{"id":4936,"date":"2023-10-08T16:00:15","date_gmt":"2023-10-08T15:00:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/?post_type=agora_article&#038;p=4936"},"modified":"2024-06-10T15:43:25","modified_gmt":"2024-06-10T14:43:25","slug":"balancing-act-women-redefining-work-life-balance-in-trade-unions","status":"publish","type":"agora_article","link":"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/en\/agora_article\/balancing-act-women-redefining-work-life-balance-in-trade-unions\/","title":{"rendered":"Balancing Act : Women Redefining Work-Life Balance in Trade Unions"},"content":{"rendered":"<section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-1 wpb_column vc_column_container prevcolumn hide_on_tablets hide_on_mobiles has_bg_color stretched\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner us_custom_7de2aec7\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-iconbox iconpos_left style_default color_primary align_right no_text\"><div class=\"w-iconbox-icon\" style=\"font-size:1em;\"><i class=\"far fa-arrow-left\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox-meta\"><span class=\"w-iconbox-title\">Previous<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-10 wpb_column vc_column_container hide_on_tablets hide_on_mobiles\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h1 class=\"w-post-elm post_title us_custom_9bb7a90a entry-title color_link_inherit\">Balancing Act : Women Redefining Work-Life Balance in Trade Unions<\/h1><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container hide_on_default hide_on_laptops\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"w-hwrapper valign_middle align_center\" style=\"--hwrapper-gap:1rem\"><div class=\"w-iconbox iconpos_left style_default color_primary align_right no_text\"><div class=\"w-iconbox-icon\" style=\"font-size:1em;\"><i class=\"far fa-arrow-left\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox-meta\"><span class=\"w-iconbox-title\">Previous<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox iconpos_right style_default color_primary align_left no_text\"><div class=\"w-iconbox-meta\"><span class=\"w-iconbox-title\">Next<\/span><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox-icon\" style=\"font-size:1em;\"><i class=\"far fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><h1 class=\"w-post-elm post_title us_custom_9bb7a90a entry-title color_link_inherit\">Balancing Act : Women Redefining Work-Life Balance in Trade Unions<\/h1><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-1 wpb_column vc_column_container nextcolumn hide_on_tablets hide_on_mobiles has_bg_color stretched\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner us_custom_7de2aec7\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-iconbox iconpos_right style_default color_primary align_left no_text\"><div class=\"w-iconbox-meta\"><span class=\"w-iconbox-title\">Next<\/span><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox-icon\" style=\"font-size:1em;\"><i class=\"far fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-1 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-10 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-hwrapper valign_middle align_center\" style=\"--hwrapper-gap:0rem\"><div class=\"w-post-elm post_taxonomy us_custom_acdd79d8 has_text_color style_simple color_link_inherit\"><span class=\"term-24 term-agora-90\">Agora #90<\/span><\/div><div class=\"w-post-elm post_custom_field us_custom_a518f2fa redlinebefore has_text_color type_text page_numbers color_link_inherit\"><span class=\"w-post-elm-value\">39-55<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><p class=\"w-post-elm post_custom_field us_custom_58b1af09 type_text short_description color_link_inherit\"><span class=\"w-post-elm-value\">For women engaged in trade unions, the pursuit of work-life equilibrium takes on unique significance and complexity.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-1 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container cornerrighttop\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerleftbottom has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_617018186-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container cornerlefttop\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_boxes stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>In the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workplace, the concept of work-life balance has emerged as a pivotal concern for individuals across various professions. However, for women engaged in trade unions, the pursuit of work-life equilibrium takes on unique significance and complexity. The fact is, among thousands of our members, 51% are women. Some of them are federal bureau members and have a seat in our executive committee boards. They are individuals who have navigated the intricate intersection between their professional commitments and personal lives while contributing to the evolution of our trade unions.<\/p>\n<p>In this series of interviews, we gave them sets of questions and they chose the questions that they wanted to answer. These series of interviews are their voices, echoes of their opinions that illuminate their perspectives, insights, and experiences, shedding light on the intersection of gender, trade unions, and the pursuit of equilibrium between professional and private lives.. They provide insights into their definitions of this crucial equilibrium of work-life balance and explain why it holds particular importance within the context of their roles in trade unions.<\/p>\n<p>One of the central themes of this discussion revolves around the role of trade unions in supporting women&#8217;s quest for work-life balance. Are there specific initiatives, policies, or programs introduced by trade unions to address these issues? Is there adequate flexibility and accommodation for women to manage their work and personal lives within these organizations, and what improvements are suggested?