Companies within the EU can freely perform their work in other European countries and bring their employees, the so-called posted workers. If you work in another EU country, you must work under the conditions that apply in that country. At the Council Meeting for Employment and Social Affairs Ministers on 21 June 2012, Ministers will discuss two new proposals on Posting of Workers: One proposal dealing with how to better enforce the rules on posting, and one proposal on the trade unions' right to collective action, for example the right to strike, within the framework of the right to provide services and the right of establishment.
The Danish Minister for Employment, Ms. Mette Frederiksen, says:
"It constitutes unfair competition if companies try to cheat their way in front of respectable companies by using social dumping. Therefore it is crucial that we fight social dumping and that the social dimension of the Single Market is strengthened, and that we at the same time maintain that free movement is a fundamental right within the EU. I am pleased that all countries support the fight against social dumping through better enforcement of the Posting of Workers Directive. How to find the measures to reach that target will take further discussions and at the Council Meeting on 21 June I will pass the torch to the incoming Cypriot Presidency".
The ministers for employment and social affairs will also discuss recommendations for the member states’ employment policies. The Commission has recently published its annual analysis of the financial and structural challenges faced by the 27 member states, which furthermore contains recommendations for initiatives that the member states ought to take.
Danish Minister for Social Affairs and Integration Karen Hækkerup says:
"Europe is facing tremendous demographic changes within the coming decades. The demographic changes result in an increasing number of seniors and a decreasing number of working age citizens. This causes a number of long-term challenges when it comes to our welfare system, the public finances and the labour markets. The pressure is intensified further by the current financial crisis and its social consequences. As such, it is crucial for Europe that we emphasise strengthening social cohesion and that we invest in human capital throughout all generations, so that we all get the same opportunity to use our potential to the fullest to secure financial growth and diminish inequality.”
At the Council meeting, the ministers will furthermore discuss proposed initiatives regarding posting of workers, electromagnetic fields as well as a suggested program for Social Development and Innovation. Finally two sets of council conclusion will be adopted; one on gender equality and climate changes and one on demographic challenges.