Core and Contingent Work in the European Union: A Comparative Analysis

The book examines the decline of the standard employment relationship from the perspective of the differentiation between core and contingent work, using a comparative approach to identify and analyze legal questions and propose solutions for safeguarding social cohesion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The study of labor and social security law has delved into the topic of the decline of the traditional employment relationship, primarily focusing on the increasing prevalence of atypical arrangements. While a limited number of studies have explored the issue from the perspective of differentiating between core and contingent work, such an examination is crucial given the rise of contingent work, which raises complex legal questions that vary across European states depending on the most common types of contingent arrangements. This book aims to analyze these diverse forms of contingency from a national and EU perspective, examining the work relationship from both a labor and social security standpoint. The primary objective of the book is to identify and analyze these critical questions through an innovative approach, while also proposing solutions to safeguard social cohesion within undertakings and European society.

The traditional employment relationship has witnessed a significant decline in recent years, driven by the proliferation of atypical arrangements such as part-time work, temporary contracts, and freelance work. These arrangements have emerged as a result of various factors, including technological advancements, globalization, and changing labor market dynamics. While atypical relationships have brought about some benefits, such as flexibility and increased job opportunities, they have also raised concerns about worker rights, job security, and social cohesion.

One of the key challenges associated with atypical work arrangements is the lack of clear legal definitions and protections. Unlike traditional full-time employees, atypical workers may not be entitled to the same benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. They may also face greater vulnerability to exploitation, such as wage discrimination and lack of job security.

To address these challenges, labor and social security law studies have focused on the differentiation between core and contingent work. Core work refers to permanent, full-time employment with established rights and protections, while contingent work involves temporary or part-time employment with less stable and predictable terms. The distinction between these two types of work is important as it determines the level of legal protection and support that workers receive.

Several studies have examined the legal implications of contingent work from a national and EU perspective. For example, the European Commission has published guidelines on the rights and obligations of temporary agency workers, aimed at ensuring that they receive fair treatment and equal pay. Similarly, the European Court of Justice has ruled in favor of workers in cases involving temporary agency work, emphasizing the importance of protecting their rights and ensuring that they are not treated unfairly.

However, the legal landscape surrounding contingent work is still evolving, and there are ongoing debates about the appropriate balance between worker rights and employer flexibility. Some argue that the increasing prevalence of atypical work arrangements is a sign of a healthy labor market, as it allows workers to adapt to changing job demands and preferences. Others argue that it is leading to a decline in job security, wage inequality, and social cohesion.

To address these concerns, there are several proposals for safeguarding social cohesion within undertakings and European society. One approach is to strengthen the legal protections for atypical workers, such as by extending the scope of labor laws to cover these workers and by providing greater access to benefits and support. Another approach is to promote job stability and predictability through policies such as minimum wage laws, collective bargaining, and social protection programs.

In conclusion, the study of labor and social security law has played a crucial role in understanding the decline of the traditional employment relationship and the challenges associated with atypical work arrangements. While atypical work arrangements have brought about some benefits, they have also raised concerns about worker rights, job security, and social cohesion. By examining the differentiation between core and contingent work and proposing solutions to safeguard social cohesion, we can strive to create a more equitable and sustainable labor market.

Weight: 514g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509930180