NFU and Partners Held Dynamic Panel Events in April to Foster Dialogue Ahead of the European Election

In the wake of the upcoming European Parliament election scheduled for 6-9 June, the need for candidates who persistently uphold democratic values has never been more pronounced. Recognising the gravity of this electoral moment, Nordic Financial Unions, in collaboration with its partners, embarked on a mission to highlight and raise awareness surrounding the EU elections. Through a series of dynamic panel discussions held around the Nordic countries throughout April, these events functioned not only to raise awareness but also to spark a vibrant dialogue, empowering voters and shaping the future path of Europe. 

NFU’s initiative was not merely about highlighting the importance of voting; it actively involved voters in shaping Europe’s future through direct interactions with candidates. These panels facilitated insightful exchanges on critical issues such as digital and green transitions, data protection, environmental regulations, and labour reforms, which are crucial to the Nordic trade unions. This engagement was essential in enhancing voter understanding of party positions and the broader implications for the EU.

Regulation

Discussions in Helsinki centred on achieving a balanced regulatory framework that ensures robust protection of individual data and environmental standards while minimising unnecessary administrative burdens.

The discussions raised some important questions, such as whether we need stricter regulations to protect users’ data in the EU, if the EU should introduce more stringent environmental regulations, and whether the EU needs more labour reforms.

Competence development

Across all venues, the unions unanimously called for prioritising training and life-long learning, particularly in sustainability and digitalisation—a cornerstone of NFU’s advocacy. In Copenhagen, Finansforbundet Denmark championed ongoing efforts in Denmark to enhance competence and boost sustainability among financial employees. This approach will ensure that the financial sector is equipped to provide sound advice and positively impact the environment. Therefore, it is vital to continue involving competence development in EU regulations.

The consensus resonated in Stockholm, where a trade union representative emphasised how important competence development is in meeting the digital and green transition. Without it, there is a risk that the extensive EU regulations, for example, in sustainability and AI, cannot be implemented to fulfil their purposes.

Strengthening the Nordic model

The candidates in Sweden and Denmark demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting and upholding the Nordic model, which was welcomed by the Nordic trade unions present at the events. Nordic Financial Unions emphasise that any regulation affecting the finance sector must respect the Nordic model, particularly by ensuring the right to negotiate collective wage agreements and working conditions.

As Forsikringsforbundet Denmark stated during the event in Denmark, democracy, dialogue, and social workers’ rights are the ways to find solutions in the EU, echoing sentiments shared by trade unions across the Nordic region.

As the countdown to the elections intensifies, NFU reaffirms both the importance and our collective responsibility to uphold and safeguard democracy, champion workers’ rights, promote social dialogue, and foster a more sustainable Europe.

As stated by the European Parliament: Use your vote or others will decide for you.