<\/p>\n<p>Their stories and insights provide valuable lessons and inspiration for women of all ages and backgrounds striving to achieve delicate harmony and equilibrium between their professional and personal lives. (AK)<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_small with_line width_50 thick_2 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h6 style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>To read the whole interview, please click on the names of the different authors below<\/strong><\/em><\/h6>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_medium\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-tabs layout_ver navwidth_auto navpos_left style_trendy switch_hover has_scrolling\" style=\"--sections-title-size:1em\"><div class=\"w-tabs-list items_4 align_none\"><div class=\"w-tabs-list-h\"><button class=\"w-tabs-item active\" aria-controls=\"content-n01e\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"w-tabs-item-title\">Urszula Mojkowska<\/span><\/button><button class=\"w-tabs-item\" aria-controls=\"content-s0f1\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"w-tabs-item-title\">Sandrine Coets<\/span><\/button><button class=\"w-tabs-item\" aria-controls=\"content-t4ef\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"w-tabs-item-title\">Vaida Rukaite \u2013 Drazdove<\/span><\/button><button class=\"w-tabs-item\" aria-controls=\"content-cbf7\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span class=\"w-tabs-item-title\">V\u00e9ronique Michel<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-sections titles-align_none icon_chevron cpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section active\" id=\"n01e\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header active\" aria-controls=\"content-n01e\" aria-expanded=\"true\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Urszula Mojkowska<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-n01e\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-3 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerrighttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:100%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"685\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Urszula-Mojkowska-685x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-9 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>Urszula is the President of Union Syndicale in the European Parliament (US-PE) and has been a member of the trade union since 2020.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>What motivated you to become a member of a trade union?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I am a defense attorney by education and practice. It has always been my calling to help people, and in the EU Institutions, trade unions offer an opportunity to fulfill that calling.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What are some of the common challenges you&#8217;ve faced in maintaining a satisfactory work-life balance in your institution?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The main challenge is evident: the conditions for trade union secondments in the European Parliament are prohibitive; in practice, there are none. Consequently, every trade union activist faces the dilemma of either giving up trade union work or working two jobs. This means that most of my evenings and weekends are occupied by trade union work, which, in the long term, is unsustainable and the opposite of work-life balance. The fact that there are fewer women than men engaged in trade unions is quite telling in this context.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Have you ever felt that your work-life balance was negatively impacted by the nature of your job? If so, how did you address it?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Every day! We have raised the issue of the functioning of trade unions in the EP with our hierarchy, but so far, nothing has changed.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How does achieving a good work-life balance affect your overall well-being and job satisfaction?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Since it is impossible to find the right work-life balance as a trade unionist in the European Parliament, due to the absence of proper arrangements for the functioning of trade unions, this has a clear negative impact on health.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Are there any specific initiatives, policies, or programs that the trade union has introduced to address work-life balance issues?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The matter does not concern the trade union but rather the relations between the trade unions and the employer.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image nocorners has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793016-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>Do you think there is enough flexibility and accommodation for women to manage their work and personal lives in your institution? What improvements would you suggest?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For some time, our Institution put in place flexible arrangements for teleworking, which were an enormous help, especially for women. However, it now seems that the Parliament is planning to reduce teleworking, which, in our opinion, would be a step in the wrong direction. It&#8217;s important to remember that a large majority of employees in the EU Institutions are expats without access to family support for matters as basic as caring for small children, which, frankly, affects women. Therefore, flexible teleworking was a game changer, and we would like to keep it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Have you use flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or job sharing, to help maintain a healthy balance? How have they impacted your experience?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>So far, teleworking has been helpful, but the complete ban on teleworking from abroad (it seems that the European Parliament is the only EU Institution maintaining this ban) is a problem, especially since I am currently based in Poland. The possibility to telework from one of Parliament&#8217;s three locations (BRU, LUX, or STR) would allow regular contact with our trade union members and help me better fulfill my duties as the president of an organization.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What advice would you give younger women concerned about balancing career aspirations with personal commitments?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ve observed that women are less inclined than men to delegate, and we tend to be perfectionists. My advice is to remember that you only have the tools you have, and you can only do so much with malfunctioning software, etc. So, take it easy and do your best, but don&#8217;t place undue pressure on yourself, which is not entirely yours to bear within a hierarchy. Also, consider taking some management courses and see if you can delegate some of your tasks.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerrighttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:133.3333%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1706\" height=\"2560\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793387-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>What role do you think employers and the institution should play in promoting work-life balance for women?