A recent incident in the European Parliament has stirred controversy after a senior EU legislator, Johan Van Overtveldt, allegedly made a derogatory comparison between a security guard and his pet dog. The incident took place on February 11, when Van Overtveldt, who is the chairman of the budget committee and a former Belgian Minister of Finance, was challenged by the guard regarding his access to the building. This confrontation has been described by the European Parliament staff union as 'humiliating and demeaning', leading them to send a letter of complaint to the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola.

The letter from the staff union details how Van Overtveldt responded to the security guard's protocol adherence with a dismissive attitude, likening her behavior to that of a dog. This comparison has drawn significant criticism not only from the employees of the European Parliament but also resonates with the broader discourse concerning respect and professionalism in the workplace. It raises questions about the treatment of staff by high-ranking officials and the need for a respectful working environment.

Van Overtveldt, a member of the New Flemish Alliance party, which is part of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, has been urged to apologize for his remarks. This incident highlights ongoing tensions within EU institutions regarding staff treatment and inclusive behavior, as employees seek to ensure that their rights are respected and their roles within the Parliament recognized as integral to its function.