-innovation-in-china/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Clear diagnosis, uncertain remedy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The private health economy is on the rise and, paradoxically, may have been encouraged by public authorities. Governments want to spur private insurance in the hope of solving three big problems bedevilling their national systems of health care: inadequate access to care; soaring costs; and a paucity of innovation. They hope thus to improve their citizens&#8217; health without tearing more holes in tattered public finances. According to this article from The Economist, evidence so far suggests that relying on private insurance may help in some respects. But it will not solve all these problems, and may even be making some of them worse.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clear-diagnosis-uncertain-remedy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clear-diagnosis-uncertain-remedy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Crisis in the eurozone and how to deal with it</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With some fearing speculative attacks on the Euro, the Greek crisis has put a lot of pressure on the monetary union. In this CEPS paper, Paul Degrauwe explains how the current financial crisis in the eurozone developed, distinguishing in turn the three main actors that have played a major role: Greece, the financial markets (including the rating agencies) and the eurozone authorities themselves. While acknowledging that a grand plan for more intense political union in the eurozone does not seem possible, professor Degrauwe further outlines smaller, but focused steps that could be taken towards such a future union.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/crisis-in-the-eurozone-and-how-to-deal-with-it/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/crisis-in-the-eurozone-and-how-to-deal-with-it/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Education quality</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The public opinion has never been so concerned about the quality in schools as it is today, and yet this education quality has never been really evaluated.  Jean Hindriks has decided to rectify this gap by realizing a systematic detailed evaluation of our secondary education in Belgium (within the two communities).  This evaluation covers justice as well as the efficiency of our school system.  This study has been executed via a random sampling of 6336 students in more than 445 different schools (within the two communities). ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-quality/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-quality/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Public Service Reform: Capable Communities</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Society has to address a range of complex problems which post-war institutions were not designed to fix: chronic health conditions related to lifestyle, ageing populations, climate change and anti-social behaviour. Citizens themselves, whether as individuals or communities, should therefore participate much more than they are currently in the delivery of public services, this IPPR-PWC paper advocates. The authors set out the case for community empowerment, before examining how this important agenda can move from the margins to the mainstream of the policy agenda.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/public-service-reform-capable-communities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/public-service-reform-capable-communities/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Social security as a tool, not as a goal</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos reflects about the necessity of a welfare state reform. We can create a breathing space by realizing that social protection can do without social security.  Social protection has an economic future. Acting for this future also means acting for the future of social security. Social security can improve if we consider it as a tool and not as a goal on itself.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/social-security-as-a-tool-not-as-a-goal/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/social-security-as-a-tool-not-as-a-goal/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Strategic choices for social policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The comprehensive budgetary effort that has become inevitable pushes us more than ever to make strategic choices with respect to our social policy. It&#8217;s not only about where savings ought to be made, but also about the way our economy will look like once this economic and budgetary crisis will be over. In this essay for the Centre Herman Deleeck, former Minister Frank Vandenbroucke discusses the policy strategy of the &#8216;new social risks&#8217; and the strategy of the &#8216;social investment state&#8217;: what choices did our government make and what lessons are there to learn? The budgetary efforts to come are also widely examined and FVDB concludes by presenting some of the most important strategic choices for social policy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strategic-choices-for-social-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/strategic-choices-for-social-policy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Temporary vs permanent immigration employment</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Migration is often viewed as an investment decision. Temporary migrants can be expected to invest less in accumulating human capital specific to the host country. Instead, they work more hours in order to accumulate savings and invest in financial capital that can be transferred back to their country of origin upon return. In this IZA paper the authors explore how temporary migrants differ from permanent migrants in their labour supply decisions and behaviour.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/temporary-vs-permanent-immigration-employment/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/temporary-vs-permanent-immigration-employment/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Obesity is first and foremost a social problem</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Sometimes one hears obese people are responsible for their weight problem, this weight problem for a climate problem, and therefore obese people are responsible for a climate problem. Of course, this syllogism doesn&#8217;t make sense, as obesity is a social problem in the first place, says Brieuc Van Damme. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/obesity-is-first-and-foremost-a-social-problem/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/obesity-is-first-and-foremost-a-social-problem/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Eurozone credibility put to the test</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The one who simply reduces the current crisis of confidence in the member states solvency to a Greek problem, understood very few things. There are risks associated to the large expansion of the eurozone which are too often dictated by political motives, let&#8217;s hope that the European leaders will notice this now.  As Europe gives a signal not just to watch but to undertake appropriate action, is it important that one indicates the exact bounderies of how far and under which conditions support can be given.  It is also an evidence that at present and in the future a lot of lessons will need to be drawn with regards to the eurozone.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/eurozone-credibility-put-to-the-test/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/eurozone-credibility-put-to-the-test/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Ageing and the Welfare State: Securing Sustainability</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Over the next four decades, increasing old-age dependency ratios exert an enormous upward pressure on welfare spending in most developed countries. As this is mainly due to existing unfunded public pension schemes, many countries have embarked on far-reaching reforms in this area, strengthening actuarial fairness, modifying indexation rules, adding elements of prefunding and, last but not least, attempting to extend the period of economic activity. Efforts to contain costs may also be relevant with regard to public expenditure on health and long-term care but, thus far, no country has started to really deal with these issues. This CESIFO paper discusses all these reform options in the light of securing a sustainable welfare state.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-and-the-welfare-state-securing-sustainability/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-and-the-welfare-state-securing-sustainability/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Financing home nursing in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ An ageing population will also increase the demand for home nursing. Home nursing expenses represent 4% of the public health insurance budget, and with an average growth rate of 7%, the yearly increase is about 1% higher than that of the general healthcare expenses. According to the authors of the centre of expertise, its financing should be reformed, which necessarily implies rethinking the role of the different healthcare functions. To do so, more coordination at the different policy levels will be required. Today&#8217;s mixed financing could be carried on, if optimized. The authors also advocate an actualization of the nomenclature, the integration of a quality component and a more accurate measuring of care dependency.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/financing-home-nursing-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/financing-home-nursing-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Our fight against poverty needs a dynamic vision and clear objectives</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium can and needs to do better in its fight against poverty. Therefore, we have to make a distinction between permanent and temporary poverty, and define a quantitative goal of poverty reduction.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/our-fight-against-poverty-needs-a-dynamic-vision-and-clear-objectives/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/our-fight-against-poverty-needs-a-dynamic-vision-and-clear-objectives/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Performance related pay in employment services</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Activation policies often reward job seekers finding a job. In this study of the The Danish National Centre for Social Research, the authors advocate rewarding employees in the employment administration too. Performance related Pay (PRP), as this is called, seems to promote employment chances of social clients. Especially it seems that PRP schemes with collective monetary payoffs have a positive effect.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/performance-related-pay-in-employment-services/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/performance-related-pay-in-employment-services/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>School autonomy : to do what with?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Education quality is a condition for having sustainable growth.  To upgrade the French-speaking education system, we have to upgrade the position of the teachers. If we want the schools to be more performant, the power of the director has to increase in the context of a higher and supervised responsibility.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/school-autonomy--to-do-what-with/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/school-autonomy--to-do-what-with/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The inherited school success</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Education in Belgium is one of the most unequal in the world. School success heavily depends on pupil&#8217;s social origin. The &#8220;d&#233;cret inscriptions&#8221; in the French Community and the GOK in the Flemish Community are at the center of the public debate but there is no word about the fact that pupils from low income families are more likely than others to be put into different teaching channels.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-inherited-school-success/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-inherited-school-success/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The single employment status is much more than a redundancy story</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A large number of labour experts argue for a new dismissal law, that combines income protection and reemployment. The single employment status for blue collar and white collar workers needs to do more than harmonizing: it needs to modernize. That is in the interest of social justice as well as the ill Belgian labour market.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-single-employment-status-is-much-more-than-a-redundancy-story/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-single-employment-status-is-much-more-than-a-redundancy-story/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Consuming more or consuming less</title>
<description><![CDATA[ During the twentieth century, the global population increased by 6 billions (four times more) and the industrial production increased by a factor 40. Our energy consumption went up by a factor 16 and CO&#178; emissions by a factor 10. In this context, it is crucial to wonder if our current consumption pattern will endanger the living standards of future generations to come. The conclusion seems to be that it is not so much our consumption level that will endanger our well-being in the long run, but rather the composition of what we consume (e.g. polluting goods versus less polluting goods)]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/consuming-or-consuming-less/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/consuming-or-consuming-less/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>21st century skills and competences in OECD countries</title>
<description><![CDATA[ What are the 21st century skills and competences in OECD countries? In this OECD report, the authors investigate the question and make some recommendations to prepare workers to knowledge-intensive economies. Most of these skills and competences are related to knowledge management and are supported by ICT (information and communication technologies). Governments have to properly adapt their educational systems so as to be sure young people will be able to integrate such skills and competences, the authors say.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/21st-century-skills-and-competences-in-oecd-countries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/21st-century-skills-and-competences-in-oecd-countries/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Basic principles for an ideal pension system</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Will the National Conference for Pension provide the conclusions we hardly are expecting? Will it suggest the reforms our pension system really needs? After a brief presentation of our current pension system, Voka, Flanders&#8217; Chamber of Commerce and Industry, exposes, in this report, the basic principles essentials for the viability of a system aimed at guarantying future seniors&#8217; welfare. The combination of repartition and capitalization, the increase of the replacement ratio and a pension calculus on the basis of the career length belongs to these principles.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/basic-principles-for-an-ideal-pension-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/basic-principles-for-an-ideal-pension-system/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Clean energy research and development</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is not a secret anymore: by maintaining our energy demand and consumption, energy-related emissions of CO&#178; risk to double in a few years and the security of energy supply will not be guaranteed anymore. This IEA report urges us to take concrete actions. By presenting 10 categories of low-carbon technologies and practices, it gives figures about our current R&amp;D investments in this field and advises us to make such spending grow. We really need and can do better!]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clean-energy-research-and-development/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/clean-energy-research-and-development/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Labour market and investment in human capital in Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ High levels of taxation and generous welfare state arrangements tend to decrease labour force participation, hours worked and thereby the returns on human capital investments. Low skilled and older workers are the first concerned by this phenomenon. What can we do to improve their participation rate in the labour market? This IZA report suggests to reduce labour market distortions. But it mainly recommends to reformulate activation and training policies in order to increase the utilization and the maintenance of human capital during the working life.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-market-and-investment-in-human-capital-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-market-and-investment-in-human-capital-in-europe/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Poverty among immigrant and native children in rich countries</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In rich countries, immigrant children are more likely to be poor than native children. But why are these poverty rates so different between countries? In this report from the Institute for Research on Poverty, the authors tend to bring an answer to this question. In their cross-country comparison, they point out the essential role social transfers are playing against poverty. Immigrant poverty is a barrier to integration but the use of these transfers does not have to discourage immigrant integration. A good combination of labour market policies and social benefits can then, according to the authors, give better results in the fight against poverty.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/poverty-among-immigrant-and-native-children-in-rich-countries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/poverty-among-immigrant-and-native-children-in-rich-countries/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>When will Belgium let unwillingness and incapacity behind her?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos makes some New Year reflections about the state of Belgium. In his view, we had a lost decade with unwillingness and incapacity. First, change will come step by step. The federal elections pulse will then really be necessary to put an end to incapacity.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/when-will-belgium-let-unwillingness-and-incapacity-behind-her/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/when-will-belgium-let-unwillingness-and-incapacity-behind-her/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>All-inclusive case based hospital financing</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Which hospital financing system can better reach the healthcare system&#8217;s objectives of performance, equity and quality? This KCE report studies an all-in case based hospital financing system and its feasibility in Belgium where the system is said partial and fragmentary. After a presentation of the structure of the Belgian hospital sector and the characteristics of its financing system, this report uses some models to analyze the consequences of such a reform on the hospital revenue structure, the relationship between hospital management and providers of healthcare, and the quality and accessibility to healthcare.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/all-inclusive-case-based-hospital-financing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/all-inclusive-case-based-hospital-financing/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Earnings mobility and distribution of lifetime earnings in the EU</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Earnings mobility is an essential concept in the fight against poverty. This IZA report studies lifetime earnings mobility and its impact on the distribution of lifetime earnings in 14 EU countries. Social security and labour market policies can influence earning mobility and allow people to improve their position in the income distribution over time. With the highest mobility in lifetime earnings and the highest mobility in terms of equalizer of long term inequality, Denmark is, with no surprise, the country from which Belgium can inspire.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/earnings-mobility-and-distribution-of-lifetime-earnings-in-the-eu/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/earnings-mobility-and-distribution-of-lifetime-earnings-in-the-eu/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to reform the Belgian tax system to enhance economic growth?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ According to this OECD report, a reform of the Belgian tax system could help our economy go out of the crisis and make it grow faster. The author suggests reducing labour taxes in order to boost labour demand and supply, and raising less distortive tax sources like consumption and owner-occupied housing taxes. As we need to encourage companies to maintain and develop their business in our country, the corporate income tax system has to be properly modernised.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-reform-the-belgian-tax-system-to-enhance-economic-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-reform-the-belgian-tax-system-to-enhance-economic-growth/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to restore financial stability?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It will take some time before economic activity and public finances return to their pre-crisis levels. At the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, many government representatives, businessmen, civil society leaders and academics debated how to rethink, redesign and rebuild the global economy. Some uncertainty remains about the reform of the financial system. At the end of the day, financial stability has to be restored but not by regulation only. This publication from the Center for European Reform studies the initial macroeconomic causes of the crisis and gives some guidelines to avoid them in the future and to make the financial system more stable.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-restore-financial-stability/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-restore-financial-stability/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Opel Antwerp marks the unbearable comeback of the economic nationalism</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos points out how Opel Antwerp&#8217;s destiny is both an economic and politic story. Politics has a big influence on multinationals&#8217; restructuring, but Belgium had to give up in front of big countries like the US and Germany. Europe needs to put an end to the politization phenomenon and to economic nationalism as soon as possible.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/opel-antwerp-marks-the-unbearable-comeback-of-the-economic-nationalism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/opel-antwerp-marks-the-unbearable-comeback-of-the-economic-nationalism/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The Great Paradox of future capitalism</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos warns about the long run consequences of the anti-crisis policy on the economy and the economic growth. The real economy, more than the financial economy, risks to be drawn again in the afterpain of the Great Recession. The crisis is more important than the crisis self.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-great-paradox-of-future-capitalism/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-great-paradox-of-future-capitalism/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/NOTA%205%20MDV.pdf" length="111166" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
<item>