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I would say there should be less training and more action on the part of the employer. We all know the theory, but it&#8217;s the practical arrangements that matter. Simplification of bureaucratic procedures, which consume a lot of our working time, would also be beneficial.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Are there any changes you&#8217;d like to see within the institution that could facilitate better work-life balance for women in the long term?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Better use of teleworking. Cutting down on commuting time saves an average of two hours per day, which is self-evident. Most of my female colleagues have reported that when teleworking, they take more breaks to move around, possibly because they are, by default, wearing more comfortable clothes instead of office attire, and nobody looks at them strangely when they do their sit-ups. Scientists have raised concerns that sitting is the new smoking, with its negative effects being even more pronounced on female bodies.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do you personally manage to strike a balance between your work responsibilities and personal life? Are there strategies or practices you find particularly effective?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;m simply waiting for better times for trade unions in the European Parliament!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_large with_line width_50 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"s0f1\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-s0f1\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Sandrine Coets<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-s0f1\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-3 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerrighttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:100%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"687\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Sandrine-Coets-687x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-9 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>Sandrine has been a member of Union Syndicale since 2018 and was actively involved at the beginning of 2022 when she was elected as one of the vice presidents on the board of Union Syndicale Bruxelles.\u00a0 She is in charge of legal issues and has been appointed to participate in certain joint committees (mixing staff and administration representatives to discuss particular subjects) such as COPEC (equal opportunities committee). She also takes part in various joint exercises such as meetings with DGs for reclassifications (and promotions), and is actively involved in various social dialogues, particularly issues concerning colleagues working in EU delegations abroad or the status of contract agents.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ol>\n<li><strong>What motivated you to join a trade union?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>(Alas) my motivation came from the problems I had experienced and the desire to avoid this for others by using my experiences in a positive way to put them at the service of colleagues.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><strong>How would you define &#8220;work-life balance&#8221; and why do you think it&#8217;s important, especially for women in our union?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>For me, the balance between the 2 spheres &#8211; private and professional &#8211; exists when we can enjoy and flourish in each of them without one of these spheres unduly &#8220;inviting&#8221; itself into the other and thus disrupting the other sphere. I believe this balance is unique to each individual and applies equally to men and women. But unlike a scale, it&#8217;s clear that the more load you put\/&#8221;accept&#8221; in one of these spheres, the less you&#8217;ll be able to put\/accept in the other. The difficulty lies in finding the right balance for each individual.<\/p>\n<p>At a time when family\/parental responsibilities still often weigh heavily on women&#8217;s shoulders, yet when they are expected to be as efficient, effective and productive as their male colleagues, it&#8217;s clear that balance for them is all the more difficult to achieve or maintain.<\/p>\n<p>In my opinion, it&#8217;s the growing feminization of the job market that has brought this notion of balancing the private and professional spheres to the fore. Before, the balance was easier and was based on the 2 people in the couple: the man the professional sphere, the woman the &#8220;private&#8221; (family) sphere. Now that everyone is entering the professional sphere (the one &#8211; the only one &#8211; that allows us to exist in the eyes of society and earn a living), we have to redistribute the tasks of the private sphere. And the world of business\/work should get used to it and participate too.\u00a0Because this balance is essential for everyone&#8217;s health (physical and mental) and well-being.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li><strong>In your opinion, what are the key elements that contribute to a good work-life balance?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The ability and possibility to separate the 2:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; ability in the sense that you have to be able to give yourself a time for work and another for your private life (and force yourself to do so if necessary)<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; and possibility in the sense that you need a work\/life balance that allows you &#8211; not only theoretically, but also practically &#8211; to have this split on a regular basis.<\/p>\n<p>However, new technologies have brought work and private life closer together, making it easier to switch from one to the other (and avoiding the time wasted commuting to work), but at the same time preventing a clear boundary between the 2 spheres, with consequences for people&#8217;s health and well-being (cf. the large number of burn-outs currently occurring).<\/p>\n<p>Certain periods\/events in life can also require one of the spheres to be at times more dense\/loaded, normally requiring the other to be lightened. This is the case, for example, with parenthood, which adds a significant number of tasks in the private sphere, and should result in a reduction of tasks in the other sphere, which is not always possible (given the financial consequences &#8211; loss of salary &#8211; or career advancement that this entails). The result is also an imbalance, with its consequences for people&#8217;s health (burn-out). This is particularly true for women (who still shoulder the lion&#8217;s share of family duties).