News

  • Marking the International Day for the elimination of violence against women on 25 November, EESC member José Antonio Moreno Díaz,  rapporteur for the opinion SOC/726 Combatting violence against women, believes that violence against women and girls is a tragedy that is sweeping Europe.

  • On 21 November, the EESC's Section for Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship held a debate on the issue of violence against women and girls, calling for the local, national, regional and EU level to join forces. Despite years of procrastination, the Commission's proposal to combat violence against women was still watered down by the Council as the majority of Member States are not in favour of including consent-based rape legislation in the directive.

  • The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is contributing to the strategic debate on energy infrastructure with a position that is clear and leaves no doubt: discussions must revolve around citizens if we really want them to be a lever for the green and energy transition and to ensure an economic and social balance.

  • The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), in partnership with the Economic and Social Council of the Slovak Republic, will hold its annual civil society communication seminar – #ConnectingEU2023 – on 23-24 November 2023. This year's theme is "European elections 2024: Why vote?"

  • Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) need more effective, better structured support to transition to sustainable business practices

  • The EESC's Section for Economic and Monetary Union and Economic and Social Cohesion (ECO) held a debate on 15 November addressing gender disparities in access to financial markets. Studies highlight these gaps, sparking ongoing debates as to their causes. Women-led EU businesses receive only 2% of venture capital, apply for fewer loans and invest cautiously. The talks explored how these disparities affected society and the economy and searched for policy solutions.

  • The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) recently addressed migrant integration at a public hearing with experts and social partners, highlighting the need for comprehensive approaches that go beyond economic participation. Key recommendations include investing in language training, supporting migrant women, and fostering a culture of tolerance to create more inclusive societies.

  • The long-awaited updating of EU pharma legislation offers potential benefits for Europeans but should give more consideration to strategic autonomy.

  • Young people's mental health is being increasingly compromised by the excessive use of social media, concerns about climate change and a sense of powerlessness. This is a "political" issue for the EU because it can often be linked to the labour market and housing situation facing young people

  • The Recovery and Resilience Facility has increased the capacity for social investment in the EU. However, National Recovery and Resilience Plans, funded by the facility, are still plagued by shortcomings such as uneven investing in social programmes in different Member States, insufficient consultation with social partners and a gender dimension that is too weak