<title>Another job scheme is not the best way to tackle unemployment</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos considers the new job scheme as a step in the good direction, but warns us about its perverse effects. The related budget should have been better spent via individual career guidance.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/another-job-scheme-is-not-the-best-way-to-tackle-unemployment/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/another-job-scheme-is-not-the-best-way-to-tackle-unemployment/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Promoting competition in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Prices for many goods and services in Belgium are higher than in other countries, reflecting generally weak competitive pressures. The government has recently introduced several reforms to strengthen the competition policy framework. Nevertheless, to reap the full benefits of competitive markets, past reforms should be complemented with a number of further measures. This OECD report advances some of the steps to secure the necessary basis for bringing productivity growth in line with best performance.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promoting-competition-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/promoting-competition-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The economic benefits of comprehensive immigration reform</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Comprehensive immigration reform that legalizes currently unauthorized immigrants and creates flexible legal limits (that rise and fall with labour demand) on future immigration in the context of full labour rights would help American workers and the U.S. economy. Unlike the current enforcement-only strategy, comprehensive reform would raise the &#8220;wage floor&#8221; for the entire U.S. economy&#8212;to the benefit of both immigrant and native-born workers this Centre for American Progress publication argues. An idea definitely worth scrutinizing in Europe!]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-benefits-of-comprehensive-immigration-reform/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-benefits-of-comprehensive-immigration-reform/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The US Health Insurance Reform Debate</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Following a synopsis of the main problems that confront U.S. health care and insurance, this AEI report outlines the health care reform bills in the U.S. House and Senate, including the key provisions for expanding and regulating health insurance, and projections of the proposals&#8217; costs, funding, and impact on the number of people with insurance. The report concludes by contrasting the reform bills with market-oriented proposals and with brief perspective on future developments. A must-read for those of you interested in the US healthcare debate!]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-us-health-insurance-reform-debate/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-us-health-insurance-reform-debate/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>All hands on deck for a responsible budgetary policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Itinera Institute already urged in September 2009 that the government had to adopt more ambitious budgetary objectives. The exhortation from the High Council of Finance to do so is a real opportunity for everyone who cares about the fight for the guaranty of the essence of our social model.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/all-hands-on-deck-for-a-responsible-budgetary-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/all-hands-on-deck-for-a-responsible-budgetary-policy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Education quality: what can we do?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Schools do not need more money but another organization. More efficient working schools and at the same time less inequalities, It is without any doubt workable!]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-quality-what-can-we-do/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-quality-what-can-we-do/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Innovating Indicators of the EU</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With reflection on the EU 2020 in full swing, the Lisbon Council weighs into the debate with an analysis about the political economy of innovation indicators, as well as concrete recommendations on targets for the EU&#8217;s new economic blueprint. This report is an original reflection on how to measure and evaluate societal progress and make the policy process more inclusive and meaningful to a broader number of people.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/innovating-indicators-of-the-eu/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/innovating-indicators-of-the-eu/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Public and private pensions: Lessons from the crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The population of Europe is ageing and, as a result, pension systems are exposed to major difficulties. This requires measures to increase employment rates, to prolong working lives, promote qualified migration, and to curb, to some extent, income replacement rates. Private pension systems are, just like the public ones, dependent on adequate economic growth rates, as well as being equally sensitive to demographic change; what is more, unlike public systems, they are highly risk-susceptible in relation to financial markets. Therefore, the much lower-risk approach is to secure old-age pensions via public systems, this ETUI article argues.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/public-and-private-pensions-lessons-from-the-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/public-and-private-pensions-lessons-from-the-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Social security systems: Responding to the crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Social security systems have been negatively affected by the current financial and economic crisis. Financial portfolios have been undermined by slumping markets and negative investment performance. Increasing unemployment has reduced contribution revenues while expenditure on benefits has increased. On the basis of recent evidence, this ISSA publication argues a need for the better design and coordination of social security systems and for broad-ranging national and international collaboration to respond more effectively to the social and economic challenges posed in times of crisis, and beyond.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/social-security-systems-responding-to-the-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/social-security-systems-responding-to-the-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Developing and using European integration indicators</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With the increase of immigration flows, European countries have to seriously consider the related integration issue. This paper from the Migration Policy Group suggests developing and using more appropriate European integration indicators that would measure integration in such fields as employment, education and training, and other social aspects (healthcare, pensions, etc). These indicators would push us to formulate targets, better monitor performances of integration policies and allow us to learn from best practices more easily. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/developing-and-using-european-integration-indicators/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/developing-and-using-european-integration-indicators/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>EU Energy/Climate package and energy supply security in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With the EU Energy/Climate package adopted in December 2008, the EU Member States are encouraged to continue their efforts to both reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the sources of renewable energy. That way we could become less dependent from fossil fuels from abroad by 2020 while better guaranteeing their energy supply. In this report, the Federal Planning Bureau measures, through simulations, the budgetary, economic and environmental benefits that Belgium could get by following the EU package targets.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/eu-energyclimate-package-and-energy-supply-security-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/eu-energyclimate-package-and-energy-supply-security-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Impact of the financial crisis and the bail-outs on the public debt and public finances</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How did the financial crisis bring the public debt at a rate not reached since 1993? How were bail-outs to the financial sector financed? This report from the Belgian Court of Audit answers these questions and reviews the strategies related to the management of the public debt and the guarantees offered to financial institutions. Given all the uncertainty surrounding these guarantees and the insecurity of reimbursement of capital injections and public credits, Belgian public finances remain at risk.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/impact-of-the-financial-crisis-and-the-bail-outs-on-the-public-debt-and-public-finances/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/impact-of-the-financial-crisis-and-the-bail-outs-on-the-public-debt-and-public-finances/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The free market needs strong rules</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The financial crisis reminds us once again at the wisdom that the free market, just like a football game needs rules to be able to function in an efficient and competitive way. We come out of a period where the sophism which means that new financial instruments can reduce the risk, was at its best. The lessons of this financial catastrofe will only be learnt, if we go back to the old insight that in order to reduce the risk, the financial sector best has to keep itself to certain limits. This will only happen if we impose these limits from outside just like Adam Smith suggested more than two hundred years ago. We do not expect that the players of a football game define themselves the rules on a football field, do we?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-free-market-needs-strong-rules/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-free-market-needs-strong-rules/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>An attendance bonus for teachers?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Absenteeism from teachers is controversial and meaningful. It proves a deep malaise in the sector which disrupts the teaching organization. What can we do about this?]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/an-assiduity-bonus-for-teachers-/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/an-assiduity-bonus-for-teachers-/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Fight against poverty, 2008-2009</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Access to healthcare, housing and justice is not always guaranteed for poor people. This report from the Service for the fight against poverty, insecurity and social exclusion provides a valuable contribution to the political debate and policy considerations. It describes the circumstances in which poor people live, and makes recommendations aimed at improving their living conditions. Structural reforms are more than necessary but we cannot lose focus on the reimbursement of healthcare costs, water and energy supply and the payment of a rental guarantee and lawyer fees either.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fight-against-poverty/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fight-against-poverty/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Worldwide, pension systems are organized in very different ways. Compulsory and/or voluntary, public and/or private, personal and/or workplace-based arrangements, defined benefit and/or defined contribution: cross-country comparisons of pension systems are not an easy job. In this report, the Melbourne Centre for Financial Studies presents an index, the Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index, that compares the pension systems in eleven countries across America, Europe and Pacific  Asia. The important notions of adequacy, sustainability and integrity are seriously considered in this index. That is a new approach that could help us to detect good practices abroad.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/melbourne-mercer-global-pension-index/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/melbourne-mercer-global-pension-index/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Video: Sick Funds: new roles in the long run?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-sick-funds-new-roles-in-the-long-run/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-sick-funds-new-roles-in-the-long-run/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Energy Transition: fast track to a greener system?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Can we radically change the global energy system? What tools do we have available for this purpose? Which results will we achieve if we mobilise forces worldwide in order to meet the transition goals? What lessons can be learned from the most complete technological studies? Does the current policy in the western world comply with these lessons?
]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/energy-transition-fast-track-to-a-greener-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/energy-transition-fast-track-to-a-greener-system/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Green protectionism in the EU</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In this paper, ECIPE investigates the EU&#8217;s biofuels policy. The researcher finds that biofuels policy has become an industrial policy using various measures to shelter domestic producers from foreign competition. Protectionism increases the cost of moving away from fossil fuels &#8211; but the EU is about to usher its policy farther in that direction with its Renewable Energy Directive. If it is implemented in the way that has been proposed, the EU is likely to run afoul of its obligations in the World Trade Organisation, and offset some of its efforts to reduce its CO2 emissions&#8230; .]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-protectionism-in-the-eu/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/green-protectionism-in-the-eu/</guid>
</item>
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<title>How expensive is the welfare state?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This report first presents information on trends and composition of social expenditure across the OECD. After accounting for the impact of taxation and private benefits, social expenditure amounts to over 30% of GDP in Belgium. According to this OECD report, that is amongst the highest percentages in the world. Since 1990, growth in real social spending has outpaced real GDP growth in most OECD countries which could put unsustainable pressure on our much appreciated welfare model. Another wake-up call for structural reforms?]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-expensive-is-the-welfare-state/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-expensive-is-the-welfare-state/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Memento:Energy Transition: fast track to a greener system?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Can we radically change the global energy system? What tools do we have available for this purpose? Which results will we achieve if we mobilise forces worldwide in order to meet the transition goals? What lessons can be learned from the most complete technological studies? Does the current policy in the western world comply with these lessons?

 
]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/memento/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/memento/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Pay for Quality in healthcare: an evaluation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Pay for Quality (P4Q) is the mechanism by which the remuneration of a healthcare service directly depends on the achieved results in terms of structure, processes and/or outcome indicators. Interest for P4Q is growing, in Belgium and abroad. What are the effects and side effects of P4Q programs? What are the necessary conditions to apply international P4Q models or to add P4Q components to already existing Belgian initiatives? This report of the Centre of Excellence makes a thorough evaluation of Pay for Quality programs.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pay-for-quality-in-healthcare-an-evaluation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pay-for-quality-in-healthcare-an-evaluation/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Presentation :Energy Transition: Fast track to a greener system? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Can we radically change the global energy system? What tools do we have available for this purpose? Which results will we achieve if we mobilise forces worldwide in order to meet the transition goals? What lessons can be learned from the most complete technological studies? Does the current policy in the western world comply with these lessons?]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-energy-transition-fast-track-to-a-greener-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-energy-transition-fast-track-to-a-greener-system/</guid>
</item>
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<title>How to avoid Europe paying the price</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The model for which the economic historian Nial Ferguson invented the term Chimerica still holds: China is financing America&#8217;s exuberant way of living.   If the necessary adjustments are made through an important dollar depreciation, Europe will pay the price. Policy makers should therefore realize old doctrines will not be able to help them any longer. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-avoid-europe-paying-the-price/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-avoid-europe-paying-the-price/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Decentralising integration policies</title>
<description><![CDATA[ As cities and regions across Europe struggle to manage the integration challenges posed by immigration, a growing number of people are looking to decentralisation for answers. This Policy Network paper argues that increasing the financial and decision-making power of local authorities is a necessary precondition for formulating and implementing successful integration policies, but it is not a panacea. The paper provides a framework for thinking about decentralisation and its implications at different levels of governance taking into account the varied ideological and institutional settings which prevail across Europe.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/decentralising-integration-policies/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/decentralising-integration-policies/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Do better schools lead to more growth?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In many empirical growth studies education is often identified as one of the most effective investments to foster significant growth on the long term. In fact, this is no different for this IZA report. And, from a policy perspective, the shares of basic literates and high performers have independent significant effects on growth, and the estimates suggest that the high-performer effect is larger in poorer areas or countries. So don&#8217;t be a fool, and invest in schools!]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/do-better-schools-lead-to-more-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/do-better-schools-lead-to-more-growth/</guid>
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<title>Essential Elements for the essential Copenhagen Agreement</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Twenty thousand people, including about 40 heads of state, are in Copenhagen to decide how the world should respond to escalating climate change over the next half century. Copenhagen should serve as a foundation for and springboard to a new legally binding global climate agreement. Success at the Copenhagen summit is essential for our children&#8217;s children&#8217;s future. This World Resources Institute paper, identifies key elements for a successful and possible outcome in Copenhagen. These include a clear set of follow-on negotiations to complete a legally binding agreement.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/essential-elements-for-the-essential-copenhagen-agreement/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/essential-elements-for-the-essential-copenhagen-agreement/</guid>
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<title>Greenhouse gas emission trends and projections in Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Between 1990 and 2007, Belgium has decreased its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 8.3%. This trend is encouraging but progress still needs to be made to reach the Kyoto targets. This report from the European Environment Agency presents an assessment of the past (1990-2007) and projected (2008-2012 and 2020) GHG emissions for European countries. It recommends continuing the EU emission trading schemes (EU ETS), and the promotion of renewable energy sources and policies targeting energy performance of buildings. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/greenhouse-gas-emission-trends-and-projections-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/greenhouse-gas-emission-trends-and-projections-in-europe/</guid>
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<title>Presentation: School that offers chances</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The malaise in French speaking schools is growing. Performance must go up, and the social and cultural inequalities must go down. This is essential, but also possible. And it's more than just a case of money.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-lecole-de-la-chance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-lecole-de-la-chance/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Tax shifting: from labour to energy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In comparison with Scandinavian countries, Belgium taxes energy relatively less than labour. But what would happen if we implemented a tax shift aimed at increasing taxes on energy and decreasing employers&#8217; or employees&#8217; labour taxes proportionally? In this report, the Federal Planning Bureau makes some simulations to answer the question. Even if the effect on the GDP is expected to be neutral, such a measure generates what economists call a double dividend: employment increases on the one hand and energy consumption and CO2 emissions decrease on the other hand. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-shifting-from-labour-to-energy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-shifting-from-labour-to-energy/</guid>
</item>
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<title>The single employment status for both blue collar and white collar workers needs to be better and more modern</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The discussion about a single employment status between both blue collar and white collar workers can not be limited to a discussion about the redundancy period. We need a better dismissal regulation that promotes employability. That is the only way to manage ageing. Here is a project for a more modern dismissal regulation in line with foreign experience. When are we going to also adopt in Belgium a vision in favour of a better labour market?]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-single-employment-status-for-both-blue-collar-and-white-collar-workers-needs-to-be-better-and-more-modern/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-single-employment-status-for-both-blue-collar-and-white-collar-workers-needs-to-be-better-and-more-modern/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Sick Funds: new roles in the long run?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Fran&#231;ois Daue explores a couple of ideas on possible new roles for the sick funds, to ensure a sustainable, accessible and affordable health system. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-are-the-new-challenges-for-sick-funds-for-the-30-years-to-come-what-are-their-strengths-and-weaknesses-how-do-we-translate-this-into-opportunities-and-concrete-projects-and-how-do-we-initiate-change/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-are-the-new-challenges-for-sick-funds-for-the-30-years-to-come-what-are-their-strengths-and-weaknesses-how-do-we-translate-this-into-opportunities-and-concrete-projects-and-how-do-we-initiate-change/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Technologies for managing dependency </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The risk of being physically and psychologically dependant increases when people become older. With an ageing population, our societies will need to have the means to properly assist our less autonomous elders. This study from the Centre d&#8217;analyse strat&#233;gique (France) suggests developing appropriate technologies for elders and weighs their pros and cons. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/technologies-for-managing-dependency/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/technologies-for-managing-dependency/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation: Sick funds: new roles in the long run?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ What are the new challenges for sick funds for the 30 years to come? What are their strengths and weaknesses? How do we translate this into opportunities and concrete projects, and how do we initiate change? 
Fran&#231;ois Daue explores a couple of ideas on possible new roles for the sick funds, to ensure a sustainable, accessible and affordable health system. 
