# IMMC.EESC-2021-03294-AC.ENG.xhtml.EESC-2021-03294-00-02-AC-TRA-EN.docx

| OPINION |
| --- |
| European Economic and Social Committee |
| Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery |
| _____________ |
| Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery




  [Exploratory opinion at the request of the Slovenian Presidency] |
| |
| SOC/685 |
| |
| Rapporteur: Andrej ZORKO |

OPINION

European Economic and Social Committee

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

_____________

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

[Exploratory opinion at the request of the Slovenian Presidency]

SOC/685

Rapporteur: Andrej ZORKO

EN

Request by the Slovenian

| Request by the Slovenian | Letter of 19/03/2021 |
| --- | --- |
| Presidency of the Council


  Legal basis | Article 304 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union |
| | |
| Section responsible | Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship |
| Adopted in section | 07/09/2021 |
| Adopted at plenary | 23/09/2021 |
| Plenary session No | 563 |
| Outcome of vote
  (for/against/abstentions) | 146/24/54 |

Request by the Slovenian

Letter of 19/03/2021

Letter of 19/03/2021

Presidency of the Council

Presidency of the Council

Legal basis

Legal basis

Article 304 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union

Article 304 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union

Section responsible

Section responsible

Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship

Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship

Adopted in section

Adopted in section

07/09/2021

07/09/2021

Adopted at plenary

Adopted at plenary

23/09/2021

23/09/2021

Plenary session No

Plenary session No

563

563

Outcome of vote
  (for/against/abstentions)

Outcome of vote
  (for/against/abstentions)

146/24/54

146/24/54

1.Conclusions and recommendations

1.

Conclusions and recommendations

1.1Quality of work is one of the fundamental components of quality of life. The principle of quality of work for quality of life must be followed, as this is a prerequisite for sustainable social development. The EESC therefore firmly believes that it should be given special attention in EU policies, as it must prevent the risks of inequality, poverty, social exclusion and unfair competition.

1.1

Quality of work is one of the fundamental components of quality of life. The principle of quality of work for quality of life must be followed, as this is a prerequisite for sustainable social development. The EESC therefore firmly believes that it should be given special attention in EU policies, as it must prevent the risks of inequality, poverty, social exclusion and unfair competition.

1.2The EESC firmly believes that the problems and challenges that exist in the field of quality work should be addressed in the light of the principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights and the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals. The ILO international standards of decent work
  1
  should also be considered, along with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union
  2
  . It therefore calls on the Member States and the social partners, in the context of social dialogue and collective bargaining, to identify and find solutions to the changes which have been accelerated by the pandemic in the labour market, at appropriate levels and according to national circumstances.

1.2

The EESC firmly believes that the problems and challenges that exist in the field of quality work should be addressed in the light of the principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights and the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals. The ILO international standards of decent work

1

should also be considered, along with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union

2

. It therefore calls on the Member States and the social partners, in the context of social dialogue and collective bargaining, to identify and find solutions to the changes which have been accelerated by the pandemic in the labour market, at appropriate levels and according to national circumstances.

1.3The EESC believes that the European Union and Member States should take a more ambitious approach to supporting, coordinating and implementing efforts towards active labour market policies while protecting workers' fundamental rights and ensuring a sustainable and competitive business environment for companies in the global economy. The European Pillar of Social Rights should guide the implementation of the principles of social Europe, social justice and sustainable recovery.

1.3

The EESC believes that the European Union and Member States should take a more ambitious approach to supporting, coordinating and implementing efforts towards active labour market policies while protecting workers' fundamental rights and ensuring a sustainable and competitive business environment for companies in the global economy. The European Pillar of Social Rights should guide the implementation of the principles of social Europe, social justice and sustainable recovery.

1.4Building on the experience of the pandemic in the field of work, the European Commission and the Member States, actively involving the social partners and other stakeholders, could monitor the functioning of or, where appropriate, review and, if necessary, amend existing regulations and develop appropriate policies to ensure decent and sustainable quality work. This could include protecting workers and proper work organisation leading to higher productivity and innovation, while promoting the positive elements of digitalisation, including the need of workers to digital training to promote their employability
  3
  . There should be particular focus on legislation and policies on artificial intelligence and ensuring that all stakeholders have the opportunity to participate in the adoption of new solutions, through consultation and negotiation with workers and employers.

1.4

Building on the experience of the pandemic in the field of work, the European Commission and the Member States, actively involving the social partners and other stakeholders, could monitor the functioning of or, where appropriate, review and, if necessary, amend existing regulations and develop appropriate policies to ensure decent and sustainable quality work. This could include protecting workers and proper work organisation leading to higher productivity and innovation, while promoting the positive elements of digitalisation, including the need of workers to digital training to promote their employability

3

. There should be particular focus on legislation and policies on artificial intelligence and ensuring that all stakeholders have the opportunity to participate in the adoption of new solutions, through consultation and negotiation with workers and employers.

