This annual review describes the developments in industrial relations and working conditions in 2011 in the EU Member States and Norway, at both national and EU level, with a focus on the economic situation and responses to it. The report describes the current economic situation in EU Member States
The ERM Report 2012 focuses on the consequences of restructuring for employees. It examines which employees lost their job at the onset of the economic crisis, which of them found a new job and how both job loss and subsequent re-employment impacted on their overall life situation and satisfaction
The aim of flexicurity is to improve employment opportunities for workers, while at the same time increasing flexibility, enabling organisations to adapt their operations and employment levels to business needs. The past few years have, however, been particularly challenging for European labour
With a particular focus on the crisis and responses to it, this annual review highlights developments in working conditions and industrial relations in the EU Member States and Norway in 2010, both at national and EU level. At national level, the report examines key issues covered by collective
In November 2010, the Employment Committee (EMCO) issued a report (239Kb PDF) [1] on the quality of work [2] in the European Union. The report was based on the findings of a thematic review held in June 2010 which aimed to examine and exchange experiences about labour market policies intended to
In the face of recession, falling demand and the consequent slowing of production, short-time working and temporary layoff schemes have been extended (or introduced) in many Member States. These schemes, often with the aid of public funds, reduce working time, while protecting workers’ incomes and
On 5 February 2010, the European social partners in the construction sector – namely, the European Federation of Building and Woodworkers (EFBWW [1]) on the trade union side and the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC [2]) for employers – issued a set of joint conclusions and
This report examines the responses, initiatives and activities undertaken by national governments and the social partners in the EU Member States plus Norway in working towards a greener economy and maximising the job creation potential of this new area. The report looks specifically at various
This report examines the link between working conditions and social dialogue, highlighting instances where social dialogue has had an impact on working conditions. The impact of social dialogue on working conditions is considered at all levels – national, sectoral, company and workplace levels
There are fears that thousands of jobs could be lost in financial services following the UK’s exit from the European Union. This blog piece explores some of the implications of Brexit for London’s financial hub, including the reactions of US banks.
The next few months will determine the future of Alitalia and its 12,000 employees. The Italian flag carrier entered into bankruptcy proceedings in May after workers rejected a deal brokered by unions and management that would have seen job and pay cuts. Alitalia is currently losing up to €100
According to the European Commission’s ‘Communication on a European agenda for a collaborative economy’, collaborative platforms have the potential to create new jobs, boost flexible working arrangements and result in new sources of income. While employers believe offers new opportunities, unions
The future of an EU Commission proposal to revise the posted workers Directive is now uncertain after 10 Member States opposed it. This has triggered a ‘yellow card’ procedure, which will require the Commission to review the text. Employers’ federation BusinessEurope supports the 10 Member States
Unions have welcomed a ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) that travel time for mobile workers should be treated as working time. Employer organisations have not commented, but the UK's umbrella national employer organisation, the CBI, has said it is vital the UK’s opt-out from the EU
Social partners have given their reactions to the Better Regulation Agenda, adopted by the European Commission as a way of boosting openness in the EU decision-making process. It also aims to improve the quality of new laws through better impact assessments of draft legislation and amendments, and
This survey data report examines the main findings on the supply side of undeclared work around the EU based on a Special Eurobarometer survey carried out in 2013. The report examines the survey methodology, the concept of undeclared work, the characteristics of those supplying goods and services on
The European Commission (EC [1]) has been looking at the issue of posted workers for some time. In March 2012, the Commission issued a proposal for a new Directive on the enforcement of the posted workers Directive 96/71/EC (240 KB PDF) [2]. [1] http://ec.europa.eu/index_en.htm [2] http://ec.europa
In January 2012, the European Commission published a Green Paper on restructuring and anticipation of change (*EU1201041I* [1]). It led to the publication of a report drawn up by Spanish socialist member Alejandro Cercas, known as the Cercas Report, which was endorsed by a large majority of MEPs and
The European Commission (EC [1]) has published a report, Women and men in leadership positions in the European Union 2013 (1.26 MB PDF) [2]. Drawing on data up to the end of June 2013, it reviews the current situation and reports on recent progress. [1] http://ec.europa.eu/index_en.htm [2] http://ec
The European Commission says it is determined to continue its efforts to streamline its legislation. On 2 October 2013 it issued its Communication (COM (2013) 685 (150KB PDF) [1]) on the Regulatory Fitness and Performance (REFIT): Results and Next Steps. [1] http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014