]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationsick-funds-new-roles-in-the-long-run/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentationsick-funds-new-roles-in-the-long-run/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Analysis of the Belgian budget 2010-2011</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Because of the economic crisis, budgetary negotiations weren&#8217;t exactly a stroll in the park for our ministers. They had to take into account the budgetary impact of the economic crisis, e.g an important reduction of tax revenues and the increase of expenditures in unemployment benefits. In this report, the Belgian Court of Audit makes comments and observations about the last federal budget. We noticed, among other things, many new measures having been introduced, and a poorly fed Ageing Fund.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/analysis-of-the-belgian-budget-2010-2011/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/analysis-of-the-belgian-budget-2010-2011/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Children of immigrants on the labour markets of EU and OECD countries</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In about half of all OECD countries, children of immigrants account for ten or more percent of young adults (20-29) in the labour market. This OECD report evaluates the labour market outcomes (educational attainment, employment and unemployment rates) of the children of immigrants on the basis of their origin and background. The gaps between children of immigrants and children of natives are particularly large in Belgium and in the Netherlands. We should really learn from experiences in other OECD countries.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/children-of-immigrants-on-the-labour-markets-of-eu-and-oecd-countries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/children-of-immigrants-on-the-labour-markets-of-eu-and-oecd-countries/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Employment in Europe 2009</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since the beginning of the crisis, employment in the EU has decreased by over 4 million jobs. This European Commission report analyzes the recent developments and the dynamics of European labour markets. Are we going to manage the exit of the crisis? This report is confident about it. The move towards a low-carbon economy will indeed allow us to compensate for future job losses caused by the economic crisis. There is potential there and we could start by developing training policies for green technologies for example.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/employment-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/employment-in-europe/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The Copenhagen Diagnosis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Every single year counts in the fight against climate change. Between 1990 and 2008, global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels increased by nearly 40%. And if we keep on delaying actions, it is very likely we&#8217;ll face exceeding 2&#176;C warming after 2030. This is one of the conclusions from this Climate Change Research Centre (CCRC) report. Three years after the first Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, the CCRC gives an update on climate change, just before the Copenhagen summit in December 2009. How can we say we are poorly informed to take serious and effective measures now?]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-copenhagen-diagnosis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-copenhagen-diagnosis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Activity sectors in Wallonia 20 years later</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In 20 years time, Wallonia has progressively evolved from an industrial to a service society. She has developed big assets in logistics, food industry and building. Energy and sustainable development are considered as flourishing sectors in the region. In this report, the Forem gives us an overview of the historical evolution and future challenges in activity sectors in Wallonia.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/activity-sectors-in-wallonie-years-later/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/activity-sectors-in-wallonie-years-later/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Make very poor people more autonomous</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Poverty is a complex phenomenon which both individuals and societies are responsible for. In this study, the author suggests that making very poor people more autonomous is an essential strategy in the fight against poverty. The idea is to give people the tools and means to strengthen their ability to survive and face daily socio-economics difficulties. Therefore, we have to guarantee basic material support, appropriate benefits and credits, access to social services and policies of economic activation. Social nets and a political participation are also important.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-very-poor-people-more-autonomous/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/make-very-poor-people-more-autonomous/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Pension schemes and pension projections 2008-2060</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How much will the pensions cost in the future? For how long will our pension system be sustainable? How will growth evolve with an ageing population? In this report, the European Commission has updated the long-term economic and budgetary projections made by the 2009 Ageing Report. For every Member State of the EU-27, it gives a description of the pension systems, discusses the reforms recently achieved, and presents pension expenditure projections. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pension-schemes-and-pension-projections/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pension-schemes-and-pension-projections/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Progress in the light of the Lisbon objectives in education and training</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In our knowledge-based economies, we are constantly trying to stimulate human capital through policy programs at national and European levels. In this report, the European Commission evaluates educational performance across European countries with respect to the Lisbon objectives. And apparently, Europe is getting there. Lifelong learning and student mobility are becoming a reality for more and more people. But progress still needs to be made in Belgium. The performance gap between pupils is among the largest in the EU and the average performance in mathematics is declining.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/progress-towards-the-lisbon-objectives-in-education-and-training/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/progress-towards-the-lisbon-objectives-in-education-and-training/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Modernizing the public service during the crisis!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The public service versus the demographic impact, the war of talent and the digital revolution: which actions to undertake?]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/modernizing-the-public-service-during-the-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/modernizing-the-public-service-during-the-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>2010, the immigration decennium? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The more migration data is made available, the more reality is ignored. Time to set things straight; to begin with future migration projections. According to Jan Hertogen, from NPData, real migration balance between 2007 and 2020 is 10,1% higher than official estimations. Compared to 1980-1989, migration is five times more important in 2010-2019. Now guidance for support, self organisation, integration and language skills of Belgian immigrants should increase by a factor 5 too, the sociologist says.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/2010-the-immigration-decennium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/2010-the-immigration-decennium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Activating labour market policy: lessons from abroad</title>
<description><![CDATA[ An aging population and a growing number of (long term) unemployed will have social security expenses go trough the roof. An activation policy which seeks to replace obstacles to the labour market by incentives, tries to formulate an answer to this imbalance. An activating labour market policy is a set of measures whose objective is to fight unemployment, to encourage the outflow towards a job and to improve the connexion between supply and demand on the labour market. In this article from the Steunpunt WSE the authors discuss several interesting experiences from abroad.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/activating-labour-market-policy-lessons-from-abroad/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/activating-labour-market-policy-lessons-from-abroad/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Organisation of palliative care in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A palliative patient is a person that is in an advanced or terminal phase of a serious, progressive and life-threatening disease. But a patient&#8217;s status is currently being determined on the basis of his or her remaining life expectancy, while researchers from the Federal Knowledge centre think that the optimal criterion should be a person&#8217;s needs, because many patients would rather be looked after and pass away at home. Also, the training of healthcare professionals is essential according to the report, and the focus should be on communication skills and a multidisciplinary approach for high quality and dignified care to be achieved.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/organisation-of-palliative-care-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/organisation-of-palliative-care-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Obesity, at what price?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the United States, one out of three adults is obese (BMI&gt;30) and another third of the adult population is overweight (BMI&gt;25). In Belgium, almost half of the adult population is either overweight or obese, compared to one out of five children. The healthcare costs for obesity are rising spectacularly. Obesity represents 10% of the American healthcare expenses or 1,6% of GDP. Budgetary obesity is more important than ageing, and until 2022 that will not change. Obesity is a difficult issue for policy makers. Given that obesity is mainly the consequence of technological developments; a policy that focuses on the food component only is doomed to fail. Experiments with local communities show that programs that intensively promote a healthy lifestyle (healthy food, a lot of physical exercise) can yield encouraging results. The cost of these campaigns could be financed by typical obesity taxes, such as a soft drink tax.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/obesity-at-what-price/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/obesity-at-what-price/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Are health problems systemic? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Industrialised countries face similar challenges for improving the performance of their health system. Nevertheless the nature and intensity of the reforms required are largely determined by each country&#8217;s basic social security model. This IRDES paper looks at the main differences in performance of five countries and reviews their recent reform experience, focusing on three questions: Are there systematic differences in performance of Beveridge and Bismarck-type systems? What are the key parameters of health care system which underlie these differences? Have recent reforms been effective?]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/are-health-problems-systemic/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/are-health-problems-systemic/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Improving Resolution Options for Systemically Relevant Financial Institutions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There are critical holes in the existing regulatory framework for handling large complex financial institutions that become impaired. This uncertainty makes it difficult for regulators to know the best way to restructure a financial institution. This Squam Lake Working Group paper endorses legislation that would give authorities the necessary powers to effect an orderly resolution of large complex financial institutions. As part of this authority, every such institution should be required to create its own rapid resolution plans, which would be subject to periodic regulatory scrutiny. These &#8220;living wills&#8221; would help authorities address the difficulties that might arise in a resolution.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/improving-resolution-options-for-systemically-relevant-financial-institutions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/improving-resolution-options-for-systemically-relevant-financial-institutions/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Institutions and structural unemployment in times of crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Unemployment in the OECD area is projected to rise by over 25 million from 2007 to 2010, by far the largest and the most rapid increase in the post-war period. But some countries&#8217; labour market have been hit harder than others during the Great Recession. According to this OECD working paper, institutions (such as Employment Protection Legislation, average replacement ratio and product market regulation) influence both the extent of the initial shock and the adjustment pattern in the aftermath of a downturn. Especially stringent institutional settings seem to magnify a crisis&#8217; effect on structural unemployment, the researchers say. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/institutions-and-structural-unemployment-in-times-of-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/institutions-and-structural-unemployment-in-times-of-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Livestock and climate change</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A widely cited 2006 report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, Livestock's Long Shadow, estimates that 18 percent of annual worldwide greenhouse gas emissions are attributable to livestock. But recent analysis by the World Watch institute finds that livestock and their byproducts actually account for at least 32.6 billion tons of carbon dioxide per year, or 51 percent of annual worldwide GHG emissions. What if the key actors in climate change are cows, pigs, and chickens?]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/livestock-and-climate-change/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/livestock-and-climate-change/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Taking care of our disabled pupils</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Disabled pupils receive a lot of attention in terms of governmental policy. The costs of their education and complementary provisions, like compensations for home aid or expenses for youth care, are high and always increasing. This is due to the fact that schools and parents of disabled pupils don&#8217;t have any reason not to choose for the more expensive provisions. To what extent these high and ever increasing expenses generate real benefits for these kids, their families and therefore society remains however unknown, says this report from the Dutch planning bureau.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/taking-care-of-our-disabled-pupils/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/taking-care-of-our-disabled-pupils/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards a more effective anti-poverty policy in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With more than 100 000 permanent and temporary unemployed extra in 2009 an effective labour market policy should be flanked by an effective anti-poverty policy. According to OASeS researchers such an anti-poverty policy should be built on strong empirical fundamentals. Action plans should be monitored and evaluated yearly, all of that based on objective figures of course. An arsenal of priority indicators that will enable such an objective monitoring and evaluation are largely being developed in the report. But even if we were to follow these, and the other, policy recommendations dutifully, it&#8217;s far from certain that Belgium would meet its own millennium objectives by 2017.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-more-effective-anti-poverty-policy-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-more-effective-anti-poverty-policy-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Let ideas flow  to counter conformist thinking</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the wake of the financial crisis, many mainstream economic taboos are being questioned. The efficient market hypothesis is one of the ideas that has to cope with the most pressure. How could the theory that financial markets are efficient be so dominantly accepted among economists? Experimentation tells us that people only dare to question the majority&#8217;s opinion or the status quo when diverging views are being defended in the public debate. If not, there is a high risk of painful truths remaining untold. In other words: for a democracy to be effective, ideas need to flow. Concretely, breaking with the efficient market hypothesis means central banks will have to get their hands dirty in order to burst remaining bubbles. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/let-ideas-flow--to-counter-conformist-thinking/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/let-ideas-flow--to-counter-conformist-thinking/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Optimistic but worried about recent evolutions in healthcare</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The last week of October was full of interesting healthcare news: the publication of an interesting study by the National Institute for Health Insurance, alarming signals from the Plan bureau and the latest events in the healthcare soap, made in USA. Fran&#231;ois Daue discusses. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/optimistic-but-worried-about-recent-evolutions-in-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/optimistic-but-worried-about-recent-evolutions-in-healthcare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Ageing and well-being</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The population ageing debate must go beyond the usual focus on pensions, health and care. The more general well-being of our elders has to be taken in consideration too. This report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (UK) investigates four areas (relationships, work, training and infrastructure) through which older people could still actively participate as long as possible in our society. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-and-well-being/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-and-well-being/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Does the welfare state make older workers unemployable?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ European labour markets are more regulated than Anglo-saxon ones. But how are &#8216;continental&#8217; older workers affected by labour market rigidities? Are higher wages for the elderly the main cause for relatively more dismissals among older workers compared to their younger peers? Should they therefore benefit from even more protection than they already do? This IZA discussion paper makes a comparison between a rigid and a flexible labour market (France vs the US) and discusses the pros and cons of both systems for older workers. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-the-welfare-state-make-older-workers-unemployable/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-the-welfare-state-make-older-workers-unemployable/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>R&amp;D investments and economic cycles</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Are we going to reach the R&amp;D objective of the Lisbon Strategy by 2010? How does the crisis influence R&amp;D investments? That is the subject of this note from the French Center of strategic analysis. The authors also examine the procyclicality of R&amp;D investments in times of recession in OECD countries. With an R&amp;D intensity of roughly 1.5%, Belgium belongs to the group of countries whose firms&#8217; R&amp;D procyclicality with respect to business cycles should be limited.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/rd-investments-and-economic-cycles/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/rd-investments-and-economic-cycles/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Citizenship policies in the age of diversity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Citizenship is a crucial concept for integrating immigrants. European countries are giving more and more importance to diversity management through this principle. This publication explains the notion of citizenship in Europe and suggests some ways to promote it.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/citizenship-policies-in-the-age-of-diversity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/citizenship-policies-in-the-age-of-diversity/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The index of sustainable economic welfare for Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since the signature of the Istanbul Declaration (June 2007), international and supranational organizations are steadily encouraging initiatives to measure societal progress, going beyond conventional economic indicators such as GDP per capita. In this report from the Hogeschool Gent, the author presents one of the alternative measures of economic welfare: the index of sustainable economic welfare (ISEW). When studying the ISEW evolution for Belgium, he discovers contrasting trends between the ISEW and the levels of per capita GDP. He also finds that increases in production and consumption have not always led to increases in economic welfare, especially after the year 1980.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-index-of-sustainable-economic-welfare-for-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-index-of-sustainable-economic-welfare-for-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Environment policy review</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Our fight against climate change is far from ending. Even if progress has already been made over the last years &#8211;Belgium is among the EU Member States which have continuously reduced greenhouse gas emissions during the period 2004-2006, much needs to be done to reach our environmental commitments. This European Commission report gives an exhaustive overview of the efforts and the policy actions already taken all around Europe. It is good to know where we stand today, before making commitments for tomorrow (at the Copenhagen summit for example).]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/environment-policy-review/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/environment-policy-review/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The welfare effects of social mobility</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Are our well-being and individual life satisfaction higher in a society with important social mobility? How can our perception of fairness and income inequality influence our subjective well-being (SWB)? In this OECD paper, the authors answer these questions by analyzing for several OECD countries the SWB effects of intergenerational earnings mobility and equality in education at the societal level. This study reveals how perceptions and reality can actually interact and influence SWB.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-welfare-effects-of-social-mobility/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-welfare-effects-of-social-mobility/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Fiscal climate advantages in Belgium ; only for high incomes</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Improvisation is central in the Belgium climate policy. Popular measures like subsidies for efficient investments and CO2 bonuses for economical cars are coupled with big advantages, mainly for high income people. A non-transparent tax reduction for these people represents an important part of the climate policy. Can the federal authorities allow such climate advantages in times of budgetary tightness?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fiscal-climate-advantages-in-belgium--only-for-high-incomes/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/fiscal-climate-advantages-in-belgium--only-for-high-incomes/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to break network monopolies in the energy sector? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The agreement on the three oldest atomic power stations between the nuclear electricity sector and the government risks shutting down the electricity market for a long time. If we want to give competition a chance in this key sector we need a completely new strategy. For that to happen, our government has to be convinced that balanced competition is crucial of our energy policy though. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-break-network-monopolies-in-the-energy-sector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-break-network-monopolies-in-the-energy-sector/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation: Poverty Policy : Back to the drawing board</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Despite the favourable social-economical, demographical en 
policy parameters, we haven&#8217;t booked any progress in the fight 
against poverty during the last 20 years. The result of the 
welfare state based on activation policy and an attempt to 
nullify the so-called &#8220;new social risks&#8221; was less successful 
than envisaged. At the same time, the level of protection of 
the &#8220;old social risks&#8221; couldn&#8217;t keep up with the overall 
increase in prosperity. The inequalities are growing larger, 
as well as the part of the social security funds that are 
attributed to higher social groups.

Bea Cantillon, Universiteit Antwerpen and CSB, explains why 
that is, and how we can turn it around.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-poverty-policy-back-to-the-drawing-board/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-poverty-policy-back-to-the-drawing-board/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation: Poverty policy; reaction of Magda De Meyer</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Despite the favourable social-economical, demographical en policy parameters, we haven&#8217;t booked any progress in the fight against poverty during the last 20 years. The result of the welfare state based on activation policy and an attempt to nullify the so-called &#8220;new social risks&#8221; was less successful 
than envisaged. At the same time, the level of protection of the &#8220;old social risks&#8221; couldn&#8217;t keep up with the overall increase in prosperity. The inequalities are growing larger, as well as the part of the social security funds that are attributed to higher social groups.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-poverty-policy-reaction-of-magda-de-meyer/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/presentation-poverty-policy-reaction-of-magda-de-meyer/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>A guaranteed minimum income for Europe&#8217;s elderly?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Harmonisation of social security systems is back on the agenda of European policy makers. However, the introduction of a harmonised scheme poses severe challenges. In this article, the &#8216;Centrum voor Sociaal Beleid&#8217; from the University of Antwerp explores some options and difficulties associated with the implementation of a harmonised minimum income protection scheme for the elderly. Their findings confirm that it is one thing to be in favour of a harmonised scheme of minimum income protection, but another to design a realistic and politically feasible proposal.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-guaranteed-minimum-income-for-europes-elderly/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-guaranteed-minimum-income-for-europes-elderly/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Policy for orphan diseases and orphan drugs</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Because they are so rare, orphan diseases are often neglected by the industry and the scientific, medical and political world. Nonetheless, successful programs have been built up to stimulate the development of the so called &#8216;orphan drugs&#8217;. Their aim is often to compensate the industry for the high risk and the potentially lower return on investment due to the small amount of patients. In this KCE study the authors compare the Belgian orphan drugs repayment system with other countries, estimate its budgetary impact and formulate policy recommendations for improvement.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/policy-for-orphan-diseases-and-orphan-drugs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/policy-for-orphan-diseases-and-orphan-drugs/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Tax Credits to Prevent Layoffs and Stimulate Employment</title>
<description><![CDATA[ While there is much talk about the economy potentially being in recovery, it must be noted that we still have an extraordinarily high unemployment rate. This will continue for years to come unless we act decisively to confront the issue. In this CEPR analysis the authors suggest a job sharing tax credit as an effective temporary measure. The basic point is simple: job sharing would use tax money to pay firms to shorten the typical workweek or work year, while keeping pay constant. An idea worth scrutinizing for the troubled Belgian labour market.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-credits-to-prevent-layoffs-and-stimulate-employment/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/tax-credits-to-prevent-layoffs-and-stimulate-employment/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Executive Summary: What can Flemish schools teach French speaking schools? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ If the Flemish school system performs better than the French speaking one it&#8217;s because its principals and teachers enjoy more autonomy. Both systems, however, belong to the most unequal in Europe. An explanation from Jean Hindriks, Marijn Verschelde, Glenn Rayp and Koen Schoors. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/executive-summary-what-can-flemish-schools-teach-french-speaking-schools/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/executive-summary-what-can-flemish-schools-teach-french-speaking-schools/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The paradox of the investment state: Why did poverty not decline?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Despite the favourable social-economical, demographical en policy parameters, we haven&#8217;t booked any progress in the fight against poverty during the last 20 years. The result of the welfare state based on activation policy and an attempt to nullify the so-called &#8220;new social risks&#8221; was less successful than envisaged. At the same time, the level of protection of the &#8220;old social risks&#8221; couldn&#8217;t keep up with the overall increase in prosperity. The inequalities are growing larger, as well as the part of the social security funds that are attributed to higher social groups.

