The power dynamics and the unseen struggle behind Brussels’ orgs
At the heart of Europe, Brussels is more than just the center of political power—it's a place where many find jobs, find their calling, or put their political science degrees to use for the betterment of Europe and for its competitiveness globally. Here, your network and connections can greatly impact your career trajectory, often outweighing merit and the unique contributions you bring to the table. This entrenched system raises a crucial question: do policy scholars necessarily make good leaders? Unfortunately, the skills required to navigate complex policies do not always translate into effective or empathetic leadership.
Too often, professionals in Brussels find themselves navigating toxic work environments. These situations can range from subtle undermining and exclusion to overt harassment and bullying. Despite how widespread these issues are, discussions about them remain largely under the radar—conversations are hushed, and stories are shared in whispers, if at all.
The silence around toxicity
One of the biggest challenges we face is the lack of structured dialogue about workplace toxicity in Brussels, EU’s policymaking space. Many who suffer in these environments do so in silence, without access to the resources or support they need to address their situations effectively. This silence perpetuates the cycle of toxicity, making it even harder for professionals to speak out or seek change.
The good news
The good news is that awareness of these issues is growing. High-profile cases like those at the European Public Health Alliance (and they are not the only ones), coverage of von der Leyen’s secretive and controlling work style and initiatives like The Nine, The Brussels Binder and recently the Good Enough Company are bringing much-needed attention to the realities of workplace toxicity in Brussels. These examples highlight the urgent need for systemic change and the importance of addressing leadership failures and toxic cultures.
But before we do anything, let’s get down to the basics….
What defines a toxic work environment?
A toxic work environment is characterised by a pattern of harmful behaviors that can undermine people's dignity and well-being at work. These may include, but are not limited to:
Persistent bullying or harassment
Discriminatory practices or remarks
Excessive pressure without support
Lack of communication and transparency
Credit stealing and manipulation
Understanding these behaviors is the first step toward addressing and resolving them.
Signs you're in a toxic work environment
Feeling dread about going to work
Constant anxiety or stress about facing the workday can be a sign of toxicity.
Physical and emotional exhaustion
Feeling drained regularly, not from workload alone, but from negativity or interpersonal dynamics.
Isolation or exclusion
Being systematically left out of meetings, discussions, or social events.
Retaliation for speaking up
Facing negative consequences after voicing concerns or complaints.
Steps to take in a toxic work environment
1. Document everything:
Keep detailed records of instances that contribute to a toxic environment. This documentation can be crucial for any future steps you decide to take.
2. Seek support:
Connect with colleagues who may share your experiences or seek outside help from professionals. Our platform offers a directory of support services and experts in workplace well-being.
3. Understand your rights:
Familiarise yourself with Brussels employment laws. Knowing your rights is essential for protecting yourself. Links to legal resources and advice can be found in our resources section.
4. Consider formal complaints:
If the situation doesn’t improve, consider filing a formal complaint. This could be internally through HR or externally through legal action if necessary.
5. Plan an exit strategy:
If the situation remains untenable, consider planning an exit strategy. This could involve transferring departments, finding a new job, or even changing fields if necessary.
