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November 2003

• 25 Nov 2003
  Greece: Public security forces trade unions in conflict with government<#PDF_LINK>

  In autumn 2003, trade unions organising in the Greek public security and safety forces - the police, fire service and coastguard - held a number of strikes and protests in opposition to the policy of the government, which refuses to classify their occupations as hazardous (a move which would bring pay and pension benefits).

• 25 Nov 2003
  Germany: Survey examines changes in work in metalworking industry<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the Gesamtmetall employers’ association published a study on the structural changes affecting work in the German metalworking and electrical industries. The study finds that there have been profound changes and examines the ways in which employers and employees have responded to them, on the basis of a representative survey co-developed by the Cologne Institute for Business Research and conducted by the IfD polling institute.

• 25 Nov 2003
  United Kingdom: Local Government Pay Commission reports<#PDF_LINK>

  The report of the UK's Local Government Pay Commission, published in October 2003, rejects regional pay and focuses on remedying the gender pay gap. The report has been generally well-received by the local government employers and trade unions.

• 25 Nov 2003
  Germany: Construction compromises safeguard minimum wages and Christmas bonus<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the bargaining parties in the German construction industry reached a new national collective agreement on minimum wages. The negotiations took place at the Federal Ministry of Economics and Labour and the Ministry promised that the new agreement will soon be extended by way of ministerial decree to the whole industry. Also in October, as a result of a joint dispute-resolution procedure, the provisions on the Christmas bonus in the existing framework collective agreement for the western German construction industry were amended. The IG BAU trade union accepted temporarily reduced minimum wages and anopening clauseconcerning the Christmas bonus, in order to safeguard these measures.

• 25 Nov 2003
  Belgium: Employers propose fundamental reform of health insurance system<#PDF_LINK>

  In autumn 2003, the Federation of Belgian Enterprises (FEB/VBO) made proposals for a fundamental reform of the health insurance system, in the direction of a partial privatisation. While it acknowledges the high quality of the health service in Belgium, the employers' organisation believes that, unless checked, the rise in health expenditure will far outstrip economic growth in the coming years. The FEB/VBO proposals have been rejected by the trade unions, the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Employment and Pensions.

• 25 Nov 2003
  Sweden: Social partners call for regulated labour immigration<#PDF_LINK>

  In autumn 2003, the LO trade union confederation and the main employers' organisations all stated that it is important that Sweden should open up to more immigration of workers from outside the EU, though this should be subject to regulation. The context is coming labour shortages brought about by an ageing population. Earlier in the year, parliament called on the government to propose new legislation on this issue, but the latter remains hesitant.

• 25 Nov 2003
  Spain: Precarious employment in public administration criticised<#PDF_LINK>

  Employment in the public administrations has continued to grow in Spain in recent years at a rate higher than the EU average, though the proportion of public employees in total employment is still among Europe's lowest, particularly in health and social services. The growth in employment has been accompanied by a major increase in precarious temporary employment, as highlighted by an October 2003 report from the national Ombudsman that links this phenomenon to a deterioration in the quality of service.

• 24 Nov 2003
  EU Level: European health and safety week focuses on dangerous substances<#PDF_LINK>

  The 2003 European Week for Safety and Health at Work was held during October and focused on combating the risks of dangerous substances at work. These substances contribute significantly to the 350 million days lost through occupational ill health each year in the EU and to the 7 million people suffering from occupational illnesses.

• 24 Nov 2003
  EU Level: Commission issues action plan for people with disabilities<#PDF_LINK>

  An action plan aimed at promoting equal opportunities and social and labour market integration for people with disabilities was issued by the European Commission in October 2003. The plan, which will run from 2004 to 2010, hopes to build on the progress made by the 2003 European Year of People with Disabilities.

