Collective Bargaining and what else trade unions can do to promote a culture of equality – read the new report from industriAll Europe.
IndustriAll Europe is proud to announce the release of its “Bargaining for Equality” Report, a comprehensive guide designed to equip trade unions with the tools and strategies needed to put equality firmly on the collective bargaining table.
This report is the result of the EU-funded project “Bargaining a fair and inclusive green and digital transition for a European industry with equal opportunities for all“ and reaffirms our commitment to promote equality and inclusion in workplaces across Europe.
Despite the legal frameworks that enshrine equality as a fundamental right, inequalities and discrimination remain widespread in practice. Trade union action is vital to close these gaps and build inclusive, fair, and respectful working environments.
The “Bargaining for Equality” Report provides trade unions with a step-by-step guide to address these gaps effectively.
Key messages:
- Understanding Inequalities: Assessing and analysing workplace inequalities and identifying the needs and expectations of workers is a crucial first step.
- Collective Bargaining as a Tool for Change: As the strongest mechanism for negotiating working conditions, collective bargaining and social dialogue can be a powerful means to address inequalities at the workplace and drive positive change.
- Go Beyond Gender: IndustriAll Europe stresses the need to go beyond the traditional notions of gender equality and address forms of discrimination, harassment, or prejudice, with the aim of guaranteeing equal opportunities and equal treatment for all.
What the Report Includes:
- Guidance for preparing and conducting negotiations
- Examples of equality-related issues and potential demands
- Recommendations for implementation, follow-up, and impact assessment
- Practical tips on incorporating equality into union structures and policies
- Focus on awareness-raising, training, and education
- Encouragement to forge alliances and collaborate with key allies
Isabelle Barthès, industriAll Europe Deputy General Secretary says: “This report is a crucial tool for trade unions looking to promote equality as a cornerstone of workplace policies. Enhancing equality in the workplace and beyond is a longstanding priority for industriAll Europe. The “Bargaining for Equality” report is a call to action for trade unions across Europe to upscale their efforts and bring equal opportunities to the negotiating table.”