Should companies be penalised for offshoring?
A profitable company announces 300 layoffs to move production abroad.
- It's their right, that's what keeps them competitive
- Fine, but it must repay the public aid it received
- The state should be able to penalise it heavily or block the move
What's at stake: The debate pits a company's freedom to manage against what it owes its workers and the community, especially when it has received public money.
The left's argument
A profitable company that got state aid has duties toward its workers and its region.
The centre's argument
The company stays free to leave, but it pays back any public aid received if it does.
The right's argument
A company that doesn't adapt disappears. Blocking it drives investors away for good.
And you, where do you stand?
Answer 30 situations like this one and find out where you stand, topic by topic.