• 24 Nov 2003
  EU Level: Council reaches political agreement on electromagnetic fields proposal<#PDF_LINK>

  A meeting of the EU employment and social affairs Council, held in October 2003, discussed a range of topics, including a draft Directive regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from electromagnetic fields, undeclared work, immigration and open coordination in the field of social protection.

• 24 Nov 2003
  EU Level: OECD issues 2003 Employment Outlook<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) issued its annual Employment Outlook report, in which it stresses the importance of expanding the workforce by integrating under-represented groups. It also states that additional investment in skills is required. Without progress in these areas, the report states that the prospects for economic growth in many countries will be undermined as the population ages, placing more strain on pension schemes and threatening living standards.

• 24 Nov 2003
  EU Level: Report finds that diversity policies can improve business performance<#PDF_LINK>

  A new report published by the European Commission in November 2003 looks at the issue of workforce diversity policies, assessing their costs, their benefits and the obstacles to the establishment of such policies. It makes a variety of recommendations aimed at encouraging the promotion of workforce diversity. The report has been drawn up in the context of the implementation of two new EU anti-discrimination Directives.

• 21 Nov 2003
  Sweden: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Sweden’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 19 Nov 2003
  Greece: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Greece’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 19 Nov 2003
  Netherlands: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of the Netherlands' 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 19 Nov 2003
  Spain: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Spain’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 19 Nov 2003
  France: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of France’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 19 Nov 2003
  Slovakia: Report examines progress in achieving employment policy priorities<#PDF_LINK>

  In June 2003, the Slovak government approved a report examining the extent to which the goals and priorities set out in a Joint Assessment of employment priorities agreed with the European Commission were met in 2002. The Report, which was forwarded to the Commission, looks at areas such as pay, training, equal opportunities and active labour market policy.

• 19 Nov 2003
  USA: The role of industrial relations in the structural change of organisations<#PDF_LINK>

  In the current rapidly changing economic environment, there has been an increasing tendency since the 1990s for US employers, trade unions and workers to come together to create non-traditional structures aimed at meeting their various interests at work. More progressive companies and unions have used the collective bargaining process as a means to tackle the competitive pressures resulting from globalisation. Some have created partnerships based on new methods of communication and conflict resolution, joint decision-making in many areas, new work processes involving greater creative freedom for workers, and continuous training

• 18 Nov 2003
  Germany: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Germany’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 18 Nov 2003
  Ireland: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Ireland’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 18 Nov 2003
  Denmark: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Denmark’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 18 Nov 2003
  Austria: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Austria’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 18 Nov 2003
  Belgium: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Belgium’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 18 Nov 2003
  Finland: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of Finland’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 17 Nov 2003
  United Kingdom: Thematic feature - social partner involvement in the 2003 NAP<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines social partner involvement in the preparation of the UK’s 2003 National Action Plan for employment drawn up in response to the EU Employment Guidelines.

• 14 Nov 2003
  Spain: Controversy over recruitment and unemployment figures<#PDF_LINK>

  Statistics on Spanish unemployment, recruitment and social security registration, covering September 2003, have been interpreted in different ways by the government and trade unions. The former takes a generally positive view of the employment situation, while the unions are more critical.

• 13 Nov 2003
  France: 2001 works council election results published<#PDF_LINK>

  The results of France's 2001 works council elections were published in October 2003. Turn-out fell slightly and there was another drop in support for non-union slates of candidates. In the context of a high level of stability in support for the various unions, CGT, CGT-FO andother unionseach saw their share of the vote rise by around 1% in 2001, compared with 1999.

