European Parliament demands binding EU rules for mental health at work

On October 6, 2026, the European Parliament voted to demand that the European Commission propose new legislation aimed at protecting employees from work-related psychosocial risks. The initiative, approved with 413 votes in favor, 210 against, and 29 abstentions, seeks to establish binding employer obligations to mitigate issues such as excessive workload, harassment, bullying, and occupational burnout.

Lawmakers have called on the Commission and EU member states to formally recognize that these work-related stressors can lead to significant mental and physical health issues. Prior to the formal introduction of new legislation, the Parliament expects an impact assessment and an evaluation of existing legal frameworks. The move comes as advocates point to statistics from the International Labour Organization, which indicate that over 840,000 people die annually from conditions linked to psychosocial workplace factors. The proposed measures are intended to ensure safer and more dignified working environments across the union, emphasizing the urgent need for a structured legislative response to modern workplace health crises.