On 1 May, the USF proudly joins colleagues across Europe in celebrating International Workers’ Day—a moment to reflect on the power of solidarity and the vital role of public service in shaping a fairer European Union. This year marks 140 years since workers began organizing to secure the rights and conditions many enjoy today: fairer pay, shorter working hours, stronger rights, and a better work-life balance. These achievements are the result of determined collective action, not mere chance, and they continue to inspire us.
As members of EU public service and trade unions, we carry on this proud legacy. Every day, our work serves Europe’s citizens—protecting democracy, upholding the rule of law, and helping to create policies that foster social cohesion, sustainability, and inclusion. Our dedication is at the very heart of the European project.
Today, the EU Civil Service faces significant challenges: staff shortages, heavier workloads, wage pressures, and changes introduced without adequate social dialogue. These hurdles impact not only our well-being, but also the quality, independence, and trust in European public administration as a whole.
Across the continent, public service workers are joining forces to demand fair pay, secure pensions, meaningful respect for collective bargaining and social dialogue, safe and reasonable working conditions, and proper investment in public services. These calls are not just about our own workplace—they are about safeguarding the high standards, independence, and professionalism that citizens expect from their public institutions.
Defending the EU Civil Service means defending equal treatment, fairness, and the public interest. On this International Workers’ Day, we reaffirm our commitment: public services are a public good, and the EU Civil Service must be protected, valued, and strengthened. Our work serves Europe—and it is not for sale.
In unity and solidarity, the USF wishes all colleagues a determined, spirited, and resolute Workers’ Day!