1.5The EESC calls on the European Commission, notably within the reinforced European Semester and other existing mechanisms, to establish new mechanisms and/or
  4
  continue identifying medium- and long-term labour market needs. This would allow Member States, actively involving the social partners and civil society organisations, to develop longer-term planning and implementation of employment policies, including planning for the training and lifelong learning of workers and providing solutions to address the skills gap. It is also important to strengthen public employment services and their cooperation with the private sector in order to help integrate the most vulnerable groups into the labour market more effectively.

1.5

The EESC calls on the European Commission, notably within the reinforced European Semester and other existing mechanisms, to establish new mechanisms and/or

4

continue identifying medium- and long-term labour market needs. This would allow Member States, actively involving the social partners and civil society organisations, to develop longer-term planning and implementation of employment policies, including planning for the training and lifelong learning of workers and providing solutions to address the skills gap. It is also important to strengthen public employment services and their cooperation with the private sector in order to help integrate the most vulnerable groups into the labour market more effectively.

1.6The EESC reiterates that active labour market policies (ALMP) need to be effective and targeted in order to reach good employment outcomes
  5
  and highlights the need for Member States and social partners to engage in developing active labour market policies that promote quality work. The EESC highlights also its support for a gradual approach to common minimum standards in the field of unemployment insurance to ensure quality work in Member States
  6
  .

1.6

The EESC reiterates that active labour market policies (ALMP) need to be effective and targeted in order to reach good employment outcomes

5

and highlights the need for Member States and social partners to engage in developing active labour market policies that promote quality work. The EESC highlights also its support for a gradual approach to common minimum standards in the field of unemployment insurance to ensure quality work in Member States

6

.

1.7The Member States must create the necessary conditions to ensure both adequate participation (collective governance) in design processes and the implementation of employment or labour market policies.

1.7

The Member States must create the necessary conditions to ensure both adequate participation (collective governance) in design processes and the implementation of employment or labour market policies.

1.8The EESC encourages the Member States and the social partners to strengthen social dialogue at national level. It also recommends capitalising on the traditional content of social dialogue to include other, more strategic content oriented towards sustainability and solutions. This would be, for example, anticipating the future needs of companies and workers with certain competencies and skills, joint activities for training workers, ensuring a fair transition to the digital and green economies, and regulating as well as developing balanced solutions for the work of platforms, and similar important development issues.

1.9The EESC recognises the importance of the social partners and collective agreements for maintaining the balance of the labour market. Appropriate training for the social partners is crucial for the further development of social dialogue.
  7
  This is proving to be both a critical and a key point for the further development of social dialogue, which should also work towards ensuring sustainable quality work.

1.10The EESC believes that the Commission and the Member States should reinforce the capacity of the social partners and civil society. It is necessary to create an environment of trust in social dialogue, recognise its importance and involve social partners and other stakeholders in a timely manner in formulating measures and in the decision-making process itself, where appropriate and in line with development needs. A strong framework for information and consultation with workers is needed to deal properly with the green and digital transition while ensuring the quality of work
  8
  .

1.11The EESC recognises that the Recovery and Resilience Facility could make a positive contribution to strengthening and ensuring the quality of work and of the role of the social partners in implementing it. It therefore proposes that the Commission hold annual meetings with the social partners and civil society organisations in order to obtain opinions on implementing the facility. Due to the diversity of situations in the Member States, it would make sense to carry out consultations separately and jointly formulate guidelines and recommendations for continuing to implement the facility successfully.

1.12The EESC notes that the Recovery and Resilience Facility does not directly address the components of quality work, and therefore calls on the Commission to supplement this part of the facility. Quality of work is key to achieving the targets set by the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Vulnerable groups, such as precarious and young workers, who have been hit hardest by the epidemic, should not be overlooked.

1.13The EESC calls for research to be carried out to monitor labour market developments during the recovery period more closely. It is also necessary to take into account changes in business models that have an impact on the way work is carried out and on workers' fundamental rights, as well as digitalisation and the introduction of new technologies, with particular focus on skills gaps and the labour market transition. The implications for the organisation of work and other important aspects of quality work should be carefully examined and explored, considering both positive solutions and the perils of rapid digitalisation. The Committee stresses the need to factor in countries' diversity and the consequences of the pandemic for both society and the labour market. Changes need to be evaluated using a holistic approach.

