Europe’s industry must protect and engage workers, urge S&Ds

With major restructuring happening across Europe, the European Parliament is sending a clear message to both workers and employers: We stand for an industrial strategy that creates good jobs, protects workers’ rights, and encourages social dialogue and collective bargaining. Thanks to the leadership of the Socialists and Democrats, the commitment to a European industrial plan that drives both social progress and climate action is a key part of the European Parliament’s resolution adopted.

The S&Ds managed to protect the resolution from increasingly aggressive attacks on social Europe. However, it is deeply regrettable that the conservatives repeatedly side with the far right to block workers’ rights.

Gaby Bischoff, S&D vice-president for social Europe (pictured), said: “The shift towards a sustainable and digital economy is bringing big changes to European industry. At the same time, the crises of recent years have hit many people hard — especially those on middle and lower incomes. This transformation must not come at the expense of workers.

“Europe needs an industrial policy that pushes both social progress and climate action. The green and digital transitions can only succeed if they are good for the environment but also fair for people. To achieve this, workers must have a strong voice in shaping the future. Democracy at work reinforces our economy and competitiveness and strengthens our democratic system overall.

“This resolution incorporates many progressive priorities, calling for a permanent European investment instrument, the adoption of a quality jobs plan, reform of public procurement rules, and new legislation to improve workers’ rights, including a directive tackling challenges in subcontracting chains.”

Estelle Ceulemans, S&D spokesperson on social matters and European Parliament’s rapporteur on the restructuring file, added: “The restructuring resolution initiated by the S&Ds has now become the European Parliament’s ambitious position on protecting workers when restructuring is unavoidable. This includes ensuring access to information, training, and a decent income. Additionally, it requires investment in innovation and future-oriented sectors to secure Europe’s strategic autonomy and create quality jobs, with strengthened social rights, ensuring a just transition.

“It is crucial to strengthen our commitment to preventing and supporting restructuring. Too often, companies decide the fate of thousands of workers without respecting social dialogue, prioritizing shareholder interests instead. Workers are not disposable – they are not spare parts.”

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