Towards a progressive agenda to democratise the economy
4 December 2025, 9:00-18:00 (Lisbon time)
Iscte-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa – Edifício 4, Room A302 – Avenida das Forças Armadas 40, Lisboa and online
Co-organised by the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI), Centro de Investigação e Estudos de Sociologia (CIES-Iscte), Práxis
Iscte & Online
Worker representation is enshrined in the Portuguese Constitution as an element of economic democracy. However, worker representation on company boards has been underutilised, and a normative framework has not yet been developed, despite some experiences in public sector companies in Portugal. The major labour reform package “Trabalho XXI”, currently being discussed in Portugal, may further jeopardise the development of worker participation, in a European context where the extreme right is on the rise and in which Portugal is no exception, as confirmed in recent elections.
This conference aims to create a space for critical reflection and dialogue between academics, trade unionists, policymakers and activists, reflecting on national and European experiences, on how to counter these trends and revive worker participation as a cornerstone of democratic renewal. It aims to enhance the understanding of worker participation in companies’ strategic decision-making and its social significance, thereby making this core element of workplace democracy an active and normalised part of modern labour relations in Portugal. As the political momentum is shifting, the urgency of reclaiming worker participation becomes both a challenge and an opportunity for progressive agendas to democratise the economy and society.
English-Portuguese interpretation will be provided, along with lunch for participants with confirmed registration.
Places at the event are limited to a maximum of 80 participants on site. Participation online will also be possible. The link will be sent after registration is confirmed.
If you are interested, please register by 7 November 2025 HERE.
ETUI can cover travel and accommodation costs for participants coming from outside Lisbon, as long as they are confirmed and attend onsite, according to the European Commission travel rules that will be communicated. For any questions on ceilings, amounts or organisational matters, please contact Angélique Vanhoutte at avanhoutte@etui.org .
Please DO NOT make any travel arrangements until you receive a confirmation from the organisers that you can attend onsite.