SMEunited Warns EU Traineeship Directive Could Burden Small Businesses
SMEunited, representing small and medium-sized enterprises, has expressed concerns over the proposed EU Directive on enhancing traineeship quality. The organisation welcomes certain aspects but raises significant issues that could negatively impact SMEs.
SMEunited supports the guidance and exclusion of specific apprenticeships and traineeships from the directive. However, it regrets that traineeships under active labour market policies remain within its scope. The German Employers' Association (BDA) opposes an EU-wide definition of apprenticeship internships, fearing excessive regulation and reduced flexibility for companies.
The proposed amendments bring new obligations for employers, including a written agreement that could blur the lines between trainees and employees. SMEunited believes these changes could be counterproductive due to increased administrative requirements. Traineeship providers would need mentorship training, adding extra costs for SMEs. Trainees would gain guaranteed access to social protection, further burdening SMEs financially. The proposed EU definition of traineeship fails to clearly distinguish between trainees and employees, potentially exposing SMEs to legal uncertainties. Additionally, SMEs may incur extra costs to provide reasonable accommodation for trainees with disabilities.
SMEunited has highlighted several concerns regarding the proposed EU Directive on enhancing traineeship quality. The organisation fears increased administrative burdens, extra costs, and potential legal uncertainties for SMEs. While welcoming some aspects, SMEunited urges reconsideration of these potential negative impacts on small and medium-sized enterprises.