Bea Cantillon, Universiteit Antwerpen and CSB, explains why that is, and how we can turn it around.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-paradox-of-the-investment-state-why-did-poverty-not-decline/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-paradox-of-the-investment-state-why-did-poverty-not-decline/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Health IT: learn from your neighbours</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Greater use of information technology (IT) in health care can help achieve many health care reform goals. Health IT can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of health care by reducing costs, improving the quality of care, and increasing access to health care services and information. Health IT also empowers individuals to better manage their own health care and enables them to communicate more easily with their health care providers. Finally, health IT increasingly serves as the foundation for medical research. However, progress in the adoption of health IT varies significantly between nations. The purpose of this ITIF report is to identify which countries are leading in the deployment of health IT and to draw lessons that might be useful for other countries.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/health-it-learn-from-your-neighbours/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/health-it-learn-from-your-neighbours/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The impact of the financial and economic crisis on Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The impact of the worldwide financial and economic crisis on the economy, labour market, public finances and households is important; and Belgium makes no exception to that. Ever since, policymakers all over the world focus on how to restore confidence in the financial markets and institutions, budgetary stability, and economic growth. Moreover, the crisis intensifies structural challenges (such as ageing or sustainable public finances) that the Belgian and the other European economies have been facing for several years now. This policy synthesis from the Socio-Economic Council for Flanders summarizes the impact of the big crisis on our country.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-the-financial-and-economic-crisis-on-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-impact-of-the-financial-and-economic-crisis-on-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Flexicurity : a proposal based on economic principles</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Do workers receive fair compensation when losing their job? Do employers who dismiss workers contribute sufficiently for the costs transferred to society? In this publication from &#8220;Regards &#233;conomiques&#8221; (UCL), the authors review the economic principles of dismissal and suggest a new employment protection legislation and unemployment insurance. In their proposal, laid off workers are properly compensated for psychological costs and encouraged to get back to work with the help of labour policies financed indirectly by the dismissing employers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/flexicurity-a-proposal-based-on-economic-principles/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/flexicurity-a-proposal-based-on-economic-principles/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Human development report 2009</title>
<description><![CDATA[ According to the United Nations Development Program, Belgium is, as the year before, the 17th most developed country in the world. This year&#8217;s issue focuses on the effects of migration on the general well-being of the host population. Today, immigration is the only way Belgium has to significantly increase its population, although important challenges like education and integration are often associated with immigration too. While advancing a series of recommendations, the UNDP has the objective to help us improving human mobility and by doing so we could even win a few places in the human development ranking.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/human-development-report-2009/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/human-development-report-2009/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The state of the union is unsufficient!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Van Rompuy government did the absolute minimum where the budget is concerned.This is not enough. The government. misses long term vision and political courage to achieve structural reform. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-state-of-the-union-is-unsufficient/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-state-of-the-union-is-unsufficient/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Lessons of the Financial Crisis for the Design of National Pension Systems</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Pension funds all over the world had a hard time the past 12 months. In the Netherlands, some people even feared the compulsory and complementary occupational pension benefits would not (entirely) be paid out. Based on the recent financial crisis and historical record, this CESifo working paper draws important lessons and makes substantial recommendations about the design of national pension systems.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/lessons-of-the-financial-crisis-for-the-design-of-national-pension-systems/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/lessons-of-the-financial-crisis-for-the-design-of-national-pension-systems/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The &#8216;Oosterweelverbinding&#8217; and the missing alternative</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The planned Oosterweelverbinding has, as every massive infrastructure project, caused a lot of commotion. This KULeuven working paper doesn&#8217;t plead in favour of one of the two choices that completely dominate the debate today. In stead, the authors say the focus on both options narrows the debate down. Have all alternatives to improve Antwerp&#8217;s mobility been scrutinized? Is there any way to improve the existing infrastructure? If so, is a bridge or a tunnel still necessary? In other words, do the existing projects make sense or are there better alternatives? A study that could really shake up the debate a week before the plebiscite.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-oosterweelverbinding-and-the-missing-alternative/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-oosterweelverbinding-and-the-missing-alternative/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Driving a digital recovery in times of crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the past, one typical response to recessions would have be to increase investments in physical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges and sewer systems. However, in the new global economy, information technology (IT) is the major driver of not just economic growth, but also of improved quality of life. In this report, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) reviews the benefits and opportunities of including IT investments in a fiscal stimulus package. A way for Belgium to maintain the necessary 1,5% annual productivity growth used in the forecasts of our (optimistic?) Commission on Ageing?]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/driving-a-digital-recovery-in-times-of-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/driving-a-digital-recovery-in-times-of-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The WTO and Climate Change: Challenges and Options</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Trade and environment intersect in many ways. Aside from the broad debate as to whether economic growth and trade adversely affect the environment, there are linkages between existing rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and rules established in various multilateral environmental agreements. Controlling greenhouse gas emissions promises to be a top priority for both national and international agendas, and special attention must be given to the relationship between the WTO and the emerging international regime on climate change. This Peterson Institute working paper examines the nexus of the WTO and climate change and discusses challenges and options.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-wto-and-climate-change-challenges-and-options/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-wto-and-climate-change-challenges-and-options/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>What can Flemish schools teach French speaking schools? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ If the Flemish school system performs better than the French speaking one it&#8217;s because its principals and teachers enjoy more autonomy. Both systems, however, belong to the most unequal in Europe. An explanation from Jean Hindriks, Marijn Verschelde, Glenn Rayp and Koen Schoors.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-can-flemish-schools-teach-french-speaking-schools/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-can-flemish-schools-teach-french-speaking-schools/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Comparison of pension system yields</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There is no doubt about it: we have to reform our pension system if we want to guaranty its adequacy and financial sustainability. But in which direction do we have to make it evolve? To what extend does capitalization (2d and 3d pillar) has to be promoted with respect to repartition (1st pillar)? In this HIVA publication, the authors make a comparative yield analysis of our 3 pillars &#8211; through time and space. This study provides relevant theoretical and empirical items for the pension reform debate.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/comparison-of-pension-systems-yields/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/comparison-of-pension-systems-yields/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Creating an effective teaching and learning environment</title>
<description><![CDATA[ We live in modern knowledge-based economy and it&#8217;s no longer a secret: we have to respond to a growing demand for high-level skills. This OECD&#8217;s Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) provides a comparative study of the teaching and learning methods in secondary schools in OECD countries. Our traditional models of schooling have to be adapted if we want to be better prepared to identify and develop the talents of all students.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/creating-an-effective-teaching-and-learning-environment/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/creating-an-effective-teaching-and-learning-environment/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Doing Business in 2010</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For 2009-20010, Belgium is 18th in the Global Competitiveness ranking issued by the World Economic Forum: a progression of one place compared to last year! Although such information is useful for companies that have to select a place to invest, it is not enough. This annual &#8220;Doing Business&#8221; report from the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation that ranks economies based on 10 indicators of business regulation (which measures the ease of doing business) should therefore be seen as complementary. In this ranking Belgium is 22nd and lost two places compared to last year. In general, labour regulation, high tax rates and government bureaucracy appear to be the most problematic. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/doing-business-in-2010/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/doing-business-in-2010/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Economic outlook for the Euro area in 2009 and 2010</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Although technically speaking the Euro area is pulling out of recession, the overall economic picture is everything but bright. According to this report from the European Forecasting Network, GDP growth will be negative in the Euro area in 2009 (-0,5%) and is only expected to recover slightly in 2010 to 0,8%. For our economies to grow at more ambitious rates, two conditions are crucial, the researchers say: first, government intervention into financial markets has to be effective for some time. Second, the fall in house prices has to subside visibly.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/economic-outlook-for-the-euro-area-in-2009-and-2010/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/economic-outlook-for-the-euro-area-in-2009-and-2010/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Motivation for training in Flanders investigated</title>
<description><![CDATA[ A modern labour market cannot pass by training. This is why the Lisbon strategy aims at a training participation rate of the working population of 12,5%. With a mere 8%, Flanders is far from reaching that European objective. In this report from the Steunpunt WSE, the researchers analyze what motivates employees to take part in training programs, and what motivates employers to invest in them. This insight could increase the training participation rate in our region in order for our labour market to be more adequately equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/motivation-for-training-in-flanders-investigated/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/motivation-for-training-in-flanders-investigated/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Short-term impact of pension reforms on older workers&#8217; participation rates in the EU</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the last century, life expectancy has significantly increased in developed countries and many think that an increase of the legal age of retirement is therefore a justified measure for pension reform. In this publication of ECOFIN, the authors study the short-term impact of such a measure on male and female participation rates in Europe. They also discuss the importance of informing workers about pension arrangements.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/short-term-impact-of-pension-reforms/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/short-term-impact-of-pension-reforms/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The crisis: an opportunity for our healthcare? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ In view of the difficult budgetary negotiations the debate about the healthcare expenditure growth rate is everywhere. For some, a more modest rate stands for the beginning of the end of a solidary social security; for others the status quo will condemn our welfare state to bankruptcy. Difficult to say who will be right. What we know for sure, however, is that this extraordinary budgetary crisis is an extraordinary opportunity to discuss, without taboos, about a sustainable future for our healthcare. And the controversial growth rate will certainly be part of the debate. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-crisis-an-opportunity-of-our-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-crisis-an-opportunity-of-our-healthcare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The economic benefits of collaborative climate action</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen is for this December. If we want proper measures to be adopted, it is about time we try to convince the more skeptical ones to act. Cutting greenhouse gas emissions is urgent but many fear the costs of tackling climate change to be too high. In this report, the Climate Group constructs a model and explains how the carbon price can be reduced, the global GDP increased and the benefits for employment improved with a global climate action. Individual efforts are good but a collective one is even better!]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-benefits-of-collaborative-climate-action/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-economic-benefits-of-collaborative-climate-action/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Video: Should the government promote solar pannels?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-should-the-government-promote-solar-pannels/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-should-the-government-promote-solar-pannels/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Budetary priorities: 2009: let's get real!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In order to give the next generation a fair chance, it's time to get real.The Itinera Institute sends a clear message:let's do it right!]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budetary-priorities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budetary-priorities/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The long run needs to be reconciled with the short run</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the long run, we are all dead. This witticism from Keynes is known by almost everybody. Schumpeter, only interested in the long run, seems to be the antipode of Keynes. The question is to realize that the long run is more than a succession of short runs by surpassing it with a strategic vision.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-long-run-needs-to-be-reconciled-with-the-short-run/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-long-run-needs-to-be-reconciled-with-the-short-run/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Can student tutoring initiatives help underprivileged children?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Kids from immigrant and/or socially deprived background do not have the same opportunities at school as their autochthon peers. To compensate for this inequality, student tutoring (undergraduate and graduate students helping out immigrant and/or socially deprived children with school) is advanced as one interesting possibility. But what are the existing initiatives? Does student tutoring really offer an added value? If so, under what circumstances? How can we improve student tutoring? This publication from the King Baudoin Foundation offers subtle answers to these, and other questions.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-student-tutoring-initiatives-help-underprivileged-children/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/can-student-tutoring-initiatives-help-underprivileged-children/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Containing poverty in times of stimulus packages</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Many were skeptical of the Keynesian inspired stimulus packages governments enacted in the aftermath of the financial crisis. The most important, and controversial, stimulus package was definitely the American Recovery and Re-Investment Act (ARRA). Today, while our economies are prudently recovering, we&#8217;re starting to see and measure their benefits. According to this publication from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the ARRA had the important secondary effect of keeping 6 million Americans out of poverty in 2009. The authors analyze how &#8211; thus advancing strategies for combating poverty.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/containing-poverty-in-times-of-stimulus-packages/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/containing-poverty-in-times-of-stimulus-packages/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Economic effects of illegal immigrants' regularization in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Cost and benefits resulting from illegal immigrants&#8217; regularization policies are of the same type but do not have the same magnitude as legal immigration policies. Illegal immigrants already live in our country and their regularization generally gives rise to family gathering or network effects. Which impact can regularization then have on our labour market and public finances? Is this impact lower or higher than the one caused by legal immigration? In this publication from the UCL economic review &#8220;Regards &#233;conomiques&#8221;, the authors help us to understand reality better and perhaps to reconsider possible misjudgments on the subject.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/economic-effects-of-illegal-immigrants-regularization-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/economic-effects-of-illegal-immigrants-regularization-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Gender differences in individual income and financial dependence</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Whatever their status, women have a higher rate of financial dependence than men. That is what we can learn from this DULBEA publication which studies gender inequality and poverty. For nine European countries, the authors investigate the individual vulnerability to poverty by distinguishing individual income from household income and by taking into account some personal characteristics. Improving poverty measurement seems also important to these authors and they therefore suggest four new indicators.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/gender-differences-in-individual-income-and-financial-dependence/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/gender-differences-in-individual-income-and-financial-dependence/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The Future of International Migration</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is very likely Western economies will have to attract foreign labour to deal with an ageing workforce. This OECD publication explores the social, economic and environmental forces that may combine to attract migrants of various types and backgrounds to OECD countries, as well as those that may persuade migrants to emigrate or to stay at home. This volume endeavours to cast light on a range of key questions.  Which factors will be major determinants of global migration flows?  Which OECD countries will look particularly attractive for migrants? Belgium better be prepared if it doesn&#8217;t want to lose the international war for talent!]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-future-of-international-migration/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-future-of-international-migration/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>10 actions to modernize our public services</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Ten concrete actions to modernize our public services and succeed in the demographic revival among civil servants.