2.Background

2.1The EESC recognises the diversity and multifaceted nature of the concept of sustainable quality work and points out that it is made up of various components that directly or indirectly affect people's quality of life, workers' rights and workers' social security. At the same time the EESC also recognises that employers and Member States have a central role in ensuring quality work, including promoting skills, quality employment, new and diverse forms of work, security, well-being of workers and competitiveness of companies. The Commission seems to be aware of this, given that a considerable amount of programmes and financial assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular the SURE programme, have been aimed at both economic recovery and maintaining people's social security. The EESC firmly believes that economic recovery and development of the European economy are not possible without preserving and developing social security while ensuring competitive environment for European companies in global economy and that economic and social recovery must go hand in hand.

2.2The EESC believes that it is the responsibility of the Commission, the Member States and European and national social partners to plan and implement measures to ensure sustainable quality work. Therefore, strategy and measures to ensure sustainable quality work need to be developed and implemented as soon as possible on the basis of joint efforts by all relevant actors.

2.3Ensuring fair, competitive conditions for the European economy, investing in innovation and development, preventing social dumping, encouraging job creation and promoting fair working conditions and appropriate incentives should be key components of the European Union's and Member States' strategies and can make a significant contribution to raising the quality of work.

2.4With the right conditions European business can contribute to sustainable prosperity, more quality jobs and strengthened welfare. This requires favourable framework conditions as regards especially ensuring a reliable supply of energy, skilled workforce, good transport infrastructure, and effective labour markets.

2.5The concept of sustainable quality work is one of the essential components of quality of life and must be considered together with the concept of sustainable development, taking into account the larger context of sustainable growth and employment, in particular the transition to a green economy and digitalisation, which must be fair to all stakeholders. In this connection, the EESC draws particular attention to the opinions it has already adopted in this context.

2.6The EESC firmly believes that implementing the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 8, adopted by the 193 United Nations Member States in 2015
  9
  , can make a significant contribution to ensuring sustainable quality work also taking into account economic growth, full and productive employment. Especially during the recovery period, the European Commission should focus more on achieving these objectives and encourage Member States to achieve them.

2.7The EESC also points out that implementing the principles set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights and the related action plan, as well as the relevant international legal standards
  10
  is of the utmost importance in ensuring sustainable quality work. The EESC has already adopted a number of opinions in this context and calls on the European institutions and the Member States according to their competences to play an active part in implementing them together with the social partners and other stakeholders.

2.8When designing measures to ensure sustainable, quality work, account must be taken of the various factors affecting quality of life, ensuring decent work, reducing inequalities and social exclusion, preventing poverty and ensuring the competitiveness of the European economy while promoting smooth transition towards digital and green society and economy. All these factors must be balanced with the Sustainable Development Goals and the social partners and civil society organisations must be actively involved in designing measures. In this context, the EESC stresses the importance of a broader social consensus.

2.9The EESC is aware of a number of elements, factors and circumstances that influence the quality of work and its sustainable provision and it has acknowledged this in its opinion
  11
  . These are elements such as the level and predictability of workers' wages, forms and methods of work, the working environment, occupational health and safety, employment stability, lifelong learning, training of workers, regular and predictable working hours, protection of workers' rights, work-life balance and active and effective social dialogue.

2.10The EESC notes that ensuring decent work is one of the essential elements of ensuring quality work. It therefore calls on the Commission, the Member States and social partners to pay more attention to the issues of decent and quality work.

2.11The EESC is aware that providing components of quality work also depends on the resilience of European companies in the global market, as well as on the internal market situation, various business models and economic policies. It therefore calls on the Commission and the Member States to create, together with the social partners, conditions that encourage sustainable investments and thus enable employers to provide quality work on a sustainable basis and to tackle unfair practices. Member States should help to speed up this situation through various incentives, policies and appropriate regulations.

3.COVID-19

3.1The EESC acknowledges that economic activity has been declining asymmetrically during the epidemic and that the SURE mechanism put in place by the Commission during the pandemic has helped to preserve a large number of jobs. In order to avoid redundancies and prevent people's income security deteriorating, Member States have adopted various short-time work schemes, wage subsidies for employees, furloughs (e.g. workers in activities that have not been allowed to operate) with a lower percentage of wages, various active employment policy measures, protection for young people and the elderly, subsidies partly compensating for loss of income, and basic income for certain groups of people, etc. However, the EESC stresses that these temporary measures should not overshadow the need for sound and sustainable economic policies in the EU and Member States aiming to create new growth and jobs.

3.1.1The EESC regrets that the Commission has not actively made appropriate involvement of the social partners and other stakeholders an important criterion for taking up these funds. In some Member States, social partners have not been actively involved in defining labour market measures and policies. Recovery and ensuring quality work will be more difficult in these countries.

