European trade unions demand binding legislation for the Quality Jobs Act

The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) has officially concluded its participation in the second stage of the European Commission's consultation regarding the proposed Quality Jobs Act. Expressing dissatisfaction with non-binding guidelines, the organization is calling on the European Union to implement concrete, legally binding legislation to address the evolving challenges facing workers across the continent.

The ETUC's proposal outlines several critical areas requiring regulatory oversight, including the regulation of artificial intelligence and algorithmic management in the workplace, as well as the protection of workers' rights within subcontracting chains. Furthermore, the union emphasizes the need for stricter health and safety standards—specifically focusing on psychosocial risks—and the legal protection of the right to disconnect. These demands also cover the necessity for collective bargaining frameworks and structured support for a fair transition toward green and digital economies. The ETUC argues that while the Commission has accurately identified these challenges, only mandatory legislation can provide the necessary protection to ensure a significant improvement in workers' living and working conditions.