Workers' involvement in the European Company — the SE Guidelines of the European Metalworkers Federation

Abstract

In June 2003 the Executive Committee of the European Metalworkers' Federation (EMF) adopted guidelines for negotiations on the introduction of a European Company (SE) under the European Company Statute. These guidelines are binding on EMF-affiliated trade unions. The guidelines set out a common understanding and political decisions reached within the EMF with regard to the European Company Statute, and, more specifically, the information, consultation and participation rights of workers in an SE. These rights involve the possible participation of workers' representatives and/or trade union representatives in the boards of directors or supervisory boards of SEs. The development of these guidelines was not an easy exercise for the EMF because of national differences on this issue, in particular with regard to participation rights. However, the process was necessary in order to be able to have a common European trade union position in any future negotiations with companies seeking to become an SE.