Challenges and future directions in EWC research

Witzak, Patrick, Fuchs, Federico and Hauptmeier, Marco ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6755-3089 2026. Challenges and future directions in EWC research. Relations Industrielles / Industrial Relations 81 (2) 10.7202/1129073ar

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Abstract

The European Works Council (EWC) Directive, adopted in 1994, has generated a substantial body of empirical research. We provide a systematic review of highly cited and recent EWC literature in order to assess the state of knowledge and identify key research gaps. While existing studies have examined the legal development of the Directive, its implementation at company level, and the role of key industrial relations actors, recent developments, particularly Brexit, have reshaped the context in which EWCs operate. Based on a hybrid review methodology combining conventional database searches with AI-supported citation tracking, we analyze 248 publications published between 1992 and 2026, with particular attention to the underexplored period since 2014. We identify four challenges: regulatory asymmetries and legal uncertainty; managerial practices and strategies that constrain effective consultation; fragile transnational coordination and solidarity; and enduring sectoral imbalances, especially in services and information technology. We further highlight the underexplored legal and organizational implications of Brexit. We conclude by outlining key directions for future researchers.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Business (Including Economics)
Publisher:	Département des relations industrielles de l’Université Laval
ISSN:	0034-379X
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	2 November 2026
Last Modified:	02 Nov 2026 12:45
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/190589

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