Politis

Rising Workplace Stress in Europe Prompts Union Calls for Legislation

Published January 9, 2026, 05:17
Rising Workplace Stress in Europe Prompts Union Calls for Legislation

Workplace stress is increasing across Europe, with the European Commission recording a rise in burnout cases among its staff due to excessive workloads. Workplace stress is responsible for over 40% of depression cases and is estimated to cost the economy €620 billion annually. The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) is calling on the European Commission to include a directive on psychosocial risks in the upcoming Package of Quality Jobs, which would require employers to take preventive measures against burnout. The ETUC emphasizes that overwork and stress in the workplace are predictable and preventable. The European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) reports that the situation of EU staff reflects the pressures faced by workers in the public services of member states due to cuts and understaffing. A directive on psychosocial risks is considered essential to protect the health of workers and improve the quality of work in Europe.