News
BackThe foundation for a new cooperation was laid during the latest meeting of EU officials with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao. Among others, the signed agreements cover the improvements of working conditions of mine workers in China.
EU Commissioner Vladimír Špidla and the Chinese ambassador Song Zhe agreed to strengthen their cooperation in order to improve health and safety at the workplace. The paramount target of the agreement is to save lives in the Chinese mining sector. China produces ca. 40 % of the world’s coal and employs 5 million miners. Accidents in the Chinese mining sector cost the lives of up to 6,000 workers per year.
The EU wants to use a structured dialogue with China to contribute its experiences in the area of occupational health and safety in order to improve working conditions in the mining industry. A regular exchange of information, legislation and best practice shall help to promote a joint understanding of workplace safety.
Finally, the EU recognizes the necessity of using its political weight not only for international trade ties, but also for supporting the interests of workers outside Europe. However, the question remains whether in case of such agreements without control mechanisms these good intentions will indeed result in improvements for workers.
For further information:
New EU-China Cooperation to help save lives at work
The EU wants to use a structured dialogue with China to contribute its experiences in the area of occupational health and safety in order to improve working conditions in the mining industry. A regular exchange of information, legislation and best practice shall help to promote a joint understanding of workplace safety.
Finally, the EU recognizes the necessity of using its political weight not only for international trade ties, but also for supporting the interests of workers outside Europe. However, the question remains whether in case of such agreements without control mechanisms these good intentions will indeed result in improvements for workers.
For further information:
New EU-China Cooperation to help save lives at work