The ETUC is calling on the European Commission to initiate swift legislative action on telework and the right to disconnect following the blocking of a European social partner agreement by employers.   

A new three-year agreement between trade unions CFDT, CFE-CGC, CGT, FO and Legrand, the French electrical products and systems specialist which employs 5,500 people in France, adds protection for LGBT+ employees, training on workplace equality, and a new procedure for reporting sexist behaviour. Existing anti-discrimination measures will be strengthened to promote “the inclusion of all employees”.

Trade unions in Ireland have agreed with the country’s Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on a new framework for remote working, allowing civil servants to apply for ‘blended’ arrangements combining home and office working.

A recent survey in Belgium found that as Covid restrictions are lifted, four out of five employees would like to go on working from home at least two days a week. But teleworking can lead to added pressure and stress.

As Covid working restrictions in Italy begin to ease at the end of March, three unions, Filt-Cgil, Fit-Cisl and Uiltrasporti, have reached a framework agreement with DHL Express Italy to promote ‘smart working’, starting with a trial period until the end of the year.