The European Parliament has approved long-awaited revisions to the European Works Council (EWC) Directive, designed to improve how cross-border employee consultation works across the EU.

While the revision doesn’t introduce new rights, it does bring stronger protections for employees and more robust requirements for companies, including:

• Clearer rules on what qualifies as a transnational matter
• Stronger confidentiality guidelines
• Enhanced access to justice (with legal costs covered)
• Gender balance targets for EWC representatives
• Heftier penalties for non-compliance

After years of supporting EWCs across Europe, I know how complex these discussions can be and how productive they can be when every voice is heard. My team and I are ready to translate the new rules into clear, workable steps so meetings run smoothly and effectively.

I’ll be discussing this (and more) at the Presence EWC Conference in Brussels on 11 December. If you’re involved in running EWC meetings and would be interested in attending, reply to this email and I’ll secure you a place.