Shaping Europe's Digital Future

Key points

The EESC:

• Is convinced that such dynamic development also calls for flexible and adaptable processes that require constant dialogue between the parties involved;
• Welcomes the initiative for a new EU industrial strategy that will set out actions to facilitate the transition towards a more digital, clean, circular and globally competitive EU industry with sustainable companies, including a strategy for SMEs;
• Calls on the Commission to better distinguish between technical and social competences, although both are of vital importance, as education and training that provide digital skills are the key to being prepared for a digital life;
• Notes that the Commission intends to make a clear distinction between high-risk and low-risk applications and emphasises that a detailed and thorough analysis of the various applications is needed; an enhanced legal framework that would prevent precarious working conditions and ensure workers' rights online, including collective bargaining, is also an important aspect of that approach.

With the recent COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, society has been facing a reality check as regards the use of digital technology and this has posed many new challenges. The need to change habits because of the measures national governments have taken to counter the spread of COVID-19 might have long-lasting effects on consumer practices and work relations in the long term. The digital transformation should be monitored through a comprehensive and EU-funded, work-oriented research initiative on "digitalisation for decent work".

For more information please contact the INT Section Secretariat.