*Update 26.08.2025 the updated time estimates for internal competitions are available under ‘planning’: please note some will take place SOONER than originally stated: don’t miss your chance!*
Original article: While we are thrilled to announce that our efforts have contributed to the announcement by DG HR, that in future, colleagues might have the opportunity to change function groups through internal competitions, it remains to be seen whether this inclusiveness is genuine or something which exists in theory only. The wording of the announcement is for movement ‘within each function group’ but it does also mention specialised competitions which might include a ‘wider mix of staff categories and function groups’; a measured success.
Generation 2004 was the first (and only?) OSP to present a fully-fledged proposal for the New HR Strategy (November 2020). We have also been proactive in publishing articles and supporting various initiatives to ensure that the voices of the AST and AST/SC colleagues are heard (AST/SC doing AST roles, Internal competitions, Stop the phasing out of the AST, Collective actions, Petition). There is also an ongoing survey to which you can contribute.
This new inclusiveness is the least the institution can do to honour the commitments outlined in the new HR Strategy. It is also a significant step towards aligning with other institutions that have never prohibited AST/SC staff from applying for AST or even AD internal competitions and we all work with the same staff regulations. We consider this to be a good move forward, but it should not remain the only one, particularly when the AST function group itself seems to be under siege.
DG HR has informed us that the first such internal competition is due to take place still before the end of this year, but we do not have a confirmed date yet.
We have concerns about the short notice and whether all the necessary conditions will be met to allow participants sufficient time to prepare appropriately. We will therefore closely monitor the situation and provide updates accordingly. Rest assured, if we find that the conditions required for a fair and inclusive competition are not met, we will take appropriate actions.
As always, at Generation 2004, we work hard for the benefit of all staff. Since our 2013 beginnings we have been advocating for fair treatment and recognition of the skills and knowledge of all staff, with a particular focus on our AST and AST/SC colleagues’ longer-term career perspectives (or lack thereof).
We love to hear from you. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us or leave a comment below.
If you appreciate our work, please consider becoming a member of Generation 2004.
Older updates:
*Update 04.01.2024: The AST1 and 3 competitions which will be open to AST/SC colleagues originally promised for December is now for January. Follow all internal competitions here.*
