ALEBA

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

History and evolution of ALEBA

Initially dedicated to representing employees in the Luxembourg financial sector, ALEBA has adapted to changes in the financial sector, particularly in the face of its rapid growth after World War II. Due to its growth and in order to represent all employees in Luxembourg, it decided to open up to other economic sectors in 2023. This decision aims to meet the needs of a diverse workforce and strengthen union representation in various sectors of the Luxembourg economy.

Trade 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 several languages on tax returns in Luxembourg, pensions, and the duties of employee representatives;
• Personalized tax return preparation free of charge or at a reduced rate;
• Regular information on our activities and trade union news;
• Information brochures on specific topics: tax returns, collective bargaining agreements, etc.

ALEBA is particularly recognized for its role in collective bargaining, especially in the banking and insurance sectors. It works constantly to improve working conditions and protect employees' rights, particularly in times of economic challenge. During the financial crisis of 2007-2009, for example, ALEBA secured wage increases of 6.7% over three years as part of the collective agreement for banks.

Major battles in the workplace

ALEBA is also fighting against:

• The scourge of "fake executives," employees who are given executive status by their management in order to circumvent collective agreements and the law: the disadvantages of the status, without its advantages!
• Excessive outsourcing by companies that are massively relocating 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, collective redundancies, and multi-party contracts;
• Mobbing, by providing victims of psychological harassment with a safe and confidential space to discuss their situation, helping them understand the legal framework surrounding psychological harassment in Luxembourg, and empowering them to (re)gain control and fight for a fair and healthy work environment.

Commitment to 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 is advocating 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 is calling for an increase in the minimum pension to guarantee a decent standard of living for low-income retirees;
• Harmonization of pension schemes: ALEBA proposes harmonizing all pension schemes to ensure fair treatment and guarantee the sustainability of pensions for future generations;
• Preservation of the end-of-year bonus: the union insists that the reform should not affect this bonus, which is essential for many households;
• Gender equality: ALEBA recommends measures to reduce gender pension disparities, in particular 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 structure and services

ALEBA is structured to provide optimal support to its members.

Its union office is made up of several teams: Secretariat, Legal Department, Delegate Coordination, and Communication. These teams are available to answer members' questions, offering personalized advice and, if necessary, calling on external lawyers and experts for specialized consultations.

ALEBA stands out for its approach that emphasizes taking into account 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.

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!