The ETUC EWC Conference 2024 brought together 130 European Works Council (EWC) members and advocates from across Europe for two days of vibrant discussions and collaboration. Held in the prestigious Comité of the Regions in Brussels, the conference took place on 26-27 September 2024 with the generous support of the PES Group.

A Call for Action on the EWC Directive

ETUC Deputy General Secretary Isabelle Schömann emphasized a crucial message during the event: “European decision-makers must act now on revising the EWC Directive.” Her powerful statement resonated deeply with participants and underscored the urgency of strengthening EWC rights.

The presence of EU Commissioner Nicolas Schmit further amplified the event’s significance. His strong commitment to Social Europe reinforced the EU’s dedication to advancing workers' rights and democracy at work.

Support from MEPs

Several Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) such as Gaby Bischoff (S&D), Dennis Radtke (EPP; via video), Rudy Kennes (The Left) actively participated in the discussions and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting EWCs in their vital mission to protect workers' rights across Europe.

Workshops: Exploring Key Challenges and Opportunities

The second day featured hands-on workshops addressing critical topics such as:

• Digitalisation: Preparing EWCs for a rapidly changing workplace and show them how they can shape the company's digitalisation strategy.
• Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD): How EWCs can use their information & consultation rights under the new Directive.
• Health and Safety: Ensuring workers’ well-being remains a top priority.
• The Fight Against the Far Right: Promoting inclusivity and democratic values.

These sessions allowed participants to share best practices, exchange ideas, and develop strategies for the future.

A Yearly Celebration of Democracy at Work

Organized as part of the ETUC’s Democracy at Work project with EU support, this annual conference continues to serve as a cornerstone for advancing workers’ participation and innovative exchange between EWC members & European decision-makers.

This year’s conference held special significance, taking place at a pivotal moment: with a new European Parliament on the horizon, an upcoming European Commission, and ongoing discussions about revising the EWC Directive.

Looking Ahead

The ETUC EWC Conference 2024 was not just an event but a powerful affirmation of the strength of European Works Councils and their critical role in shaping the future of Social Europe. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s conference as we continue to build momentum for democracy at work.

Together, we are stronger.

Day 1

• The ETUC 10 demands on the EWC Directive
• Corinne Schievene (SAFRAN)
• Nikolaos Zigouris (HOLCIM)
• Karin Aberg (ERICSSON)
• Aline Hoffmann (ETUI) & Romek Jagodziński (Labour SUREAL): 20 years of EU enlargement

Day2

• Sigurt Vitols & Cyprian Szyszka (both ETUI): How to use the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
• Dr. Christina J. Colclough (The Why Not Lab): Workers’ strategies to implement digital systems in the workplace
• ETUC Democracy at Work to fight the far right & Bart Meuleman (Hans Böckler Foundation): EThe role of work for right-wing populist attitudes
• EWC Priorities – Occupational Health & Safety by Aude Cefaliello (ETUI) & Romek Jagodziński (Labour SUREAL)