3.2The EESC acknowledges that during the epidemic the way some work activities are carried out has changed, to the effect that some changes will continue during the recovery period and beyond. It is therefore crucial to recognise these changes, address them appropriately, monitor them and develop them in the direction of ensuring lasting quality of work, with the aim of creating additional opportunities for companies and workers. Particular attention should be paid to the impact and consequences of digitalisation and of the introduction of artificial intelligence in jobs.

3.3The EESC points out that the epidemic has put the spotlight on certain economic and business models and forms and ways of working that had been overlooked or given too little attention before the epidemic. Care must be taken to ensure that these more frequent forms of business and working do not adversely affect the labour market or the quality of work and do not constitute unfair practices.

3.4The EESC welcomes the Commission Recommendation on Effective Active Support to Employment (EASE) following the COVID-19 crisis and calls on the Member States to prioritise labour market policies in a way that makes investing in people one of the key elements in overcoming the crisis, taking into account the need for green and digital transitions. Member States should include EASE measures agreed with the social partners in their national recovery and resilience plans.

3.5The EESC is concerned that the mental wellbeing of European workers has deteriorated considerably during the pandemic, especially among young people and those who have lost their job
  12
  . Therefore, the EESC calls for a holistic and joint approach, aiming at combining ambitious health, safety and mental wellbeing policies.

3.6The EESC reiterates the position and proposals it has set out in various opinions
  13
  on issues relating to the future of work, digitalisation, home working, organisation of working time, lifelong learning and training, and work-life balance. All stated about quality work is valid for all who work, regardless of their nationality that is why immigration and integration of third country nationals is important.

3.7In view of the changes brought about by the pandemic, the parallel evolution of digitalisation and the fact that the quality of work is affected by many factors, this opinion focuses on only some aspects highlighted by the Slovenian Presidency which require particular attention when it comes to the development of quality work. These are: 1) adapting the working environment to an ageing population, 2) training and lifelong learning, 3) ensuring equality, 4) taking into account the benefits and traps of digitalisation and artificial intelligence, and 5) the role of the social partners.

4.Adapting the working environment to an ageing population

4.1With Europe's ageing population, working lives are also becoming longer in most Member States and the effective retirement age is rising. This, in turn, requires the creation of suitable working conditions for older people. It is primarily about adapting to their psychophysical abilities while also making sure that their skills base remains up-to-date to the labour market needs. Improving health protection at the workplace and access to lifelong learning for older workers are also indispensable in ensuring the quality of work of older workers.

4.2While ensuring adequate working conditions is a primary duty of the employer, tripartite cooperation between the social partners and governments also has an important role to play in this respect, as, with their knowledge of working procedures and workers themselves, they can, through social dialogue and collective agreements at appropriate level, help to create a working environment that enables older workers to work properly.

4.3Member States also have an important role to play. By providing an appropriate level of social protection, access to quality health services and various incentives and subsidies for employers, they can help create a working environment that enables people to work safely and productively as they get older.

4.4The EESC proposes that more attention be paid to implementing demography-related labour market policies in the context of the European Semester. It is essential to actively involve the social partners in strategies and in implementing policies and measures relating to older people in the labour market, including appropriate integration into the labour market.

4.5Modern and innovative ways for younger and older generations to work together need to be developed. Appropriate, two-way transfer of knowledge and experience is essential.

5.Training and lifelong learning

5.1In its opinions, the EESC has repeatedly stressed the importance of lifelong learning and training for both unemployed and employed workers
  14
  .

5.2The EESC underlines the importance of timely anticipation of workers' and employers' needs in terms of skills and strategic planning in this area. This requires the social partners to work together, particularly at sectoral and business level.

5.3Particular attention should be paid to the long-term unemployed and to those who have been out of the labour market for a long period of time. Prolonged absence from the labour market holds employability back significantly, especially given the speed of digital change
  15
  . With the closure of certain activities, leaving workers at home, the pandemic deepened the problem. That is why effective active employment policies are necessary in these situations.

5.4Training activities should focus on adequately raising employers' awareness of the importance of timely planning as regards skills and competencies needs for future work. In this regard, the EESC recommends that special attention be paid to digital training plans for workers.

5.5The EESC recommends that Member States also consider financial and tax incentives for more active training of workers by their employer, either in the form of direct funding or in the form of tax breaks for companies.

6.Ensuring equality

6.1The EESC takes the view that during and after recovery, it is essential to maintain equality with regard to personal circumstances and to prevent all forms of discriminatory practices. While recognising the opportunities offered by diverse forms of work, there is also a danger that these could increase worker inequality, including gender-based equality
  16
  . Ways must be found to ensure the equal treatment of workers, through all appropriate channels, including both legislation and collective agreements.

