The EU directive on adequate minimum wages (2022/2041) adopted in 2022 is a major step forward to improving the situation of low paid workers across Europe. This directive has already benefited millions of workers as several governments have used it to increase their national minimum wages, even ahead of its adoption or full transposition. This is a great achievement, in line with the social progress objective stated in article 3 (TEU) of the treaties.
Prior to its adoption, the directive had been thoroughly examined and validated by the three legal services of the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the EU.
The opinion of the European Court of Justice General Advocate (in case C-19/23), advising the annulment of the Directive, therefore comes as an unexpected negative development. This is a non-binding opinion and we hope that the Court will confirm the conclusions of the legal services of the three EU institutions when taking its final decision.
Reacting to the Advocate General’s Opinion, PES Secretary General Giacomo Filibeck said:
“Our political family has fought tooth and nail for the Adequate Minimum Wages Directive because it strengthens the right of workers.
This directive has started to bear fruit already. Minimum wages were increased in several Member States. This directive has also placed renewed emphasis on collective bargaining as an efficient way to improve wages and working conditions. It will further strengthen trade unions and social dialogue in the EU.
For us, this is a piece of legislation that clearly aligns with the objective of social progress stated in Article 3 of the Treaty on the European Union. The annulment of the Adequate Minimum Wages Directive would be catastrophic news for millions of workers.”
