Enhancing quality in employment and working conditions by introducing and promoting related tools (incl. AI) and strengthening social dialogue and collective bargaining

Practical information

Composition of the study group & calendar

Administrator in charge: Ana Dumitrache / Assistant: Rina Vignoli

This opinion is prepared at the request of the incoming Cypriot Presidency of the EU. The EESC was invited to deliver an opinion on how the EU and its Member States can best:

1. Introduce and promote effective tools, including AI-based solutions, to enhance the quality of employment and working conditions, ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in their use.

2. Strengthen social dialogue and collective bargaining as fundamental mechanisms for shaping fair and inclusive labour markets in a rapidly changing economic and technological context.

The incoming Presidency considers that the opinion of the EESC will provide valuable guidance to EU institutions and Member States in shaping future initiatives, ensuring that policies to foster innovation and competitiveness go hand in hand with the promotion of quality employment, fair working conditions, and strong social dialogue.

Background: Promoting quality in employment and working conditions is a core priority of the European Union and an essential element of the European Pillar of Social Rights. In a labour market increasingly shaped by digitalization and the use of Artificial Intelligence, it is vital to ensure that technological innovation serves to improve job quality, strengthen health and safety at work, and protect workers’ rights. At the same time, social dialogue and collective bargaining play a crucial role in ensuring decent work, supporting inclusive transitions, and reinforcing social cohesion. Their capacity to adapt to structural changes, including the digital and green transitions, is key to safeguarding both competitiveness and social justice.