EU News
Printable version

Panel of experts confirms Korea is in breach of labour commitments under our trade agreement

The panel report published today confirms the EU's concerns that Korea has not acted consistently with its trade and sustainable development obligations under the EU-Korea trade agreement. The independent panel concluded that Korea needs to adjust its labour laws and practices and to continue swiftly the process of ratifying four fundamental International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions in order to comply with the agreement.

Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade, Valdis Dombrovskis, said:

“This panel ruling shows the effectiveness of our cooperation-based approach to trade and sustainable development. We have closely engaged with our Korean partners for some years, and the panel of experts process led to concrete actions by Korea. We will be working closely with Korea to ensure it effectively implements commitments on workers' rights.”

Findings of the panel

The panel of experts appointed by Korea and the EU established that Korea needs to adjust its labour laws and practices to comply with the principle of freedom of association.

The experts also agreed that the commitment to take steps towards the ratification of fundamental ILO Conventions requires ongoing and substantial efforts.

Finally, the panel confirmed the EU's arguments that the two commitments at issue are legally binding and have to be respected regardless of their effect on trade.

Click here for the full press release

 

Original article link: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_21_203

Share this article

Latest News from
EU News

Spotlight on women at Serco – Anita’s story