The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs is concerned with employment policy and the social aspects thereof, such as work conditions, social security and social protection. Within the jurisdiction of this committee, there are also issues regarding professional qualifications, the freedom of movement for workers, social dialogue and health and safety at work. All of the aforementioned issues are discussed in cooperation with the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP), the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, the European Training Foundation and the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, as well as other relevant EU bodies and international organizations.

The committee has 49 members and 47 substitutes.