PES Officials Proposed Quality Jobs Act Policies
European labor leaders requested new protections for workers amid shifting workplace technologies.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Human Resources
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Officials from the PES network have petitioned European Commission leadership for a robust Quality Jobs Act. The proposal includes specific directives regarding artificial intelligence, teleworking, and worker protections.
Why it matters
The request seeks to establish comprehensive legislative standards for labor rights across Europe as workplace dynamics evolve. These policy demands aim to address modern challenges such as algorithmic management and occupational health risks.
The petition outlines five specific legislative priorities for the Quality Jobs Act, which is currently scheduled for release in late 2026. The full regulatory impact of these proposed directives remains subject to negotiation.
The players
Korinna Schumann
She serves as the chair of the PES network and is the Austrian minister for labour, social affairs, health, care and consumer protection.
Gaby Bischoff
She is a German member of the European Parliament and serves as the chair of the PES Social Europe network.
Ursula von der Leyen
She is the President of the European Commission.
Roxana Mînzatu
She serves as an Executive Vice-President of the European Commission.
The details
Korinna Schumann and Gaby Bischoff sent a formal letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu. Their requests include new rules for artificial intelligence and algorithmic management, worker safety in subcontracting chains, and the right to disconnect.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: PES officials submitted a formal letter to the European Commission.
Late 2026: The European Commission is scheduled to release the Quality Jobs Act.
Market Landscape
The proposal for the Quality Jobs Act represents a significant attempt to codify worker rights in an era of rapid digital transition. It follows the pattern of regulatory expansion established by the European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act.
The proposed directives could eventually lead to standardized European rules regarding the right to disconnect and algorithmic management. If implemented, these measures may influence workplace policies and labor protections for employees across the continent.
The takeaway
This petition highlights the increasing focus on balancing technological efficiency with labor protections in modern professional environments. Readers should track the development of these directives as they could set new benchmarks for standard work conditions.
What happens next
The European Commission is expected to release the draft of the Quality Jobs Act in late 2026.
Further reading
For more on evolving workplace regulations, see our Human Resources section.
More information
Read the Link to the official letter submitted to the commission.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Agence Europe.
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