EWCs: Talks to start on February 6

Trilogue talks on EWC Directive revision start February 6. Article 13 exemption will be removed, allowing easier SNB requests. New Directive expected to become national law by 2027

The key points to know: Trilogue talks on EWC Directive revision start February 6. The most expected outcome is that Article 13 exemption will be removed. New EWC Directive expected to become national law by 2027.

Why this matters:  This will affect companies with existing Article 13 arrangements. - Lowers threshold for triggering Special Negotiating Body (SNB) process.

What happens next:   Trilogue process to reach agreement between EU institutions, with the most likely outcome a version that is closer to what the Council and Commission propose. Revised Directive to be implemented by 2027.

 What you need to do: - Review current EWC arrangements and prepare for potential SNB requests and new Directive requirements.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Meanwhile, in a decision published on December 23 last, the UK’s Central Arbitration Committee (CAC) held that the British Council management fulfilled its information and consultation obligations when it consulted with the EWC in a “virtual” meeting over an “exceptional circumstances” issue. The EWC had claimed that the meeting should have been held in person.  More here.

At our Sitges program in April we will look in-depth at what the rewritten Directive will mean for all undertakings. Also on the agenda will be a session on AI in the Workplace. It will be presented by Oliver Patel who has recently launched a free newsletter on all things AI.