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerleftbottom has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793580-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ol start=\"4\">\n<li><strong>What are some of the common challenges you have faced in maintaining a satisfactory work-life balance at your institution?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Generally speaking, any change in either sphere can have an impact on the balance. In my opinion, one of the main challenges is parenthood. When you become a parent, it&#8217;s an extremely complicated time to maintain a proper balance between your private and professional life, because of course your private life is suddenly turned upside down and &#8220;busy&#8221;, but nothing generally changes in the professional sphere. The consequence at professional level will generally be stagnation or a withdrawal\/decrease in work (which will obviously have financial and career advancement consequences). Unfortunately, this is particularly true for women, who still often bear the brunt of family duties.<\/p>\n<p>I have in mind the story of a colleague who was deputy head of unit (and whose competence had therefore already been recognized), but who refused a position as head of unit offered to her because, as the mother of 2 young children, she felt she couldn&#8217;t do it properly (her husband was indeed head of unit).<\/p>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li><strong>Have you ever felt that your work-life balance was compromised by the nature of your job? If so, how did you remedy this?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Yes, but not so much because of the nature of my work, but rather because of the lack of sufficient flexibility to take account of a major and fairly common change in private life: that of becoming a parent. Even now, I&#8217;m not sure I&#8217;ve achieved a balance. In this case, after a difficult professional experience in a delegation, which forced me to return to head office to &#8220;recuperate&#8221;, I feel &#8220;obliged&#8221; to leave again, because I realize that in Belgium (in Europe, I could say), managing a full-time job and 3 young children is very difficult and certainly doesn&#8217;t allow for a work\/life balance. There&#8217;s very little help. So I&#8217;m going back to France where, in principle, I&#8217;ll be able to find more help (given the higher salary due to expatriation bonuses &#8211; the price of being far from home and family and far from a secure healthcare system &#8211; and the possibility of hiring help). Other formulas might have been possible, but don&#8217;t exist.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"6\">\n<li><strong>How does a good work-life balance affect your general well-being and job satisfaction?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The 2 are obviously linked. Well-being and motivation depend on this balance.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li><strong>How has the union helped you and other women find a better work-life balance?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The union has enabled me to provide others with what I would have liked to receive during difficult times at work (and which is very difficult to obtain via the system itself): a listening ear, understanding, help with possible steps to take when faced with a problem&#8230; This gives me the impression of being useful, which is important for me. However, I don&#8217;t think this has any impact on the balance between the 2 spheres: it&#8217;s clearly a question of improving one of them: work.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerlefttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"2560\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_90327246-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ol start=\"8\">\n<li><strong>Are there any specific initiatives, policies or programs that the union has put in place to address work-life balance issues?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Union Syndicale has organized several workshops on the subject, but we can always do more. As I&#8217;ve reiterated throughout this interview, one particular time when there&#8217;s a real risk of tipping that balance is when you become a parent. I think it would be interesting to take an interest in this (at the institutional level&#8230;which could be done via the union).<\/p>\n<p>Not long ago, I took part in a seminar on &#8220;parenthood in the workplace&#8221;, which I found very interesting and which aimed, on the one hand, to explain to managers\/executives how to take better account of this important (and fairly inevitable) moment in their employees&#8217; lives (to avoid &#8220;burning them out&#8221;) and, on the other hand, to give tips to &#8220;parent&#8221; employees on how to better combine their role as parent and worker (without &#8220;burning out&#8221;).<\/p>\n<p>In terms of initiatives, I&#8217;m thinking for example of the proposal put forward by the Socialist Party (PS) in Belgium, which recently submitted a bill aimed at harmonizing paternity leave with maternity leave (currently set at 15 weeks in Belgium) and making it compulsory. This initiative would pave the way for a more equitable distribution of family responsibilities, remove the risk of discrimination in hiring (when an employer sees a woman in front of him and is already afraid of the moment when she will announce her pregnancy), enable women to manage their early pregnancy more serenely (the fear of &#8220;announcing&#8221; to the employer) and offer fathers and co-parents an equivalent right\/duty to take care of their children, thus lightening the burden on women. This proposal could also serve as an inspiration for the union.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"9\">\n<li><strong>In your institution, do you think there is enough flexibility and accommodation for women to manage their work and private lives? What improvements would you suggest?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>For me, it&#8217;s not enough. But not for women as such, rather for parents (especially those who bear the brunt of family responsibilities, which is often women&#8230; but sometimes men).<\/p>\n<p>It would be better to integrate parenthood into the world of work (for both men and women). This could start with better access to information, reassurance, explanations and preparation for future parents. One concrete proposal that came up at a conference I attended on integrating parenthood into the workplace was the creation of a parenting guide that could include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Legal and administrative information: Provide an overview of rights and laws related to parenthood, including parental leave, benefits and job protection guarantees.