Social Europe must be strengthened through dialogue, fairness and investment in workers

Workers' Group extraordinary meeting in Cyprus

The Workers’ Group of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) gathered in Nicosia on the 2^nd and 3^rd of June, and reaffirmed that Europe’s competitiveness and resilience can only be achieved through a strong social foundation, built on collective bargaining, quality jobs, and robust public services.

Drawing on discussions with Cypriot trade union representatives and stakeholders, the Workers’ Group highlighted that recent progress in social legislation demonstrates that European policies can deliver for the many—not just the few. However, these gains remain fragile in the face of ongoing challenges, including austerity pressures, rising living costs, geopolitical instability, and rapid technological change. The discussions included the All-Cyprus Trade Union Forum, where union representatives of the Republic of Cyprus and of the areas under Turkish occupation discuss common challenges for workers on both communities to protect working rights, organise common industrial actions and support each other, and keep channels open despite the lack of communication between the two sides at the official level. 

A clear call for a renewed impetus for Social Europe

Speakers stressed the urgent need for a new policy push that places working people at the centre of EU action. This includes ensuring that EU economic governance, competitiveness strategies and budgetary decisions align with social objectives. Public funds and EU investments must be directed towards companies that respect workers’ rights, uphold collective agreements, and contribute to social cohesion.

It was also underlined that strong social dialogue at all levels—particularly tripartite frameworks involving governments, employers and trade unions—is essential to achieving fair wages, decent working conditions and sustainable reforms. 

A major concern raised was the growing gap between economic growth and workers’ living standards. In Cyprus, as elsewhere, rising energy prices and inflation have placed a disproportionate burden on workers, while wealth concentration continues to increase. Such trends risk undermining social cohesion and fuelling political extremism. A fair tax system, socially oriented housing policies, and adequate pension systems were discussed as key priorities. Ongoing pension reforms must strike a careful balance between long-term sustainability and ensuring that all retirees can live in dignity above the poverty threshold.

Climate change was identified as a growing threat to workers, particularly through increased exposure to extreme heat and its impact on productivity and health. The costs of inaction far outweigh the investments required for mitigation and adaptation. A just transition to climate neutrality must therefore ensure protection for the most vulnerable workers and households, while creating quality jobs and strengthening economic resilience.