The choice is clear: do you want algorithms to fire people

Should algorithms fire workers? This question clearly illustrates what is at stake when the European Parliament votes tomorrow on its legislative report on artificial intelligence in the workplace.

The Socialists and Democrats will vote for well-regulated labour markets that ensure strong workers' rights, while supporting competitiveness. In the digital era, this means an EU law on the use of AI in the workplace, ensuring human review of decisions affecting workers and preventing intrusive surveillance.

Estelle Ceulemans, S&D spokesperson on employment and social affairs, said:

"More and more employers are managing workers with algorithms, which makes proper regulation increasingly urgent. Currently, this is only regulated by the European law on platform work. The objective of this legislative report is to ensure the same protection for all workers.

"It is key to upholding workers' rights in Europe's digital future. That is why a strong message from the European Parliament on artificial intelligence at work tomorrow would be an important signal in view of the European Commission's ongoing work on the Quality Jobs Act."

Marc Angel, S&D negotiator for the European Parliament's legislative report on AI in the workplace, explained:

"Every day, millions of people go to work without realising that an invisible manager is already there. An algorithm measures their performance and sometimes even influences their pay. Disguised as an efficiency tool, this is too often a black box, increasing pressure on workers and undermining dignity, privacy, and trust.

"Artificial intelligence can improve work, but we need clear rules, social dialogue, and respect for human dignity. That is why Europe must act and protect its workers. The future of work should not be decided by invisible algorithms, and failing to legislate is also bad for businesses. Companies should only have to deal with one set of rules on AI in the workplace instead of 27 different ones.

"For me, the choice is very clear. By adopting this report, we protect workers and businesses alike. Those who are against it are in favour of a labour market where workers are controlled and can be fired by an algorithm - by a machine, without any human control."

Note to editors:

The European Parliament's legislative report to be voted on tomorrow calls on the European Commission to introduce legislation on the use of algorithmic technologies, including artificial intelligence, at workplaces. This would ensure that:

• workers are not hired or fired solely based on the decision taken by an algorithm;
• workers have the right to information on what type of data AI systems collect about them;
• the processing of certain data, such as private communications and the emotional or psychological state of workers, is prohibited;
• algorithmic management respects workers' wellbeing, never putting their safety or their physical or mental health at risk.