<\/li>\n<li>Time and workload management: Advice on how to adapt one&#8217;s schedule to the needs of the family, with an emphasis on flexible working options, teleworking and flexitime.<\/li>\n<li>Childcare options: Provide detailed information on the types of childcare available, whether cr\u00e8ches, nurseries, nannies or other solutions, as well as advice on choosing the best option for the family&#8217;s needs.<\/li>\n<li>Managing parents&#8217; well-being: topics such as preventing parental burnout, managing stress and anxiety, and practical workshops such as returning to work after maternity\/paternity leave, the experience of pregnancy at work, work-life balance, and strategies to avoid parental burnout.<\/li>\n<li>Parental leave: Explain in detail the leave available to parents, including maternity, paternity and sick leave for children. Highlight application procedures and resources to ensure parents understand their rights.<\/li>\n<li>Psychological and emotional support: Set up psychological and emotional support resources, such as coaching or counselling sessions for parents going through difficult times.<\/li>\n<li>Family resources: Provide information on parent support groups, family associations, social networks and other ways of getting in touch with other parents.<\/li>\n<li>Work-life balance: Offer strategies and tips for maintaining a good work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of taking time for oneself.<\/li>\n<li>Role of managers and colleagues: Raise awareness among managers and colleagues of the importance of supporting parents, highlighting inclusive leadership practices and ways of creating a supportive work environment.<\/li>\n<li>Changing the corporate culture: Suggest ways to promote an inclusive corporate culture that values work-life balance and encourages gender equality in family responsibilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerrighttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793536-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ol start=\"10\">\n<li><strong>Have you used flexible work arrangements, such as remote working, flexitime or job sharing, to help you maintain a good balance? What impact have these measures had on your experience?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Yes, I&#8217;ve used &#8220;parental leave&#8221; during school vacations. The impact was very slight in terms of balance, as the private sphere was going to be busier (cfr looking after 3 children under 10 on leave) than I decided to lighten the other. So I kept the same balance&#8230; already unbalanced given my previous answer and my need to leave to find more help and obviously with, on the other hand, a negative financial counterpart.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"11\">\n<li><strong>Is there a perception that prioritizing work-life balance could hinder career progression, particularly for women? How can this perception be taken into account?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Obviously, the general perception is still one of &#8220;giving oneself away&#8221; at work. But I think things are changing with the younger generation, who are attaching more and more importance to this balance, even if it means sacrificing career progression, which could perhaps in time change attitudes about what&#8217;s important.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"12\">\n<li><strong>What advice would you give to young women who are worried about reconciling their professional aspirations with their personal commitments?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Be strong, know what you want and say it, things can (and do) change, but don&#8217;t give up (neither family life nor professional life), fight for things to change and for a greater balance.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"13\">\n<li><strong>What role do you think employers and the institution as a whole should play in promoting work-life balance for women?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Employers and the institution as a whole obviously play a crucial societal role in promoting work-life balance. In an ever-changing world, it&#8217;s imperative that employers keep pace with society&#8217;s evolving needs and implement measures that meet the expectations of new generations. And one of these new expectations is, of course, work-life balance.<\/p>\n<p>Employers and the institution must therefore first recognize that work-life balance has become a decisive criterion of job attractiveness for the new generation, as well as an important factor in employee satisfaction and well-being at work. They must also take into account the fact that parenthood is a fairly common and relatively unavoidable source of imbalance within the company, and that it would therefore be useful to have a positive policy in this area.<\/p>\n<p>In any case, the employer and the institution are the first to suffer the negative effects of failing to take an imbalance into account. When parents&#8217; needs are not taken into account, this can lead to increased absenteeism, staff turnover and reduced employee motivation. Women in particular can be disproportionately affected, as they are often the ones managing family burdens and facing the additional challenges of motherhood and childcare.<\/p>\n<p>In short, by embracing this fact and taking concrete positive action, employers and the institution would be demonstrating their commitment to the well-being of their employees, and helping to break down gender stereotypes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerleftbottom has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793558-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ol start=\"14\">\n<li><strong>Are there any changes you&#8217;d like to see within the profession that could facilitate a better work-life balance for women in the long term?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Absolutely, there are several concrete and rapid changes within the profession that could greatly facilitate a better work-life balance (and especially for women) in the long term. Flexible working hours and telecommuting possibilities are one of them, and have already been widely implemented in the Institution (albeit to varying degrees depending on function, institution and DG).