Published on 27th October 2025
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the workplace, enhancing recruitment, boosting productivity, and fostering inclusive labour markets. But as innovation accelerates, so does the debate on how best to govern it. Europe must choose between becoming AI-driven or turning into a nostalgic museum. For the HR Services industry, the choice is clear. To reap AI’s benefits and remain competitive, Europe must avoid the trap of over-regulation and instead focus on applying existing laws effectively, strengthening social dialogue, and investing in workforce skills.
Europe does not need new legislation on AI in employment. Instead, it needs coherent, non-legislative measures that support innovation while protecting workers. This approach allows flexibility across member states, reduces administrative burdens, and reinforces Europe’s global competitiveness.
The proposed Directive on algorithmic management in the workplace, introduced in June 2025, overlaps with many existing legal obligations. Key provisions are already covered by the GDPR, the AI Act, and work-related laws. Adding more rules risks legal fragmentation and uncertainty, especially for companies operating across borders.
Existing regulation already protect workers
European and national legislation already provide a strong foundation for responsible AI use in employment. Anti-discrimination laws, data protection regulations, and workplace safety directives ensure transparency, consultation, and respect for fundamental rights.
Moreover, recent court rulings from the Netherlands and Italy confirm that the GDPR protects workers against unfair algorithmic decisions, excessive data collection, and opaque task allocation. These safeguards are not theoretical, they are actively enforced and effective.
Leading by example: ethical AI in HR services
The HR services industry is not waiting for regulation, it is leading the way. In 2023, the World Employment Confederation (WEC) launched the Code of Ethical Principles in the use of Artificial Intelligence, binding for all 43 national federations and 13 corporate members. This Code ensures fairness, non-discrimination, privacy, and transparency in all AI applications related to recruitment and employment.
Complementing the code is the WEC AI Toolkit, which offers practical guidance for ethical AI deployment in line with the EU’s AI Act. These initiatives show that responsible innovation is not only possible, it is already happening.
The HR services industry is equipped to upskill and reskill the European workforce
Europe’s competitiveness depends on its ability to equip workers with future-ready skills. As the working-age population shrinks and global competition intensifies, skills development becomes both an economic and social imperative.
WEC-Europe and its members are already delivering impactful training programs across the continent. These programs align with EU initiatives like the AI Continent Action Plan and the Union of Skills, but they also go further, proving that the private sector can lead in preparing Europe’s workforce for the future.
Social Dialogue: the cornerstone of responsible AI deployment
At the heart of WEC-Europe’s vision is social dialogue. When conducted with trust and mutual recognition, social dialogue becomes a powerful tool for navigating technological change. It helps dispel myths, build trust, and ensure that AI deployment respects workers’ rights and aligns with European values.
For over two decades, WEC-Europe and UNI-Europa have maintained a strong EU Sectoral Social Dialogue, addressing digitalisation and the rise of online talent platforms. Rather than imposing new legal instruments, WEC-Europe advocates for capacity building and best practice sharing among social partners. This collaborative approach empowers employers and workers to shape the future of work together.
A future-proof vision for AI at Work
The message from WEC-Europe is both pragmatic and visionary: Europe does not need more laws, it needs better use of the ones it already has, stronger social dialogue, and a commitment to ethical innovation. By fostering a regulatory environment that supports growth and protects rights, the EU can lead the world in responsible AI deployment.
The HR services industry stands ready to support this transition. Through ethical standards, practical tools, and forward-thinking training programs, it is already delivering people-centric solutions that bridge labour market gaps and create pathways to employment.
As AI continues to transform the workplace, Europe must ensure that its response is balanced, enabling, and future-proof. With the right approach, AI can be a force for good, driving innovation, inclusion, and prosperity across the continent.
First published by EurActiv, October 2025
