New forms of employment

Social, economic and technological changes in Europe have given rise to new forms of employment. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to an increase in the scale and scope of new forms of employment. Many of these are very different from traditional ‘work’. They transform the traditional one-to-one relationship between employer and employee. They are also characterised by unconventional work patterns and places of work. 

Policymakers in the EU are interested in how these new forms of employment can help to build a more resilient and inclusive labour market. Discussion also revolves around how to ensure adequate social protection and decent working conditions. Of key importance in the debate is how to avoid a situation where these new employment forms are less favourable to workers than more established types of employment.

In 2017, the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council proclaimed the European Pillar of Social Rights, setting out 20 core principles essential for well-functioning labour markets. The accompanying 2021 Action Plan notes that digitalisation and the changes brought about in the world of work by the pandemic warrant a wide policy debate that will focus not only on levels of labour market participation but also on adequate working conditions underpinning quality jobs.

The Commission also raised the issue of working conditions in its Communication on 'Shaping Europe’s digital future'. Good working conditions are at the core of a successful digital transition that would promote innovation and technological diffusion.

• European Commission: The European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan
• European Commission: The European Pillar of Social Rights in 20 principles
• EUR-Lex: Communication on Shaping Europe’s digital future