]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/10-actions-to-modernize-our-public-services/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/10-actions-to-modernize-our-public-services/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Addressing healthcare spending growth</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Reducing the growth of healthcare spending is the ambition of the Obama administration. On top of the longed extended coverage and an equivalent quality of care one can say the President is very ambitious indeed. As identifying specific, feasible steps that can achieve these goals have proven to be difficult, one could wonder whether President Obama has not been too ambitious. This report from Brookings gives a hand and advances a couple of effective steps to address long-term healthcare spending growth. And although the American system is very different from ours, many of the proposed reforms should (and hopefully will) inspire Belgium&#8217;s policy-makers too.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/addressing-healthcare-spending-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/addressing-healthcare-spending-growth/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Budgetary recovery in bad times</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Even before the crisis, we knew that the next generations would have to pay for the financing of our pensions and health care. But on top of this big challenge, we are facing a deep crisis today. Many call for a so-called &#8220;deficit-spending&#8221;. Because it seems unacceptable to charge the next generation for this also, we propose a number of alternative tracks.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetary-recovery-in-bad-times/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetary-recovery-in-bad-times/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Taxation trends in the European Union</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How high are taxes in Europe? Are tax levels increasing or decreasing? How is the tax burden shared between labour, capital and consumption? How does Belgium compare with the other Member States? This Eurostat report analyses these and other questions. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/taxation-trends-in-the-european-union/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/taxation-trends-in-the-european-union/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>A first attempt to measure the quality of public finances in the EU</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The quality of public finances (QPF) has always been a subject of concern. Indeed, which country would not want to improve it knowing that it can help delivering public services efficiently and effectively and creating conditions conductive to economic growth? In this paper, the European Commission has developed a multi-dimensional concept evaluating the strengths and weaknesses in twelve areas of public finances linked to economic growth. This is thus an interesting way for Belgium to evaluate its QPF over the years, to compare itself with other European countries and, why not, to learn something from them.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-first-attempt-to-measure-the-quality-of-public-finances-in-the-eu/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-first-attempt-to-measure-the-quality-of-public-finances-in-the-eu/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>China&#8217;s clean revolution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ China is now almost certainly the largest national emitter of carbon dioxide (CO2) &#8211; although its per capita emissions are still a fraction of the USA&#8217;s and EU&#8217;s, and below the global average. Less widely acknowledged is the leading role that China is already playing in producing the technologies needed to solve the climate change challenge, think of China as the world&#8217;s largest producer and consumer of solar water heaters for example. But more can be done. This report by The Climate Group analyses the progress and potential in China&#8217;s major low carbon industries like low carbon transport, energy efficiency in industry, renewable energy and urban design and sustainable development. China might surprise the world during the UN Summit in Copenhagen this December&#8230; .]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/china-clean-revolution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/china-clean-revolution/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How satisfied are the Flemish with their healthcare provisions? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Traditionally, Belgian healthcare&#8217;s strengths are its quality, accessibility and availability. But how do the Flemish perceive their healthcare provisions themselves? And what factors, on the individual level (education, place of residence, age,&#8230;) as well as on the supply-side level (financing, choice, quality,&#8230;), influence that perception? This report from the research department of the Flemish government analysed it and compared the Flemish Community with the rest of the EU member states. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-satisfied-are-the-flemish-with-their-healthcare-provisions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-satisfied-are-the-flemish-with-their-healthcare-provisions/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>School-to-work transitions in the United-States and in Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How can temporary work influence the performance of youth on the labour market? What are the pathways to chose from to minimize the risk of unemployment? How can the government and companies help them in this sense? In this OECD report, the authors make an analysis of school-to-work transitions in Europe and the United-States. For both continents, they investigate the time needed to find a first job after completing education, the smoothness of the transition and the extent to which such an easy transition may determine future labor market success. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/school-to-work-transitions-in-the-united-states-and-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/school-to-work-transitions-in-the-united-states-and-in-europe/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>A VAT reduction in the horeca sector: at which price?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The cost of a VAT reduction in the horeca sector could be higher than expected and the creation of new jobs disappointing. Our budgetary situation is critical and we can not take such a decision thoughtlessly. Let us have a look at what the French experience can teach us first.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-vat-reduction-in-the-horeca-sector-at-which-price/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-vat-reduction-in-the-horeca-sector-at-which-price/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>A crisis tax for banks?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Banks have to contribute to the budgetary deficit that was partly due to the financial crisis. If we find a correct way to make the banks pay for the risk they impose on society, then our financial system could benefit from it.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-crisis-tax-for-banks/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/a-crisis-tax-for-banks/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Don&#8217;t let the gatekeepers of our healthcare system escape!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The profession of general practitioner (GP) doesn&#8217;t appeal to students anymore and we&#8217;re about to face a shortage &#8211; a serious problem. Yet, making the profession of GP more attractive is good for both our GPs and our social security budget, as the gatekeepers of our healthcare system can prevent us from paying for more expensive, but unnecessary, treatments. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/dont-let-the-gatekeepers-of-our-healthcare-system-escape/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/dont-let-the-gatekeepers-of-our-healthcare-system-escape/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Assessment and innovation in education</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Innovation is a key driver of economic and social progress in and needs undoubtedly to be sustained by education. Indeed, education enables people to develop their creativity, knowledge, skills and talents that are so much needed for innovation. This OECD report discusses three ways to improve educational practices and assessment processes to cultivate these key competences. Let&#8217;s go ahead towards innovative learning and teaching strategies to stimulate innovation!]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/assessment-and-innovation-in-education/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/assessment-and-innovation-in-education/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Immigrant, Muslim, Female: Triple Paralysis?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Unemployment figures of Muslim women indicate not many of them are working. That does not necessarily mean Muslim women do not have employment aspirations. In fact, the key finding of this Quilliam Foundation report is that 57% of the Muslim women surveyed actually want to work. However, it still leaves 39% who do not want to find work, a significant number for whom this report tries to establish what is holding them back.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/immigrant-muslim-female-triple-paralysis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/immigrant-muslim-female-triple-paralysis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Learning to be healthier</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There are a number of potential mechanisms, both direct and indirect, through which involvement in education and training may improve health outcomes. Participation in learning activities may improve health outcomes by improving employment prospects, for example. Learning may also have benefits in terms of improving attitudes to and competencies for engaging in positive health behaviours and making best use of health services. This Institute for Employment Studies report considers the evidence in relation to these, and other, potential mechanisms.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/learning-to-be-healthier/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/learning-to-be-healthier/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Pollution : emissions caused by transports</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In 2007, road transport, train transport and inland navigation emitted 27% more greenhouse gas than in 1990 and were responsible, back then, for 20% of the total greenhouse gas emission in Belgium. In this report, the Federal Planning Bureau makes an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution caused by transports. With a specific model, it also provides its own emission perspectives till 2030 and compares them to previsions already made by others. These figures should be interpreted as a wake-up call.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pollution--emissions-caused-by-transports/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/pollution--emissions-caused-by-transports/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Reforming the pensions and insurance industries in light of the crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The financial crisis has generated large losses in the pension and insurance industries. Being in less distress than the banking sector, they can be improved nonetheless. This paper of the IMF explains the different characteristics of those sectors and their vulnerabilities to different shocks. The authors determine their risk sharing properties and the transmission channels to the rest of the financial sector and the real economy. From these points they derive relevant policy implications that take into account the differences between the sectors, and that strengthen supervision of the sectors and the channels of contagion.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reforming-the-pensions-and-insurance-industries-in-light-of-the-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reforming-the-pensions-and-insurance-industries-in-light-of-the-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The challenges for the Belgian voucher payment system for services </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Vouchers have increasingly become a common mode of payment for personal services in Belgium, with a 53% increase in use during the period 2006-2007. They take part in policy to finance the demand for services and bring undeclared labor in the official labor market. But are vouchers an effective means for those goals? This article from the European Trade Union Institute investigates the drivers for the development of personal services and evaluates the payment method with vouchers. The author compares the Belgian and French systems and determines the challenges that lie ahead for both systems concerning the cost, and the quality of employment.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-challenges-for-the-belgian-voucher-payment-system-for-services/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-challenges-for-the-belgian-voucher-payment-system-for-services/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Video column: More emphasis on a better financing model in Belgium!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The financing model of federal Belgium is untenable. At the one hand more regional autonomy in corporate tax is desirable. At the other hand there is a need for more empowerment in the regional expense of federal grants. This is possible through a system of bonus/malus based on objective performance indicators.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videocolumn-more-emphasis-on-a-better-financing-model-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videocolumn-more-emphasis-on-a-better-financing-model-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Is obesity becoming a threat for the American economic hegemony?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The obesity epidemic is spreading out. The United-States has already spent 1.6% of their GDP to the healthcare bill related to the consequences of obesity. If this evolution becomes more intense, obesity could influence American geopolitical relationships in the long run.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/is-obesity-becoming-a-threat-for-the-american-economic-hegemony/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/is-obesity-becoming-a-threat-for-the-american-economic-hegemony/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The financial crisis requires more international politics</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos shares the collective rage with respect to the outrageous bonuses in investment banks. But he points out the political responsibility. In times of crisis, political choices reinforced the position of big investment banks. Not only is the casino still open, on top of that, the same players are still at the gaming tables with more opportunities to play than before and more chances to win. Without any international consensus over new rules of the game, we may slide off to &#8220;business as usual&#8221;.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-financial-crisis-requires-more-international-politics/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-financial-crisis-requires-more-international-politics/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Video column: A more performant educational system striving for excellence and equal opportunities! </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Our educational system has to perform better in the development of our only natural raw material being human capital. More autonomy for schools and universities is therefore an important leverage. A lot of justified attention is going to equal opportunities in education. However, equal chances do not mean equal results. On all levels in education there must come more space for excellence. The potential of the highly gifted and of girls stays too often wasted.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videocolumn-a-more-performant-educational-system-striving-for-excellence-and-equal-opportunities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/videocolumn-a-more-performant-educational-system-striving-for-excellence-and-equal-opportunities/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>To promote financial stability wisely</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the United States, they have to decide who will become the new governor of the Federal Reserve.  Instead of focusing on the mental state of an individual and his attitude towards inflation, it would be better to build in structural mechanisms.  So for example is stated in the contract of the central banker of New-Zealand, that he can be dismissed from the moment the control on inflation is lost. The issue of inflation-linked bonds by the public authorities could also be an efficient instrument. These are state bonds with interest payments depending on the inflation rate evolution.  This demonstrates that public authorities are not going to choose the &#171; nuclear &#187; option to diminish their debt position by creating inflation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/to-promote-financial-stability-wisely/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/to-promote-financial-stability-wisely/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Video Column: Administration should encourage entrepreneurship, not dampen it</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For several years now there have been attempts to measure de administrative burden for entrepreneurs. The results are very disappointing and so far there is little or no proof that these charges are going down.
This is a pity, especially because measures to alleviate administrative burden won't cost government a cent.
]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-column-administration-should-encourage-entrepreneurship-not-dampen-it/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/video-column-administration-should-encourage-entrepreneurship-not-dampen-it/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Belgian healthcare needs an American revolution</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos explains how American and Belgian healthcare have the same characteristics and challenges in common. Belgium can learn from the reform debate in the US. We are in a denial state about the necessity for another healthcare. Here also, healthcare effectiveness, efficiency and quality have to be a central concern.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-healthcare-needs-an-american-revolution/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgian-healthcare-needs-an-american-revolution/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Ageing can benefit to all ages</title>
<description><![CDATA[ More of us are living longer than before. Ageing should, therefore, also be seen as one the biggest success stories of our Age. We cannot but recognise, however, that changes will fundamentally reshape our families and communities so our society must adapt to make the most of this new reality. Improving the quality of current older people&#8217;s lives will become a government priority as older people will gain weight in the electorate. In this report, the British Government sets out its long-term vision for everybody to enjoy the opportunities of an ageing society. Maybe, this will inspire Belgium&#8217;s politicians. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-can-benefit-to-all-ages/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-can-benefit-to-all-ages/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Intergenerational social mobility in OECD countries</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The notion of intergenerational mobility can not be excluded from the poverty debate. If we want to fight poverty, we have to raise the probability that a child born in a poor family will not live, once he/she will have reached adulthood, in the same socio-economic conditions as his/her parents. This OECD report, which gives comparative estimates of social mobility in 14 OECD countries, constitutes a real added-value for Belgium: by providing relevant figures and studying the potential impact of some public policies, this report can help our country to better construct its anti-poverty strategy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/intergenerational-social-mobility-in-oecd-countries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/intergenerational-social-mobility-in-oecd-countries/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Key data on education in Europe 2009</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There is always something Belgium can learn from its European neighbours, and why not in the field of education. This report from Eurydice provides a comparative evaluation of the organisation and functioning of education systems in Europe for 2009. Although the participation rate and the number of years spent in schools and universities are increasing, the number of teachers is not. Even more surprisingly so as a majority will retire in the next few years. A serious concern, especially for a knowledge based economy in which education and training needs to be promoted.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/key-data-on-education-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/key-data-on-education-in-europe/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The situation of our public finances</title>
<description><![CDATA[ More than ever the financial situation of our kingdom is in the spotlight. At the beginning of the decennium everything seemed fine, with balanced budgets and even the Silver fund. Today, we know better. We&#8217;re not talking about budget surpluses anymore, but about containing budget deficits. Yet, everybody knows what&#8217;s coming to us, and there&#8217;s no such thing as a magic spell to change it. In this article, Koen Algoed from the think-tank VIVES draws the situation of our public finances, and discusses a couple of efficient and fair measures to readjust the situation. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-situation-of-our-public-finances/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-situation-of-our-public-finances/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Belgium&#8217;s environmental industry: 1995-2005</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This working paper from the Federal Plan Bureau studies the evolution of the size, composition and economic performance of the environmental industry between 1995 and 2005 in Belgium. The sector is part of the green economy and is mainly centred on activities increasing natural resource efficiency. Those who expect a lot from the job potential of the green economy can partly be reassured: in the environmental industry alone, the number of jobs increased by 40% in the last ten years.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgiums-environmental-industry-1995-2005/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgiums-environmental-industry-1995-2005/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The government&#8217;s role in the financial crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The financial crisis has necessitated intervention from the governments and questions the stability of the financial sector. This OECD report concentrates on reforms in the financial sector and the principles for the exit strategy of the emergency measures of the government. Guidelines for reforms are proposed which aim at bringing a balance between risk and the search for return in banking. The reasons why the exit strategy must be coordinated with the reforms in the financial sector are also explained. Interesting guidelines therefore for steering the Belgian policy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-governments-role-in-the-financial-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-governments-role-in-the-financial-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Why We Must Ration Health Care</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How much would you be willing to pay to live longer? Probably a lot. Now, how much would you want your insurer to pay for a drug or treatment that adds a year to someone&#8217;s life? Probably much less. Implicitly, we&#8217;re applying monetary considerations to saving lives, but is it immoral to do so? According to the controversial Australian philosopher Peter Singer, it is not, as health care is a scarce resource, and all scarce resources are rationed in one way or another. This is a must-read article!]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-we-must-ration-health-care/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/why-we-must-ration-health-care/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Workers and poverty risk in Flanders</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Being employed does not always preserve from the risk of poverty. Who are the poor workers in Flanders and what are their living conditions? This publication from the Centrum voor Sociaal Beleid answers these questions and investigates possible policies that could solve the problem of the working poor. If we want to do so without worsening the unemployment trap, we cannot ignore increasing the minimum wage, the authors argue.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/workers-and-poverty-risk-in-flanders/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/workers-and-poverty-risk-in-flanders/</guid>
</item>
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<title>Young people on stage</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In order to take advantage from the crisis, Jean Hindriks suggests a Sweden knowledge lift. Active workers could go back to study, while receiving benefits, to let their job to younger workers, the first victims of the crisis. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/young-people-on-stage/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/young-people-on-stage/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Budget deficits</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Among al the regional agreements, the Flemish one sadly stands alone when it comes to numerically clarifying the way politicians are going to manage public money. Imposing the improvement of the annual productivity of all public services and having public servants deciding by themselves how to reach these objectives definitely is a practice to recommend. And it goes without saying that this method has already been successfully tested abroad. The Itinera axes for modern and better public authorities are already a first step towards a culture of evaluation, which enables public performance to be improved by objectively evaluating the impact, the quality and the efficiency of public actions and to inform citizens about quality and results. Results, more than necessities, should determine budget allocations. .]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budget-deficits/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budget-deficits/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Global imbalances and the financial crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Among the origins of the financial crisis, the global imbalances &#8211; cheap money from countries like India and China being channelled to the US &#8211; are often mentioned. These surpluses in savings could not but lead to investment excesses. Because most of the investment destinations were quickly supersaturated (think about the commodity bubbles), subprimes became an ideal solution. If the banking system had been sufficiently robust, that is without excessive leverages, the global imbalances might have led to a recession, but not to a systemic crisis. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/global-imbalances-and-the-financial-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/global-imbalances-and-the-financial-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How open is the Belgian economy?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium occupies a mediocre 21st spot in an international ranking of the most open economies. There seem to be many obstacles left for firms willing to invest in Belgium, especially for foreign firms, the latest World Economic Forum report says. The most open economies are often Nordic countries. The reason we perform rather poorly to European standards is due to a less accessible market &#8211; blame the not very favourable investment climate and the archaic functioning of our customs.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-open-is-the-belgian-economy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-open-is-the-belgian-economy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Labour migration in times of recession</title>
<description><![CDATA[ An economic recession makes a country less attractive to migrate to. Given the widespread nature of the current downturn there are fewer honey pots to attract mobile people from one country to another. Also, many people seize the opportunity of a recession to return home. This paper from the Policy Network investigates what the net immigration effects will be for Europe and the UK considering today&#8217;s gloomy economic outlook. The problem&#8217;s complexity makes forward planning to respond to population movement very difficult. This is unfortunate, the authors conclude, as immigrant labour can play a significant role in an economy&#8217;s revival.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-migration-in-times-of-recession/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-migration-in-times-of-recession/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Reform of the labor market policy in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ What does the ideal labor market policy look like? This paper of the CESifo proposes a reform of the labor market in Belgium, based on economic principles. The authors sum up the pitfalls of the current system and argue for the implementation of a new layoff tax. The guidelines that are provided for a new reform indicate that the current policy lies far from the ideal.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reform-of-the-labor-market-policy-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reform-of-the-labor-market-policy-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The effect of age on productivity investigated</title>
