This paper aims to give a flavour of the latest developments across Europe and inform policy makers of topical issues. It will present measures taken in response to the recession (both employment market measures and financial stimulus packages), outline the extent of social partner involvement, and
This report uses research findings from the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) to outline important features of the Swedish labour market in general, and the industrial relations system in particular, as well as the issues both are currently facing.
The Union of Metalworkers (IF Metall [1]) estimates that the agreement on temporary layoffs has saved 1,200 jobs, based on a survey conducted among the 60,000 members who work in companies which have signed the agreement. According to the agreement – which is a new feature in Swedish industrial
The Industry Agreement (/Industriavtalet/) was concluded between the social partners in the industry sector a decade ago, creating a method for wage formation in the manufacturing industry which has also become the norm for other sectors of the economy.
As highlighted in previous EIRO articles (*SE0706029I* [1], *SE0801019I* [2], *SE0804029I* [3], *SE0811029I* [4], *SE0901029I* [5], *SE0905029I* [6]), the Laval case [7] has posed challenges for the Swedish labour market model and the parties involved. [1] www.eurofound.europa.eu/ef/observatories
Bus drivers in Sweden have been dissatisfied with their pay and working conditions for some time. Negotiations in this regard between the Municipal Workers’ Union (Svenska Kommunalarbetareförbundet, Kommunal [1]) and the Bus and Coach Employers’ Association (Bussarbetsgivarna, BuA [2]) broke down in