Minister of Labour Marc Spautz has confirmed that the salaries of Luxembourg’s civil servants will be included in the calculation for implementing the European minimum wage directive. This announcement follows controversy under his predecessor, Georges Mischo, who had suggested excluding the civil service from the benchmark.
Speaking to RTL, Minister Spautz stated that the necessary calculations will be available by the carnival holidays. Based on these figures, a proposed increase will be discussed with all social partners. At this stage, Spautz declined to specify the potential amount.
The minister explained his reluctance to cite figures, noting that the standard periodic adjustment of the minimum wage – unrelated to the EU directive – is also due this year. He believes both adjustments must be considered together. While an exact new wage may not be finalised by the carnival deadline, he expects the calculation to be complete, providing an objective basis for evaluating different scenarios.
According to information obtained by RTL, the increase resulting from the directive is expected to be below 5%.
The EU directive calls for an “adequate” minimum wage, using 50% of the average gross wage and 60% of the median wage as reference benchmarks. Individual member states retain discretion on implementation. Former Minister Mischo had warned of a significant burden on the private sector and proposed excluding civil service salaries. However, a European Court of Justice ruling has since affirmed the recommended methodology.
The directive is also linked to a goal of increasing collective bargaining coverage. On this point, Minister Spautz stated that an action plan will be drafted in cooperation with social partners.
