Strengthening social dialogue in the European Union: A strategic imperative for national governments - Background paper

Social dialogue – encompassing negotiation, consultations and information between governments, employers and workers at various levels – is a fundamental part of the European Union’s social model and is also enshrined in the European Pillar of Social Rights. Its role is central to managing economic transitions, labour market changes and social resilience. Eurofound’s comparative research across Member States demonstrates that countries with well-functioning social dialogue frameworks are better positioned to respond to crises, promote inclusive growth and implement reforms effectively. This background paper presents Eurofound’s conceptual and measurement framework to capture ‘key dimensions’ of industrial relations in the Member States. It discusses social dialogue structures and social partner involvement in national policymaking, also in the context of the green and digital transition.