6.2The EESC notes that equality was not guaranteed during the pandemic, as the measures adopted did not cover all workers and all businesses. Small and medium-sized businesses, workers in precarious forms of work, self-employed people, migrants, young people and women have often been denied access to compensation for loss of income or not covered by measures. This means that poverty and social exclusion have increased during the epidemic. A number of businesses have also ceased operating, leading to a loss of jobs.

6.3The EESC notes that the situation of women in the labour market has deteriorated significantly during the pandemic
  17
  : many women have lost their jobs, work-life balance has worsened and, ultimately, precariousness has increased.

6.4The situation of migrants in the labour market and young people, who are increasingly struggling to find a job, has also deteriorated. In addition, they are faced to an even greater extent with precarious forms of work, which does not guarantee a quality life.

6.5Inequality is most reflected in the level of income and employment stability. The EESC therefore firmly believes that labour market policies must address the pay gap, together with measures that promote wage transparency, tackle horizontal and vertical labour market segregation, incentivise fulltime work for women and address unpaid care-related constraints and the implementation of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. Measures must also be taken to ensure that workers' rights are respected. Social dialogue with a focus on collective bargaining in non-standard activities such as domestic work, care work, platform work and the like should also be encouraged.

7.Digitalisation and artificial intelligence

7.1Digitalisation has a major impact on industrial relations, given the positive and negative consequences of employers implementing it in work processes.

7.2Digital solutions also raise concerns regarding contractual relations between workers and employers. In order to ensure sustainable components of quality work, it is necessary to monitor developments in the labour market and to ensure that adequate mechanisms are in place to protect workers' fundamental rights, without hampering the development of digital solutions. The EU, the Member States, the social partners and other stakeholders should all play a role in finding fair solutions for people's concerns. The EESC stresses that increased digitalisation in working life can bring benefits, while also posing challenges. In this regard the EESC acknowledges that swift implementation of the European Social Partners framework agreement on digitalisation can play an important role
  18
  .

7.3There is an urgent need to manage artificial intelligence in the workplace, in particular with regard to preventing discriminatory practices, unlawful surveillance of workers - including the right to disconnect - and other detrimental treatment of workers. The social partners must be included in the processes of adopting and implementing legislation on artificial intelligence.

Brussels, 23 September 2021

Christa SCHWENG
  The president of the European Economic and Social Committee

*

*
     *

N.B.: 
     Appendix overleaf

APPENDIX to the OPINION 
  of the
  European Economic and Social Committee

The following amendments, which received at least a quarter of the votes cast, were rejected during the discussions (Rule 43(2) of the Rules of Procedure):

AMENDMENT 3

| AMENDMENT 3



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 2.9



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| The EESC is aware of a number of elements, factors and circumstances that influence the quality of work and its sustainable provision and it has acknowledged this in its opinion[11]. These are elements such as the level and predictability of workers' wages, forms and methods of work, the working environment, occupational health and safety, employment stability, lifelong learning, training of workers, regular and predictable working hours, protection of workers' rights, work-life balance, active and effective social dialogue and the like.



  [11] | The EESC is aware of a number of elements, factors and circumstances that influence the quality of work and its sustainable provision and it has acknowledged this in its opinion[11]. These are elements such as the level and predictability of workers' wages, forms and methods of work including the need for diverse forms of work and flexibility within the framework of social dialogue, the working environment, occupational health and safety, employment stability, lifelong learning, training of workers, regular and predictable working hours, protection of workers' rights, work-life balance, active and effective social dialogue and the like.



  [11] OJ C 125, 21.4.2017, p. 10, point 3.4. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 2.9

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The EESC is aware of a number of elements, factors and circumstances that influence the quality of work and its sustainable provision and it has acknowledged this in its opinion[11]. These are elements such as the level and predictability of workers' wages, forms and methods of work, the working environment, occupational health and safety, employment stability, lifelong learning, training of workers, regular and predictable working hours, protection of workers' rights, work-life balance, active and effective social dialogue and the like.

[11]

The EESC is aware of a number of elements, factors and circumstances that influence the quality of work and its sustainable provision and it has acknowledged this in its opinion[11]. These are elements such as the level and predictability of workers' wages, forms and methods of work including the need for diverse forms of work and flexibility within the framework of social dialogue, the working environment, occupational health and safety, employment stability, lifelong learning, training of workers, regular and predictable working hours, protection of workers' rights, work-life balance, active and effective social dialogue and the like.

