Panel Discussion: Fair Mobility - Strengthening Workers' Rights and Europe's Competitiveness

Labour mobility is often seen as a key driver of economic growth and a tool for balancing workforce supply and demand across regions. However, this perspective often ignores the precarious conditions faced by many mobile and migrant workers: low wages, inadequate social security, and violations of fundamental labour rights. Addressing these challenges is not only a question of fairness but also of economic strength – ensuring fair working conditions across Europe is essential for sustainable growth and long-term competitiveness.

To improve the situation, we need more concise and clearer regulations, better enforcement mechanisms, and stronger support structures for mobile and migrant workers. Trade unions are playing a crucial role in this effort, but they alone cannot close the protection gaps. Initiatives such as "Fair Mobility" in Germany and the "Fair European Labour Mobility" project have demonstrated that a well-structured network of counselling centres, backed by public funding and strong trade union cooperation, can make a difference. To ensure a fair and competitive European labour market, the EU must take responsibility and provide sustainable funding for counselling centre structures.

To discuss how these structures contribute to fair working conditions and a stronger and more competitive European economy, the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) and FES as well as the counselling network Fair Mobility and Fair European Labour Mobility (FELM) are organising a panel discussion on 9 April, 17:30 (CEST) on the topic of Fair Mobility – Strengthening Workers' Rights and Europe's Competitiveness.

The event is on-site only. Interpretation is provided in German and English. Please register here.