Can European Works Councils help anticipate industrial change? How do we improve cooperation between ETF’s Sections and EWCs? What are the training options in EWCs? Should EWCs be a priority for the ETF and its affiliates?
These are just some of the questions that were addressed by ETF’s affiliates from different transport sectors on 23 and 24 October, meeting in Brussels for the Final Conference of the ETF/Syndex Project “EWCs in transport: More and better participation now!”.
Shared experiences within companies highlighted the triumphs and the obstacles in creating a well-functioning EWC. Management is known to undermine the role of EWCs, and trade unions can retort by working together, developing strong solidarities, and receiving support from experts, and European Federations such as the ETF.
Strengthening the EWC means strengthening trade unions. Efforts need to be undertaken in particular towards countries where trade unions do not yet have a strong enough presence. True representation of workers of all countries is prerequisite for building a successful European Works Council.
Participants visited the DHL Brussels Hub, one of the main hubs in Europe, and experienced hub operations live.