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This paper examines the process of interests' representation in the EU governance system at the subnational level. The evaluation of this process is based on the case study of preparation of European Constitution during the Convention on the Future of Europe and the following EU Intergovernmental conference (IGC). The article analyses how the representatives of the Committee of the Regions with status of observers in the Convention, and the representatives of subnational level institutions defined and defended their interests and aims that emerged from Maastricht 'regional agenda'. This paper also makes attempts to draw some conclusions: which of the theoretical approaches -- neofunctionalism, intergovermentalism, or multilevel governance is the most appropriate when examining the subnational level impact on EU management processes. The main findings of this article state that relative success of subnational level interests' representation during the process of preparation of European Constitution was determined by several factors. Firstly, the favourable political environment and the openness of EU Member States to the questiona at subnational level. Secondly, the representation at subnational level was clearly mobilised. And thirdly, we can identify the existence of subnational interests' representation leader. This role was clearly assumed by Committee of the Regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the paper is to analyze the EU member states experience of social guarantees of public servants. There is no universal concept of social guaranties, but the analysis of practice of different states helps to explain it. In most cases, social guarantees cover the entire range of legislation identified by social rights (various holidays, medical insurance, a range of benefits, compensation and other support). Civil servants' wages usually consist of several components: basic salary, bonuses and benefits (of family, concessionary travel: home to office travel, relocation expenses, compensation for loss or damage to personal property, qualification-related allowances, functions-related allowances, performance-related pay, the premium for work in another country, special annual payments and so on). Typically, public servants shall be entitled to annual, maternity, paternity, disease and various special leaves. The duration and payment system of leaves vary depending on each country's specificities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]