New study maps Social Sialogue challenges across Central Europe and points towards solutions

As part of the EU co-funded CETUN project, a comprehensive study titled “Challenges and Paths to a Well-Functioning Social Dialogue and Social Partnership in Central Europe” was carried out by the Central European Labour Studies Institute (CELSI). It provides a systematic and comparative overview of Social Dialogue and collective bargaining systems across nine countries in the region.

The study was designed not only to analyse existing structures, but to identify concrete challenges and develop actionable recommendations for trade unions and policymakers. It aims at equipping trade unions and other social partners with the evidence needed to strengthen national capacity building and cross-border cooperation.

A diverse and uneven landscape of Social Dialogue

One of the study’s core findings is that social dialogue systems in Central Europe differ significantly in their level of institutionalisation and effectiveness.

In countries such as Austria or Switzerland, well-established systems of social partnership continue to provide relatively stable frameworks for Social Dialogue and collective bargaining. In contrast, other countries show more fragmented or inconsistent structures, where Social Dialogue exists but is often uneven, dependent on political support, or limited in its practical impact.

In the most challenging contexts, particularly where political will is weak, Social Dialogue risks becoming formalistic rather than meaningful. This uneven landscape highlights the importance of tailored strategies coupled with overall support for social partnership.

Strong commitment, but growing pressures on trade unions

Despite these differences, the study reveals a consistent pattern: Trade unions across the region remain highly committed to Social Dialogue. Around two thirds of respondents to a survey conducted by CELSI report strong internal capacity to engage in negotiations and represent workers’ interests.

At the same time, this commitment is increasingly under pressure. In several countries, trade unions report deteriorating conditions, including limited political support. In some cases, restrictions on freedom of association and weak enforcement further undermine their role.

Collective bargaining remains central – but not guaranteed

Across all countries studied, collective bargaining is widely seen as the cornerstone of labour market regulation. It remains the primary tool through which trade unions can secure fair wages and working conditions.

However, the study shows that its effectiveness depends heavily on a functioning institutional and legal framework. In systems where sectoral bargaining is weak and adequate institutional and legal conditions for social partnership are lacking, coverage remains limited and outcomes less predictable.

Strengthening collective bargaining, particularly at sectoral level, therefore emerges as a shared priority across the region.

Why this matters for CETUN’s work

The study directly informs CETUN’s strategic approach. By identifying common challenges such as declining bargaining coverage, uneven institutional capacities, and underutilised international cooperation, it provides a roadmap for targeted action.

In practical terms, this means strengthening cross-border exchange, supporting capacity-building, and promoting coordinated positions on key EU initiatives. Importantly, the study confirms that international cooperation is not just an added value but a necessity. As labour markets and policy frameworks become increasingly interconnected, trade unions must connect beyond national borders to remain effective.

From knowledge to impact

By combining comparative research with practical cooperation, CETUN demonstrates how evidence can be translated into action. The study is not only a snapshot of current realities but a strategic tool for shaping future trade union work in Central Europe.

As CETUN moves forward, these insights will help ensure that Social Dialogue is strengthened, collective bargaining is reinforced, and workers’ voices remain central to Europe’s social and economic model.