We are the number one union in the financial sector, but not only!

ALEBA: A century of advocacy, independence, and social progress

In Luxembourg’s dynamic and ever-evolving financial sector, one name stands out as a constant force for workers’ rights and social progress — ALEBA. With 10,000 members today, ALEBA is by far the largest and most influential trade union in the country's financial industry and since opening itself to other sectors, is now growing faster than ever. Its strength lies not only in its numbers but also in a rich history that spans over a century, marked by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to social dialogue.

A resounding mandate: over 700 employee representatives

During the most recent staff delegation elections in March 2024, ALEBA once again confirmed its leadership in the financial and related sectors by securing the confidence of over 46% of voters. This landslide result translated into more than 700 employee representatives elected across over 100 companies in Luxembourg - a clear indicator of the trust workers place in the union’s transparent and consistent work.

This widespread support is the result of a trade union strategy based on transparency, accountability, and real-time responsiveness. ALEBA’s focus has always been on meaningful representation, giving a voice to employees through real social dialogue and sustained presence in the workplace.

The ALEBA method: a personalised, people-first approach

At the heart of ALEBA's success lies a unique approach known as “The ALEBA method” - a highly personalised way of engaging with members that prioritises individual needs and tailored support. ALEBA does not believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, it listens attentively to each case and provides rapid, customised guidance. Where needed, experienced external legal experts are brought in to ensure that members receive top-tier advice and representation.

Crucially, social dialogue is not just a buzzword for ALEBA - it is the cornerstone of its operations. For ALEBA, real progress can only happen when workers are heard, respected, and actively involved in shaping their professional environments.

ALEBA's evolution and independence

To be a member of ALEBA is to connect with a powerful history deeply intertwined with Luxembourg's economic journey. Our roots lie in the burgeoning financial sector of the early 20th century, a time of both opportunity and the growing need for worker representation.

In 1918, ALEB, our predecessor, demonstrated its early commitment to its members by establishing a death benefit fund – a clear sign of the organisation's focus on the well-being of its workforce.   Later in 1927, the establishment of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange laid the foundation for the thriving financial industry we know today. The 1929 enactment of the first law on holding companies further solidified the financial sector's increasing importance to Luxembourg's future.

The challenges of the 1930s, marked by the global economic crisis and the subsequent suppression of trade unions before World War II, underscore the resilience and enduring spirit of worker solidarity that would eventually lead to ALEBA's strength. Following the post-war recovery, the financial sector gained prominence after the 1975 steel crisis. It became essential that employees in this sector have an independent voice to represent them.

A landmark moment arrived in 1967 with the signing of the first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for bank and insurance employees. This achievement demonstrated the growing influence of employee representatives in securing better working conditions. Recognising the unique demands of this rapidly evolving sector, the association made a strategic and empowering decision in 1978: to separate from the broader Fédération des Employés Privés (FEP) and become the fully independent union known as ALEBA. This pivotal move allowed ALEBA to dedicate its resources and focus exclusively on the specific needs and challenges facing financial sector professionals in Luxembourg, ensuring a more agile and targeted approach to advocacy.

The impact of this dedicated focus was evident in the sector's continued growth. By 1980, the financial workforce had reached 7,600, a number that more than doubled to 15,500 by 1990, highlighting the sector's increasing importance and the growing community of professionals it encompassed.

A significant step in solidifying its role as the official voice of these employees occurred on 2 March 2005, when the Association Luxembourgeoise des Employés de Banque et d’Assurance (ALEBA) gained official recognition as a nationally representative trade union. This recognition empowered ALEBA to more effectively represent its members and negotiate for their rights.

Demonstrating its enduring commitment to supporting the wider workforce, on 21 March 2023, ALEBA broadened its scope to become the “Association Luxembourgeoise pour tous les Employés ayant Besoin d’Assistance,” embracing all Luxembourg employees who require assistance and representation.

As we commemorate a century of dedication, ALEBA proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary on 9 November 2018. This milestone reflects a century of unwavering commitment to advocacy, protection, and progress for Luxembourg's employees. Being a part of ALEBA means connecting with this powerful history of independence, strategic action, and a deep-rooted dedication to the well-being of the workforce. Embrace this legacy with pride – you are an integral part of ALEBA's enduring strength and its ongoing mission to support you.

Defending social rights in the financial sector

ALEBA has a particularly strong reputation in collective bargaining, where it has been a driving force in improving benefits and working conditions in many companies. This was particularly evident in December 2007, when ALEBA successfully defended the renewal of the collective agreement for bank employees - an essential framework guaranteeing job security and fair working practices in the sector.

Looking to the future: a trusted partner for employees

Today, with its 10,000 members, ALEBA continues to build on this heritage. Its relevance, resilience and credibility are based on decades of trade union commitment founded on solid principles, trusting relationships with employees and concrete results in terms of negotiation and representation.

At a time of rapidly changing working environments and increasing uncertainty for workers, ALEBA remains a trusted partner, ensuring that the interests of Luxembourg's private sector employees are protected - not just in theory, but in the day-to-day reality of the world of work.

A strong testimony to this dynamic: for the first time in its history, ALEBA has succeeded in getting a delegate elected to the Luxembourg Chamber of Employees from a branch other than the financial sector. This election is a key step in enabling ALEBA to continue its development in all sectors of the Luxembourg economy and to ensure that everyone benefits from the ALEBA Method.

Thanks to your solidarity, we can continue to grow and guarantee the defence of your professional interests as well as the improvement of working conditions for all.

Join us today!