<description><![CDATA[ As employees become older they become more experienced, yet their health and strength declines as well. The general presumption is that aging implies a decline in productivity, but does that hold true? In this paper of the Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA) data is examined from running contests, output of publications and firms. The author finds differences in the effect of aging on mental and physical productivity which might differ with your expectations.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-effect-of-age-on-productivity-investigated/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-effect-of-age-on-productivity-investigated/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Budgetary perspectives of Wallonia: 2009-2019</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In full negotiations for Wallonia&#8217;s political program to come, the CERPE (FUNDP) publishes a new report on Wallonia&#8217;s budgetary perspectives for 2009-2019. It revises the 2009 initial budget set by the Plan Bureau, by using the revised inflation and growth expectations. Thanks to these new figures we&#8217;re able to evaluate the weight of regional revenues and expenditures in the total regional budget. Given the gloomy economical circumstances, to which extend will politicians be able to realize their electoral promises?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetary-perspectives-of-wallonia/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetary-perspectives-of-wallonia/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Does Flanders need additional stimulus measures?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ On-the-job training is seen as an important driving force for a knowledge-based economy with a dynamic labor market. Should the government stimulate investments in on-the-job training? And is there need for new stimulus measures in Flanders? This report of the &#8216;Steunpunt Werk en Sociale Economie&#8217; explains the motives for government intervention and the different implementation possibilities. The author provides pros and cons for new stimulus measures in Flanders and draws conclusions which can direct the debate on government policy.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-flanders-need-additional-stimulus-measures/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/does-flanders-need-additional-stimulus-measures/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How to avoid a pension crisis with a new system design</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Pension reforms seem unavoidable if we want to guaranty a relatively equivalent purchasing power to the next generations of pensioners. In this IZA publication, the authors suggest to reconsider the pension system design in itself by combining a Bismarckian scheme with an unconventional one linked to individual investments in one&#8217;s children education. They also give strong arguments and evidence defending the idea that, with such a system, fertility, education, labour productivity and work incentives can, all at the same time, only be stimulated positively.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-avoid-a-pension-crisis-with-a-new-system-design/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-to-avoid-a-pension-crisis-with-a-new-system-design/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Lessons from migration after the EU enlargement</title>
<description><![CDATA[ After the EU enlargement in 2004, many feared large migration flows from new to the old member states. The potential increase in competition on the labour market and for welfare benefits seemed particularly dreadful. That is why Belgium and other old EU member states decided to restrict access to labour markets, before lifting these restrictions gradually. In this publication from IZA, the authors study the evolution of East European workers&#8217; migration, its causes and effects in the new member states. The interested reader will also find some considerations about the crisis&#8217; impact on these migration flows.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/lessons-from-migration-after-the-eu-enlargement/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/lessons-from-migration-after-the-eu-enlargement/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Education and obesity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ An epidemic of obesity has been developing in virtually all OECD countries over the last 30 years. Research suggests that such epidemic has affected certain social groups more than others. In particular, education appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of obesity. This OECD working paper finds linear relationship between the number of years spent in full-time education and the probability of obesity. Moreover, the researchers were able to ascertain that the direction of causality appears to run mostly from education to obesity. Will education and information proven to be the solution for one of our most important health challenges? ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-and-obesity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/education-and-obesity/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Electronic prescriptions, in Belgium soon</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There&#8217;s some good news from the healthcare sector: a pilot project for electronic prescriptions is on its way. Electronic prescriptions offer more security to the patient, improve the quality of care and push down costs. Fran&#231;ois Daue and Brieuc Van Damme hope this project will be as successful as in Sweden where net benefits are estimated to reach 97 million euros annually. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/electronic-prescriptions-in-belgium-soon/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/electronic-prescriptions-in-belgium-soon/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Evaluation of the federal climate policy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In order to fulfill its climate policy targets, Belgium should reduce carbon emissions by 7.5% in the period 2008-2012. The federal government aims to achieve this through emission reduction and the purchase of emission certificates, respectively at 4.8 and 2.44 million tons on average per year. The Court of Audit concludes in this report that a decent federal climate plan is missing and that there is insufficient coordination between the appointed governments. In their recommendations they demand that the federal climate plan has to be elaborated with distinct descriptions of the measures, well informed targets and cost predictions of emission reduction. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evaluation-of-the-federal-climate-policy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/evaluation-of-the-federal-climate-policy/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The European patent system and why it doesn&#8217;t work</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Research has shown the importance of intellectual property rights and institutions to trigger innovation, and thus growth. The way patent requests are being processed on a national and international level is a part of that institutional framework, and is today facing two major challenges: 1) the work of the European Patent Office is currently being undermined by the high degree of patent fragmentation in Europe; and 2) backlogs at patent offices worldwide create more uncertainty on the markets. In this Bruegel report, recommendations are advanced to solve the European internal fragmentation challenge and the global backlog challenge. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-european-patent-system-and-why-it-doesnt-work/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-european-patent-system-and-why-it-doesnt-work/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The headscarf debate illustrates the multicultural dream failure</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos signals that the discussion over the headscarf prohibition in Antwerp passes over the essence, that is to say, the fact that Muslim women testify an isolated conservatism and social choices must be made. We need a conscious and leading culture to create unity within diversity.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-headscarf-debate-illustrates-the-multicultural-dream-failure/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-headscarf-debate-illustrates-the-multicultural-dream-failure/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Who controls public contracts?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ According to a survey from Transparency International Belgium, a majority of the candidates for the last regional elections consider that subsidies and public contracts in Belgium are still being attributed with a lack of transparency. 30.4% of the Brussels candidates, 35.5% of the Walloon candidates and 59.9% of the Flemish candidates have doubts about the public contracts procedure and its ability to guarantee transparency and equal treatment among competitors.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/who-controls-public-contracts/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/who-controls-public-contracts/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Poverty and social mobility: what do we have to know to act better?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With a poverty rate of 15.2% in 2007, Belgium should consider its fight against poverty and social inequality more seriously than it does now. According to Johan Albrecht and Isabelle Martin, it needs to evaluate more regularly and more rigorously the effects of its anti-poverty policies in order to have a better idea of their real efficiency. Belgium also needs to pay more attention to improving intergenerational mobility by properly using social levers such as education and employment policies.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/poverty-and-social-mobility-what-do-we-have-to-know-to-act-better/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/poverty-and-social-mobility-what-do-we-have-to-know-to-act-better/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Activation policies in some European countries</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Activation policies are an efficient tool to fight unemployment, to motivate people to keep on working and to improve  the matching between supply and demand on the labour market. This publication from the Higher Institute for Employment discusses activation policies adopted by our European neighbors (France, Germany, Nederland, Denmark, and the United-Kingdom). Thanks to a better view of what works abroad, and what doesn&#8217;t, Belgium can reevaluate its own activation instruments in terms of training, assistance to unemployed people, private sector subsidies, job creation, etc.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/activation-policies-in-some-european-countries/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/activation-policies-in-some-european-countries/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Brain drain from the sending countries&#8217; perspective</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Undoubtedly, industrialized countries can gain a lot from skilled migration &#8211; especially in today&#8217;s ageing context. But does that mean that &#8216;sending countries&#8217; lose from skilled emigration? This IZA paper assesses the global effects of brain drain on developing countries. The author&#8217;s findings suggest that the short-run impact of brain drain on resident human capital is extremely crucial, as it does not only determine the number of skilled workers available to domestic production, but is also affects the sending economy&#8217;s capacity to innovate or to adopt modern technologies. Shouldn&#8217;t we therefore consider training our low-skilled workforce first?]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/brain-drain-from-the-sending-countries-perspective/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/brain-drain-from-the-sending-countries-perspective/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Deficit spending can not push away political reforms</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sends out a warning about the Flemish budgetary laxity. Flanders can not exorcise the crisis with regional deficits. The new government has to prioritize competitiveness, innovation, education, entrepreneurship and exports.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/deficit-spending-can-not-push-away-political-reforms/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/deficit-spending-can-not-push-away-political-reforms/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Minimum living standard budget for a Flemish family</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Is the minimum legal revenue high enough? Can a family live decently with an income equivalent to the poverty threshold? The Centre for Social Politics answers these questions by constructing a minimum income standard allowing different family types to fulfill their basic needs and live autonomously. It also analyses the relative importance in the standard budget of the main expenditure categories and highlights future challenges.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/minimum-living-standard-budget-for-a-flemish-family/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/minimum-living-standard-budget-for-a-flemish-family/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Multi-level regulatory governance</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The quality of regulation is essential to improve economic and social welfare. The improvement of the economic actors&#8217; certitude and the elimination of unnecessary costs and burdens on businesses and citizens are properly at stake. However, a high quality regulation at a certain level of government can be compromised if national and sub-national regulatory governance systems adopt poor regulatory practices and do not cooperate. In this publication from the OECD, the authors analyze the functioning of multi-level regulatory governance in some OECD countries and give some recommendations to improve it.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/multi-level-regulatory-governance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/multi-level-regulatory-governance/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Retirement homes in the 21st century</title>
<description><![CDATA[ With ageing retirement homes are back in the spotlights. In Belgium, 42% of people older than 85 live in a retirement home, compared to 21% for those older than 80 and 8% for those older than 65. This means that a majority of our seniors still lives at home where some of them receive help and care from social and medical services. In this publication from the King Baudouin Foundation, the authors describe the infrastructures and initiatives that already exist in the different Belgian regions. Based on a survey, the report presents some of the most innovative initiatives mentioned by the sector&#8217;s professionals.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/retirement-homes-in-the-21st-century/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/retirement-homes-in-the-21st-century/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The paradox of the investment state: why didn&#8217;t poverty decrease?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ During the last decades, the general level of welfare in rich western countries kept on growing while poverty did not diminish proportionally as much. In this report, Bea Cantillon explains the raison of this phenomenon by presenting the paradoxes of the investment state. Reducing social benefits, for example, decreases the number of unemployment traps but makes social inclusion of inactive people also more difficult. Professor Cantillon describes the recent evolution of our welfare state, and exposes the main aspects of the fight against poverty and social inequalities (education, social benefits, etc.).]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-paradox-of-the-investment-state-why-did-not-poverty-decrease/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-paradox-of-the-investment-state-why-did-not-poverty-decrease/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Wage inequalities in perspective</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Top wages and wage differences have become a prominent news item. With the threat of a collective impoverishment caused by the crisis, intolerance towards high earners is significantly increasing. But how important are wage differences in Belgium and how important are they compared to our neighbouring countries? In this policy brief, Kris Boschmans, Geert Janssens en Wies Pairoux from the think-tank VKW Metena reflect on the desirability of healthy wage differences. They show that the fuss around top wages completely misses the far more important debate of the wage base determination process in our country.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wage-inequalities-in-perspective/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wage-inequalities-in-perspective/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>What a Texas town can teach us about healthcare costs</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Healthcare expenditures vary a lot between countries, and even between regions within countries. The US for example spends per capita almost three times as much as Finland. Yet health outcomes between most industrialized countries are roughly the same. In his search for an explanation, Doctor Gawande from the New Yorker travels to McAllen, Texas, one of the most expensive healthcare markets on earth. Written like a real whodunit, the article discusses different plausible explanations for these differences in expenditures and ends with some important recommendations in order to keep them under control. A must-read for all healthcare professionals!]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-a-texas-town-can-teach-us-about-healthcare-costs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-a-texas-town-can-teach-us-about-healthcare-costs/</guid>
</item>
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<title>What policies for the Flemish car industry?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Because the car industry is a very cyclical business it was hit very hard by the financial and economic crisis. Everywhere in the world politicians did everything in their power to protect &#8216;their&#8217; brands and &#8216;their&#8217; factories. Through extra credit lines, car scrapping schemes, government guaranties etc. it is indeed possible to temporarily save jobs in the short term in the car industry (which only represents 2% of total employment in Belgium). Jo Van Biesebroeck (KULeuven) wonders whether there aren&#8217;t better ways to spend taxpayers&#8217; money. The author is puzzled by the motives to throw money in the auto industry and suggests measures for a better long run industrial policy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-policies-for-the-flemish-car-industry/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-policies-for-the-flemish-car-industry/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>7 myths about green jobs</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In Belgium and abroad, green jobs are totally in, politically then. Not only will they improve the environment, but also foster innovation and thus economic growth. But what is a green job? Are they really going to trigger productive employment? And what about their cost and redistributive income effects? In this SSRN paper, the authors surveyed the green jobs literature and analyzed its assumptions. By exposing 7 myths about economics, forecasting and technology, the authors found that an unconsidered green jobs policy could lead to restructuring and possibly impoverishing our societies.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/7-myths-about-green-jobs/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/7-myths-about-green-jobs/</guid>
</item>
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<title>How healthy are Belgian companies?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Every year, Graydon takes pulse of our companies&#8217; health. To do so, the researchers use a number of &#8216;economic blinkers&#8217;, or parameters that indicate problematic situations within a company. They found that on the national level and despite the crisis, the relative amount of (very) sick companies declined during 2008 and the first 3 months of 2009. In other words, the companies that were already very sick are to blame for the spectacular amount of bankruptcies that we witnessed the last couple of months.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-healthy-are-belgian-companies/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/how-healthy-are-belgian-companies/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Information vs. Choice, or the Belgian healthcare paradox</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The patient&#8217;s role in our healthcare system is evolving to a more active one. The purpose is to have the patient chose its providers more consciously. This dynamic force is believed to benefit the system as a whole as long as high quality information is easily accessible to patients. Fran&#231;ois Daue and Brieuc Van Damme are disappointed that this isn&#8217;t the case in Belgium&#8230; .]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/information-vs-choice/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/information-vs-choice/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Discriminatory banking supervision</title>
<description><![CDATA[ We&#8217;re expected to believe that regulation will not fail next time. Yet, there&#8217;s no shame in questioning your own beliefs and being sufficiently sceptical. Financial reforms as seen by official bodies today have to be implemented in the short term. If not, those that advocate going back to a separation of deposit and investment banks will eventually be proven to be right. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/discriminatory-banking-supervision/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/discriminatory-banking-supervision/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Transition policy is the marching order for labour market policy in times of crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos sends out a warning that the crisis policy on the labour market is focussing too much on keeping existing jobs. The attention should be focussed on the weaker groups on the labour market. Transition policy is the way forward, and can seize the existing opportunities, despite the crisis. We have to make a collective effort for actual activity in order to avoid a lost generation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/transition-policy-is-the-marching-order-for-labour-market-policy-in-times-of-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/transition-policy-is-the-marching-order-for-labour-market-policy-in-times-of-crisis/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>No sustainable social security without a better economy and a better labour market</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos has objections about the ambition for a Flemish social security. He points out that Flanders can not get a sustainable social security without a larger economic basis and a better labour market. Flanders needs to be a laboratory for a new and better social security.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-sustainable-social-security-without-a-better-economy-and-a-better-labour-market/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/no-sustainable-social-security-without-a-better-economy-and-a-better-labour-market/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards a better federal financing</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Some say that more autonomy given to the regions could positively impact the quality and efficiency of public services. This could lead to an improved responsibility that would prevent the regions from overspending. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-better-federal-financing/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-a-better-federal-financing/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Complexity and control: how do they work in public-private partnerships (PPPs)?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are an interesting tool to increase investments and thereby supporting economic growth. PPPs are more than a concept; they are a reality in Belgium. That&#8217;s why, the Flemish government currently sponsors a five-year research project to study PPPs practices and their performance at the Regional and local level. Central are the questions to what extend governments can manage and control PPPs, and the way on which multi-actor, technical and political complexities can influence on this public control? In the growing literature around PPPs, this paper from the Public Management Institute (KULeuven) tends, through case studies, to answer these questions and to determine how the performance of PPPs can be affected.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/complexity-and-control-how-do-they-work-in-public-private-partnerships/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/complexity-and-control-how-do-they-work-in-public-private-partnerships/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Educational inequality and socioeconomic background</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Many European countries face an important educational gap between natives and migrants. According to the most recent PISA studies, the problem is particularly important in Belgium. But what factors are to blame for this inequality of chances at school? The results of this IZA study suggest that the educational gap between natives and migrants is mainly due to the &#8216;endowment effect&#8217; provided by the socioeconomic background of parents and cultural capital at home. It goes almost without saying that family really is important for the pedagogic project of a child. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/educational-inequality-and-socioeconomic-background/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/educational-inequality-and-socioeconomic-background/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Employment-productivity trade-off and labour composition</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Labour market reforms may have the objective to increase employment rates, especially  those of low productivity workers. Overall labour force productivity could however deteriorate with such kind of reforms. The authors of this OECD report study the trade-offs between labour productivity and labour force utilization for different socioeconomic groups. How can we increase employment without becoming less competitive than the US and the rest of Europe? Education appears to be a non negligible remedy to reconcile employment and labour productivity growth.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/employment-productivity-trade-off-and-labour-composition/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/employment-productivity-trade-off-and-labour-composition/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Firm level effects of increasing the Legal Retirement Age</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Most pay-as-you-go pension systems, like the Belgian one, have increased or plan to increase their legal retirement age (LRA) to address the financial consequences of ageing. Although the success
of these policies is ultimately determined at the labour market, little is known about the effects of higher LRAs at the firm level. This IZA study finds that the wages and hours worked of the older workers are virtually unchanged, although firms employing older workers tend to reduce their hirings, especially of younger workers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/firm-level-effects-of-increasing-the-legal-retirement-age/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/firm-level-effects-of-increasing-the-legal-retirement-age/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Socially diverse schools: the miracle will not happen</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Alarming finding: Belgium is the champion of segregation in the school system, leaving only Hungary behind. The impact is more or less the same in both communities. The notorious 'd&#233;cret mixit&#233;', symbol of the political willingness to do something about this in French speaking Belgium, has made a lot of parents angry, and was ultimately withdrawn. Jean Hindriks and Brieuc Van Damme got some inspiration from the cities of New-York and Boston to suggest some measures that will lead to a consensus between all stakeholders in a quick and easy WAY.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/socially-diverse-schools-the-miracle-will-not-happen/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/socially-diverse-schools-the-miracle-will-not-happen/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The Day After: what are the regional policy priorities for 2009-2014</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The regional elections of 2009 should be a turning point. Due to the economic crisis, the budgetary crisis and the institutional crisis, Belgian&#8217;s regions are faced with new responsibilities.
Now that the votes are counted, the multitude of electoral promises can make way for the reality of negotiations. The Itinera Institute determined 7 regional policy priorities and formulated concrete proposals.
]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-day-after-what-are-the-regional-policy-priorities-for-2009-2014/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-day-after-what-are-the-regional-policy-priorities-for-2009-2014/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The day after: what are the regional policy priorities for 2009-2014? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-day-after/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-day-after/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Waiting for the inflation storm? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ The Federal Reserve has shown itself determined to overcome the crisis. Meanwhile, some fear too much fire extinguishing water has been used which will inevitably lead to an inflation burst. This does not necessarily need to happen, although price stability cannot be expected either. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/waiting-for-the-inflation-storm/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/waiting-for-the-inflation-storm/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Presentation: the day after: what are the regional policy priorities 2009-2014?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The regional elections of 2009 should be a turning point. Due to the economic crisis, the budgetary crisis and the institutional crisis, Belgian&#8217;s regions are faced with new responsibilities.
Now that the votes are counted, the multitude of electoral promises can make way for the reality of negotiations. The Itinera Institute determined 7 regional policy priorities and formulated concrete proposals.

]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ppt/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ppt/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Executive summary :the day after: what are the regional policy priorities for 2009-2014?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The regional elections of 2009 should be a turning point. Due to the economic crisis, the budgetary crisis and the institutional crisis, Belgian&#8217;s regions are faced with new responsibilities.
Now that the votes are counted, the multitude of electoral promises can make way for the reality of negotiations. The Itinera Institute determined 7 regional policy priorities and formulated concrete proposals.