• 13 Nov 2003
  France: Government proposes collective bargaining reform<#PDF_LINK>

  In December 2003, the French parliament is due to debate a social dialogue bill submitted by the government, which lays down new rules for collective bargaining. It proposes the introduction of amajority principlefor the signature of collective agreements, an extension of the scope of collective bargaining compared with that of the law, and allowing company agreements to depart from the terms of sectoral accords. The social partners have criticised the bill, for differing reasons.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: Social partners discuss violence at the workplace<#PDF_LINK>

  At a conference held in October 2003, the Bulgarian social partners discussed the growing problem of workplace violence in the health sector, based on the findings of an international research project. Participants at the event agreed to launch a follow-up action plan for the prevention and elimination of workplace violence in this sector.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: Unions call for changes in economic and social policy<#PDF_LINK>

  September-November 2003 saw a series of trade union protests in Bulgaria calling for changes in the government's economic and social policy, covering issues such as incomes, taxation and sick pay. The protests were due to culminate in November with a demonstration in Sofia, organised by the CITUB and Podkrepa union confederations, under the sloganSolidarity for rights and justice.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Italy: ETUC organises demonstration in Rome<#PDF_LINK>

  On 4 October 2003, the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) staged a demonstration in Rome, in collaboration with Italy's main union confederations, on the occasion of the opening of the EU Intergovernmental Conference, which will consider a new constitutional Treaty. The demonstration called for the Treaty to include a strong social dimension.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Italy: General strike held against budget law and pension reform<#PDF_LINK>

  On 24 October 2003, Italy’s main trade union organisations held a one-day general strike to protest against the government's 2004 state budget law and its proposals for the reform of the pension system. Estimates of the proportion of workers who took part in the action vary from 70% to 30%,

• 13 Nov 2003
  Norway: Controversial court ruling in ownership transfer case<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, a district court in Norway made a controversial ruling in an ownership transfer case brought against the SAS airline by over 300 employees of its ground handling subsidiary, SGS. The case concerned the maintenance of the employment rights of these workers, who had previously been employed by the Braathens airline before its takeover by SAS.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Romania: Unrest over privatisation-related job losses<#PDF_LINK>

  During October 2003, employees at two large state-owned Romanian companies - Roman SA (truck manufacturing) and Siderurgica SA (steel) - held protests over their forthcoming privatisation and accompanying large-scale job losses. Trade unions are calling for better redundancy terms.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Portugal: Unions oppose unemployment benefit reform proposals<#PDF_LINK>

  In November 2003, the Portuguese Ministry of Social Security and Labour is preparing a reform of the unemployment benefit system. Notably, it plans to take into account in the payment of benefits the recipients' age, number of years of social security contributions and number of dependents. Trade unions and opposition political parties have criticised the proposals.

• 13 Nov 2003
  Italy: Agreement signed for employees of local public bodies<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, trade unions and the Italian public sector bargaining agency, Aran, signed a national collective agreement for employees of regional, provincial and local authorities and other local bodies. The agreement provides for an overall monthly wage increase of EUR 106 and makes changes to bargaining and consultative structures.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Sweden: Council of Europe criticises Sweden over closed shop and union 'examination fees'<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers stated that Sweden is breaching the European Social Charter and European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms by allowing closed shops - which are found almost exclusively in the building industry - and the deduction of trade union examination feesfrom the pay of both union members and non-union members, also in the building industry.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Sweden: Train drivers take strike action<#PDF_LINK>

  In November 2003, train drivers belonging to the independent Swedish Engine Drivers’ Union (SLFF) started a series of strikes at the national railway company, SJ AB, with the aim of obtaining their own separate collective agreement.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Germany: Lower house approves key elements of Agenda 2010 reforms<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the lower house of the German parliament narrowly approved most of a package of social and labour market reforms which forms part of Chancellor Gerhard Schröder’sAgenda 2010programme. These include bringing forward major tax cuts, reductions in both unemployment benefits and tax breaks, a reorganisation of the Federal Labour Office and a reform of local authority finances. However, in November the reform package ran into problems in the upper house of parliament and was referred to a mediation committee.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Estonia: Minimum wage agreed for 2004<#PDF_LINK>

  Following lengthy negotiations, in November 2003 Estonia's central trade union and employers' organisations reached an agreement on the national minimum wage rate for 2004. The monthly minimum wage will thus rise from EEK 2,160 in 2003 to EEK 2,480 in 2004.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Poland: Amendments to Teachers' Charter prove controversial<#PDF_LINK>

