On 30 June, Generation 2004 hosted an open lunchtime brainstorming session on the performance appraisal system in External Action Service (EEAS). Building on internal consultations with our members and staff representatives, we wanted to hear from all colleagues about their real-life experiences and frustrations with the current system.
Continue reading EEAS: Reforming the performance appraisal system – Your Voice Matters!
Promotions
Conference: 12.06.2025 reclassification and promotion appeals, Generation 2004 is here to help
***UPDATE: You can find the link to the recording and to the presentation here.***
The 2025 draft reclassification and promotion lists will be published in Sysper on Thursday 12 June. There are now very limited options to influence whether your name is on the final lists when they are published mid-November. We have a lunchtime event planned to explain both what happens next and what those limited options are that are available to you if you find that your name is not on that list (and you believe that it should be). Please prepare for the event and start making notes for a potential appeal. Continue reading Conference: 12.06.2025 reclassification and promotion appeals, Generation 2004 is here to help
Mid-grade AD promotion? Only if you are a people manager
As the promotion season is now once again upon us, there are no doubt many of you who are expecting “on-time” promotions for your efforts over the last few years[*]. The bad news for those of you non-managers in ‘middle management‘ grades AD9 to AD11 is that when the DG lists come out in June you might be disappointed.
Continue reading Mid-grade AD promotion? Only if you are a people manager
Fair access: Advocating for function group advancement for Contract Agents
Limited job mobility for Contract Agents. Contract agents (CAs) face significant barriers when seeking job security, never mind career advancement. Generation 2004 believes that this makes the Commission less attractive as an employer and further, that it negatively impacts staff morale. The availability of CA positions is scarce, and in some cases, obtaining a new job can result in a backwards move: a lower classification rather than any step up. Continue reading Fair access: Advocating for function group advancement for Contract Agents
Internal Competitions 2025-2027: A Career Breakthrough or a Tactical Diversion?
*Update 26.08.2025 the updated time estimates are available under ‘planning’: please note some will take place SOONER than originally stated: don’t miss your chance!*
Original article: Opportunities Announced, But Do They Truly Deliver? The European Commission has announced its internal competitions planning for 2025-2027, introducing more frequent competitions and cross-category mobility up to AD10. This appears to be a positive development at first glance, but a deeper analysis of eligibility criteria and staff demographics raises serious concerns about how inclusive and effective these competitions will be in addressing long-standing career progression issues. Continue reading Internal Competitions 2025-2027: A Career Breakthrough or a Tactical Diversion?
Unlocking Career progression for Contract Agents: untapped potential of GIPS Article 13
What is GIPS Article 13 (CA screening) and who can benefit from it ? Article 13 of the general implementing provisions (GIPs) for Article 79(2) of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants (CEOS) provides a pathway for Contract Agents engaged under article 3a of the CEOS [*] to advance to a higher function group (so-called CA screening), provided they meet certain conditions. Continue reading Unlocking Career progression for Contract Agents: untapped potential of GIPS Article 13
Mobility Paradox: Forced to Move or Stuck in Place?
Changes in tasks and/or working environment’ (‘mobility’) are inevitable in any workplace, and in organisations the size of the Commission and the external action service (EEAS, with over 144 Delegations around the world) these are seldom user-friendly processes. As often happens within the institutions, the term ‘mobility’ itself covers a huge range of diverse exercises with different rules regarding the level of obligation, the frequency and to whom those rules apply. Continue reading Mobility Paradox: Forced to Move or Stuck in Place?
Brave new world at the Commission: the day the staff representation was abolished
I wake up and it is just another ordinary day. I prepare breakfast and get my child ready. Then head to the crèche before going to the office. But to my great surprise, the crèche is closed. Nobody seems to be around. When I finally spot someone I know, I ask what is going on. Maybe a strike? “Not really. Weren’t you informed? Continue reading Brave new world at the Commission: the day the staff representation was abolished
EEAS: Performance Appraisals Exercise for 2025
***Update: you can find the presentation here.*** Friday, 24 January 2025, more than 60 colleagues joined Generation 2004 mini-conference during lunchtime to explore the topic of performance appraisals within the EEAS. The session provided valuable insights into the 2025 appraisal exercise, addressing both the written and unwritten rules of the Career Development Reviews (CDR). Continue reading EEAS: Performance Appraisals Exercise for 2025
EEAS: Redefining the Head of Administration role in EU Delegations: A call for clear responsibilities and support
*Update 17.01.2025 the rumoured delegation closures are now also in the press.*
Original article: Generation 2004 EEAS section advocates for fair and realistic work conditions for colleagues in over 144 Delegations around the world. Those conditions must take account of the evolving responsibilities of all staff and roles. Among these, the Head of Administration (HoA) post in EU Delegations stands out as a unique role. Continue reading EEAS: Redefining the Head of Administration role in EU Delegations: A call for clear responsibilities and support
