MEPs Push for 80% Collective Bargaining Coverage Across EU

The Employment and Social Affairs Committee of the European Parliament has adopted a resolution urging the European Commission to present a directive ensuring a “just transition” for workers impacted by climate change, digital transformation, and corporate restructuring.

This proposal, adopted with 40 votes in favor, 13 against, and 4 abstentions, underscores the need for strengthened workplace democracy and worker protection during economic transitions.

The resolution proposes the creation of a standard EU-level investment instrument to support member states in achieving green and digital transitions while maintaining the EU’s economic competitiveness.

This tool ensures a fair and balanced transition, avoiding disproportionate impacts on workers and industries.

The resolution highlights the importance of collective bargaining as a cornerstone of fair employment practices. MEPs have called for a collective bargaining coverage of at least 80% across all member states.

Additionally, they propose revisions to the European Public Procurement Directive to incentivize companies that uphold collective agreements and ensure compliance with labour standards.

MEPs argue that EU financial support should be withheld from companies that fail to meet employment and working conditions regulations. This emphasis on social dialogue aims to align the EU’s industrial policies with creating quality jobs.

Estelle Ceulemans (S&D, BE), rapporteur for the resolution, emphasized the dual objectives of worker protection and future-oriented job creation. “This text aims to contribute to the protection of workers who are the victims of restructuring processes. At the same time, when restructuring really cannot be avoided, the text ensures that restructuring is used as a just transition opportunity to create quality and well-paid jobs that are resistant to off-shoring in sectors of the future with high added value,” Ceulemans said.

The resolution aligns with the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) concept of a just transition, which aims to create a sustainable and green economy while ensuring decent work opportunities for all.

The EU’s Just Transition Mechanism, introduced in January 2020, has already provided targeted support to regions most affected by the green economy transition.

With this proposal and today’s high-level discussions, the European Parliament continues demonstrating the importance of protecting workers while fostering a sustainable and inclusive economy.

Consult the organizational chart of coordinators of the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee here [+]

Read full press release here [+]