EDF Global Framework Agreement renews with stronger worker protections
The agreement, originally signed in 2005 and renewed in 2018, has been updated to reflect new challenges and priorities, particularly in the areas of digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and workplace rights. The negotiations, which took place throughout 2024, resulted in significant advancements for EDF’s workforce worldwide.
Key improvements in the 2025-2030 agreement:
- Extended duration: now valid for five years, providing stability and long-term commitment.
- Enhanced Just Transition framework: strengthened focus on worker protection and retraining, with a dedicated work program under EDF’s Global Dialogue Committee on Social and Environmental Responsibility (CMDRSE).
- New section on digital transformation: addressing the impact of AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills development.
- Strengthened duty of care: alignment with global human rights standards and French legislation on corporate responsibility.
- Environmental commitments: reinforced focus on achieving net-zero emissions, biodiversity protection, and responsible water management.
- Anti-harassment and workplace safety: integration of ILO Convention 190 to combat workplace violence and harassment.
- Improved monitoring mechanisms: enhanced local and global implementation feedback to ensure compliance.
As part of the renewed agreement, EDF’s Global Dialogue Committee on Social and Environmental Responsibility (CMDRSE) will meet in February 2025 to develop an implementation strategy and ensure the commitments are effectively integrated into company policies and practices worldwide.
Atle Høie, IndustriALL general secretary, welcomed the renewed agreement, stating:
“This agreement marks a significant step forward for workers at EDF and across the energy sector. It strengthens our collective commitment to a Just Transition, ensuring that workers' rights are protected amid the shift to sustainable energy. The inclusion of digital transformation and AI policies ensures that workers are not left behind as new technologies reshape the industry. We will continue to closely monitor the implementation of these commitments through our ongoing social dialogue with EDF.”
Photo credit: EDF energy van on a residential street – Shutterstock photo ID: 2291763809