[11] OJ C 125, 21.4.2017, p. 10, point 3.4.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     92


  Against:
     120


  Abstention:
     15 |

In favour:
     92

Against:
     120

Abstention:
     15

AMENDMENT 4

| AMENDMENT 4



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 3.3



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| The EESC points out that the epidemic has put the spotlight on certain economic and business models and forms and ways of working that had been overlooked or given too little attention before the epidemic. Care must be taken to ensure that these more frequent forms of business and working do not adversely affect the labour market or the quality of work and do not constitute unfair practices. | The EESC points out that the epidemic has put the spotlight on certain economic and business models and forms and ways of working that had been overlooked or given too little attention before the epidemic. While it is important to enhance entrepreneurship and self-entrepreneur friendly policies both at European and national level and promote sustainable development of these more frequent forms of business and working it should be ensured that they do not adversely affect the labour market or the quality of work and do not constitute unfair practices. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 3.3

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The EESC points out that the epidemic has put the spotlight on certain economic and business models and forms and ways of working that had been overlooked or given too little attention before the epidemic. Care must be taken to ensure that these more frequent forms of business and working do not adversely affect the labour market or the quality of work and do not constitute unfair practices.

The EESC points out that the epidemic has put the spotlight on certain economic and business models and forms and ways of working that had been overlooked or given too little attention before the epidemic. While it is important to enhance entrepreneurship and self-entrepreneur friendly policies both at European and national level and promote sustainable development of these more frequent forms of business and working it should be ensured that they do not adversely affect the labour market or the quality of work and do not constitute unfair practices.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     90


  Against:
     125


  Abstention:
     16 |

In favour:
     90

Against:
     125

Abstention:
     16

AMENDMENT 5

| AMENDMENT 5



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 6.2



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| The EESC notes that equality was not guaranteed during the pandemic, as the measures adopted did not cover all workers and all businesses. Small and medium-sized businesses, workers in precarious forms of work, self-employed people, migrants, young people and women have often been denied access to compensation for loss of income or not covered by measures. This means that poverty and social exclusion have increased during the epidemic. A number of businesses have also ceased operating, leading to a loss of jobs. | The EESC notes that equality was not guaranteed during the pandemic, as the measures adopted did not cover all workers and all businesses. Small and medium-sized businesses, workers in less stable and secure forms of work, self-employed people, migrants, young people and women have often been denied access to compensation for loss of income or not covered by measures. This means that poverty and social exclusion have increased during the epidemic. A number of businesses have also ceased operating, leading to a loss of jobs. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 6.2

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The EESC notes that equality was not guaranteed during the pandemic, as the measures adopted did not cover all workers and all businesses. Small and medium-sized businesses, workers in precarious forms of work, self-employed people, migrants, young people and women have often been denied access to compensation for loss of income or not covered by measures. This means that poverty and social exclusion have increased during the epidemic. A number of businesses have also ceased operating, leading to a loss of jobs.

The EESC notes that equality was not guaranteed during the pandemic, as the measures adopted did not cover all workers and all businesses. Small and medium-sized businesses, workers in less stable and secure forms of work, self-employed people, migrants, young people and women have often been denied access to compensation for loss of income or not covered by measures. This means that poverty and social exclusion have increased during the epidemic. A number of businesses have also ceased operating, leading to a loss of jobs.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     88


  Against:
     138


  Abstention:
     14 |

In favour:
     88

Against:
     138

Abstention:
     14

AMENDMENT 6

| AMENDMENT 6



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 6.3



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| The EESC notes that the situation of women in the labour market has deteriorated significantly during the pandemic[17]: many women have lost their jobs, work-life balance has worsened and, ultimately, precariousness has increased.



  [17] https://eige.europa.eu/news/covid-19-derails-gender-equality-gains. | The EESC notes that the situation of women in the labour market has deteriorated significantly during the pandemic[17]: many women have lost their jobs, work-life balance has worsened and, ultimately, the challenge of finding more stable and secure employment has increased.



  [17] https://eige.europa.eu/news/covid-19-derails-gender-equality-gains. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 6.3

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The EESC notes that the situation of women in the labour market has deteriorated significantly during the pandemic[17]: many women have lost their jobs, work-life balance has worsened and, ultimately, precariousness has increased.

[17] https://eige.europa.eu/news/covid-19-derails-gender-equality-gains.

The EESC notes that the situation of women in the labour market has deteriorated significantly during the pandemic[17]: many women have lost their jobs, work-life balance has worsened and, ultimately, the challenge of finding more stable and secure employment has increased.

[17] https://eige.europa.eu/news/covid-19-derails-gender-equality-gains.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     80


  Against:
     143


  Abstention:
     10 |

In favour:
     80

Against:
     143

Abstention:
     10

AMENDMENT 7

| AMENDMENT 7



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 6.4



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| The situation of migrants in the labour market and young people, who are increasingly struggling to find a job, has also deteriorated. In addition, they are faced to an even greater extent with precarious forms of work, which does not guarantee a quality life. | The situation of migrants in the labour market and young people, who are increasingly struggling to find a job, has also deteriorated. In addition, they are faced to an even greater extent with the challenge of finding more stable and secure forms of work. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 6.4

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The situation of migrants in the labour market and young people, who are increasingly struggling to find a job, has also deteriorated. In addition, they are faced to an even greater extent with precarious forms of work, which does not guarantee a quality life.

