LEGAL CASES BEFORE THE EUROPEAN COURT OF JUSTICE IN CONNECTION WITH THE FINANCES OF THE OLD-AGE PENSIONS IN THE COORDINATION REGULATIONS

Abstract

Freedom of movement of workers is one of the founding principles of the European Community, as laid down in Article 39 of the EC Treaty. It is a fundamental right of individuals, and an essential element of European citizenship. Free movement of workers entitles EU citizens to search for a job in another Member State, to work there without needing a work permit, to live there for that purpose, to stay there even after the employment has finished and to enjoy equal treatment with nationals in access to employment, working conditions and all other social and tax advantages that may help them integrate in the host country. It is estimated that there are 10.5 million migrant workers in the EU, one million people crossing EU borders for work every day and about 250,000 people who have worked in more than one Member State and need to export a part of their pension rights every year.