Oliver Röpke

Mr. Röpke has built a distinguished international career as a strong advocate for workers’ rights, social policy, and international cooperation. He joined the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in 2009, where he served as President of the Workers’ Group, a member of the Bureau, and rapporteur for numerous opinions and resolutions on employment, social policy, the single market, and innovation.

Appointed Director of the Bureau for Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV), effective 1 November 2025.

In April 2023, he was elected President of the EESC, a position he held until October 2025. During his presidency, he focused on strengthening social rights, promoting decent work, and deepening cooperation with international organizations. Under his leadership, the EESC became the first EU institution to integrate social partners from candidate countries into its institutional work. He championed participatory democracy, promoted the inclusion of underrepresented groups, youth, and civil society in shaping EU policies, and worked to protect workers during the digital and green transitions.

Before his mandate as EESC President, Mr. Röpke headed the EU Representation of the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) at the Austrian Permanent Representation to the European Union, in the diplomatic capacity of Counsellor. He also held several senior positions, including ÖGB representative to the EU institutions, member of the Executive Committee of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), and advisory member of the ÖGB Federal Executive Board.

Mr. Röpke began his professional career in 1996 at the Austrian Chamber of Labour, later becoming Head of the Legal Department of the ÖGB-affiliated Union HGPD. In these roles, he played a leading part in social dialogue, collective bargaining, and advocacy for employees and works councils.

Born in 1971, he holds a law degree from the University of Vienna.

President, European Economic and Social Committee