Support to workers affected by imminent job displacement in enterprises undergoing restructuring

Key points

The EESC:

• welcomes the proposed amendment to Regulation (EU) 2021/691 to improve support for workers facing imminent job loss due to restructuring and to enhance the effectiveness of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF);

• stresses the need for providing timely, tailored support including upskilling, re-employment, income assistance and mental health services. Particular focus should be given to digital and green skills;

• calls for continued eligibility for workers after their employment relationship has been terminated, follow-up applications and the inclusion of vulnerable or else excluded groups such as SMEs and subcontractor employees, older, disabled and low-skilled workers and the integration of social economy actors;

• recommends tailored support for regions most affected by restructuring and greater involvement of local authorities and social partners;

• urges sufficient funding for technical assistance, improved coordination across EU instruments (EGF, ESF+, JTF), robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks using qualitative and quantitative data and awareness-raising campaigns to ensure equitable and effective use of the EGF;

• stresses the importance of early and meaningful social dialogue, mandatory transition plans from beneficiary companies and full compliance with EU directives on information, consultation and collective redundancies.