On 20 March 2024, the European Commission proposed an initiative to improve working conditions for trainees, including pay, inclusiveness and quality of traineeships in the EU. This initiative consists of, first, a proposal for a Directive on improving and enforcing working conditions for trainees and combatting regular employment relationships disguised as traineeships, and, second, a proposal to revise the 2014 Council Recommendation on a Quality Framework for Traineeships to address issues of quality and inclusiveness, such as fair pay and access to social protection. This process responds to the growing demand for traineeships, estimated at 3.1 million trainees in the EU, and seeks to enhance employability and address youth employment challenges. The proposal will undergo discussion by the European Parliament and Member States, with plans for implementation within two years upon adoption. Click on “read more” to access the further information about the initiative. READ MORE