Elected staff representatives denounce new limits as an ‘unaccountable legal fortress’ undermining workplace democracy

In a rare outbreak of public dissent within the European Central Bank (ECB), senior staff have accused the institution of adopting “anti-democratic” measures and constructing an “unaccountable legal fortress” around its decision-making processes. The controversy centers on a recently unveiled proposal that would significantly reduce the working hours allocated to elected employee representatives, effectively curtailing their ability to advocate for colleagues’ interests.

Under the draft rules, staff representatives—who currently enjoy up to 10 hours per week to address workplace issues—would see their protected time cut by more than half. Proponents within the ECB’s Human Resources division argue that the change is necessary to improve operational efficiency and reallocate resources to core monetary policy tasks.

However, the bank’s internal union, the ECB Staff Committee, has mounted a vigorous campaign against the proposal. In an open letter circulated to all employees, the committee’s chair termed the move “a direct assault on our fundamental rights” and warned that it would create a chilling effect on open dialogue between staff and management.

Employees cite examples of unresolved grievances—from health and safety concerns to disputes over remote-working arrangements—that have relied on representative intervention. “Without sufficient time to prepare and negotiate, we risk returning to a culture of silent compliance,” said a senior economist at the bank, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Legal experts have also weighed in, pointing to the ECB’s unique legal status under EU treaties. While most EU agencies operate under clear accountability frameworks, the ECB enjoys broad leeway in internal governance. Critics argue that the new measures would further entrench this autonomy, placing the bank beyond the reach of both staff oversight and external scrutiny.

The timing of the proposal has drawn particular scrutiny. Announced just weeks after a high-profile wage negotiation that secured a modest pay rise for all staff, it has fueled suspicions that the ECB is seeking to reassert control over its workforce. Union leaders describe the combination of wage conciliation and representative restrictions as “a carrot-and-stick approach.”

In the European Parliament, members of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee have demanded hearings with ECB President Christine Lagarde. “We must ensure that Europe’s central bank remains accountable not only to markets but also to its own workforce,” stated one MEP. The committee’s call for transparency highlights growing concern over institutional governance at the ECB.

Protests outside the ECB’s Frankfurt headquarters have been small but vocal. Staff members, many dressed in business attire, have assembled during lunch breaks, chanting slogans such as “Democracy at Work” and “Hands Off Our Rights,” while holding banners criticizing the proposal.

In response to the backlash, the ECB’s spokesperson issued a guarded statement, affirming the institution’s commitment to staff welfare but insisting that “organizational reforms are essential for maintaining the ECB’s effectiveness.” The statement did not specify whether the proposal would be amended in light of objections.

As the dispute intensifies, the ECB faces a pivotal choice: proceed with the plan and risk deeper internal unrest and external censure, or compromise and preserve a measure of workplace democracy. The outcome will likely signal whether the central bank can balance its monetary mandate with the legitimate rights of those who keep its engines running.