<\/p>\n<p>Once again, I&#8217;d like to add that parenthood is an element that could be given even greater consideration by the institution, as it is a source of great imbalance. Alongside the traditional parental leave already provided for, other avenues could be explored to support this particularly busy period for all parents (and especially mothers):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A Parenthood Guide: A comprehensive, user-friendly guide providing detailed information on how to reconcile parenthood and a professional career within the company (legal aspects, advantages\/facilities offered by the company, resources available to support parents);<\/li>\n<li>Support for employees returning from maternity\/paternity leave;<\/li>\n<li>Support for breastfeeding and workplace design: for example, creating comfortable rest areas and specially-equipped lactation rooms, understanding that breastfeeding follows unpredictable physiological schedules, dedicating fridges to breast milk, installing breastfeeding chairs..;<\/li>\n<li>Compulsory paternity leave (to ease the burden on moms and allow dads to enjoy their children too);<\/li>\n<li>Offer parent support and professional awareness workshops for managers (with topics such as managing parenthood at work, work-life balance, deconstructing gender stereotypes, resources available for new parents and effective communication).<\/li>\n<li>Childcare solutions (in partnership with recognized services);<\/li>\n<li>Intergenerational mentoring programs enabling more experienced women to guide and advise younger women, sharing their knowledge and experience.<\/li>\n<li>Objective performance appraisal: Implement performance appraisal processes that take family responsibilities into account, and evaluate employees on the basis of their results rather than their physical presence in the office.<\/li>\n<li>Internal support groups: Create internal support groups where women can share experiences, exchange advice and discuss specific challenges related to work-life balance.<\/li>\n<li>Inclusive leadership: Promote inclusive leadership that actively encourages women&#8217;s participation in management positions and values their balanced contribution between professional and private life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerleftbottom has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1920\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_168055362-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ol start=\"15\">\n<li><strong>How do you personally manage to strike a balance between your professional responsibilities and your private life? Are there any strategies or practices that you find particularly effective?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Strategies and outside help to save time (even better when they don&#8217;t cost anything): help with shopping (online ordering), help with cooking (delivery of boxes with recipes), help with childcare (family, friends, etc.), teleworking (even if this prevents a clear separation between work and family), etc. Without all this, life in Belgium would have been unmanageable.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"16\">\n<li><strong>What do you think about working 4 days a week? If you are in favour (or against), can you explain why?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Personally, I&#8217;d be in favour of shorter working hours in general: 4 days, but still 8 hours a day (the famous French 32-hour week, which I think is a very good idea in terms of work-life balance).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_large with_line width_50 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"t4ef\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-t4ef\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">Vaida Rukaite \u2013 Drazdove<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-t4ef\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-3 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerrighttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:100%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Vaida-RD.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-9 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>She joined Union Syndicale Petten in 2012, shortly after starting at the Joint Research Centre in Petten. Her first action as a union member was a memorable one. She went on strike in cold weather when the administration decided to extend the weekly working time in 2012, all while expecting her third child. Vaida is a member of the Executive Committee of the US-Petten and was recently elected to the bureau of the USF. As the Chairwoman of the Local Staff Committee in Petten, for her second term, she primarily focused on social dialogue activities within the Staff Committee, which slightly differs from the union&#8217;s scope.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>What prompted you to become a member of a trade union?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I was attracted by the opportunity to have my rights defended. When I joined the Commission in 2007 as a contract agent, I held a somewhat naive belief that the Commission was the most progressive and fair employer in the world. However, after seeing the situation from within and noticing the discrepancies between declarations and reality, the inequalities between men and women, the existence of glass ceilings, limitations for colleagues from newly accessed countries, and the acquisition of power by certain managers and toxic colleagues, I felt that the union was a platform to address these injustices.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How would you define &#8220;work-life balance,&#8221; and why do you think it&#8217;s important, especially for women in our trade union?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Defining &#8220;work-life balance&#8221; is always tricky. The term implies that work is not part of life, which I disagree with. Work should also be lived well, executed effectively, and integrated into your overall well-being. For me, balance means not being overly stressed for extended periods, effectively managing my workload, and still having time for my family, including meaningful conversations during the week. Achieving work-life balance is essential for everyone&#8217;s health. For decades, society praised workaholics and had a better acceptance of fully dedicated male professionals compared to their female counterparts. While this statement is a simplification of complex social constructs, some may find it offensive. It&#8217;s my personal perspective. Even with a supportive husband, as a working mother, I often find myself trapped in a never-ending cycle of guilt. I feel guilty when I need to leave work early for family reasons as a professional and guilty when I must focus on work or travel for it, missing important events in my children&#8217;s lives. Achieving this balance is an aspiration but often feels impossible, even with tools like flextime, parental and family leaves, and time credits. Ultimately, it comes down to the humanity and understanding of your manager. However, due to COVID, the paradigm of work-life balance has shifted. We&#8217;ve learned to work in a hybrid mode, realizing the benefits of working from home and the importance of team collaboration, collegiality, and office space. This flexibility is a win-win for both employers and employees. While there are stories of &#8220;bad apples,&#8221; these individual unfortunate cases should not overshadow the good framework the EC has provided for its staff.