  In autumn 2003, the Polish government proposed a number of amendments to the Teachers' Charter, the statute defining the rights and duties of some 550,000 teaching personnel working in the national educational system, which covers matters such as the terms of remuneration, working time, promotion and retirement benefits. The government's proposals have met with many reservations on the part of trade unions and local government bodies.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Spain: Renewal of pensions agreement<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the commission which oversees the 1995Toledo pacton the Spanish social security and pensions system agreed a set of recommendations of the renewal of this accord. As well as continuing with many current initiatives, the commission makes a number of new recommendations aimed at dealing with Spain's ageing population and low birth rate.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Spain: New statute adopted for research trainees<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the Spanish government adopted a special Statute to regulate the employment and social security cover of research trainees/interns in public institutions, who previously had no rights in this area.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Ireland: No strikesingle-union deal at Dublin’s new tram system<#PDF_LINK>

  In autumn 2003, the Services, Industrial, Professional and Technical Union (SIPTU) negotiated a single-union, closed-shop agreement with the Connex company on behalf of workers at Dublin’s new tram system, LUAS, which is set to commence operations in 2004.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Poland: Wave of strikes anticipated<#PDF_LINK>

  November 2003 is due to see considerable labour unrest across Poland. A general strike at Polish State Railways (PKP) is due to start on 13 November, while a 24-hour warning strike will be staged in the mining industry on 17 November and a protest by healthcare workers is scheduled to start one day later. Finally, between 7 and 26 November, the NSZZ Solidarność trade union will holdprotest daysaround the country.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Poland: New rules approved on equal treatment and discrimination<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the lower house of the Polish parliament approved a set of amendments to the Labour Code, which include a number of new provisions , in line with EU law, aimed at ensuring equal treatment and preventing discrimination at work. A notable change is the recognition of the issue of sexual harassment, which is defined, made illegal and expressly prohibited.

• 12 Nov 2003
  Poland: Taxi drivers organise protests<#PDF_LINK>

  On two occasions in September-October 2003, taxi drivers from around Poland converged on Warsaw, blocking traffic for many hours. The taxi drivers were protesting against an order by the Minister of Finance that, from 1 January 2004, taxis must be fitted with tax-certified cash registers at the expense of their owners.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Belgium: Controversy over railway restructuring plan<#PDF_LINK>

  Tension between management and trade unions at Belgian Railways (SNCB/NMBS) increased sharply in October 2003, when two unions broke off talks over a restructuring plan which would cut the publicly-owned company's 40,000-strong workforce by 10,000 by 2007. Negotiations later resumed, but differences remain.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Cyprus: Dockworkers’ unions oppose proposed EU port services Directive<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, dockworkers in Cyprus held a two-hour strike to express their opposition to the draft EU Directive on the liberalisation of port services, as part of a Europe-wide trade union campaign against the proposal.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Denmark: LO calls for European collective bargaining rules<#PDF_LINK>

  At its congress in October 2003, the Danish Confederation of Trade Unions (LO) adopted a new policy on EU-level industrial relations, calling for general rules for European collective agreements and a European dispute-settlement system. The policy was the subject of considerable debate and was not agreed by all member unions.

• 11 Nov 2003
  EU Level: Second social partner consultation on transferability of occupational pensions<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the European Commission launched the second phase of social partner consultation on the transferability of occupational pensions. In the consultation document, it sets out its thinking on a range of issues and states that, in its opinion, the most appropriate regulatory instrument would be a collective agreement at European level.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Greece: ELGA case highlights pregnancy discrimination<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the the Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organisation (ELGA) sought to employ staff on fixed-term contracts which provided for them to be dismissed if they became pregnant. This provision was later withdrawn after protests from trade unions, the General Secretariat for Equality and politicians. This is the latest in a series of cases in Greece involving discrimination against pregnant workers.

