Welcome to the fourth edition of our Newsletter!
This month’s edition reflects a growing sense of transition across the European institutions. A major focus of this edition is the evolving landscape of EPSO competitions and internal career progression. We take a detailed look at the new cognitive testing introduced in the AD7 internal competition and provide practical guidance  through a dedicated legal overview of complaints procedures, administrative queries and available legal remedies. We also analyse the recent technical difficulties surrounding EPSO’s AD7 Data Management competition, with wider implications of the new TAO testing platform, and take a look at growing concerns regarding the coherence of the Commission’s internal competitions strategy, following the publication of COM/AD/106/2026 and the exclusion of AST colleagues from certain career opportunities despite their operational experience.
At the same time, we continue following developments linked to the Large-Scale Review and the future of non-permanent staff within the institutions. In this context, we express our support for the Contract Agents’ collective petition and discuss key issues affecting contract agents.
In parallel, we address the growing economic pressure affecting staff. Following recent social dialogue discussions with DG HR on the energy crisis, we explore the consequences of rising energy and transport costs, but also the potentially longer-term effects on food prices, household purchasing power and living conditions for colleagues across different staff categories. We continue to advocate for pragmatic flexibility measures and targeted support where necessary.
Staff wellbeing and institutional responsibility are also central themes this month. We raise concerns regarding the gradual externalisation of preventive healthcare services and the future role of the Medical Service. In parallel, we publish a strong reflection on IDOC procedures and due process guarantees, examining broader questions of fairness, proportionality and respect for fundamental rights within administrative investigations.
For colleagues based in Luxembourg, we also provide practical guidance on acquiring Luxembourgish nationality and the potential implications for expatriation and foreign residence allowances.

Last but not least, do not miss our conference on reclassification and promotion appeals, taking place at lunchtime on 11 June, as well as our trainings (EPSO AD7 Audit self-study exam packages and study group, and AD7 internal competition SHL G+ exam packages).

That’s all for now!

Enjoy the reading and do not hesitate to get in touch if you believe we can help.