European Metallurgical Sector at the Epicenter of Industrial Transformation

The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) joined an innovative international initiative aimed at rethinking the social dimensions in the European metallurgical industry. Project SoDi launched a large-scale partnership between trade union organizations, employer structures, and research institutions from seven countries.

The project participants come from key European countries: Poland, Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia, France, Belgium, and Germany. In addition to national representatives, influential European organizations such as CEEMET and IndustriAll Europe are also participating in the initiative.

The main goal of the project is to support the metallurgical sector in its fundamental transformation. The industry is facing unprecedented challenges related to the transition to a more environmentally friendly and digital economy, which is defined by the European Green Deal and the Industrial Deal.

The coordinator of the project is the Federation of Metalworkers and Steelworkers Unions in Poland. The main strategic objectives include an in-depth analysis of social dialogue needs, training for unions and employers, promoting good practices, and developing future sectoral policies.

In the Bulgarian context, BCCI and the Mechanical Engineering and Metalworkers Union of the Confederation of Labor "Podkrepa" have joined the project. They will actively participate in mapping sector challenges and strengthening national and cross-border social dialogue.

The first online meeting set ambitious tasks for the next 24 months. The focus will be on building capacity for a fair and inclusive transition in the metallurgical and energy sectors, taking into account both green and digital transformations.

The project is a strategic response to the need for effective social dialogue. Through it, participants aim to ensure a smoother transition for companies and workers, minimizing social risks and maximizing the benefits of industrial transformation.

BCCI commits to providing detailed information on the project's development and specific results. The initiative is emerging as an important step towards modernizing the European industrial ecosystem while preserving social justice.