EPO staff are not ready to accept substantial losses of purchasing power
The Union Syndicale Fédérale (USF) has published an open letter expressing serious concern about the latest developments at the European Patent Office (EPO). As a federation representing unions across EU and international public services, USF draws attention to long-standing issues at the EPO and highlights the renewed pressures facing staff today — from excessive production demands to understaffing, uncertainty around allowances, and a significant loss of purchasing power.
The letter also recalls past instances where the EPO faced public and institutional criticism over labour rights and governance issues, warning that the current trajectory risks repeating old patterns. With this message, USF reaffirms its support for SUEPO and EPO staff, encouraging vigilance and readiness to act should future salary or working-condition measures further undermine staff welfare.