]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/executive-summary-the-day-after-what-are-the-regional-policy-priorities-for-2009-2014/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/executive-summary-the-day-after-what-are-the-regional-policy-priorities-for-2009-2014/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>GM and Opel undermine the real economy fundamentals</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos points out heavy perverse effects from GM&#8217;s nationalization and Opel&#8217;s government support: politization of the auto industry, unfair competition and a slide towards more economic nationalism. The rescued companies&#8217; future is still very uncertain. The rare tax revenues are not well used. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/gm-and-opel-undermine-the-real-economy-fundamentals/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/gm-and-opel-undermine-the-real-economy-fundamentals/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The real stake of the elections is the Belgian democracy impotence</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos expresses his frustration about the elections battle. He observes the elections as being in a virtual reality, with a Roman-style decadence of self-deception and delusion. For the real challenge we lack realism, workable solutions and audacity for true political solutions. Can the elections bring some consolation?]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-real-stake-of-the-elections-is-the-belgian-democracy-impotence/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-real-stake-of-the-elections-is-the-belgian-democracy-impotence/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Europe&#8217;s demographic future and age-related consequences</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How does our demographic future look like and how will that influence age-related expenditures? How deep in trouble is Belgium compared to the 26 other EU member states? The projections presented here by the European Commission are helpful in highlighting the immediate and future policy challenges for governments posed by demographic trends.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/europe-demographic-future-and-age-related-consequences/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/europe-demographic-future-and-age-related-consequences/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Integrating immigrant children into European schools</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Parental involvement in the education of their children is essential to children&#8217;s success at school. Unfortunately, many immigrant parents encounter difficulties of a linguistic or cultural nature to do so. This publication from Eurydice studies three methods of promoting communication between schools in Europe and immigrant families: publication of written information on the school system in the language of origin of immigrant families, the use of interpreters in various school-related situations, and the appointment of persons to be specifically responsible for connecting immigrant pupils and their families with the school.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/integrating-immigrant-children-into-european-schools/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/integrating-immigrant-children-into-european-schools/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Managing the health effects of climate change</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Fossil fuels have contributed to huge improvements in global health and development over the past 100 years. Paradoxically, because their consumption is to a large extend responsible for climate change, they now represent the biggest global health threat of the 21st century through changing patterns of disease, water and food insecurity, vulnerable shelter and human settlements, etc., says this Lancet Commissions report. An integrated and multidisciplinary approach to reduce the adverse health effects of climate change requires policies must be adopted to reduce carbon emissions and to increase carbon biosequestration; action should be taken on the events linking climate change to disease; and appropriate public health systems should be put into place to deal with adverse outcomes.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/managing-the-health-effects-of-climate-change/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/managing-the-health-effects-of-climate-change/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Socio-economic figures about Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This publication from the FPS Economy should be considered as Belgium&#8217;s latest socio-economic profile. Even if all the consequences of the crisis are not yet reflected in these figures, the report gives us an interesting overview of the most important aspects of our economy before 2009. The Belgians will not be surprised to note that we enjoyed more free time now than we did last year, young people still have difficulties in finding a job, Belgium has a high productivity level with respect to the majority of its European neighbors, demographic density keeps going up, etc.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/socio-economic-figures-about-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/socio-economic-figures-about-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The way to manage secondary school enrolment</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Alarming finding: Belgium is the champion of segregation in the school system, leaving only Hungary behind. The impact is more or less the same in both communities. The notorious 'd&#233;cret mixit&#233;', symbol of the political willingness to do something about this in French speaking Belgium, has made a lot of parents angry, and was ultimately withdrawn. Fran&#231;ois Maniquet (UCL) presents two procedures to manage the enrolment of pupils in their first year of secondary education that take into consideration the parents&#8217; preferences as well as the governmental desire to have more social diversity in schools.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-way-to-manage-secondary-school-enrolment/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-way-to-manage-secondary-school-enrolment/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>An assessment of the European terrestrial carbon balance</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The threat of a future climate change urges us to reduce green gas emissions by developing new environmental friendly technologies and using biomass fuels. But, we do not pay enough attention to our own natural weapons against carbon gas: our soils, oceans and forests. In this publication, CarbonEurope IP quantifies the terrestrial carbon balance of Europe by measuring carbon inflows and outflows in different natural areas. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/an-assessment-of-the-european-terrestrial-carbon-balance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/an-assessment-of-the-european-terrestrial-carbon-balance/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Do women gain or lose from becoming mothers?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ There may be different explanations for the wage disadvantage women are suffering from (which accounts for 11% on average in Belgium). In this publication from DULBEA, the author wants to study the relationship between motherhood and the gender wage gap. Also including other explanatory variables such as personal characteristics, human capital indicators and job and firm characteristics in the model, the author shows us that wage discrimination is more sex- than maternity-related. Nevertheless, since being a father tends to have a positive impact on men&#8217;s wages, parenthood seems to worsen the gender wage gap in most countries. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/do-women-gain-or-lose-from-becoming-mothers/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/do-women-gain-or-lose-from-becoming-mothers/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Efficiency of public spending in support of R&amp;D activities</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Do European countries have to reinforce or retarget their innovation policy to meet the national goals of the Lisbon agenda? To answer this question, we first need to know how efficient our public R&amp;D policies are. In this publication from the European Commission, the authors use a methodological framework to assess the efficiency of the main public R&amp;D instruments (direct subsidies, tax incentives, R&amp;D performed in the public sector) implemented to support R&amp;D activities in the private sector. At the same time, they compare the efficiency scores among OECD countries over the last decades. Belgium ranks very average, which should inspire us through benchmarks and best practices to improve our R&amp;D public spending policies.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/efficiency-of-public-spending-in-support-of-rd-activities/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/efficiency-of-public-spending-in-support-of-rd-activities/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Measuring quality of healthcare</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Only what can be measured can be improved. This is no different for the quality of healthcare. Information on healthcare quality (is this provider or that physician capable of efficiently treating this pathology?), and therefore its communication, is almost inexistent. This is why the Institut Montaigne formulates 7 concrete propositions to efficiently measure the quality of care and to communicate the results of these evaluations to the public. The aim is, of course, to introduce a virtuous dynamic which will ensure equal access and efficiency. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/measuring-quality-of-healthcare/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/measuring-quality-of-healthcare/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Service cheques: a different evaluation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Established since 2004, the service cheques system has been, among other things, associated with job creation (87 152 jobs created according to a 2007 estimation from the Belgian Court of Audit). In this edition of &#8220;Regards Economiques&#8221;, however, economists from the University of Louvain investigate job and service organization quality for the different types of providers. They also question the financial viability of such a system depending on a double state intervention (VAT exemption and tax reduction for the users). And, what would the impact of service cheques&#8217; price increase be?]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/service-cheques-a-different-evaluation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/service-cheques-a-different-evaluation/</guid>
</item>
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<title>The Intellectual Property Index for the Information Technology Sector</title>
<description><![CDATA[ One of the most fundamental problems in public discussion of European intellectual property (IP) policies is the shortage of information about the specific composition of an IP environment, relevant to Europe&#8217;s high tech industries (in general), and the information technology (IT) sector in particular. In order to narrow this gap, in 2006 the Stockholm Network developed an innovative statistical index aimed at measuring the strength of intellectual property rights (IPRs) in the IT sector in different countries. And what appears? The EU is seriously lagging behind compared to its immediate competitors like the U.S. and Japan. Not a good argument when attracting private investors in R&amp;D, that&#8217;s for sure. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-intellectual-property-index-for-the-information-technology-sector/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-intellectual-property-index-for-the-information-technology-sector/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Where do emigrants from a rich welfare state go to, and why? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ A large literature has analyzed how income distribution and redistribution are related to immigration to various rich countries. In this paper, Panu Poutvaara et al. (IZA) take a look at the other side of the coin and analyze emigration from the richest and most redistributive European welfare states. It is found that people from rich welfare states with higher skills and of higher earning capacity should be more likely to go to countries with wider income distribution, like the Anglo-Saxon countries, than countries with relatively flat earnings distribution, like the Scandinavian countries. A lesson to attract high-skilled workers? ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/where-do-emigrants-from-a-rich-welfare-state-go-to/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/where-do-emigrants-from-a-rich-welfare-state-go-to/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Wind Power Increase in 2008</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Global wind capacity increased an estimated 27,051 megawatts in 2008. As a result, the growth rate exceeded the annual average of the past decade, the Worldwatch Institute says. Wind now generates more than 1.5 percent of the world's electricity, up from 0.1 percent in 1997. Europe is the front runner, still accounting for 55 percent of the global total wind capacity, although growth rates are slowing down. Germany is even expected to generate 30% of its electricity demand thanks to wind energy by 2030. And although Belgium doesn&#8217;t have the same capacity, our eastern neighbours are setting a good example of how to diminish energy dependency while respecting the environment. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wind-power-increase/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/wind-power-increase/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>To win the fight against poverty, we must change the welfare state fundamentals</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos comments on the social state of Flanders. He points out that the progress realized during the last decade in crucial fields is in decline. He emphasizes that the fight against poverty can only be won by dedicating ourselves to upward mobility. We must tax and pay benefits in a different way.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/to-win-the-fight-against-poverty-we-must-change-the-welfare-state-fundamentals/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/to-win-the-fight-against-poverty-we-must-change-the-welfare-state-fundamentals/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Managed Competion in Health Care</title>
<description><![CDATA[ ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/competition/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/competition/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Forum: Managed competition in Health Care</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since 2006 all Dutch citizens have to buy standardized individual health insurance coverage from a private insurer. Consumers have an annual choice among insurers, and insurers can selectively contract or integrate with health care providers. Subsidies make health insurance affordable for everyone. A Risk Equalization Fund compensates insurers for enrollees with predictably high medical expenses. Competing insurers are supposed to be(come) the prudent buyers of care on behalf of their insured. Although the reform of the health insurance market was a major achievement, the complementary reform of the provision market has only just begun, and is likely to be at least as complicated. The development of  the insurers&#8217; role as prudent purchasers of care is still work-in-progress. The challenge is now to successfully reform the market for the provision of health care.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/forum-managed-competition-in-health-care/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/forum-managed-competition-in-health-care/</guid>
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<title>Presentation:Managed Competion in Health Care: still work in progress</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Since 2006 all Dutch citizens have to buy standardized individual health insurance coverage from a private insurer. Consumers have an annual choice among insurers, and insurers can selectively contract or integrate with health care providers. Subsidies make health insurance affordable for everyone. A Risk Equalization Fund compensates insurers for enrollees with predictably high medical expenses. Competing insurers are supposed to be(come) the prudent buyers of care on behalf of their insured. Although the reform of the health insurance market was a major achievement, the complementary reform of the provision market has only just begun, and is likely to be at least as complicated. The development of  the insurers&#8217; role as prudent purchasers of care is still work-in-progress. The challenge is now to successfully reform the market for the provision of health care.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/managed-competion-in-health-care-still-work-in-progress/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/managed-competion-in-health-care-still-work-in-progress/</guid>
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</item>
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<title>The social lift is broken</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In this report, the King Baudouin Foundation analyzes the differences in school performances between autochthon and immigrant pupils. It appears that there are important social inequalities in the French and Flemish Communities and a positive correlation between the parents&#8217; socio-economic status and their children&#8217;s results. Even though the family&#8217;s socio-economic situation can largely explain the differences in performance between the Belgian and immigrant pupils, education should be a way to improve social mobility through generations and reduce social inequalities. Therefore, the report pleads, among other things, in favor of desegregation policies in the educational system.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-social-lift-is-broken/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-social-lift-is-broken/</guid>
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<title>European Quality of Life Survey</title>
<description><![CDATA[ This survey from Eurofound gives European citizens the opportunity to express themselves on different socio-economic topics such as income and living standards, work-life balance, quality of society, healthcare and housing. This allows us to evaluate the quality of life throughout Europe better and to think about relevant policy measures in meeting people&#8217;s needs. We can also find inspiration here from what is going better abroad, particularly in the Nordic countries.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-quality-of-life-survey/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-quality-of-life-survey/</guid>
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<title>International lessons from structural change and public service performance? </title>
<description><![CDATA[ What lessons can we draw from international experiences of structural change in the public sector and their effect on public services performance? Well, according to this article from the Public Management Institute (KULeuven) not many: systematic evaluations of structural change programmes tend to be either absent or inconclusive. One thing is sure though: structural change can never be just structural change. The reasons for the restructuring have to be explained. The change has to be planned, preferably with a high degree of participation from those who are to be its &#8216;victims&#8217;. The staff has to be re-trained. The process needs to be monitored over time. And so on. Is that the reason why some of the key elements of our Copernicus reform have faded over time? ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/international-lessons-from-structural-change-and-public-service-performance/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/international-lessons-from-structural-change-and-public-service-performance/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Labour in Belgium ; without any reform, there is no reason to celebrate (not even on May 1)</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Also Belgium celebrates Labor Day on May 1.  However, during the rest of the year work is being far from celebrated in our complex welfare state.  A heavy tax system, a rough regulation, and all kind of inactivity traps discourage the supply of labor.  With the crisis, the invoice related to our heavily upset labor market goes up, but fundamental reforms are still out of the question. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-in-belgium-without-any-reform-there-is-no-reason-to-celebrate-not-even-on-may-1/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-in-belgium-without-any-reform-there-is-no-reason-to-celebrate-not-even-on-may-1/</guid>
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<item>
<title>The effects of the population structure on employment and productivity</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Employment rates and productivity levels vary across population groups. This OECD report analyzes the differences in employment and productivity in several European countries and in the United States. Countries with a large share of young people at working age or low educational attainment can be expected to have lower aggregate employment rates and be less productive than countries where the shares of the prime-age population and the higher-educated are important. These findings should push us to think more seriously about the importance of upgrading skills and developing more efficient technologies. Our long run employment and productivity performances are really at stake.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-effects-of-the-population-structure-on-employment-and-productivity/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-effects-of-the-population-structure-on-employment-and-productivity/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards sustainable and adequate pensions</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium and the EU are on the way to sustainable pensions but are not quite there yet. This CEPS study illustrates in a striking and novel way that the spending patterns of today&#8217;s retired cohorts are not possible for the current youngest working-age cohorts. While making recommendations to improve the overall performance of pension schemes, the authors highlight that policy-makers should also continue to monitor the effect of reforms on the adequacy of coverage of particular population groups.]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-sustainable-and-adequate-pensions/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-sustainable-and-adequate-pensions/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>The necessity of reforming the banking system</title>
<description><![CDATA[ At this moment comparable conclusions to those of our extraordinary parliamentary commission are being drawn all around the world. It would really be counterproductive to lead a strategy of divide and rule. Beyond party lines and political horizons, we cannot but reach the conclusion that banks are special entities with the potential to create a lot of risk for the overall economic stability. If banks have to be rescued in difficult times, they also have to respect certain limits; nobody, whatever the political conviction, can deny this.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-necessity-to-reform-the-banking-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-necessity-to-reform-the-banking-system/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Empowering Belgian patients</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Where in Europe are the patient&#8217;s rights best respected and where is patient information best developed? According to this report from the Health Consumer Powerhouse, Belgian patients are, with a sad 13th place, far from the most empowered in Europe. In patient empowerment, not only money matters &#8211; instead the issue is about will and the perception of whom the healthcare system really aims to serve. In the aging Europe there is a growing need to involve patients and consumers in the healthcare processes, to balance demand to resources.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/empowering-belgian-patients/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/empowering-belgian-patients/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Female scientists, IT specialists and engineers, why so few? Executive Summary</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The number of female IT specialists, scientists and engineers remains low.

The Itinera Institute offers a platform to Carl Van Keirsbilck, who studied the causes, and formulates clear recommendations towards government and education.

