Interview with the Chair of the new Working Group Prevention

Prevention has always been central to the European Forum. What led to the establishment of a dedicated Working Group on prevention?

Indeed, prevention of accidents at work and occupational diseases has been a core element of the European Forum since its foundation. However, there has not been a Working Group focused solely on this topic.

To give accident prevention a greater importance, the idea of implementing a dedicated Working Group on prevention had been discussed for some time within the European Forum. During the Plenary Assembly of the 2024 European Forum Conference in Zagreb, members officially decided to set it up. It was also agreed that the group’s first meeting would be held during the European Forum conference in Luxembourg in 2025.

Can you tell us about the first meeting? How did it go and what have you noticed in particular?

The first meeting brought together 25 participants from 12 countries, representing a wide variety of institutions and organisations, including public occupational accident insurance institutions, labour inspectorates, and European and international bodies. This diversity of backgrounds and expertise promises a rich exchange of perspectives and approaches.

The discussions focused on defining the objectives of the Working Group, identifying key topics, and agreeing on the next steps.

When you look at the discussions so far, what are the main objectives of the new Working Group Prevention?

The Working Group aims to strengthen coordination between prevention departments across Europe, create a platform for sharing expertise, identify common risks and develop joint positions. It also seeks to promote international collaboration, ensure alignment with EU initiatives and regulations and use VISION ZERO as a guiding framework. Close cooperation with other Working Groups, particularly Digitalisation and Occupational Diseases, is also planned.

Which key areas and topics will the group focus on?

Discussions during the first meeting covered a wide range of issues, including adapting occupational safety and health to the effects of climate change, the impact of AI and automation, and demographic changes. Other subjects included mental health, gig work, temporary agency employment, prevention for vulnerable groups, education, language challenges and commuting safety.

All these areas contribute to fostering a strong prevention culture. As not all topics can be addressed at once, the next meetings will be used to set the priorities of the new Working Group.

Looking ahead, what are the next steps for the Working Group Prevention?

The immediate priority is to establish a cloud-based platform to facilitate the exchange of best practices and prevention initiatives among members.

The Working Group will meet virtually in autumn, and its progress is expected to be reported at the next European Forum conference in Poland. ●