A respectful workplace is where integrity, fairness, collaboration, professionalism and trust are the norm. It involves treating colleagues with dignity, fairness, and kindness, creating a safe environment where everyone feels valued and comfortable, regardless of background or position.
Continue reading Respect@work = Zero-tolerance culture for harassment
In line with the current trends of invading staff private phones, several colleagues have raised our attention to the fact that Ares requires the use of private devices for verification.
Continue reading Staff obliged to use private mobile phones to use Ares
As explained in our previous articles, the Commission is preparing a Decision that requires all staff to provide their private mobile to be contacted during their rest time.
On 12 December 2023, the Commission adopted a new policy on anti-harassment. It repealed the outdated 2006 Commission’s anti-harassment decision (Decision C(2006) 1624/3). Respect, dignity and courtesy are key principles to identify and address harassment and other inappropriate behaviours in the workplace. An Action Plan and a guide for respectful working environment are also part of the strategy to ensure respect at work.
Continue reading Behind the scenes: is the victim of harassment effectively protected?
You can find the presentation of the conference here.
On 28 April 2026, our 3rd conference on Transactional Analysis and psychological harassment in the workplace about The Curse and the Spell in our life scenario: Injunctions, Drivers & Workplace Pressure (HYBRID) took place, from 12.30 to 14.00.
Please see below the two previous conferences held as part of the same series:
You can find the presentation of the conference here. The conference took place in EEAS and we had almost 300 participants.
In this session, we explored the concept of psychological games in organisations, based on the work of Eric Berne, founder of Transactional Analysis. Building on the Dramatic Triangle introduced in our previous conference, we analysed how recurring relational patterns can evolve into structured “games” that impact communication, trust, and professional relationships.
Together, we discussed about:
This session aimed to provide both insight and practical tools to better navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and foster a healthier professional environment.
The conference was delivered by our colleagues:
Please find below the other two conferences held as part of the same series:
You can find the recording and the presentation of the conference here. The conference took place in EEAS and we had 225 participants.
On 19 February 2026 in Brussels, the first session of a series on Transactional Analysis and psychological harassment in the workplace, From Drama to Awareness, focused on harassment and its dynamics. Harassment was defined as repeated, intentional behaviour (verbal or physical) that intimidates or harms a person, in psychological or sexual forms.
The session also introduced support mechanisms such as mediation services and their role in providing confidential guidance.
Finally, it explored the Drama Triangle (Victim, Rescuer, Persecutor) and its impact on workplace dynamics, and presented the Empowerment Triangle as a more constructive framework promoting responsibility, coaching, and accountability.
Please find below the other two conferences held as part of the same series:
As explained in our previous article, the Commission is drafting a Decision that requires all staff to provide their private mobile to be contacted during their rest time.
Our article, published in September 2025 triggered comments from the administration, claiming that they would prove us wrong by providing updated information. No information was provided, but we still acknowledged what could seem like an intention to correct course by the administration, by informing you in October 2025 of a possible update on the situation. Continue reading Surrender your mobile phone, it’s an order!
Generation 2004 recently met with the Chief Confidential Counsellor (CCC), the authority on the topic of workplace bullying and harassment, to explore how we can strengthen cooperation, increase visibility of the network of confidential counsellors, and further promote a genuine culture of bullying prevention and of mutual respect across the European Commission. Appointed in September 2024, the Chief Confidential Counsellor leads a dedicated team of around twenty trained counsellors. Continue reading Supporting Prevention and Respect at Work: Generation 2004 Met the Chief Confidential Counsellor
*Update 30.10.2025: here is the recording and the contact slides. Thanks to the >270 colleagues who attended.
Original article: Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, deeply exhausted, scared to go in BURNOUT ? Maybe you are there already. Or just care for a friend, a colleague and want to help… Discover the Burnout Support Network with one of the co-founders. Continue reading LUNCHTIME CONFERENCE WITH INSPIRING GUEST SPEAKER: COLLEAGUES HELPING COLLEAGUES – the Burnout Support Network
