In this guide, we explore the role and structure of trade unions, work councils and other forms of employee representation, the interplay between the different bodies, and the protections afforded to representatives. We also highlight some of the costs associated with representative bodies and employers' obligations in this area.
On 14 May 2026, the Government approved the proposed labour reform law “Trabalho XXI”. The Proposed Bill No. 77/XVII/1 introduces extensive amendments to the Portuguese Labour Code and related legislation.
Despite the government’s view that the EU Pay Transparency Directive should be renegotiated at EU level, it has instructed the Discrimination Ombudsman to continue preparatory work on its transposition.
Although Bulgaria has published a draft Act, which transposes the EU Pay Transparency Directive into national legislation, it did not meet the transposition deadline of 7 June 2026.
Under the developed Nitaqat programme, Saudisation is assessed at entity level using a weighted average, with thresholds determined by workforce size, economic activity and sector-specific parameters.
The Labour Modernisation Law came into effect on 6 March 2026. However, the Labour Assistance Fund (FAL) provisions took effect on 1 June 2026, and the telework contract provisions will be repealed on 1 January 2027.
Further clarification has been added that statutory severance is the exclusive remedy for dismissal without cause, except in relation to criminal law matters.