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BOOK REVIEW EUROPEAN EMPLOYMENT LAWS: A Comparative Guide Second Edition By Stephen Hardy and Mark Butler Spiramus ISBN: 978-1904905-61-5 www.spiramus.com FOR EU LAWYERS, HR PRACTITIONERS, ACADEMICS AND EURO-BUFFS: AN ACCESSIBLE, READABLE OUTLINE OF EMPLOYMENT LAW IN EACH OF THE 27 EU MEMBER STATES An Appreciation by Phillip Taylor MBE and Elizabeth Taylor of Richmond Green Chambers Before the first edition of his book was written, the researching of its subject matter not to mention the actual writing of it was considered ‘impossible’, what with at least (at that time) 25 EU member states to contend with, with their differing traditions, languages and legal systems. However, putting together an account of the employment laws of all member countries of the EU and presenting them in the form of a readable, accessible narrative is precisely what the two authors have achieved – a feat to which Eleanor Sharpston QC, Advocate General ECJ, has rightly paid tribute. Obviously the book cannot deliver detailed legal advice on specific matters in its less than 300 pages of text. It is, rather, an excellent starting off point for those who wish to explore a particular issue or aspect of European employment law, and/or the employment laws of particular European states. The authors therefore refer to it as ‘a comparative guide’ rather than a ‘definitive’ guide, which they modestly insist it is not. This new Second Edition published 2010 by Spiramus begins by reviewing the ways in which labour law has evolved within the EU…it examines the varying regional approaches to employment and social welfare…and it considers the numerous pressures for change in line with the controversial process of creating ‘social’ Europe. The handiest part of the book is the summary in outline of said employment regulations in each of the now 27 EU member states, from Austria to the United Kingdom. There’s a further section covering future EU enlargement if, or when the two aspirant states, Turkey and Croatia join the EU. Check the table of contents for the sub-categories with which you are concerned, from contracts to working time, to pay to dismissals. It is enlightening to be able to compare, almost at a glance, the differences and similarities in employment legislation between the diverse member states. It’s also heartening to note that, as a requirement of EU membership, each member state has had to bring its system of employment laws -- despite variations --into line with EU standards. So, if you are an employment lawyer or HR practitioner faced with cross-border employment issues, or in charge of employment policy in a European country, this book will help you understand and (it’s hoped) avoid the various pitfalls and obstacles inherent in the many regional variations in employment law and practice throughout the EU. And for further research, the book provides useful lists of cases, sources and relevant websites to make it the accessible, readable outline of the subject that it undoubtedly is.

2022-10-04 02:46