What is a European Works Council?

A European Works Council is a means of informing and consulting workers about major changes affecting their company at European level. The Directive to set up European Works Council was introduced by the European Union.

Who sits on a European Works Council?

European Works Councils bring together central management and workers' representatives from each of the countries within the European Union where the company operates.

What issues will information and consultation cover?

European Works Councils will be informed and consulted on the structure, economic and financial situation of the company, investments, employment, substantial changes concerning organisation, introduction of new working methods or production processes, transfers of production, mergers, cut-backs or closures and collective redundancies.

Which companies will have to set up European Works Councils?

The new right to information and consultation will only apply to companies which operate at a European level. These companies are defined as: a company employing 1 000 workers or more in the European union AND at least 150 workers in each of at least two countries in the European Union.

What is the role of trade unions?

The European Works Council Directive does not mention anywhere the words "trade unions". It provides for workers' representatives to negotiate European Works Councils. It is up to national trade unions and the international trade union organisations to ensure that European Works Councils agreements are negotiated by representatives of trade unions.