Search Results

The study assesses the situation of people with disabilities within the European Union and the impact of the measures used to increase their employment. People with disabilities face low employment rates, a high dependency on benefits as well as increased poverty risk. Two types of measures exist to reinforce the social inclusion of disabled people: passive measures (cash benefits) and active measures (active labour market policies). Non-discrimination legislation and policy play an important part within the integration process of the European Union. It is argued that there is a need for an effective implementation and enforcement of the principle of non-discrimination. In addition, disability should be addressed from a broader scope by focusing on remaining or partial work capacity rather than work incapacity. Therefore, a right balance between flexibility on the one hand and security on the other hand is needed. The objective of promoting independent living for disabled people should be included as an explicit priority in the next Disability Action Plan.

Published abstract. Show less

This study provides an overview of the importance and activities of employment agencies as well as their legal framework ([World Trade Organisation] WTO, [International Labour Organisation] ILO, [European Union] EU) in the EU Member States and closely examines their role in selected countries, while focusing on temporary work agencies, a significantly growing market within the EU. Due to limited data, there is no clear-cut result on the agencies' longer-term impact. However, the four identified market types (market driven, social dialogue based, legislator driven and emerging markets) are analysed through country cases regarding national regulations, the treatment of workers and everyday functioning of the agencies. It becomes evident that there is a wide diversity of the branch, which needs to be taken into account when reviewing EU Directive 2008/104/EC.

Published abstract. Show less