Collective Bargaining and AI: Evidence is thin

Eurofound finds scant evidence to show that collective agreements are addressing workplace AI. Any EU directive is years away, with unions and employers split on urgency and necessity.

The key points: Eurofound's new report reveals that the evidence that collective agreements dealing comprehensively with workplace AI across Europe is patchy, at best. The report then stretches that thin evidence to its limits and notably omits any discussion of European Works Councils' involvement in AI workplace implementation. While companies report AI discussions at annual meetings, demands for exceptional circumstances consultation have been resisted.

Ursula von der Leyen committed to bringing forward an EU Directive on AI in the workplace during her confirmation as Commission President, though no evidence suggests the Commission has such legislation ready. The legislative timeline appears extremely lengthy, potentially requiring two years for social partner consultations, followed by either two to three years for agreement implementation or another two years for normal legislative processes.

Why this matters: The absence of comprehensive AI regulation in workplace agreements leaves employers and employees operating in a policy vacuum as AI adoption accelerates. This regulatory gap creates uncertainty around workers' rights, consultation processes, and implementation standards at a time when AI is rapidly transforming work environments. The extremely slow EU legislative process means businesses face at least five to six years before clear regulatory frameworks emerge.

What might happen next: The Commission may table legislative proposals within the next six months, triggering the lengthy consultation and legislative process. However, there's speculation about whether AI will remain as significant by the time legislation takes effect, with some commentators suggesting the AI bubble might burst before regulations materialise. Social partners will likely continue developing ad hoc approaches to AI governance in the absence of clear regulatory direction.

What you should be doing: Companies should proactively develop internal AI governance frameworks rather than waiting for EU legislation that may not arrive for half a decade. Consider reviewing current AI deployment practices to ensure they align with emerging best practices around worker consultation and transparency, positioning your organisation ahead of eventual regulatory requirements.

SEE: Eurofound Report