Mad Max or does Ukraine really want to be part of the European social model?

Policy Brief

There is a lack of progress in Ukraine on implementing social dialogue mechanisms as one of the basic elements of the European social model. It is a matter of serious concern that the tripartite body does not function in practice. The participation of social partners (trade unions and employers’ organisations) in the drafting of the new labour code is unsatisfactory. There is a need to increase political pressure on the Ukrainian authorities (both from the European Commission and from individual member state governments) to effectively involve Ukrainian social partners in the process of labour law reform.

This is crucial for the future of social dialogue as one of the key elements of the European social model in the EU. For the future reconstruction of Ukraine to be an opportunity for workers, public authorities and employers must recognise the right of trade unions to organise workers, fully restore the right to strike, and bring individual and collective rights into line with EU and international standards.

About the Progressive Ukraine series

This publication is part of the ‘Progressive Ukraine‘ series. The ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine has profoundly impacted the European peace and security architecture. Yet, with policy-making increasingly centred on security, there is a need for a forward-thinking approach that extends beyond the threat of military confrontation to enhance societal resilience. Through the analytical series “Progressive Ukraine” and the book “Europe and the war in Ukraine: From Russian aggression to a new Eastern policy” (2023), we want to show that social democrats can help Ukraine build a resilient and prosperous society, serving as a beacon for a more just and equitable Europe. Such transformation must prioritise the well-being of all citizens, fostering a proactive state that protects by addressing security needs and balancing social, industrial, and technological progress with equality and sustainability.