The European Court of Justice confirms that the EU has the competence to legislate on the minimum wages of European workes

Today, the ECJ issued its ruling on the EU Minimum Wage Directive adopted under Commissioner Nicolas Schmit. The Court clarifies that certain provisions directly interefering with national pay fall outside the Union’s legislative competences.

Crucially, however, the Court confirms that the EU has the competence to legislate on the minimum wages of European workers, including the promotion of collective bargaining, as set out in Article 4. This reinforces the legitimacy of the EU’s social agenda and strengthens the European Pillar of Social Rights.

This ruling is therefore a positive step for the European social project: it confirms that the Union can act to protect workers’ rights. It underlines the EU’s role in promoting fair wages and dignified work across Europe.

We warmly thank Commissioner Nicolas Schmit for his leadership and dedication in advancing this crucial initiative, which remains central to ensuring a stronger, fairer Europe for all workers.