Posted workers and the implementation of the Directive
September 1999 
The posted workers Directive, which came into force in December 1999, seeks to prevent free movement of labour within the EU from causing distortions of competition and bringing forms of "social dumping". The basic principle of the Directive is that working conditions and pay in effect in a Member State should be applicable both to workers from that State, and those from other EU countries posted to work there. This comparative study examines briefly: the extent of posting of workers within the EU (plus Norway); the current treatment of posted workers in law and agreements; the changes required to comply with the Directive; and the actions being taken in this area. Particular attention is paid to the specific situation of the construction sector. Alongside an absence of information on the extent of the posting phenomenon, we find an apparent general lack of interest among the social partners, except those in construction. The treatment of posted workers varies considerably from country to country, as do the routes taken to compliance with the Directive.
Comparative Study
The comparative study was compiled on the basis of
individual national reports submitted by EIRO's national
centres. The text of each of these national reports
is available below in Word format. The reports have
not been edited or approved by the European Foundation
for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions.
The national reports were drawn up in response to
a questionnaire and should be read in conjunction
with it.