The CEE region stands at a critical juncture – confronting increasingly complex regulations, growing demands for workplace flexibility, and rapid AI-driven transformation. At the same time, employers must contend with pressing social challenges, including demographic ageing and labour migration.

This panel brings together private practitioners, in-house counsel, trade union representatives and policymakers to examine the key tensions shaping the contemporary employment landscape. Where does the law diverge from workplace reality? Is the region’s traditional regulatory approach sufficient to bridge the gap between legislative expectations and business needs? What is the current state – and the future – of social dialogue? Or has the European Commission Brussels effectively assumed the role once played by trade unions?

The discussion will be fast-paced and practice-oriented, crossing borders and perspectives to offer actionable insights into the evolving CEE labour market.