Higher awareness - better work conditions

Project facts

Project promoter:
Syndical Federation of Machinebuilders and Metalworkers CL Podkrepa (BG)
Project Number:
SDDW-0014
Status:
Completed
Final project cost:
€86,883
Donor Project Partners:
Trade Union Solidaritet(NO)

Description

Project aim is to increase the number of employees and enterprises of metal sector in Bulgaria, that have improved decent work arrangements in their workplaces, by the awareness-raising activities and training on decent work topics addressing mainly issues related to counteract of undeclared work.

The project aimed to improve decent work arrangements for metalworkers in Bulgaria by addressing issues related to undeclared work. The project seeked to increase awareness among employees and employers about the benefits of declared work and the implementation of the decent work agenda.

The main goals of the project include increasing awareness among employees about the benefits of working on fair contracts, educating metal workers about their rights and obligations under the decent work agenda, and informing employers about the advantages of implementing the decent work agenda and combating undeclared work. To achieve these goals, the project organised information campaigns targeting both employees and employers, developed a dedicated website with practical information and updates on undeclared work, and conducted training sessions with participation from the Norwegian partner, Solidaritet, to share best practices and methods for fighting undeclared work.

The project also aimed to enhance cooperation between trade union representatives and employers by facilitating meetings to discuss the implementation of the decent work agenda. This mutual learning and exchange of experiences between Bulgarian and Norwegian partners were important for the project''s success.

Summary of project results

The project aimed to address the challenges related to undeclared work in the metalworking sector in Bulgaria. Key issues included the lack of awareness among employees and employers about the benefits of declared work and the need for better implementation of the decent work agenda. The project sought to educate metalworkers about their rights and obligations under the decent work agenda and inform employers about the advantages of combating undeclared work. Additionally, there was a need to enhance cooperation between trade union representatives and employers to effectively implement decent work practices.

The project implemented several activities to achieve its objectives. It organised information campaigns targeting both employees and employers to raise awareness about the benefits of working on fair contracts. A dedicated website was developed to provide practical information and updates on undeclared work. Training sessions were conducted with participation from the Norwegian partner, Solidaritet, to share best practices and methods for fighting undeclared work. The project also facilitated meetings between trade union representatives and employers to discuss the implementation of the decent work agenda. This mutual learning and exchange of experiences between Bulgarian and Norwegian partners contributed to the the project''s success.

The project achieved significant results, including increased awareness among employees in the metal sector about the benefits of working on fair contracts and a better understanding of their rights and obligations. Employers recognised the benefits of implementing the decent work agenda for their enterprises'' development and competitiveness. Trade union representatives and employers gained practical knowledge on implementing the decent work agenda and combating undeclared work. The project improved cooperation between trade unions and employers in the metal sector regarding the implementation of the decent work agenda. With 142 representatives of relevant social partners directly participating in project activities, the results were disseminated to a large number of trade union members and employees in the metal sector, raising awareness about decent work conditions. Overall, the project generated strong social value by improving health and safety arrangements at workplaces, reducing economic costs for workers and employers, and preventing exclusion from the social and security system. The introduction of the Norwegian approach built mutual trust and fostered tripartite cooperation, aiming for more effective implementation of decent work arrangements. 

Summary of bilateral results

The bilateral contribution included a presentation of Norwegian practices on decent work.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.