Overview of the national strategies on work 4.0 : a coherent analysis of the role of the social partners

The policy momentum on digital transformations and the future of work (FoW) is building and is resulting in recommendations at the EU level. In past innovation cycles, the active involvement of both social partners in updating standards and bargaining fair framework conditions have proven to deliver more inclusive results. However, in the post structural reform era, social dialogue seems weakened. Given the unprecedented scale and scope of digital change, policy action will be needed and a case for a tri-partite steering should be made. This study sets out to outline the different dimensions of the digital transformation on sectors and business models, and hence on the quantity and quality of work. Based on a TUAC member survey, peer-to-peer reviews and in-depth research, the study presents a typology of existing policy processes in Europe, the involvement of trade unions therein (or the lack thereof) and complementary social partner activities that often fill the gaps. The study features best practice examples and case studies on Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Denmark and the UK. The findings show that policy discussions are uneven in terms of ambition, coordination and stakeholder consultations. In parallel, bi-lateral social partner and unilateral trade union activities are underway and need an enabling environment. Based on the results, suggestions are made on what could be done at the policy level to shape the FoW together with all stakeholders on board.