Amazon will appear before the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee (EMPL) in late June. This hearing aims to decide if the company will regain long-term access to the Parliament’s premises. Sources told Euronews the committee plans to confirm the date and speakers in early June.
Why Did Parliament Revoke Amazon’s Access?
In February 2024, the European Parliament took back Amazon’s 14 long-term access badges. The reason? Amazon did not show up to several key hearings and site visits in 2021 and 2023. These sessions were meant to check working conditions at Amazon’s facilities in the EU.
The Parliament sees these hearings as important. They help lawmakers understand how Amazon treats its many employees. Losing the badges means Amazon cannot easily meet lawmakers face-to-face in the Parliament.
Missed Hearings and Cancelled Visits
Amazon was invited to speak to the EMPL committee in May 2021 and again in January 2024. Both times, the company said no. Lawmakers also planned visits to Amazon warehouses in Poland and Germany in December 2023. These visits were cancelled, which frustrated many Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).
The Parliament made it clear: Amazon must attend a hearing and allow a site visit before it can get its access back. This is a key step for transparency and accountability.
Amazon’s Response
Amazon says it takes its duties seriously. The company has over 150,000 workers across the EU, and it says it welcomes public checks. In a past statement, Amazon said it wants talks based on facts, not political drama. It also said the whole logistics and tech industry should be examined, not just one company.
Why This Hearing Matters
Regaining access to the Parliament is a big deal for Amazon. It means the company can meet EU lawmakers in person. This helps them share their views and influence decisions. But access also comes with responsibilities, like cooperating with investigations and hearings.
The June hearing will show if Amazon is ready to be more open. It will also affect the company’s ability to lobby and make its case on EU rules.
Broader Context: Worker Rights and Corporate Transparency
Amazon’s labor practices have been in the spotlight for years. Workers and unions in many countries have raised concerns about pay, conditions, and rights. The EU has been working on new rules to improve worker rights and corporate transparency.
The Parliament’s move to revoke Amazon’s access is part of this wider effort. Lawmakers want big companies to be accountable. They want clear answers on how workers are treated. The hearing could set a tone for future talks with other tech giants and logistics firms.
What’s Next?
The EMPL committee will finalize the hearing schedule in early June. Amazon will likely send senior representatives to answer questions. They may also discuss steps to improve workplace conditions.
After the hearing, the Parliament will decide if Amazon gets its badges back. If Amazon shows it is willing to cooperate, the company might regain access soon. If not, the ban could last longer.
Why It Matters for EU Citizens
Amazon is a huge employer in Europe. Its factories and warehouses provide many jobs. But those jobs come with responsibilities. The public wants to know that workers are safe and treated fairly.
This hearing is more than just about access badges. It’s about making sure big companies answer to the people. It is about fairness, respect, and honesty in the workplace.