Widespread interest in UNI’s EU guidelines on eliminating violence and harassment

In late 2023, UNI Europa and various employers signed first-of-its-kind EU cross-sectoral guidelines on eliminating violence and harassment in the workplace. This significant step was the culmination of our long-standing work on eliminating violence and harassment in the workplace. The guidelines focus on three priorities: domestic violence, third-party violence, and the ratification of the ILO C190 convention. This tool represents a significant step forward in addressing workplace violence and providing comprehensive protection for workers.

Since then, universities, European institutions, other trade union organisations, employers and international institutions have approached UNI Europa to learn more about the guidelines, to consult on their gender equality strategies and to push for legislative change.

Strengthening university research

The University of Manchester, alongside academic counterparts in Grenoble and Portsmouth, approached UNI Europa to present the guidelines and to answer questions about how trade unions address inclusion and equality in the workplace. The universities are examining EU policies and its legal framework surrounding workplace violence and gender equality. The findings will culminate in a comprehensive reporting and political paper, which will be disseminated across various academic and professional platforms.

In her presentations, Amel Djemail, UNI Europa Director for Equal Opportunities, underscored the critical role of collective bargaining and the EU’s social dialogue in safeguarding and advancing female worker’s rights and vulnerable groups, and in accessing equal employment opportunities.

Engaging European Institutions

Powerful European institutions and bodies such as the European Commission’s DG Justice and Consumers, DG Employment and Social Affairs, the Belgian EU Presidency and SPF Emploi, alongside the European Parliament, asked UNI Europa for consultations on their strategy on gender equality and women’s rights. Discussions at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and other relevant bodies were also held.

Collaboration with trade union organisations

The guidelines were also presented in various fora organised by European trade union federations such as EFFAT and the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC). The results of UNI’s work on creating safer workplaces were included in ETUI (European Trade Union Institute) publications, highlighting the collaborative effort to address workplace violence. These contributions are pivotal in shaping policies and strategies at both the national and European levels.

Engagement with social partners and employers

High-level events and discussions within the European Sectoral Social Dialogue (ESSD) Committees have facilitated a comprehensive examination how to address violence at the workplace. These discussions are crucial for fostering a collaborative approach to tackling workplace violence and ensuring the implementation of effective strategies.

International Collaboration

On an international scale, the guidelines have garnered attention from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (OSHA). The ILO’s dissemination on this innovative EU-level tool and OSHA’s involvement underscore its global significance. These collaborations highlight the importance of international cooperation in addressing workplace violence and promoting gender equality.

Innovative tools and future directions

In 2022, an EU directive on violence and domestic violence, which followed a UNI Europa project on eliminating violence and harassment, marks a historic milestone. This directive is set to become the first legal instrument providing EU-wide protection to victims of gender-based violence.

The project’s future vision includes continued efforts to address violence and psychosocial risks (PSRs), particularly mental health, through EU funding and joint projects with committed social partners. There is also a focus on extending these initiatives to other sectors, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach to tackling workplace violence and promoting equality.

For more information, contact Amel Djemail.