• 11 Nov 2003
  EU Level: Road transport unions call for better working time regulation<#PDF_LINK>

  On 13 October 2003, the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) held its annual international road transport day of action, around the theme offatigue kills. As part of the day of action, the European Transport Workers' Federation (ETF) called for better regulation of driving time and rest breaks for all professional drivers.

• 11 Nov 2003
  EU Level: European-level agreement in rail sector<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, EU-level trade union and employers' organisation in the railway sector reached agreement on a common European licence for locomotive drivers and a range of minimum social standards in the industry.

• 11 Nov 2003
  EU Level: European social dialogue launched in shipbuilding<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, shipbuilding became the latest sector to launch a formal social dialogue at European level, with the creation of a dialogue committee under the auspices of the European Commission. The social partners in this industry hope to examine a range of issues within this framework, including employment, restructuring, competitiveness and lifelong learning.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Cyprus: Agreement on winter unemployment benefits for hotel workers<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, following consultations, a draft agreement was reached by the Cypriot government and social partners which reforms the payment of unemployment benefits to hotel employees whose employment is suspended for the winter season.

• 11 Nov 2003
  United Kingdom: Employers and unions respond to review of EWCs<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the Confederation of British Industry and the Trades Union Congress published divergent views on the case for revising the EU European Works Councils (EWCs) Directive, as part of a UK government consultation exercise on the issue.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Luxembourg: Unions call for continuation of iron and steel early retirement scheme<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, trade unions in the Luxembourg iron and steel industry organised a petition and demonstration in favour of the continuation of a special early retirement scheme, which is due to expire at the end of 2004.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Luxembourg: 'Social elections' looming<#PDF_LINK>

  In November 2003, employees in Luxembourg will elect representatives on national consultative chambers and social security funds and on workplace employee committees. These importantsocial electionsprovide a major test of the representativeness of the various trade unions.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Austria: Constitutional Court overturns reform of social security body<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, Austria's Constitutional Court ruled that a 2001 government reform of social partner representation on the Association of Social Security Providers (HSV), the central institution in the national social insurance system, is unconstitutional. In a case brought by a trade union official, the Court overturned the reform on the grounds that it breached the principles of self government and democratic representation.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Finland: Telecom operator Elisa cuts 900 jobs<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, the Finnish-based telecommunications company, Elisa, announced plans to cut 900 jobs from its 7,300-strong workforce. The news brought strong reactions from staff and trade unions and provoked debate about large companies' employment policies and the Act on Cooperation within Undertakings, which provides for workforce consultation on issues such as job losses.

• 11 Nov 2003
  Netherlands: FNV members vote in favour of social agreement<#PDF_LINK>

  In November 2003, it was announced that a majority of members of the Dutch Trade Union Federation (FNV) voting in a referendum had approved asocial agreementreached by the government, trade unions and employers’ organisations in October. The agreement includes a freeze in collectively agreed wages during 2004.

• 10 Nov 2003
  Sweden: Thematic feature - works councils and other workplace employee representation and participation structures<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines the Swedish situation, as of September 2003, with regard to works councils and similar workplace employee representation and participation structures. It looks at the regulatory framework, statistical data, evidence on practice and the views of the social partners.

• 10 Nov 2003
  Hungary: New provisions tackle bogus contracts<#PDF_LINK>

  In July 2003, the Hungarian government amended the Labour Code in an attempt to reduce the number of people performing work on the basis ofshamcivil law contracts - ie contracts not governed by labour law. While this effort has been more or less successful in fighting such disguised employment relationships, the issue has not yet been fully resolved. Furthermore, the first steps are being taken to prepare legislation on the protection of workers who areeconomically dependentyet do not qualify as employees.

