The uncertain social insurance of intra-EU mobile construction workers

Freedom of movement in the EU is much more developed in terms of economic freedoms than in terms of social and welfare policies. Social insurance arrangements for mobile workers are handled within a reciprocity-based regulatory framework. This article analyses the intra-EU social insurance system from the point of view of highly mobile construction workers. Under the relevant legislation, these workers should receive social insurance either from their home country, if posted by their employer, or from the host country, if moving individually. The article shows, however, that employers often undermine the system to save on labour costs. For those in a weak labour market position, social insurance is unavailable, while those from wealthier welfare states rely on home-country social insurance, and those who are able to, negotiate and navigate complex systems themselves. Consequently, those most in need of social insurance are least able to access it.