ALEBA

The Luxembourg Association for Employees in Need of Assistance (ALEBA) is a politically and financially independent trade union. It has over 10,000 members and more than 700 union representatives in over 150 companies. Founded in 1918, the association is dedicated to defending the interests of employees across all sectors.

History and Evolution of ALEBA

Initially dedicated to representing employees in Luxembourg’s financial sector, ALEBA successfully adapted to changes in the financial sector, particularly in light of its rapid growth following World War II.

Due to its growth and in order to represent all employees in Luxembourg, it decided to expand into other economic sectors in 2023. This decision aims to meet the needs of a diverse workforce and strengthen union representation across various sectors of the Luxembourg economy.

Union Activities and Collective Bargaining

ALEBA offers its members:

• Legal advice and information in the areas of labor law, social law, and tax law;
• Free legal assistance (after a waiting period) in the event of a dispute in the workplace or with social institutions;
• Training in multiple languages on filing taxes in Luxembourg, pensions, and the roles of employee representatives;
• Free or low-costpersonalized tax return preparation;
• Regular updates on our activities and union news;
• Thematic information brochures: tax returns, Collective Bargaining Agreements, etc.

ALEBA is particularly recognized for its role in collective bargaining negotiations, especially in the banking and insurance sectors. It works tirelessly to improve working conditions and protect employees’ rights, particularly during times of economic challenge.

During the 2007–2009 financial crisis, for example, ALEBA secured a 6.7% wage increase over three years under the banking sector’s collective bargaining agreement.

Major struggles in the workplace

ALEBA also fights against:

• The scourge of “fake managers”—employees whom management classifies as managers in order to circumvent collective bargaining agreements and the law: the disadvantages of the status, without its benefits!
• Excessive outsourcing by companies that massively relocate their workforce, posing major risks to local employment, service quality, and the national economic fabric;
• Company Agreements that aim to circumvent legislation on social plans, mass layoffs, and multi-party contracts;
• Mobbing, by providing victims of workplace bullying with a safe and confidential space to discuss their situation, helping them understand the legal framework surrounding workplace bullying in Luxembourg, and empowering them to (re)gain control and fight for a fair and healthy work environment.

Commitment to a balanced pension reform

More recently, in the context of Luxembourg’s pension reform, ALEBA has called for a balanced and sustainable reform of the pension system in Luxembourg. Recognizing the importance of protecting workers’ rights, ALEBA advocates for several key measures:

• Maintaining the legal retirement age at 65: ALEBA opposes any increase in the retirement age, believing that this would unfairly penalize workers with long careers;
• Protection of low-wage workers: the union advocates for an increase in the minimum pension to ensure a dignified life for low-income retirees;
• Harmonization of pension plans: ALEBA proposes harmonizing all pension plans to ensure equitable treatment and guarantee the sustainability of pensions for future generations;
• Preservation of the year-end bonus: The union insists that the reform not affect this bonus, which is essential for many households;
• Gender equality: ALEBA recommends measures to reduce gender pension disparities, particularly by taking into account career breaks for family reasons.

These proposals demonstrate ALEBA’s commitment to defending a fair and equitable pension system for all Luxembourg workers.

ALEBA’s Structure and Services

ALEBA is structured to provide optimal support to its members.

Its union office consists of several teams: Secretariat, Legal Department, Delegate Coordination, and Communications. These teams are available to answer members’ questions, offering personalized advice and, if necessary, consulting with external lawyers and experts for specialized guidance.

ALEBA stands out for its approach, which emphasizes addressing the individual needs of each member, ensuring tailored support. The union’s core values include political independence, humanity, expertise, determination, dialogue, and respect. These principles guide all of ALEBA’s actions, ensuring effective and transparent representation of its members.

Why and how to become a staff representative in Luxembourg?

Defending the rights and interests of Luxembourg employees

For over a century, ALEBA has been committed to defending the rights and interests of employees in Luxembourg. Its constant evolution, expansion into new sectors, and commitment to fair reforms demonstrate its determination to adapt to the changing needs of workers. With a solid structure, clear values, and a people-centered approach, ALEBA plays an essential role in defending workers’ rights, ensuring fair working conditions, and adapting to the challenges of an ever-changing professional world. Join us!