LABOUR: MARKET, RIGHTS AND VULNERABILITIES

The course, part of the programme on the study of VULNERABILITY IN SOCIO-ECONOMIC SYSTEMS and, aims to examine, on the one hand, how the labour market is a context in which vulnerabilities can arise or be exacerbated, and, on the other, what legal instruments are available to prevent and combat such vulnerabilities. In particular, the so-called twin transition (green and digital) can act as a driver of productive development and social and economic growth, but if not adequately supported and managed, it can exacerbate inequalities and have a negative impact on the most vulnerable groups of workers. The course therefore aims to analyse how the dual transition and other global challenges (such as globalisation and the demographic crisis) are affecting the labour market and employment relationships, what the critical issues, challenges and opportunities are, and which actors (particularly institutional and economic ones) can contribute to a just and equitable transition. Particular attention will be paid to the tools implemented by companies to manage vulnerabilities, both through organisational models and social models.
The course also aims to provide students, who will be entering the labour market upon completing their university studies, with an understanding of the dynamics and trends of the labour market itself, to facilitate their independent and informed career choices.

Active participation in the course and independent study will enable students to:

1. Contextualise and critically understand the concept of vulnerability—in its various meanings and nuances—both within the broader socio‑economic landscape and in relation to labour‑market dynamics.

2. Develop a solid understanding of the key legal instruments that support workers throughout the so‑called twin transition, both in the workplace and in their relationship with employers.

3. Apply their knowledge of the labour market and its dynamics in practice, enabling them to make informed decisions about their professional pathways—such as internships, employment contracts, and labour‑policy frameworks—while recognising and avoiding potential sources of vulnerability.

The only requirement is that you have sat and passed the Private Law exam

The focuses on the following topics:

- Contextualising and developing the concept of vulnerability—at national, international, and supranational levels—in relation to the broader social and economic context, with particular attention to labour‑market dynamics.

- Stakeholders and governance in the face of global challenges: understanding and addressing vulnerabilities through the role of international organisations, public institutions, the third sector, and businesses within society, the market, and employment relationships.

- Measures and policies to counter vulnerability in the fields of work and social inclusion, including active and passive labour‑market policies, targeted placement, and inclusion programmes.

- Focus: managing vulnerability within businesses, with attention to organisational models, corporate social responsibility, due diligence, and diversity and inclusion management.

- Green transition, digital transition, and sustainability

For each topic discussed, articles, essays, and academic papers will be uploaded to the course’s Moodle page. This material is intended to support students in understanding both the broader themes and their specific dimensions.

The examination will be conducted orally. The lecturer reserves the right to assign individual or group tasks, for which additional marks may be awarded and added to the final examination grade

oral

The instructor is responsible for ensuring the authenticity and originality of all examinations and coursework. In cases of suspected academic misconduct, an additional on-site assessment may be required during the exams, which may differ from the standard format.

The final grade will reflect the student’s ability to demonstrate a solid understanding of the course content, to engage critically with the concepts discussed, and to apply them to concrete cases. The evaluation will be based on the following scale:

30–30L – Excellent:
Demonstrates outstanding and comprehensive knowledge of the topics; offers clear, well‑structured and original reflections; shows strong critical thinking and the ability to apply concepts autonomously and accurately.

27–29 – Very good:
Shows a thorough and well‑articulated understanding of the subject matter; provides coherent and precise answers; displays good analytical skills with only minor inaccuracies.

24–26 – Good:
Demonstrates an adequate and generally accurate understanding of the main topics; answers are coherent though sometimes not fully developed; limited critical insight.

21–23 – Satisfactory:
Shows a basic but incomplete understanding of the course content; answers may be generic or partially inaccurate; limited ability to apply concepts.

18–20 – Sufficient:
Demonstrates minimal knowledge of the essential topics; answers are often superficial or fragmented, but still sufficient to meet the minimum learning requirements.

Below 18 – Fail:
Shows insufficient understanding of the subject; answers are largely incorrect, incomplete, or incoherent; inability to apply concepts.

The course will include lectures, practical exercises (including group work), and seminars.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Circular economy, innovation, work" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development