The existence of adequate numbers of self-employed persons is regarded as crucial for effective competition. The decline of self-employment which could be registered in all the Western industrialized countries has therefore given rise to concern. This article analyses the corresponding trends...

In the aftermath of the crisis, Europe is becoming more polarised in terms of employment, competitiveness and industrial specialisation. A 'German-centred core' which maintained employment and production – has emerged, contrasted by a 'Southern periphery', where major economic losses have...

The isolation of national telecommunications markets in the past has meant that pronounced differences remain among the R&D systems operating in the countries of the European Community. The intended opening up of public procurement markets by the end of 1992 could therefore lead to substantial...