8.2.5
Policy on Guaranteeing Equivalent Rights of Workers When Outsourcing Activities to Third Parties
1. Purpose
The purpose of this Policy is to ensure that, whenever the University of Thessaly (UTh) outsources services or activities to external contractors or third-party providers, the rights, working conditions, and protections afforded to workers remain equivalent to those granted to employees directly engaged by the University. This Policy reflects the University’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and compliance with both national and European labor standards.
2. Scope
This Policy applies to all University departments, administrative units, and research centers that engage third-party service providers or contractors. It covers, but is not limited to, outsourced activities such as facility management, IT services, catering, cleaning, maintenance, security, and research support functions.
3. Definitions
Outsourcing: The delegation of certain activities or services to an external company or organization under a contractual agreement.
Equivalent Rights: The guarantee that all individuals performing work on behalf of the University—whether directly employed or subcontracted—benefit from fair remuneration, safe working conditions, non-discrimination, and respect for human dignity.
Third-Party Provider: Any external legal entity contracted by the University to perform specified services or functions.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Thessaly is committed to upholding the principle of equal treatment and ensuring that outsourced workers are not disadvantaged in comparison to University employees performing similar functions.
All outsourcing contracts must include clauses guaranteeing compliance with Greek and European labor law; fair and lawful remuneration; safe working conditions; social security contributions; non-discrimination and equal opportunities; and respect for human rights and freedom of association.
The University will not engage with third parties that have been found to violate labor rights. Procurement and HR offices shall cooperate to ensure tendering and contract award processes incorporate evaluation of labor standards.
5. Implementation and Responsibilities
The Procurement Office shall ensure that all outsourcing contracts include explicit clauses guaranteeing equivalent rights. The Human Resources Directorate shall oversee compliance monitoring and report annually on implementation progress. The Vice Rector for Administrative Affairs shall have overall responsibility for enforcement and review.
6. Monitoring and Review
The University shall periodically review all outsourcing arrangements to verify continued compliance with this Policy. Contractors found to be in breach of their obligations may face contract termination and exclusion from future tenders. This Policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier if required by changes in national or European legislation.
7. Related Documents / References
Greek Labor Code (Law 4808/2021 and subsequent amendments); EU Directive 2008/104/EC on Temporary Agency Work; University of Thessaly Code of Ethics.