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A growing divide within the European Commission’s Berlaymont Headquarters has come to light as the ongoing heatwave sweeps across Europe. Despite the sweltering temperatures, employees on floors 1-7 were told to keep the air conditioning off, with senior officials and top commissioner suites enjoying access to the cooling service. Staffers on the affected floors have voiced outrage over what they term “feudalism” and a “disgrace.”
Per a Politico report, workers from lower floors complained about the discrepancy, which leaves them exposed to uncomfortable temperatures, often exceeding 30°C, while upper floors remained cool and comfortable. Ursula von der Leyen’s office, located on the 13th floor, appeared immune to the directive.
When queried by Politico, a Commission spokesperson acknowledged the air conditioning disparity but pointed out that it resulted from an ‘operational necessity.’ The spokesperson claimed that lower floors have ‘more efficient natural ventilation systems,’ which supposedly justified the decision.
Lower floor workers, however, disputed the reasoning, arguing that they had no such systems and faced unbearable heat. The situation sparked calls for reform, with some employees calling for greater solidarity within the Commission ranks.
Critics point out that such disparities reflect poorly on the institution’s values of equality and solidarity. The Berlaymont Headquarters is designed to house around 3,000 people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and job positions. They work together to achieve EU goals and uphold values that are essential for the bloc’s credibility.
“We need to take a hard look at our values as an institution,” one staffer said. “This is not what we stand for.”
As the European climate crisis deepens, EU officials are expected to lead by example. The Commission has set ambitious climate targets for 2030, aiming to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, this week’s air conditioning disparity has left many questioning the sincerity of the institution’s stance on climate change.
Commission leaders have yet to address the issue publicly, leaving it uncertain whether any changes will be made. Nonetheless, for many employees, it serves as a stark reminder that sometimes, the gap between theory and practice can be vast.