Positive Action in EU Labour Law

This thesis examines the concept and application of positive action within European Union labour law. Positive action is understood as a set of legal mechanisms aimed at promoting equal opportunities and addressing historical and structural disadvantages affecting certain social groups. The study analyses whether positive action measures effectively reduce inequalities within and among EU Member States, highlighting divergences in interpretation, acceptance, and implementation across national legal systems, with particular reference to Greece. It explores the legal foundations of positive action in EU law, notably Article 157(4) TFEU, Article 23 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and Directives 2006/54/EU and 2004/113/EU. The thesis further addresses the frequent conceptual confusion between positive action and positive discrimination, demonstrating how differing understandings influence national policies. It identifies key target groups requiring enhanced protection, including women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, and the Roma community, and evaluates factors contributing to effective implementation as well as existing barriers. The study concludes that positive action measures must be proportionate, effective, time-bound, and flexible in order to comply with the principle of equality and achieve substantive equality in practice.