The situation of migrants in the labour market and young people, who are increasingly struggling to find a job, has also deteriorated. In addition, they are faced to an even greater extent with the challenge of finding more stable and secure forms of work.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     80


  Against:
     143


  Abstention:
     10 |

In favour:
     80

Against:
     143

Abstention:
     10

AMENDMENT 8

| AMENDMENT 8



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 6.5



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  BARRERA CHAMORRO Maria del Carmen


  MEYNENT Denis


  SALIS-MADINIER Franca


  ZORKO Andrej |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| Inequality is most reflected in the level of income and employment stability. The EESC therefore firmly believes that labour market policies must address the pay gap, together with measures that promote wage transparency, tackle horizontal and vertical labour market segregation, incentivise fulltime work for women and address unpaid care-related constraints and the implementation of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. Measures must also be taken to ensure that workers' rights are respected. Social dialogue with a focus on collective bargaining in non-standard activities such as domestic work, care work, platform work and the like should also be encouraged. | Inequality is most reflected in the level of income and employment stability. The EESC therefore firmly believes that labour market policies must address the pay gap, together with binding measures that promote wage transparency, tackle horizontal and vertical labour market segregation, incentivise fulltime work for women and address unpaid care-related constraints and the implementation of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. Measures must also be taken to ensure that workers' rights are respected. Social dialogue with a focus on collective bargaining in non-standard activities such as domestic work, care work, platform work and the like should also be encouraged. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 6.5

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

BARRERA CHAMORRO Maria del Carmen

MEYNENT Denis

SALIS-MADINIER Franca

ZORKO Andrej

Section opinion

Amendment

Inequality is most reflected in the level of income and employment stability. The EESC therefore firmly believes that labour market policies must address the pay gap, together with measures that promote wage transparency, tackle horizontal and vertical labour market segregation, incentivise fulltime work for women and address unpaid care-related constraints and the implementation of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. Measures must also be taken to ensure that workers' rights are respected. Social dialogue with a focus on collective bargaining in non-standard activities such as domestic work, care work, platform work and the like should also be encouraged.

Inequality is most reflected in the level of income and employment stability. The EESC therefore firmly believes that labour market policies must address the pay gap, together with binding measures that promote wage transparency, tackle horizontal and vertical labour market segregation, incentivise fulltime work for women and address unpaid care-related constraints and the implementation of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. Measures must also be taken to ensure that workers' rights are respected. Social dialogue with a focus on collective bargaining in non-standard activities such as domestic work, care work, platform work and the like should also be encouraged.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     102


  Against:
     113


  Abstention:
     16 |

In favour:
     102

Against:
     113

Abstention:
     16

AMENDMENT 10

| AMENDMENT 10



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 7.3



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| There is an urgent need to manage artificial intelligence in the workplace, in particular with regard to preventing discriminatory practices, unlawful surveillance of workers - including the right to disconnect - and other detrimental treatment of workers. The social partners must be included in the processes of adopting and implementing legislation on artificial intelligence. | To ensure transparent and balanced development of artificial intelligence there is an urgent need to manage it in the workplace, in particular with regard to mitigating unfounded concerns, promoting the autonomy of workers and preventing discriminatory practices, unlawful surveillance of workers and other detrimental treatment of workers. The social partners must be included in the processes of adopting and implementing legislation on artificial intelligence. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 7.3

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

There is an urgent need to manage artificial intelligence in the workplace, in particular with regard to preventing discriminatory practices, unlawful surveillance of workers - including the right to disconnect - and other detrimental treatment of workers. The social partners must be included in the processes of adopting and implementing legislation on artificial intelligence.

To ensure transparent and balanced development of artificial intelligence there is an urgent need to manage it in the workplace, in particular with regard to mitigating unfounded concerns, promoting the autonomy of workers and preventing discriminatory practices, unlawful surveillance of workers and other detrimental treatment of workers. The social partners must be included in the processes of adopting and implementing legislation on artificial intelligence.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     88


  Against:
     136


  Abstention:
     10 |

In favour:
     88

Against:
     136

Abstention:
     10

AMENDMENT 11

| AMENDMENT 11



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 1.1



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| Quality of work is one of the fundamental components of quality of life. The principle of quality of work for quality of life must be followed, as this is a prerequisite for sustainable social development. The EESC therefore firmly believes that it should be given special attention in EU policies, as it must prevent the risks of inequality, poverty, social exclusion and unfair competition. | Quality of work is one of the fundamental components of quality of life and must be considered together with the concept of sustainable development, taking into account the larger context of sustainable growth and employment, in particular the transition to a green economy and digitalisation. At the same time the EESC recognises the role of employers with a view to promoting skills, employment, diverse forms of work, security, well-being of workers and competitiveness of companies. The EESC therefore firmly believes that quality of work as a component of economic growth and employment should be given special attention in EU policies, as it can make a significant twin contribution to enhancing sustainable growth, employment and productivity while tackling the risks of inequality, poverty, social exclusion and unfair competition. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 1.1

