The European Commission’s (EC’s) 2002 proposal for a new directive on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications has passed first reading in the European Parliament, albeit with amendments, and a common position is expected from the council in May. Second reading will take place during the next parliament.
The proposed directive establishes five levels of professional qualification ranging from an attestation of competence to a diploma certifying successful completion of a higher training course. Recognition will only be granted where access to a profession in the host member state requires a level no higher than that already held by the applicant in the home member state. The draft also proposes the establishment of ‘common platforms’ at European level, set up by professional associations to provide a set of criteria of qualifications throughout the European Union.
