LO wants rules that make it possible to demand that Swedish collective agreements should apply to work carried out in Sweden. Rules that impede this must therefore be changed. The respect for fundamental trade union rights and equal treatment in the single market must be ensured.
The need for a Social Protocol
Since 2008, LO demands together with the European trade union movement that a social protocol be included in the EU treaty.
Basic trade union rights cannot be subordinated to the economic freedoms in the EU. In case of a conflict between rules, trade union rights and freedom must take precedence.
For LO, this is a prerequisite of the realisation of a Social Europe.
Enhanced protection against poverty
Wage differences are unreasonable; many workers have low salaries. To have a job does not protect the worker from poverty. Wages must be determined nationally, but in general, wage increases are necessary for a great number of people who work in the EU. The income security of those unemployed must also be improved.
Contribution from LO Sweden to the Consultation on the European Pillar of Social Rights (pdf)