ERTE is a four-letter word that is pronounced as ɛʀtə in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is spelled as per the French pronunciation, where the letter E is pronounced as a sound akin to the English 'uh' sound while R is pronounced with a guttural trill. The letters T and E at the end of the word are silent. ERTE is a term used in French labor law and refers to a government-mandated program that puts an employee on temporary leave without pay.
ERTE is a noun that refers to a term used in Spanish employment law, standing for Expediente de Regulación Temporal de Empleo, which translates to Temporary Employment Regulation File in English. It is an administrative procedure that allows companies to suspend or reduce employment contracts temporarily due to economic, technical, organizational, or production reasons beyond their control. ERTEs are commonly implemented during periods of economic crises, recessions, or unforeseen events that significantly impact a company's operations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under an ERTE, affected employees may be subject to temporary layoffs or reduced working hours, typically resulting in reduced pay. However, the unemployment benefits and social security coverage of the affected employees are generally protected during this period. The benefits and conditions vary depending on the specific legislation and regulations of each country, and sometimes within different regions of a single country. ERTEs aim to provide a flexible and pragmatic solution for companies facing temporary difficulties, allowing them to adjust their workforce without resorting to definitive dismissals.
Additionally, ERTE can also refer to the prominent artist and designer Romain de Tirtoff. Romain de Tirtoff, known by his pseudonym ERTE, was a Russian-born French artist and designer primarily active during the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s. He was renowned for his flamboyant and extravagant style, producing iconic illustrations, fashion designs, and sets for theatre and cinema. ERTE's work continues to be celebrated for its elegance, sophistication, and timeless beauty.