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

Quality of work is one of the fundamental components of quality of life. The principle of quality of work for quality of life must be followed, as this is a prerequisite for sustainable social development. The EESC therefore firmly believes that it should be given special attention in EU policies, as it must prevent the risks of inequality, poverty, social exclusion and unfair competition.

Quality of work is one of the fundamental components of quality of life and must be considered together with the concept of sustainable development, taking into account the larger context of sustainable growth and employment, in particular the transition to a green economy and digitalisation. At the same time the EESC recognises the role of employers with a view to promoting skills, employment, diverse forms of work, security, well-being of workers and competitiveness of companies. The EESC therefore firmly believes that quality of work as a component of economic growth and employment should be given special attention in EU policies, as it can make a significant twin contribution to enhancing sustainable growth, employment and productivity while tackling the risks of inequality, poverty, social exclusion and unfair competition.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     79


  Against:
     136


  Abstention:
     11 |

In favour:
     79

Against:
     136

Abstention:
     11

AMENDMENT 12

| AMENDMENT 12



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 1.2



  Insert new point:


  Position: After existing point - Same level | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| | The EESC stresses that comprehensive and well-focused action is needed to ensure a responsive, resilient and inclusive labour markets in Member States, including as a result of the pandemic with special focus on providing flexible jobs. However the EESC points out that labour market developments must be supported, not overregulated or hindered. Special attention should be paid to the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as regards the competences of the EU and the Member States and the various instruments at their disposal. As regards ensuring solid economic foundation to support fair transitions in Europe focus should be in creating a fair, stable and predictable regulatory framework for business including avoiding administrative burdens for companies. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 1.2

Insert new point:

Position: After existing point - Same level

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The EESC stresses that comprehensive and well-focused action is needed to ensure a responsive, resilient and inclusive labour markets in Member States, including as a result of the pandemic with special focus on providing flexible jobs. However the EESC points out that labour market developments must be supported, not overregulated or hindered. Special attention should be paid to the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as regards the competences of the EU and the Member States and the various instruments at their disposal. As regards ensuring solid economic foundation to support fair transitions in Europe focus should be in creating a fair, stable and predictable regulatory framework for business including avoiding administrative burdens for companies.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     79


  Against:
     144


  Abstention:
     7 |

In favour:
     79

Against:
     144

Abstention:
     7

AMENDMENT 15

| AMENDMENT 15



  SOC/685


  Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery



  Point 1.12



  Amend as follows: | Tabled by:


  ARDHE Christian


  HOŠTÁK Martin


  KONTKANEN Mira-Maria


  LE BRETON Marie-Pierre |
| --- | --- |
| Section opinion | Amendment |
| The EESC notes that the Recovery and Resilience Facility does not directly address the components of quality work, and therefore calls on the Commission to supplement this part of the facility. Quality of work is key to achieving the targets set by the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Vulnerable groups, such as precarious and young workers, who have been hit hardest by the epidemic, should not be overlooked. | The EESC notes that the Recovery and Resilience Facility does not directly address the components of quality work, and therefore calls on the Commission to ensure that these components are adequately addressed in the implementation of the facility. Quality of work is key to achieving the targets set by the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Vulnerable groups, who have been hit hardest by the epidemic, should not be overlooked. |

SOC/685

Key components of sustainable quality work during and after recovery

Point 1.12

Amend as follows:

Tabled by:

ARDHE Christian

HOŠTÁK Martin

KONTKANEN Mira-Maria

LE BRETON Marie-Pierre

Section opinion

Amendment

The EESC notes that the Recovery and Resilience Facility does not directly address the components of quality work, and therefore calls on the Commission to supplement this part of the facility. Quality of work is key to achieving the targets set by the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Vulnerable groups, such as precarious and young workers, who have been hit hardest by the epidemic, should not be overlooked.

The EESC notes that the Recovery and Resilience Facility does not directly address the components of quality work, and therefore calls on the Commission to ensure that these components are adequately addressed in the implementation of the facility. Quality of work is key to achieving the targets set by the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Vulnerable groups, who have been hit hardest by the epidemic, should not be overlooked.

Outcome of the vote:

| Outcome of the vote: |
| --- |
| In favour:
     82


  Against:
     140


  Abstention:
     8 |

In favour:
     82

Against:
     140

Abstention:
     8

_____________