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_30 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>&#8220;Defining &#8220;work-life balance&#8221; is always tricky. The term implies that work is not part of life, which I disagree with.&#8221;<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_30 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>In your opinion, what are the key components contributing to a healthy work-life balance?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The aforementioned tools, such as flexitime and leaves, are essential. However, it&#8217;s also crucial to find satisfaction in your work, feel that it&#8217;s meaningful, and earn the trust and respect of your manager(s).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"w-image cornerleftbottom has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1425\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793393-scaled-e1698792943780.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>What are some of the common challenges you&#8217;ve faced in maintaining a satisfactory work-life balance in your institution?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I started working at the Commission in September 2007, and my second son was born on October 31. In Lithuania, we had generous maternity leave, and I was judged for returning to work when my son was only four months old. Balancing work and breastfeeding was challenging, and it remains my biggest regret. Other common challenges include being available for children&#8217;s school events, which often occur during core working hours, resulting in my absence from many of them over the years. Now, with my children older and the flexibility of hybrid work and flexitime, planning and managing these challenges is easier.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Are there specific initiatives, policies, or programs that the trade union has introduced to address work-life balance issues?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I have always been proud that the idea of flexitime originated in Petten and was achieved by colleagues from our union. It&#8217;s a great idea that significantly helps us balance our lives.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Have you used flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or job sharing, to help maintain a healthy balance? How have they impacted your experience?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Yes, I have used remote work and began taking parental leave in 2022 during the summer. Ironically, it&#8217;s not to spend time with my children but to spend time with my mother, my only surviving parent. During COVID, we couldn&#8217;t visit my home country, and I realized that it&#8217;s not about how long my mom will stay with us but how many more times we&#8217;ll see her. This realization led me to plan more time and quality time with her, as a strong family relationship is crucial for work-life balance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_30 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>&#8220;I often find myself trapped in a never-ending cycle of guilt. As a professional, I feel guilty when I need to leave work early for family reasons and I feel guilty when I must focus on work or travel for it, and missing important events in my children&#8217;s lives.&#8221;<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_30 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>Is there a perception that prioritizing work-life balance might hinder career progression, particularly for women? How can this perception be addressed?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>There may be such a perception, but it&#8217;s less prevalent than in the past. Changing the approach involves top management leading by example and treating their teams accordingly. In the case of the JRC, our DG is doing just that.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do you personally manage to strike a balance between your work responsibilities and personal life? Are there specific strategies or practices that you find particularly effective?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I don&#8217;t always achieve a perfect balance, and the scale often leans towards work. However, it should be simple: rest, delegate, ask for help, and prioritize your health. Ultimately, your family, mental health, and physical health are the most important things.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"cbf7\"><button class=\"w-tabs-section-header\" aria-controls=\"content-cbf7\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">V\u00e9ronique Michel<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/button><div  class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-cbf7\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-3 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image cornerrighttop has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:100%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Veronique-Michel-683x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-9 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>V\u00e9ronique is an elected member of IPSO (International and European Organization of Public Services), the only recognized trade union of the European Central Bank. She strives to create an inclusive workplace so that every single employee feels respected and can flourish. Employees are often portrayed as valuable assets by organizations that need the talents of their staff to succeed. The recognition of their skills creates, in fact, a healthy work environment which, in turn, stimulates the commitment and productivity of the employees. She would call this a \u201cvirtuous circle\u201d.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53 column2auto\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>In your view, what is the role of a Trade Union?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>As the voice of employees, trade unions ensure the necessary checks and balances in the public and private sectors.