Corporate Responsibility and Workers' Rights from the Perspective of European Trade Union Organizations

This thesis examines the connection between corporate responsibility and workers' rights, focusing on the role of European trade union organizations in protecting workers' interests within the framework of European Union policies. The study begins by presenting the European Union's position on protecting workers' rights and the role that trade unions play in contributing to this goal. It then proceeds by considering three key directives aimed at promoting corporate social responsibility and improving workers' conditions: the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the EU Green Taxonomy Regulation, and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). The second chapter analyzes the role of European trade unions in defending workers' rights, discussing their institutional framework, tools, and strategies used at the European level, their involvement in major campaigns to promote working conditions, and the current challenges trade unions face regarding legislative changes. The final chapter addresses the ongoing negotiations on the Omnibus Package, a crucial initiative aimed at reforming EU regulatory frameworks related to workers' rights and corporate responsibility. The chapter examines the political tensions between competitiveness and social rights, highlighting the role of trade unions in the debate and the potential implications for workers in Europe. In conclusion, the thesis emphasizes the fundamental role of trade unions in shaping the future of workers' rights in the EU.