Laurence Van Wassenhove, 59, is suing telecoms company Orange, claiming she was paid a salary for more than 20 years but was not given any real work. She says the situation caused isolation and long-term harm, rather than being a benefit.
She joined the company in 1993, when it was still known as France Télécom. After developing serious health conditions, including epilepsy and partial paralysis, she could no longer continue in her original role. She was reassigned to administrative duties, which she says was initially appropriate.
Over time, she claims her responsibilities disappeared. After requesting a transfer in the early 2000s, she says she was declared unfit for the role and then left on standby for years. Although she continued to receive a salary, she says she was excluded from working life and treated as if she did not exist.
Van Wassenhove says this long period of inactivity seriously affected her mental health. Her lawyer argues that being paid but denied a meaningful role caused depression and a loss of purpose. She insists that being paid without working is “not a privilege.”
Orange says it considered her health and personal situation and tried to support her. The company claims efforts were made to find her a new role, but these did not succeed. The case is now being examined by the courts.