<\/p>\n<p>In recent decades, the world has undergone profound changes: the advent of digital technologies has transformed workplaces, citizens expect tangible proof of organisations\u2019 ethical charters but also increased transparency and accountability from their political representatives, etc\u2026Clearly, people wish to be the actors of their lives and participate to create a better society.<\/p>\n<p>In this context, the Trade Unions&#8217; objective is to improve the working conditions of employees for the benefit of all &#8211; including for the investors of their organization &#8211; but also address societal challenges such as digitalization and jobs, climate change, food security, social security, public services, pensions etc\u2026. Trade unions have an important role to play in shaping our societies, at local and national levels, but also beyond our borders. People are feeling increasingly concerned about the future of the world and wish to be involved in its governance. Therefore, I believe that today\u2019s Trade Unions should be defined as pressure groups or lobbies, staff representatives as lobbyists within their own organization but also for their contribution to society in general, and employees, through their work and commitment, as shareholders of their organization.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is your definition of an efficient work environment?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Employees should be offered opportunities for a career development, whatever their age group, gender, nationality, social background (an aspect often neglected), hierarchical level in their organisation, work pattern (part-time or full-time), or if they have a handicap&#8230; In this perspective, the trade unions contribute to design an effective HR strategy to attract talents, create diversity, develop skills with opportunities for promotion, but also retain experience. The knowledge acquired through experience is indeed a precious know-how often forgotten. And this knowledge is linked to seniority. Age should not be seen as an obstacle but an opportunity. Experience cannot be invented; it is acquired with time and patience. Through failures and successes.<\/p>\n<p>Effective governance also means accepting diversity of thoughts: a real challenge in an international workplace with employees with diverse cultural backgrounds, different ways of thinking and working, but also with distinct experiences and history with unions and staff representation in their home countries. Engaging with others, challenging oneself, standing ready to listen and learn from others may lead to the design of innovative projects that would otherwise have never seen the light of day, but have turned to be essential to the success of an organization. Needless to say, creativity and innovation make an organization unique and successful. But Organisations have to dare! Dare to question themselves. Do they have this ambition? This approach is pragmatic and based on my own personal experience: I have seen it in practice. Believe me, it works.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_50 thick_1 style_solid color_border align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image nocorners has_ratio align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><div style=\"padding-bottom:42.8571%\"><\/div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" src=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/AdobeStock_576793056-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_30 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>&#8220;Age should not be seen as an obstacle but an opportunity. Experience cannot be invented; it is acquired with time and patience. Through failures and successes.&#8221;<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium with_line width_30 thick_2 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_432d3f53\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><strong>Do you think that employees\u2019 participation in the governance of an organization can make a difference?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Whether in the public or private sector, for any organization, laying down the foundations of an inclusive and respectful work environment begins with the participation of staff in the design of its strategy. Germany, for example, has implemented a legislation to involve workers in the governance of their companies, it is called \u201cmitbestimmungsrecht\u201d (the right of co-determination).<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is your approach to work-life balance?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Since the outbreak of COVID, people around the world have started questioning the meaning of their work, their aspirations and how their professional life should impact their personal life. work-life balance is no novelty, but I would say it has become an issue of major concern since the idea of quality of life has now been widely accepted &#8211; which is particularly the case for the current generation but was not necessarily the case for previous generations.<\/p>\n<p>work-life balance is linked to the participation of women in general, women with children (who often have to work and take care of their home), but also all those who support their parents while working. Because women represent half of the sky, they should be supported in their professional life. They should have the choice, the choice to have a career, to strike a balance between their professional and private lives. Women must be offered opportunities and equal pay in recognition of their talents. The same goes for all those who take care of their parents but also the disabled and the elderly. They are all part of our society.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row via_flex valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"agora_edition":[24],"class_list":["post-4936","agora_article","type-agora_article","status-publish","hentry","agora_edition-agora-90"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Balancing Act : Women Redefining Work-Life Balance in Trade Unions - Union Syndicale<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover how women engaged in trade unions, the pursuit of work-life equilibrium takes on unique significance and complexity.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/unionsyndicale.eu\/en\/agora_article\/balancing-act-women-redefining-work-life-balance-in-trade-unions\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Balancing Act : Women Redefining Work-Life Balance in Trade Unions - 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