EU commits to improving job quality and future security.

On 4 December, the European Commission presented its Quality Jobs Roadmap. At the same time, it launched a first-phase consultation with the European social partners on the planned Quality Jobs Act. With this legislative proposal, the EU aims to ensure that workers’ rights are preserved even in times of technological, economic, and societal change.

Three pillars for a modern world of work

The Roadmap is based on three core pillars. They cover the creation and safeguarding of quality jobs, the modernisation of the world of work, and the strengthening of social safety nets. These areas are supported by the European Commission’s objective of achieving stronger enforcement of rules, a deeper social dialogue, and well-designed collective bargaining.

More good jobs through skills and innovation

In expanding quality jobs, the European Commission relies on a strong industrial base, innovation-friendly framework conditions, and targeted investments in skills as a driver of growth. Social conditionalities are intended to strengthen fair employers and curb distortions of competition. Small and medium-sized enterprises are a particular focus in this context.

Making sensible use of the opportunities of the digital world of work

The modernisation of the world of work includes the responsible use of algorithmic management and the safe handling of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The aim is to limit risks while at the same time unlocking productivity potential. This also includes rules on the right to disconnect and on telework, on which the European Commission concluded its consultation with the European social partners in October.

Social security for a changing world of work

To strengthen social safety nets, the Commission plans to adapt occupational safety and health to new realities, including mental health. In addition, exploitation in high-risk sectors such as construction, transport, logistics, agriculture, and the food industry is to be consistently combated and fair wages ensured. Complementing this, a Fair Labour Mobility Package will be presented in 2026, which is intended to modernise the coordination of social security systems, expand digital procedures, and strengthen the European Labour Authority.

Involvement of the social partners in the Quality Jobs Act

In parallel with the publication of the Roadmap, the European Commission has launched work on the Quality Jobs Act, which is to be presented by the end of 2026. The European social partners are invited to comment on the planned measures by the end of January 2026. This includes, among other things, algorithmic management, AI in the workplace, occupational safety and health, subcontracting chains, the fair transition, as well as issues of enforcement and worker participation. The results of the consultation on telework and the right to disconnect, which was concluded in October, will also feed into the process.