The European Social Partners will often discuss issues or negotiate agreements in a structured way through a process called European Social Dialogue. Much of this process is formalised in the European Treaties (Articles 137-139 of the Treaty on the functioning of the European Union). This 'dialogue' can be used in a few different ways:

Every year a Tripartite Social Summit is held in Spring giving the European Social Partners a chance to speak directly to Heads of State and Government to discuss and give advice on the main issues on the agenda.

When considering making proposal on social policy issues, the European Commission has to consult with the European Social Partners before finalising their proposal.

On occasion this can lead to the European Social Partners deciding to enter into negotiations with each other. Depending on how these negotiations come about, they can result in framework agreements sent to the Council to be considered as draft legislation, voluntary agreements which social partners take the lead on implementing nationally or joint opinions.

For the last number of years the European Social Partners have agreed a multiannual work programme, planning the work that they will undertake together.