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Regulating the European Labour Market: Prospects and Limitations of a Reflexive Governance Approach

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  • Richard Hobbs
  • Wanjiru Njoya

Abstract

This article reviews developments in European Union employment policy from the perspective of reflexive governance. Reflexive governance instruments have a procedural orientation and provide a structural framework or steering mechanism to facilitate a process of self‐regulation. Recent developments in relation to the Employment Framework Directive, the European Employment Strategy and the Working Time Directive highlight some of the prospects and limitations of this reflexive approach to regulating employment relations and the potential impact on the UK labour market. These developments indicate that the hopes invested in the reflexive approach remain to be fulfilled.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard Hobbs & Wanjiru Njoya, 2005. "Regulating the European Labour Market: Prospects and Limitations of a Reflexive Governance Approach," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 43(2), pages 297-319, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:brjirl:v:43:y:2005:i:2:p:297-319
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8543.2005.00356.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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