The no-show at a key hearing on workers’ rights has triggered serious backlash, raising questions about the tech giant’s respect for democratic institutions and its responsibility toward employees.
Amazon vs. European Parliament: is a corporate giant dodging democratic debate?
Empty chair, loud message
On 26 June, MEPs gathered in Brussels for a long-anticipated hearing on working conditions in Amazon warehouses. The aim? A face-to-face debate between lawmakers, trade union representatives, and Amazon executives.
But Amazon skipped the meeting — again.
This wasn’t their first no-show. In 2024, the company was stripped of its EU lobbyist passes for missing previous hearings without justification. The June session could have been a step toward rebuilding trust. Instead, Amazon didn’t send a single director.
Talks that never happened
Amazon had proposed sending two vice presidents — one for Global Services and Operations, and another for EU Public Policy. But MEPs weren’t impressed. Lawmakers argued these figures weren’t high-ranking enough to answer serious political questions about labor practices and surveillance in warehouses.
The result? The meeting went ahead without Amazon at the table.
The absence sparked outrage, especially from left-wing MEPs and trade unionists. Some, including Oliver Roethig from the UNI Europa trade union, even called for a complete cut of ties between the European Parliament and Amazon Web Services (AWS), Amazon’s cloud division.
While symbolic for now, such a move could set a powerful precedent — pushing Big Tech to be more transparent and accountable.
The broader concern? That Amazon is using its massive influence to sidestep responsibility for long-standing allegations about:
- Poor warehouse conditions
- Excessive algorithmic surveillance of workers
- Union-busting tactics
These aren’t new accusations. They’ve been documented by labor NGOs and trade unions across Europe for years.
Lobbying behind closed doors?
Despite an official ban on Amazon’s lobbyists in EU institutions, the company appears to be maintaining informal contacts with lawmakers. Technically legal — but highly controversial.
Three NGOs recently teamed up to demand that Amazon’s ban from Parliament be extended, citing these behind-the-scenes meetings. The case highlights how hard it is to regulate corporate influence, especially when the rules leave loopholes.
In response to the latest hearing, Amazon sent MEPs a round of emails emphasizing the company’s contributions to the European economy and defending its approach to workplace safety. A spokesperson claimed Amazon had been “ready and willing” to participate in the session and share information about its “modern and safe” work environments.
Smart strategy or evasion?
Observers say Amazon’s refusal to attend might be a calculated move — one that avoids public grilling and bad press. But this strategy could backfire.
By dodging accountability, Amazon risks deepening its rift with EU lawmakers, which could:
- Extend its lobbying restrictions
- Influence future legislation on workers’ rights, AI surveillance, and corporate transparency
With the EU increasingly focused on protecting workers in the digital economy, the heat is on. As one of Europe’s largest private employers, Amazon remains under scrutiny.
More than just a no-show
This standoff could mark a turning point. Not just in EU–Amazon relations — but in how Europe holds multinational giants to account.
The message is clear: if global corporations want to operate in Europe, they need to respect its democratic rules — and show up when it matters most.
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