Meaning: This quote by Laurent Fabius, a prominent French statesman, addresses the issue of unemployment and economic policies in the context of the European Union. Fabius highlights the challenges faced by the European workforce, particularly in the face of high levels of unemployment and the impact of economic policies on various aspects of production and innovation. This quote reflects Fabius's concern about the potential negative effects of policies that prioritize unrestricted competition at the expense of production, wages, research, and innovation.

Fabius's reference to "20 million unemployed" underscores the magnitude of the unemployment crisis faced by many European countries. The figure highlights the pressing issue of joblessness and the need for effective policies to address it. Unemployment not only has economic implications but also social and psychological impacts on individuals and communities. It can lead to a sense of insecurity, inequality, and social unrest, making it a critical concern for policymakers and society as a whole.

The mention of "the Constitution" in the context of the European Union (EU) suggests that Fabius is critiquing the existing framework and policies within the EU. The EU, consisting of 27 member states at the time of Fabius's statement, is a complex political and economic union with its own legal and regulatory framework. Fabius's reference to the Constitution implies that he is evaluating the EU's foundational principles and legal framework in light of the economic challenges faced by its member states.

Furthermore, Fabius's mention of "policies of unrestricted competition" points to his criticism of economic policies that prioritize competition without due consideration for other vital factors such as production, wages, research, and innovation. While competition can be a driving force for economic growth, Fabius suggests that an excessive focus on unrestricted competition can have detrimental effects on various aspects of the economy. This may include negative impacts on production output, suppression of wages, and underinvestment in research and innovation, all of which are crucial for sustainable economic development.

The reference to "the Europe of 25, 27 and soon to be 30" reflects the expansion of the EU at the time of Fabius's statement. The EU has seen multiple waves of enlargement, with the number of member states increasing from 15 in the early 2000s to 27 by the time of Fabius's quote. This expansion brought about new dynamics and challenges, particularly concerning economic harmonization, labor mobility, and policy coherence among the diverse member states. Fabius's mention of the impending enlargement to 30 member states indicates his awareness of the evolving complexities within the EU and the need to address economic issues in a manner that considers the diverse interests and needs of all member states.

In conclusion, Laurent Fabius's quote sheds light on the pressing issue of unemployment and economic policies within the context of the European Union. His critique of policies that prioritize unrestricted competition at the expense of production, wages, research, and innovation reflects a concern for the holistic well-being of the European workforce and economy. By analyzing the quote in the context of the EU's constitutional framework, unemployment challenges, and the dynamics of EU enlargement, we can gain insights into the complexities of economic policymaking and the imperative of addressing unemployment within a balanced and sustainable economic framework.