The 2026 Global Rights Index, published by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on 1 June, tracks violations of workers’ rights around the world. Europe has recorded its worst rating since the Index was first launched in 2014.
The ITUC report warns of an “alarming decline” in workers’ rights across Europe. The study tracks, among other indicators, violations of the right to strike (recorded in 73% of European countries), the right to collective bargaining (56%), the right to establish or join a trade union (41%), and violent attacks and intimidation against trade unions (24%).
The findings come as the European Commission is consulting on its Quality Jobs Act and shortly before the publication of the revised Public Procurement Directive. The report should serve as a clear signal that the €2 trillion spent through public contracts each year should go only to companies that respect workers’ rights. Public support for such measures is strong, with 72% of people backing the inclusion of social conditions in public procurement contracts.
Through our seminars, we have repeatedly highlighted the need to ensure the full implementation of the Adequate Minimum Wages Directive. This requires Member States to increase collective bargaining coverage to at least 80% and to work together with trade unions to reverse the spread of anti-union practices.