The Use of Targets in the Lisbon Strategy

Targets can be very useful in policymaking within the context of the Lisbon Strategy, but they need to be used in accordance with certain criteria. In particular, there should be intermediate targets in place that directly affect final policy goals, and are easy to measure and monitor. Moreover, in order to be more effective, targets should be complemented by structural indicators. Reliable quantitative tools should be used to assess intended and unintended implications of policies implemented to meet targets. Finally, a transparent and widely-accepted mechanism should be in place to transpose EU-wide targets into realistic, but still challenging, national targets. [JEL Classification: E61, 011