A framework agreement in the hairdressing sector: the European social dialogue at a crossroads

The debate on the agreement in the hairdressing sector reflects fundamental questions about the role of the European social dialogue and the social partners in European governance. In 2012 trade unions and employers' organizations reached a compromise on improving health and safety standards in the sector across the EU. Despite the relatively narrow scope of the agreement, it has become a highly politicized battleground of the European social dialogue and the European Commission took an unprecedented decision to - de facto - block its implementation.