EU fund expands early support for workers facing job losses by 2027
The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) has updated its rules to offer broader support for workers facing job losses due to company restructuring. The changes, set to run until the end of 2027, will also cover those at immediate risk of dismissal before their contracts end.
The revised system aims to help people transition into new roles more smoothly while reducing the overall number of redundancies.
Under the new EGF regulations, workers who are about to lose their jobs because of restructuring can now access support earlier. This includes training, career advice, job-search assistance, and certification programmes designed to help them re-enter the workforce.
The agreement also extends eligibility to employees of direct suppliers and downstream producers if they face imminent job losses. By intervening before dismissals take place, the fund hopes to ease the impact on workers and limit redundancies.
To simplify the process, the revised rules introduce non-binding guidance for member states and companies. This reduces administrative burdens by allowing ex-ante checks on firms' financial and administrative capacities. Pre-financing can now be released in instalments, making it easier for countries to manage funds.
Before the changes take effect, the provisional agreement must first be approved by the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament.
The updated EGF rules will remain in place until 2027, offering earlier support to at-risk workers and streamlining administrative procedures. Once formally adopted, the fund will continue assisting those affected by restructuring through targeted training and employment services.
