Talking through the crisis : social dialogue and industrial relations trends in selected EU countries

Social dialogue between government, employers’ and workers’ organizations is a powerful tool for correcting labour market imbalances and promoting jobs-rich economic recovery. During and since the economic and financial crisis which started in 2008, national social dialogue institutions in countries of the European Union (EU) have been tested but, in many cases, have demonstrated their potential to innovate and contribute to a return to positive growth.This book brings together country case studies from eleven EU Member States, which document emerging trends in national social dialogue, focusing on developments since 2013. The authors shed light on the many factors that have influenced recent social dialogue and industrial relations developments, including the national economic and political context, the effectiveness of bipartite and tripartite institutions, and the European Semester. An introductory comparative overview chapter analyses overall trends and specific good practices at national level, drawing also on data from other countries of the EU-28. This book will be a valuable resource for policymakers, employers’ and workers’ organizations, academics and practitioners who are seeking new ways to confront the profound changes and challenges facing the world of work today. Its findings reinforce the centrality of partnership through social dialogue in the pursuit of decent work and social justice.