EFFAT-IUF Europe has released a new report, “Improved Working and Living Conditions in the Meat Sector through Trade Union Action” highlighting the vital role trade unions play in transforming working conditions in Europe’s meat industry. However, it also recognises that while improvements have been made at national level, broader European action is necessary, specifically a binding EU instrument that regulates labour intermediaries and fair working conditions across subcontracting chains to protect vulnerable workers.
Other key conclusions based on the 2 years of EFFAT’s MeatTheStandards project are:
- Collective bargaining agreements, driven by strong trade unions, have resulted in higher wages, enhanced health and safety measures, and more stable employment for workers in an industry historically plagued by precarious jobs and poor conditions
- Economic shifts have led to job cuts, subcontracting and employment through intermediaries to avoid employer liability. Unions play a crucial role in protecting the 700,000 plus workers in the sector from the adverse effects of these changes
- trade unions play a crucial in protecting the meat industry’s large migrant workforce; many migrant workers face heightened risks of exploitation due to language barriers and lack of support
EFFAT-IUF Europe Regional Secretary Kristjan Bragason stated, “The report’s findings emphasize that trade union action continues to be essential to protecting meat workers and improving standards across the meat industry.”
