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Enforceability of rights in the temporary agency sector: The case of Belgium

Author

Listed:
  • Kim Bosmans

    (Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium)

  • Deborah De Moortel

    (Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; Institute of Medical Sociology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Germany)

  • Christophe Vanroelen

    (Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; Health Inequalities Research Group, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Spain)

Abstract

This study explores why temporary agency workers are disadvantaged compared to regular workers regarding their employment-related and social rights in Belgium despite extensive equal rights regulation. Fifteen in-depth interviews among temporary agency workers were analysed thematically. The enforceability of rights poses the main problem in temporary agency workers’ disadvantaged position. The following manifestations of a lack of enforceability are discussed: (1) lack of enforceability due to ignorance and indifference about rights; (2) vulnerability hindering enforceability; and (3) lack of enforceability due to misuse by employers and cutting corners. It is argued that this problem of enforceability is mainly caused by a lack of a clear allocation of responsibilities as to who should ensure the rights of temporary agency workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Kim Bosmans & Deborah De Moortel & Christophe Vanroelen, 2022. "Enforceability of rights in the temporary agency sector: The case of Belgium," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 43(4), pages 1519-1538, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:43:y:2022:i:4:p:1519-1538
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X211017227
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Dr Chris Forde, 2001. "Temporary Arrangements: The Activities of Employment Agencies in the UK," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 15(3), pages 631-644, September.
    2. John Purcell & Kate Purcell & Stephanie Tailby, 2004. "Temporary Work Agencies: Here Today, Gone Tomorrow?," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 42(4), pages 705-725, December.
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