EWC Directive: MEPs must adopt its revision

It is high time to approve the revised European Works Councils Directive.

3 Oct 2025

https://www.etf-europe.org/ewc-directive-meps-must-adopt-its-revision/

After welcoming the democratic consensus reached during the trilogue negotiations on the revision of the European Works Council (EWC) Directive in May 2025, the ETF now urges Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to support the revised text in the plenary vote scheduled for Thursday, 9 October.

This agreement came two years after the European Parliament adopted a report calling for urgent measures to strengthen the rights of EWCs, and one year after the European Commission released its draft proposal for a new Directive.

European Works Councils play a crucial role as transnational bodies, enabling cross-border information and consultation for workers in multinational companies. The revision of the 2009 EWC Directive aimed at addressing the legal shortcomings identified by both the European Commission and the social partners.

The political agreement represents a significant step forward in strengthening workers’ rights in multinational companies across Europe. It enhances legal clarity for all stakeholders and simplifies the existing text by clarifying key definitions. We cannot turn back at this final stretch.

ETF has sent letters to MEPs to call on for their support during the plenary vote. Affiliates are also strongly encouraged to mobilise ahead of the vote.

ETF General Secretary Livia Spera said “Strengthening workers’ rights and participation remains a key priority — especially at a time when corporate restructurings in the transport and logistics sector are increasing and thousands of jobs across Europe are at risk. This revision provides European Works Councils with additional tools, empowering them to more effectively exercise their rights to information and meaningful consultation. The support of Members of the European Parliament next Thursday is crucial and would send a strong signal at this critical moment.”