For the fourth time, the European Labour Authority (ELA), Netherlands Labour Authority, and EUROPOL have collaborated under the EMPACT framework to enhance the exchange of best practices and strengthen partnerships between analysts from labour inspectorates and police from the European Member States and selected neighbouring countries. 

Today's meeting hosted by ELA focused on third-country nationals (TCNs) workers in the EU, with dedicated session on posted TCNs workers, noting their exposure to labour exploitation practices.  

The meeting gathered 54 participants from labour inspectorates, police ELA and Europol and provided a platform to discuss and share approaches, analytical methods and information on tools aimed at addressing labour exploitation effectively.  

ELA remains committed to support Member States in enforcing workers' rights, including through its analytical work. A study on posted TCN workers published by ELA in March 2025 included reports on the challenges faced by workers and the risks that contribute to non-compliance. 

‘The working conditions were also very bad. They made us work all the time, even on Sundays, which means we were working every single day. Sometimes, we worked for 290 hours. They said if we do not work Sundays, they will take 40 or 50% off our wage.’ (Posted TCN worker, construction sector)

Read the full study: ELA study reveals significant challenges for posted third-country nationals (TCNs) in the EU