Second-phase consultation of social partners under Article 154 TFEU on a possible action addressing the challenges of access to social protection for people in all forms of employment in the framework of the European pillar of social rights

Key messages

• Increasing diversity in forms of employment is a positive development in the world of work, providing flexibility and opportunities for companies, workers and people. Social protection systems should be reformed, where necessary, to accompany changing economic and labour market realities and ensure people have access to employment opportunities.
• We agree with the overall objective of promoting and supporting Member States to make improvements in social protection coverage where there is real evidence of gaps in coverage.
• Where the EU can have added value is to encourage Member States to learn from each other to achieve better social outcomes in a cost-effective way.
• Member States are competent for the design, organisation and financing of social protection systems, including the choice between tax- or insurance-based schemes. Defining who is a worker or self-employed is also an issue for the national level. Any initiative must respect the division between national and EU competences and not seek to harmonise or interfere with these aspects. The role of social partners must also be safeguarded.