ETUC calls for stronger action
05. August 2026ETUC calls for stronger action to deliver quality jobs across Europe
The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) is calling for the proposed Quality Jobs Act to include binding legislation that strengthens workers' rights and improves working conditions across Europe. The call comes in response to the European Commission's launch of the second-stage consultation with social partners on the initiative.
While ETUC welcomes the Commission's recognition of the challenges facing workers, it argues that the current proposals do not go far enough. According to the Confederation, experience has shown that non-binding measures, guidance and awareness-raising initiatives are insufficient to address poor working conditions and precarious employment. Instead, ETUC believes that ambitious and enforceable legislation is needed to deliver meaningful improvements.
Among the key measures ETUC is advocating are:
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a right to training during working time and better anticipation and management of workplace change as part of a just transition;
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limiting subcontracting chains to two tiers, introducing joint and several liability, and regulating labour intermediaries;
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measures to combat workplace stress, guarantee the right to disconnect, and protect workers from excessive heat;
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regulation of algorithmic management based on the principle that humans remain in control;
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ending precarious work by establishing legal rights to permanent contracts and full-time employment.
ETUC General Secretary Esther Lynch stated that every job should be a quality job, warning that poor-quality employment harms workers while also contributing to labour and skills shortages across Europe.
According to ETUC, the Quality Jobs Act must become a genuine game changer by introducing new binding legislation that strengthens workers' rights and ensures fair working conditions in response to today's labour market challenges.