 
]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/female/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/female/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Labour flows in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the last decade, job stability was relatively high in Belgium and there was no deterioration on the Belgian labour market in terms of job mobility. But is this still going to be the case in the following years? This report from the National Bank of Belgium presents an accurate analyze of job flows from 1998 to 2006 in our country. The authors show us to what extend job flows vary with firm, worker and labour market characteristics. Good to know when defining policies aimed at slowing down job destruction and stimulating job creation.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-flows-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/labour-flows-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Migration: annual report 2008</title>
<description><![CDATA[ More and more foreigners are leaving their home country to reach Europe. But some of them construct a new live in our country without knowing whether and how long they will be allowed to stay in Belgium. When are we going to adopt an efficient regulation policy for migrants in Belgium? This report from the Centre for Equal Opportunities and Opposition to Racism analyzes the nature, the size and the challenges related to migration in Belgium. The Center also formulates recommendations on different aspects of migration and insists on the necessity to adopt a permanent regularization process instead of punctual measures. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migration-annual-report-2008/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migration-annual-report-2008/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Public employment in an international perspective</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How many people are employed in the Belgian public sector? How much does this cost to our government? Does Belgium manage its public sector differently than other OECD countries do? In this report, the Plan Bureau gives us a concrete answer to all these questions, with interesting figures. It allows us to have a better idea of what the public sector represents in terms of jobs and costs in Belgium and other OECD countries. Even if the public employment rate in Belgium is higher than average compared to similar countries, this is not the case for the ratio between gross remuneration per civil servant and gross remuneration per worker in general. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/public-employment-in-an-international-perspective/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/public-employment-in-an-international-perspective/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Reforming the International Financial System</title>
<description><![CDATA[ It is important to try to make the financial system less susceptible to crises in the future. In this article from the Peterson Institute a three-point program is advanced: a reversal of the past policy of encouraging bank mergers and its replacement by a vigorous antitrust policy directed at the banking sector; a determination to make monetary policy anticyclical; and reform of the regulatory system. It goes without saying all the key international actors will have to go for this or a similar plan if future financial and economic catastrophes are to be limited in consequences, duration and occurrence. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reforming-the-international-financial-system/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/reforming-the-international-financial-system/</guid>
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<title>The Bologna process in higher education in Europe</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The workers&#8217; level of qualification is a real comparative advantage for our European countries. This advantage, however, can only be preserved by continuously supporting our education systems. The Bologna process represents an important step on the road of knowledge development; but did we go as far as we thought? Are there more students in high schools and universities now; are students more mobile and better prepared to enter the labour market? This report from Eurostat investigates different aspects of higher education in Europe since the Bologna process: financial access, public investments in tertiary institutions, staff and student mobility, students employability, etc.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-bologna-process-in-higher-education-in-europe/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-bologna-process-in-higher-education-in-europe/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Towards gender neutral wages</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The wage gap between women and men computed on the basis of monthly wages for fulltime employees amounts to 12% in Belgium. Although this is a considerable difference, a clear decrease in the wage gap is noticeable, and compared to other European countries the wage gap is relatively limited in Belgium, this report from the Institute for Equality of Women and Men says. Further, other important labour market differences and inequalities are highlighted, the most important explanatory factors developed and some policy recommendations given in order to evolve towards more gender neutral work conditions. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-gender-neutral-wages/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/towards-gender-neutral-wages/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Unmet healthcare needs in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ How do citizens perceive their health and the access to health care in their country? This question is the scope of this Eurostat article in which European citizens were asked whether they felt they had had unmet medical needs in examination or treatment. Although Belgium is the country with the lowest perceived unmet needs, the most important reason for this is that the respondents could not afford it or thought it was too expensive. The accessibility of our healthcare system has always been one of strengths. Let&#8217;s reform our healthcare system now to make sure this strengths doesn&#8217;t erode over time.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unmet-healthcare-needs-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/unmet-healthcare-needs-in-belgium/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Young innovative companies: EU vs US</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Are we going to be as innovative as the US? With the Lisbon Strategy, we know that Europe wants to stimulate R&amp;D and innovation in all its member states. However, young innovative companies in Europe are still facing barriers to innovation. In this publication, Bruegel investigates the situation and the context in which young innovative companies are evolving. It also makes some recommendations aimed at guiding our public authorities to support innovation in our countries. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/young-innovative-companies-eu-vs-us/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/young-innovative-companies-eu-vs-us/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>Universal human rights require Western action</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos is concerned with president Obama&#8217;s diplomatic rhetoric towards the Muslim world. The situation in strategic countries such as Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan is worrisome. Much more than ringing words, we are in need of real action that deals with the harsh realities, notably as regards human rights.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/universal-human-rights-require-western-action/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/universal-human-rights-require-western-action/</guid>
</item>
<item>
<title>How atypical is the current crisis: looking back to 1929</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The great crash of 1929 is very similar to the problems of today. Speculation was financed with capital from Europe and other regions; a global crash became unavoidable. The stockmarket culture was so dominant that even funds for poor people were considered around 1929.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/1929-galbraith-and-raskob/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/1929-galbraith-and-raskob/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Diversity in school</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Alarming finding: Belgium is the champion of segregation in the school system, leaving only Hungary behind. The impact is more or less the same in both communities. The notorious 'd&#233;cret mixit&#233;', symbol of the political willingness to do something about this in French speaking Belgium, has made a lot of parents angry, and was ultimately withdrawn. Jean Hindriks and Brieuc Van Damme got some inspiration from the cities of New-York and Boston to suggest some measures that will lead to a consensus between all stakeholders in a quick and easy way. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/diversity-in-school/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/diversity-in-school/</guid>
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<item>
<title>Diversity in schools: YES WE CAN!</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Alarming finding: Belgium is the champion of segregation in the school system, leaving only Hungary behind. The impact is more or less the same in both communities. The notorious 'd&#233;cret mixit&#233;', symbol of the political willingness to do something about this in French speaking Belgium, has made a lot of parents angry, and was ultimately withdrawn. Jean Hindriks and Brieuc Van Damme got some inspiration from the cities of New-York and Boston to suggest some measures that will lead  to a consensus between all stakeholders in a quick and easy WAY. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/diversity-in-schools-yes-we-can/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/diversity-in-schools-yes-we-can/</guid>
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<title>Increase the motivation of the civil servant through clear objectives</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Supporting the satisfaction and motivation of our civil servants supposes their work is given clear objectives which they can commit themselves to. Civil servants need to have a clear idea of what is expected from them and understand that their work is meaningful. The leap forward of the apparatus of government is the desire to work for a cause.  ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-motivation-of-the-civil-servant/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-motivation-of-the-civil-servant/</guid>
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<title>Put a non budgetary cap on healthcare expenses</title>
<description><![CDATA[ We should put a cap on healthcare expenses. The debate on healthcare reforms should be much wider than on setting the optimal expense level. A growing healthcare sector will create tremendous economic opportunities, Brieuc Van Damme and Ivan Van de Cloot argue. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/put-a-non-budgetary-cap-on-healthcare-expenses/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/put-a-non-budgetary-cap-on-healthcare-expenses/</guid>
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<title>Budgetary obsession is destined to fail in this century of the health economy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos recognizes that the growth rates of public expenditures for healthcare are untenable. But he also stresses that no budgetary policy will be able to cover the needs of this century of the health economy with public means alone. We have to address the organisation of healthcare itself.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetary-obsession-is-destined-to-fail-in-this-century-of-the-health-economy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/budgetary-obsession-is-destined-to-fail-in-this-century-of-the-health-economy/</guid>
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<title>The role of real estate redistribution in the crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The benefits from increasing property prices are unequally spread. Several important American policymakers opted for a utopian real estate redistribution by imposing high sub-prime quota on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. They corrupted market forces and are partly responsible for the financial crisis.]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/real-estate-redistribution-and-the-financial-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/real-estate-redistribution-and-the-financial-crisis/</guid>
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<item>
<title>The future is unpredictable, and economists are no oracles</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Households, companies and banks took quite a beating by the wealth loss everybody suffers from. The balance sheet pay off will require time.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/uncertainty-and-future/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/uncertainty-and-future/</guid>
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<title>Bismarckian Welfare State</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Compared to Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian socio-economic models, our Bismarckian-type welfare regime is in fact not as bad as we might have thought. This report from IZA shows that countries with such welfare systems can be as successful in terms of employment and poverty reduction. The authors analyze employment rate evolution between 1997 and 2007 as a measure for judging the sustainability of the Bismarckian welfare state and the success of social and economic policy reforms. In some countries like Belgium however, we should put extra effort into the employment rate of older workers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bismarckian-welfare-state/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/bismarckian-welfare-state/</guid>
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<title>Migration and the global crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ According to the International Organization for Migration there are mainly two good reasons not to reduce migration in destination countries during this global crisis. First, human mobility, as underscored in IOM&#8217;s 2008 World Migration Report, makes economies more dynamic and more efficient. The second reason is that the influxes of returning migrants may result in economic and social instability in poorer countries, which could increase irregular migration and trafficking in human beings. Now more than ever we need a well-considered migration policy. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migration-and-the-global-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/migration-and-the-global-crisis/</guid>
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<title>Rebuilding the financial system to stimulate the economy</title>
<description><![CDATA[ During the G20 summit in London on the 2nd of April 2009, some determining decisions could have been made to reverse the vicious cycle &#8216;financial distrust &#8211; economic paralysis&#8217; and to change the rules that led to today&#8217;s catastrophe. We should go back in other words to the normal situation where the financial system is an imperfect but useful tool for the economy, and not the other way around. To do so, the French think-tank Institut Montaigne in this paper advances 4 concrete, powerful but necessary lines of thought.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/rebuilding-the-financial-system-to-stimulate-the-economy/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/rebuilding-the-financial-system-to-stimulate-the-economy/</guid>
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<title>Transport at crossroads</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Freight transport, the number of passengers travelling by road and air, car ownership and greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector have all followed a growing trend between 1995 and 2006 in all member states of the European Environment Agency. Globalization and the growing worldwide mobility of people are inevitably impacting on our environment. Transport demand management is a real challenge. In this report, EEA gives ideas towards a methodology that could cost-effectively deliver an environmentally sustainable transport system within a reasonable time horizon.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/transport-at-crossroads/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/transport-at-crossroads/</guid>
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<title>The G20 and the Great Crisis</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For those who intuitively think that a macro-economic policy can annihilate the excesses of previous years: you&#8217;re probably right to a certain extend. But we&#8217;ll have to face, whether we like it or not, a period of higher unemployment and lower economic performance. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-g20-and-the-great-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/the-g20-and-the-great-crisis/</guid>
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<title>Ageing and long term care needs in the OECD</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Spending on long-term care as a share of GDP rises with the share of the population that is over 80 years old, which is expected to triple from 4 per cent to 11-12 per cent between 2005 and 2050. According to the OECD, this and other factors will add pressures not only on the long-term nursing care expenditures (in Belgium among the highest of the OECD) but also on the workforce of this highly labour-intensive sector. The working paper advances different solutions to manage a growing demand for long term care workers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-and-long-term-care-needs-in-the-oecd/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-and-long-term-care-needs-in-the-oecd/</guid>
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<title>Making cars 50% more fuel efficient by 2050 </title>
<description><![CDATA[ Making cars 50% more fuel efficient by 2050 worldwide is the objective that four international organizations (ITIF, IEA, UNEP and FIA Foundation) have jointly decided in early 2009. In this report, they explain that we have to combine support for the car manufacturing industry &#8211; in trouble because of the crisis &#8211; with measures to achieve governmental environmental and energy policy goals. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/making-cars-50-more-fuel-efficient-by-2050/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/making-cars-50-more-fuel-efficient-by-2050/</guid>
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<title>Managing highly-skilled labour migration</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Soon, demographic change and the retirement of many skilled workers will push us to call for a highly qualified foreign workforce. The problem is that we have to match demand and supply. Highly-skilled foreign workers do not necessarily receive a job offer from our country and even if it were the case, nothing indicates they would go for it. That&#8217;s why we need active recruitment policies for highly-skilled migrants. This OECD report investigates some of these policies: employer-driven migration systems, immigrant-driven migration, special migration schemes for highly skilled workers and free movement of workers.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/managing-highly-skilled-labour-migration/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/managing-highly-skilled-labour-migration/</guid>
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<title>Stubborn youth unemployment in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ What kind of situations, problems and challenges are young, long time unemployed facing in Belgium? This report of the King Baudouin Foundation draws an comprehensive sketch of this very vulnerable group. Concrete recommendations for a successful activation policy for the young are also made &#8211; this proofs the need for custom-made measures. Now, Belgium needs a legislative framework that transforms activation into a true pillar. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/stubborn-youth-unemployment-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/stubborn-youth-unemployment-in-belgium/</guid>
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<title>What the Dutch can teach us</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos underscores that the Netherlands, notwithstanding a much better starting position than Belgium, have understood the necessity of a drastic crisis plan. He calls for a sound dose of Dutch common sense in Belgium. Profound reforms are required to restore a viable combination of wealth creation and social security.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-the-dutch-can-teach-us/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/what-the-dutch-can-teach-us/</guid>
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<title>Only systemic reforms can make social security sustainable</title>
<description><![CDATA[ For Marc De Vos, it is &#8220;game over&#8221; with the preparation of ageing in Belgium. Our social security is not sustainable. The budgetary situation needs fixing, but only policy reform can save us. We urgently need a broad societal consensus on a new socioeconomic model. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/only-systemic-reforms-can-make-social-security-sustainable/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/only-systemic-reforms-can-make-social-security-sustainable/</guid>
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<title>Paradigms of future health care organization in Belgium</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium&#8217;s budgetary policy is again crumbling across the board. Marc De Vos and Brieuc Van Damme point out that healthcare policy has been dominated by budgetary concerns for years. Yet, the budget keeps on skyrocketing while the key challenge is increasingly to provide healthcare that is both affordable and accessible, while being of high quality. The authors indicate some directions with potential: increasing investments in ICT, improving coordination and integration between the stakeholders, and a real debate on a multi-pillar structure. Healthcare risks becoming unsustainable without pragmatic but fundamental reform.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/paradigms-of-future-health-care-organization-in-belgium/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/paradigms-of-future-health-care-organization-in-belgium/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/MEMO08_Breaking%20the%20deadlock_MDV+BVD.pdf" length="410346" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>Paradigms of future health care organization in Belgium: presentation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Belgium&#8217;s budgetary policy is again crumbling across the board. Marc De Vos and Brieuc Van Damme point out that healthcare policy has been dominated by budgetary concerns for years. Yet, the budget keeps on skyrocketing while the key challenge is increasingly to provide healthcare that is both affordable and accessible, while being of high quality. The authors indicate some directions with potential: increasing investments in ICT, improving coordination and integration between the stakeholders, and a real debate on a multi-pillar structure. Healthcare risks becoming unsustainable without pragmatic but fundamental reform.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/paradigms-of-future-health-care-organization-in-belgium-presentation/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/paradigms-of-future-health-care-organization-in-belgium-presentation/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/Presentation_Breaking%20the%20budgetary%20deadlock_MDV+BVD.pdf" length="1494342" type="application/pdf" />
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<title>Consumption as civil duty?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Despite the frequent calls for more consumption, we should not forget that savings and investments are the real sources of welfare. The economic crisis shows that overconsumption is not sustainable at all and needs to be corrected.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/consumption-as-civil-duty/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/consumption-as-civil-duty/</guid>
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<title>Older people also contribute to economic growth</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In the United States, 30% of the new companies is founded by people older than 55 years. Employees aged over 70 are not rare exceptions in several countries. Older people contribute to economic growth and create opportunities for younger people. Unfortunately, the economic potential of older people is hardly recognized in Belgium.]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/older-people-also-contribute-to-economic-growth/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/older-people-also-contribute-to-economic-growth/</guid>
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<title>Ageing after the Great Crisis: presentation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos describes the impact of ageing. He explains how the current crisis sounds the death-knell for the crippled Belgian preparation for ageing. But Belgium remains capable of bearing ageing, if only we succeed in a growth strategy.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-after-the-great-crisis/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/ageing-after-the-great-crisis/</guid>
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<title>Plea for a new dismissal law</title>
<description><![CDATA[ Marc De Vos stresses that the harmonisation of dismissal law for blue collar and white collar workers has to serve two priorities: equal rights and labour market circulation. We need to combine income security with tailor made reemployment. Individual career accounts with continuous funding can be a useful tool to achieve that goal.]]></description>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/plea-for-a-new-dismissal-law/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/plea-for-a-new-dismissal-law/</guid>
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<title>Belgium and the crisis from the IMF&#8217;s point of view</title>
<description><![CDATA[ The depth of the recession evaluated by many institutions like the IMF will be dramatic, everybody agrees. But it is useless to wallow in self-pity; better is to understand what happens and to react as soon as possible. After some comments on the impact of the crisis in Belgium and on the actions taken by the government, the IMF also gives recommendations aimed at tackling the crisis in this report. Even if it is in favor of long run fiscal sustainability, the IMF considers that the composition of our fiscal stimulus package can be improved.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgium-and-the-crisis-from-the-imfs-point-of-view/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/belgium-and-the-crisis-from-the-imfs-point-of-view/</guid>
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<title>European Strategy for Social Protection and Social Inclusion: where are we?</title>
<description><![CDATA[ 2009 will certainly not be associated with a large decrease in poverty rates in Europe. In this report from the European commission, it appears that in Belgium, the average GDP growth rate in 2004/2005 could allow 1% of poor people going out of poverty. From a more general point of view, this report evaluates the evolution of the social situation and the poverty level in European countries before the crisis. 
For sure, governments have to continue their efforts on different policy levels if they want to guaranty social inclusion. ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-strategy-for-social-protection-and-social-inclusion-where-are-we/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/european-strategy-for-social-protection-and-social-inclusion-where-are-we/</guid>
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<title>Health Care, lifestyle and individual responsibility</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In many countries a healthy lifestyle is expected to become a criterion in obtaining healthcare services. As we understand lifestyle as a merely individual matter, what could be the consequences for health care if individual responsibility would be a key principle in allocating health care services? We will illustrate the ethical and philosophical relevance of this question with the case of obesity.]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
<link>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/health-care-lifestyle-and-individual-responsibility/</link>
<guid>http://www.itinerainstitute.org/en/library/_paper/health-care-lifestyle-and-individual-responsibility/</guid>
<enclosure url="http://www.itinerainstitute.org/upl/1/default/doc/Microsoft%20Word%20-%20Memo%20Health%20care%20lifes%20and%20ind%20resp(1).pdf" length="310691" type="application/pdf" />
</item>
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<title>Health care, lifestyle and individual responsibility: presentation</title>
<description><![CDATA[ In many countries a healthy lifestyle is expected to become a criterion in o
