Europe's 20th-century labour rules are stifling 21st-century innovation

Summary

The article argues that Europe's rigid 20th-century labour regulations, including mandatory union consultations, board representation, social plans, strikes, and political interference, are stifling innovation and economic competitiveness in the 21st century. It contrasts the American approach to layoffs (swift, direct) with the European method (circuitous, bureaucratic), suggesting that outdated labour rules are hobbling Europe's ability to adapt and innovate in the modern economy.