A new framework is taking shape in the European Union, as the European Parliament approves the launch of negotiations with member states on rules designed to strengthen and standardise working conditions for interns across the EU.
Written contract and clear terms
Under the proposal, all interns will be required to sign a written contract clearly defining remuneration, responsibilities, duration and learning objectives. Access to basic social protection, including health insurance, will also be ensured. The rules apply to all internship formats, except mandatory academic placements that award credits and formal apprenticeships.
Members of the Parliament’s Employment Committee stress that internships without pay, without structured educational content or without supervision and evaluation will be considered abusive. Organisations offering internships will also be required to appoint a designated contact person for interns to address any concerns.
Alicia Homs Ginel, the Spanish MEP responsible for the file, stated that the initiative sends a clear message to Europe’s young people: internships must guarantee dignity, fair compensation and secure conditions at the start of their careers. She described this as a significant step to ensure that every young person embarks on their professional path with confidence. She also expressed readiness to work with the Council towards an agreement that reflects the needs of Europe’s youth.
Cypriot MEP Loukas Fourlas, a member of the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee (EMPL), voiced support for measures ensuring fair pay, written contracts, social protection and safe working conditions for interns. He noted that internships are a key transition tool for young people entering the labour market but must never become a means of exploitation.
Contract, insurance and paid placements
Fourlas added that the Employment Committee has already approved a legislative initiative providing for written contracts, health insurance and paid internships for all interns, except placements that form part of academic study requirements. As rapporteur for the European Year of Skills 2023, he said the long-term objective is to strengthen and upgrade the skills of young people throughout Europe, with internships serving as a practical bridge between education and employment.
He noted that the directive has now entered the trilogue phase, and the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU may be required to conclude the negotiations.
Universal application of the rules
The Parliament aims for all types of internships to be covered by the new rules, excluding only those linked to academic credits or apprenticeships. Internships that are unpaid in violation of national legislation, lack a learning component or do not provide guidance or evaluation will be classified as abusive. In cases of poor practice, organisations will be required to designate a responsible officer to whom interns may report issues.
This article is based on reporting published in Politis newspaper.