First-phase consultation of social partners under Article 154 TFEU on a possible action addressing the challenges of access to social protection for people in all forms of employment in the framework of the European pillar of social rights

Key messages

• Social protection is an important aspect of national social systems and is part of the social dimension of the EU overall. Since it is a member state competence, harmonised legislative requirements at EU level would not be appropriate.
• EU action should focus on supporting Member State efforts to improve the functioning of their labour markets and economies, as well-performing economies are a precondition for sustainable social protection systems.
• National social protection systems and rules on access and contributions are diverse, and are based on national traditions and approaches. This should be better acknowledged.
• Where differences in access to social protection exist and the impact is negative for workers, citizens, employers or the overall sustainability of the social protection system, these are issues to be solved at national level. Facilitating learning at EU level between Member States on this would be useful.
• Employers are fully aware that labour markets are changing, with different kinds of employment relationships, and a variety of demands of employers and workers in response to changes on the market and in ways of life. These changes need to be acknowledged, however introducing new obligations risks making certain employment forms and self-employment less attractive for workers and employers.