The works council has a real right of codetermination concerning the social plan

The works council is in a position to force an agreement for the compensation or mitigation of the economic disadvantages suffered by the workers through the company changes

If there is no agreement, the Conciliation Committee can make a binding decision for the Social Plan

The Conciliation Committee consists of an even number of members appointed by the Employer and Works Council and a neutral chairperson to be chosen with the agreement of both sides. It should only attempt to reach a voluntary agreement between the two parties. It has no means to force the parties to come to an agreement.

A Conciliation Committee Decision can be challenged in a Labor Court.