Abstract
The extension of collective agreements is an important policy tool for creating a floor of conditions of work and employment in key sectors of the economy. What makes it distinct from other forms of regulation in that the statute issued by public authorities is based on a concurrence and agreement between independent, autonomous and representative organizations. This gives this regulatory tool some of the advantages of a contract, such as adaptability, malleability and commitment to enforce the terms through direct participation, as well as those of a statute ensuring general application. As a result, the extension of a collective agreement reached between parties deemed sufficiently representative, can provide inclusive labour protection to vulnerable workers, including migrant workers, self-employed workers and workers in smaller firms who may not otherwise have access to social protection. It is also a highly responsive form of regulation that can be adapted to particular circumstances, such as those facing small and medium enterprises.