• 10 Nov 2003
  Slovakia: National Productivity and Competitiveness Improvement Programme implemented<#PDF_LINK>

  In 2002, a National Productivity and Competitiveness Improvement Programme was approved by the Slovak government. Its implementation is seen as crucial, particularly given Slovakia’s impending EU accession in 2004. The Slovak Productivity Centre has played a significant role in Programme's preparation and implementation, as have the social partners. In 2003, the first results indicate that improving productivity will not be easy, and there has been discussion over the government's participation in the programme.

• 10 Nov 2003
  Belgium: Thematic feature - works councils and other workplace employee representation and participation structures<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines the Belgian situation, as of September 2003, with regard to works councils and similar workplace employee representation and participation structures. It looks at the regulatory framework, statistical data, evidence on practice and the views of the social partners.

• 10 Nov 2003
  Cyprus: The development and current situation of employers’ organisations<#PDF_LINK>

  The Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) is the sole central employers' association in Cyprus. It has 51 member sectoral associations and represents about 4,500 enterprises employing some 57% of the total labour force. This article examines the development of employers' organisations and their current situation in 2003.

• 05 Nov 2003
  Romania: Controversy over proposed income tax reform<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the Romanian government announced plans to abolish the current system of progressive income tax and replace it with a fixed-rate tax of 23%, as part of a new Fiscal Code. The proposals met with major opposition from three of the largest trade union organisations, which organised protests, adding a number of other demands, such as increases in the national minimum wage. Parliament is now to decide on the government's plans, and it seems likely that it will at least postpone the new fixed-rate tax until 2005.

• 05 Nov 2003
  Romania: The development and current situation of employers’ organisations<#PDF_LINK>

  During Romania's transition to a market economy, numerous national-level employers' organisations have grown up and in many cases merged or divided, against a background of privatisation and economic restructuring. There are currently 12 organisations regarded as nationally representative, and this fragmentation is regarded by commentators as reducing their power and influence. This article examines the development of employers' organisations and their current situation in 2003.

• 04 Nov 2003
  EU Countries: Überstunden in Europa<#PDF_LINK>

  Überstunden sind nach wie vor in ganz Europa ein wichtiges Thema im Zusammenhang mit der Arbeitszeit. Für viele Arbeitgeber stellen sie ein wichtiges Element zur Erlangung von Flexibilität dar, während sie für zahlreiche Arbeitnehmer eine wichtige Einkommensquelle bilden. Die Regelung und der Einsatz von Überstunden ändern sich jedoch in vielen Ländern rasant unter dem Druck, der durch neue, komplexere Formen der Flexibilität bei der Arbeitszeit, durch die Rechtsvorschriften und Politik der EU sowie durch die Bestrebungen der Gewerkschaften und (gelegentlich) der Regierungen, die Arbeitszeit zu verringern, entsteht. Im Rahmen dieser Vergleichsstudie wird Folgendes untersucht: Regelung von Überstunden durch Rechtsvorschriften und Tarifvereinbarungen; Überstundenniveau; Positionen, Strategien und Diskussionen der Sozialpartner.

• 04 Nov 2003
  EU Countries: Heures supplémentaires en Europe<#PDF_LINK>

  Les heures supplémentaires restent un aspect significatif du temps de travail en Europe, considérées par bon nombre d'employeurs comme un élément essentiel à la flexibilité et par beaucoup de travailleurs comme une source importante de revenus. Toutefois, la réglementation et l'utilisation des heures supplémentaires changent rapidement dans de nombreux pays, sous la pression de nouvelles formes plus complexes de flexibilité du temps de travail, de la législation et de la politique européennes, des syndicats et (parfois) des préoccupations gouvernementales en matière de réduction du temps de travail. Cette étude comparative examinera les points suivants: la réglementation des heures supplémentaires par voie de législation et de conventions collectives; le niveau des heures supplémentaires et les positions, stratégies et débats des acteurs des relations industrielles.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Estonia: Collective bargaining examined<#PDF_LINK>

