European employers unveil the European Employers' Institute

On 1st October, thirteen sectoral employers' organisations from leading associations at European and national level have launched the European Employers' Institute (EEI). The EEI will serve as a central hub for cross-industry research on topics of common interest to employers, providing robust data and insights to inform EU policy decisions on social and employment matters.

Published on 1st October 2024

On October 1st, thirteen sectoral employers' organisations from leading associations at European and national level, have united to create the European Employers' Institute (EEI). Amid an increasingly complex and unpredictable economic environment and a rapidly ageing population, European businesses face significant challenges to their competitiveness.

The EEI will serve as a central hub for cross-industry research on topics of common interest to employers, providing robust data and insights to inform EU policy decisions on social and employment matters. By presenting sound research looking at implications for employers, the EEI aims to complement the work of the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI), ensuring a balanced representation of employment-related issues and strengthening social dialogue at European level.

Delphine Rudelli, the newly elected President of EEI and Director General of Ceemet, commented: "There are still considerable gaps in the research and data used by EU policymakers. This is concerning because quality policymaking requires comprehensive and reliable data to navigate the ever-evolving economic landscape."

The European Employers' Institute, a non-profit association based in Brussels, was established by founding members including Ceemet, ECEG, EuroCommerce, FIEC, Geopa, HOTREC, WEC-Europe, as well as Danish Industry, Technology Industries of Finland, Gesamtmetall, IKEM, Teknikföretagen, and UIMM.

The EEI will prioritise areas such as labour market and social policy, industrial relations, health and safety, skills development, and workplace transformation. For instance, the Draghi Report reveals growing concern among European workers on the impact of AI, with nearly 70% supporting government restrictions on AI to safeguard jobs. Moreover, research from Deloitte highlights that EU employers are more cautious towards AI compared to their American and Asian counterparts, reflecting awareness of the potential risks. In the Netherlands, for example, three-quarters of employers who do not currently use AI cite a lack of knowledge, with 40% believing it is unsuitable for their operations, according to a study by the employers' organisation AWVN. Like their employees, EU employers also have concerns about data security and technological reliability.

The EEI will advocate for a balanced and evidence-based approach to employment policies, ensuring that the voices of European employers are heard in the policy-making process.