This report has described and analysed the different measures for anticipation and management of restructuring available in the 27 EU Member States and how they have been perceived and discussed by stakeholders and experts in each country. The report shows that measures for anticipation and management of restructuring are of considerable importance for the fate of the workers, companies and societies in which they are implemented. Most importantly, the report illustrates the importance of social dialogue for the outcome of the measures, not only for their direct effectiveness, but also their social acceptance. The key findings of the project can be summarised as follows. 1. The report has been able to identify a wide range of measures for anticipation and management of restructuring available in the 27 EU Member States, albeit with differing degrees of stability and sustainability. The recent economic crisis has shaped the way restructuring is managed in a particular direction, and several examples of innovation and experimentation with new methods have been identified. However, in many cases, measures have been implemented so recently that it is not yet possible to evaluate their effects. In addition, data, that allows analysis of the extent and impact of restructuring in many Member States, is lacking. Further measures should be taken to create databases that allow systematic analysis of the long-term consequences of restructuring and immediate monitoring of restructuring activities. 2. The strength of European measures for anticipation and management of restructuring can be found in the variation in practices and in the strong level of concern with mitigating the negative social consequences of restructuring that exist in all Member States. However, social dialogue in restructuring could be strengthened. Measures should be taken to further stimulate employers’ incentives to negotiate agreements on restructuring measures. 3. Measures that are based on the participation of a wide range of actors that could also serve to develop constructive strategies to shape the future seem to have an important role not only in anticipating restructuring, but also in creating the necessary degree of readiness among actors when change takes place. Measures to stimulate regional and sectoral dialogue with a view to creating long-term strategies should be intensified. 4. While measures to avoid redundancies are available in several Member States, their long-term consequences are uncertain. Measures to support the transfer of redundant workers to new jobs seem to have strong social acceptance, but their availability is limited and uneven across Member States. Measures should be taken to stimulate demand for transition services in countries where such services are not available. 5. Although European Directives provide common legal frameworks, there are important differences between Member States as regards policies and measures to anticipate and manage restructuring. Differences between Member States concern the kinds of policies that are available and the role that governments play in restructuring. For example, there are disparities between Member States in terms of the emphasis placed on, and the resources available for, developing sustainable restructuring practices. Measures should be taken to develop a common framework based on best practices, so as to ensure fair competition between employers across Member States, and equal treatment for workers, allowing employers to pursue competitive business activities; ensuring the integrity of collective bargaining agreements; and securing sustainable transition facilities for workers. Bron: rapport; bewerking RWI
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