Commission starts second-stage talks with social partners on right to disconnect and fair telework

The European Commission is taking the next steps towards introducing workers' right to disconnect and fair telework and launched today second-stage talks with social partners. These talks will gather EU social partner's views on a potential EU-level initiative to reduce the risks of the ‘always-on' work culture and to ensure fair and quality telework for workers.

Concretely, social partners are invited to share their views on workers' right to disconnect, fair and quality telework (including non-discrimination, access to equipment, data protection and monitoring) and occupational safety and health.

Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness Executive Vice President Roxana Mînzatu said: “Digital technologies have transformed the way we work with a significant increase in the number of people teleworking. To ensure fair conditions for telework and protect workers' rights, including the right to disconnect, social dialogue is essential. The input of workers and employers is key to addressing the challenges such as blurred work-life boundaries. With this second-stage consultation, we aim to shape EU action that protects workers' wellbeing and work-life balance, while helping businesses make the most of digital opportunities.”

This second-stage consultation follows a first-stage consultation held from April to June 2024. Social partners are invited to respond by 6 October 2025. Following this consultation, social partners may launch negotiations among themselves. Alternatively, Alternatively, the Commission will analyze the feedback and will consider action at EU level, in full respect of national competencies.

More information is available in our press release.

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