Amazon will appear before the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee (EMPL) in late June. The goal: to regain access to EU parliamentary buildings, which the Parliament revoked after concerns over labor practices and the company’s refusal to engage with lawmakers.
This upcoming hearing marks a crucial test for Amazon’s relationship with European institutions.
Lawmakers Blocked Amazon’s Access After No-Shows
In February 2024, Parliament canceled 14 long-term access badges used by Amazon representatives. This move followed the company’s failure to attend previous hearings and site visits about working conditions. EMPL members had invited Amazon to events in both 2021 and 2023, but the company declined each time.
Attempts to inspect Amazon’s warehouses in Germany and Poland also fell apart. Frustrated by the lack of cooperation, the committee took action to limit the tech giant’s presence in EU decision-making spaces.
MEPs Demand Action from Amazon
To lift the ban, the committee expects Amazon to meet two clear conditions. First, it must attend a formal hearing. Second, it must allow a group of MEPs to tour one of its fulfillment centers.
EMPL plans to confirm the hearing date and speaker list in early June. Until then, Amazon remains blocked from lobbying activities inside EU buildings.
Amazon: “We Want a Fair and Fact-Based Dialogue”
In response, Amazon stated that it values transparency and communication. The company pointed out that it employs over 150,000 workers across the European Union, and contributes to local economies in many member states.
“We take our responsibilities to European institutions seriously,” said a company spokesperson. “We welcome scrutiny, but believe the conversation should rely on facts, not political agendas.”
Amazon also called for industry-wide evaluations. It warned that focusing on single companies may ignore wider labor issues in the logistics and e-commerce sectors.
Labor Conditions Under Scrutiny Across Europe
Amazon’s labor record has drawn sharp criticism in recent years. Workers and unions across Europe have raised alarms about high-pressure environments, strict monitoring, and limited rights to organize.
In Germany, the Verdi union has staged multiple strikes, asking Amazon to agree to a national labor agreement. In France, critics have pointed to job insecurity and heavy workloads. Even in Spain and Italy, employee groups have voiced concerns about physical strain and mental health.
These labor tensions have fueled public debate and raised pressure on policymakers to act.
What’s at Stake for Amazon?
The June hearing could reshape Amazon’s standing in Brussels. A failure to meet Parliament’s demands may extend the company’s exclusion from legislative discussions. This would limit its ability to influence EU rules on digital markets, AI, and labor protections.
However, a successful appearance may help Amazon rebuild trust with lawmakers and the public. The company could also set a positive example for other tech firms facing similar scrutiny.