26 February 2026 08:27 UTC · European Commission · EU Commission Press Release · Source · Email X Link

European Commission welcomes political agreement on broader EGF

Key points

European Commission says political agreement reached to strengthen EGF
Revised rules enable anticipatory support and upskilling, apply until end of 2027

TL;DR

European Parliament and EU Member States reached a political agreement to strengthen the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF).
Revised EGF rules introduce anticipatory support for at-risk workers, extend coverage to suppliers and downstream producers, and facilitate upskilling and tailored services.
Since 2007 the EGF intervened in 186 cases, allocating €727 million and helping 181,167 people; Commission data for 2023-2024 shows 81% found new jobs within 18 months; the agreement must be formally adopted and will apply until end of 2027.

Original text

European Commission - Press release Commission welcomes the political agreement for a broader European Globalisation Adjustment Fund supporting workers Brussels, 26 February 2026 The Commission welcomes the political agreement reached by the European Parliament and EU Member States on its proposal to strengthen the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF). The EGF is an EU solidarity instrument for workers who have lost their job due to major restructuring, for instance the closing of a factory or the bankruptcy of a company. The fund contributes directly to creating a more dynamic and competitive European economy. It helps workers by improving their skills and making it easier for them to find new jobs. It offers tailored packages of services : workers receive personalised support to acquire the skills needed to move into new roles or jobs, helping them navigate economic and industrial transitions. Since 2007, the EGF has intervened in 186 cases, allocating €727 million helping 181,167 people in 20 different Member States. According to Commission data for 2023-2024, 81% of these dismissed workers have found a new job within 18 months of receiving EGF support. Key improvements under the revised EGF include: Anticipatory support for at-risk workers: Companies undergoing restructuring may request EGF assistance for employees at risk of job loss, ensuring timely intervention before dismissals occur. This also includes workers affected in suppliers or downstream producers. This means, the new rules will enable earlier mobilisation of assistance to workers facing imminent job loss, in turn broadening the support and scope of the fund to help more people into new employment. Also, the fund will now facilitate the upskilling within European companies undergoing restructuring, leading to better quality jobs. EGF support includes education, skills training, and guidance to transition into new roles and careers. Next steps The European Parliament and the Council must now formally adopt the political agreement. Once adopted, companies can request Member States to apply for EGF support for affected employees in line with the revised rules, which will apply until the end of 2027, when the current EGF expires. Background In April 2025, the Commission proposed to extend the scope of the EGF , as a flagship initiative of the Action Plan for the European automotive sector and the Action Plan for the European steel and metals industry . The new rules also align with the objectives of the Union of Skills and the European Competitiveness Compass . For more information Factsheet on the EGF Website of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund EGF regulation 2021-2027 Commission proposes broader, faster EU social and employment funds Subscribe to the Commission's newsletter on employment, social affairs and inclusion. IP/26/482 Quote(s): "Exceptional times require smarter, faster support for workers. I warmly welcome this agreement, which will allow more workers across Europe to benefit from timely and targeted support during periods of economic transition. In a rapidly changing economic landscape, Europe continues to equip its people with skills and opportunities to adapt and thrive. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund remains a key instrument contributing to this goal by ensuring that assistance reaches workers and sectors where it is most needed." Roxana Mînzatu, Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness - 26/02/2026 Press contacts: Eva HRNCIROVA (+32 2 29 88433) Eirini ZARKADOULA (+32 2 29 57065) General public inquiries: Europe Direct by phone 00 800 67 89 10 11 or by email

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