Stronger Together: EWCs for Transport Workers

Transport is a cornerstone of Europe’s economy, generating €548 billion (4.8% of EU GDP) and employing 11 million people—5% of the EU workforce. Since the 1990s, increasing internationalisation, regulatory change and corporate restructuring have led to mergers and acquisitions, creating powerful multinational companies. Though these firms represent less than 2% of the sector, they employ nearly half of its workforce. This makes European Works Councils (EWCs) vital tools for safeguarding workers’ rights and improving conditions.

Today, the rise of Industry 4.0—automation and digitalisation—poses new challenges. From parcel delivery to logistics, many jobs face short- and medium-term disruption. Some roles will disappear, while others will be radically reshaped. Where workers are involved through dialogue, transitions are fairer and less damaging. EWCs, together with works councils at local, regional, and national levels, are essential for ensuring this dialogue.

To strengthen worker participation, the ETF and Syndex launched the project “EWCs in Transport: More and Better Participation of Workers Now!”—aimed at creating more EWCs in transport and making them more effective in shaping the future of work.