Industrial relations developments in Europe 2008

This annual review highlights the most significant developments that took place in industrial relations in the EU Member States and Norway in 2008, both at national and EU level. It first sets out the political context, then goes on to examine levels of coverage of collective bargaining, and trends in bargaining regarding pay, working time and a number of other topics. In addition, this review outlines the year’s main developments in employment legislation, social dialogue, industrial action and company restructuring, and explores the impact of the global economic crisis. A specific thematic chapter examines the regulation, industrial relations, employment and working conditions of self-employed workers.