Work/Life - international employment news update

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Issue 110

Welcome to the latest edition of our international employment news update.

In this edition we look at:

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Start of French trial against UBS for harassment of two whistleblowers

On 3 December 2024, the French subsidiary of the Swiss bank UBS was called before the criminal courts for moral harassment between 2008 and 2010 against two former employees who had alerted the authorities to illegal practices. UBS is also being accused of pressurizing employee representative organizations to control and censor minutes of meetings by intimidating one of the elected representatives following her refusal to destroy some compromising evidence.

The whistleblowers' actions exposed unethical practices and led to substantial consequences for UBS, including being found guilty of massive tax evasion in France. This trial could set a precedent for reinforcing protections for whistleblowers, ensuring they can report illegal activities without fear of retaliation.

UK discrimination laws ask questions about Christmas parties

The introduction of the UK's Worker Protection Act has raised some concerns about office Christmas parties' future. New regulations require employers to prevent sexual harassment and face potentially unlimited compensation claims for non-compliance. As companies grapple with these heightened obligations, some may consider cancelling festive events to mitigate risks and manage costs more effectively. The updated guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission encourages a proactive approach in risk assessment. Meanwhile employers are warned about the risks of not inviting people.

Uber Eats to no longer use freelancers as deliverers in the Netherlands

Uber Eats will cease using freelancers in the Netherlands from next year, opting instead to hire riders through a staffing agency, as reported by the Telegraaf. This move follows changes in self-employment regulations and court rulings, including the 2023 Supreme Court decision classifying Deliveroo riders as employees. Uber Eats has been experimenting with temp agencies Randstad and Adecco for several months. The switch means riders must register with an agency, allowing them to gain employment benefits like unemployment and sick pay rights. This decision is seen as a victory for the FNV trade union, which has long advocated for such changes.

Spain introduces 'climate leave' for workers

Spain's government has approved "paid climate leave" of up to four days for workers during weather emergencies. Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz stated that this measure ensures "no worker must run risks" during events such as last month's flooding, which resulted in 230 fatalities. Additionally, employees can opt for a reduced working day beyond the four-day leave. The initiative aims to "regulate in accordance with the climate emergency," Diaz told public broadcaster RTVE. If emergency authorities issue a risk alert, "the worker must refrain from going to work," she added.

Changes in German employment law in 2025

In 2025, significant changes to German employment law will occur, primarily due to the fourth Bureaucracy Reduction Act. This legislation introduces major reforms and various reliefs, particularly in the digitalisation of HR documents like digital signatures for employment agreements. To gain an overview of these critical legislative updates and current developments, join our webinar on 22 January 2025. Stay informed and prepared for the upcoming changes in German employment law.