  Estonia has a relatively well-developed system of tripartite dialogue and bargaining at national level, but bipartite collective bargaining at sector and company level is still quite limited. The overall rate of coverage by collective bargaining stands at 28% of the workforce, sectoral agreements are few and company agreements cover only a small proportion of enterprises. This article outlines the legislative framework and current situation in practice.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: Trade unions call for working time reductions<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, during a meeting between the Bulgarian social partners and Minister of Labour and Social Policy, trade unions launched a demand for a gradual reduction of the duration of normal weekly working time from 40 to 35 hours. The initial response of all employers’ organisations was negative, while the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy does not want to intervene, preferring to leave debate on the issue to the social partners.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Denmark: Thematic feature - works councils and other workplace employee representation and participation structures<#PDF_LINK>

  This article examines the Danish situation, as of September 2003, with regard to works councils and similar workplace employee representation and participation structures. It looks at the regulatory framework, statistical data, evidence on practice and the views of the social partners.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: Government adopts national strategy on fight against poverty and social exclusion<#PDF_LINK>

  Poverty is a major problem in Bulgaria, and in October 2003 the government a national strategy for the fight against poverty and social exclusion, covering the period 2003-6. The strategy should result in the adoption of an official definition of thepoverty lineand a National Action Plan containing concrete measures. The strategy was subject to tripartite discussions before adoption, and trade unions have made a number of criticisms.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Estonia: The development and current situation of employers’ organisations<#PDF_LINK>

  Estonia has one central employers' organisation which is recognised by trade unions and the government as a social partner - the Estonian Employers’ Confederation (ETTK). ETTK represents around 1,500 enterprises/establishments, employing around 145,000 workers, and engages in tripartite and bipartite negotiations at national level. Outside ETTK, there are three other employers'/business organisations recognised by the government, but they do not define themselves as social partners and are not accepted as such by either trade unions or the government. This article examines the development of employers' organisations and their current situation in 2003.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Belgium: Tripartite talks lead to deal on management of Brussels labour market<#PDF_LINK>

  In June 2003, after talks between employers, trade unions and the regional government, the Council of the Brussels-Capital Region approved an order on the management of the region's labour market. The measure provides for themixedmanagement of the labour market, involving both the regional employment office, private employment agencies and not-for-profit bodies.

• 04 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: The development and current situation of employers’ organisations<#PDF_LINK>

  Bulgaria currently has four employers' organisations recognised as being representative at national level, as well as a number of others which do not have this status. The structure of employers' representation has undergone change during the country's period of transition, owing to factors such as the liquidation or privatisation of state-owned enterprises and the emergence of new companies. This article examines the development of employers' organisations and their current situation in 2003..

• 04 Nov 2003
  EU Countries: Neue Technologie und Achtung der Privatsphäre am Arbeitsplatz<#PDF_LINK>

  Der Einsatz neuer Informations- und Kommunikationstechnologien (IKT) am Arbeitsplatz fand in den vergangenen Jahren rasche Verbreitung. Das wirft zahlreiche Fragen für Arbeitgeber, Arbeitnehmer und ihre Vertreter auf, insbesondere in Bezug auf die Verbindung zwischen der Privatsphäre der Arbeitnehmer und dem Bedürfnis der Arbeitgeber, die Nutzung der IKT zu kontrollieren und zu überwachen. Das Thema ist gegenwärtig in Europa von besonderer Aktualität, und die Europäische Kommission ist verpflichtet, im Jahre 2004 oder 2005 einen Vorschlag für eine Richtlinie über Datenschutz am Arbeitsplatz vorzulegen. Diese vergleichende Studie konzentriert sich auf eine spezielle Frage, die durch die Zunahme von IKT bei der Arbeit aufgeworfen wird - die Verbindung zwischen Internet- und E-Mail-Nutzung bei der Arbeit und der Achtung der Privatsphäre der Arbeitnehmer. Sie untersucht den europäischen und nationalen rechtlichen Rahmen zur Privatsphäre bei der Arbeit, Datenschutz und Internet- und E-Mail-Nutzung am Arbeitsplatz; Leitlinien und Verhaltenskodexe in diesem Bereich; die Standpunkte und Aktivitäten der Sozialpartner; und in welchem Umfang sich Kollektivverhandlungen mit diesen Fragen beschäftigen.

