European Chemical Social Partners jointly call for fair employment of Third Country Nationals in subcontracting chains

Brussels, 30 June 2025 – The European Chemical Social Partners – industriAll European Trade Union and the European Chemical Employers Group (ECEG) – have signed today a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding the safety and well-being of all workers in the EU, including third-country nationals. The statement also reinforces their dedication to upholding human rights in the subcontracting chains.

As part of this joint effort, Social Partners have developed a set of recommendations, aimed at ensuring fair treatment of workers, preventing exploitation, and enhancing transparency, in line with national and EU regulations and the diverse industrial relations systems. This statement reflects their commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders and authorities to promote fair employment and prevent fraudulent practices across the EU.

Eleonora Isopo, Director General of ECEG, highlighted: “In a time of profound transformation and labour market challenges, social dialogue remains a cornerstone for building trust and securing a predictable business environment in Europe. Through this joint statement with trade unions, we reaffirm our commitment to fair treatment, the protection of workers’ safety, and the respect of human rights throughout subcontracting chains. These are essential conditions to ensure that Europe's chemical sector continues to thrive responsibly”.

Isabelle Barthès, Deputy Secretary General of industriAll Europe, said: "Every worker in the EU—regardless of origin—deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. With this joint statement, we are sending a clear message: exploitation has no place in Europe’s subcontracting chains. Third Country Nationals must have access to the same rights, and protections as all other workers. IndustriAll Europe is proud to stand united with employers in the chemical sector to demand stronger enforcement, greater transparency, and real accountability across the board".

Read the full joint statement here.