• 04 Nov 2003
  EU Countries: Nouvelles technologies et respect de la vie privée sur le lieu de travail<#PDF_LINK>

  L'utilisation de nouvelles technologies de l'information et des communications (TIC) sur le lieu de travail s'est rapidement répandue ces dernières années. Leur utilisation pose de nombreux problèmes aux employeurs, aux employés et aux représentants des employés, notamment quant à la conciliation entre la vie privée des salariés et le besoin des employeurs de contrôler et surveiller l'utilisation des TIC. Cette question est plus particulièrement d'actualité en Europe où la Commission européenne prépare une directive sur la protection des données sur le lieu de travail pour 2004 ou 2005. Cette étude comparative porte sur le problème spécifique soulevé par l'utilisation de plus en plus grande des TIC au travail: la conciliation entre l'utilisation de l'internet/du courrier électronique au travail et le respect de la vie privée des salariés. Elle examine la structure légale, sur le plan national et européen, de la vie privée au travail, la protection des données et l'utilisation de l'internet/du courrier électronique sur le lieu de travail; les lignes directrices et codes de conduite correspondants; les opinions et activités des partenaires sociaux; l'importance de ces sujets dans la négociation collective.

• 03 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: New Social Insurance Code adopted<#PDF_LINK>

  A new Social Insurance Code was adopted in Bulgaria in August 2003, bringing together and reforming previous separate items of legislation on pensions and other areas of social security. Trade unions have a number of concerns about the Code's provisions on occupational pensions.

• 03 Nov 2003
  Greece: INE/GSEE-ADEDY report finds that employment is stagnating<#PDF_LINK>

  In September 2003, the Institute of Labour (INE) of the Greek General Confederation of Labour (GSEE) and the Confederation of Public Servants (ADEDY) released its annual Economic and Employment Outlook. It finds that employment is not increasing, despite the fact that the Greek economy is rapidly expanding, fixed investment is accelerating and profitability is high.

• 03 Nov 2003
  Estonia: Social partners discuss new Employment Contracts Act<#PDF_LINK>

  During August 2003, representatives of central trade union and employers' organisations in Estonia held negotiations over the draft of a new Employment Contracts Act. They reached consensus on a number of issues but their views still differ on some points. Parliament is likely to debate the draft Act in the autumn

• 03 Nov 2003
  Latvia: Insolvency levy on employers remains controversial<#PDF_LINK>

  Latvia's Law on the Protection of Employees in the Event of their Employer’s Insolvency, which came into force at the beginning of 2003, introduced a levy on employers - theentrepreneurial risk fee- which is mainly used to finance a guarantee fund for employees’ claims. Employers objected to the existence of the new fee and its amount when it was introduced and their criticisms received support in August 2003, when it was reported that very few claims had been paid from the new fund. However, amendments to the legislation recently approved by the government do not change the rate of the insolvency levy.

• 03 Nov 2003
  Bulgaria: Social Investments Fund starts operations<#PDF_LINK>

  In 2003, a new Social Investments Fund started active operations in Bulgaria. The Fund is managed on a tripartite basis and aims to use active labour market measures and investments to address poverty and unemployment in those parts of the country most affected by current economic restructuring programmes.

• 03 Nov 2003
  Norway: Unions walk out of public committee<#PDF_LINK>

  In October 2003, all four Norwegian trade union confederations walked out of a government-appointed committee considering changes to employment legislation. The decision came in response to a government proposal to relax the rules relating to temporary employment, made in connection with the 2004 state budget.