The EESC endorses views expressed in the European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid regarding the objectives and assets of humanitarian action and expresses its conviction that humanitarian aid includes protecting people affected by humanitarian crises, maintaining their dignity and respecting their rights. The Committee stresses the genuine nature of voluntary action which should not be confused with other types of action involving work Volunteer involvement must always be needs-based, following an analysis and assessment of the situation and the needs of populations affected by disasters or complex crises.
The strategic and geopolitical environment is rapidly and constantly evolving. The world’s balance of power is shifting as new centres of gravity are emerging and the US is rebalancing its strategic focus towards Asia. In this situation, Europe has to assume greater responsibilities for its security at home and abroad. To punch its weight, the EU needs to develop a credible CSDP. This evolution must be fully compatible with NATO and its principles.
Download — Towards a more competitive and efficient defence and security sector (communication)
The Committee EESC firmly believes that broadband access for everyone is key to the development of the European economy and from now on will be an essential element in the creation of new jobs. Yet, on 8 February 2013, under the new multiannual financial framework (MFF), the Council slashed the digital Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) budget to EUR 1 billion. The amended proposal takes into account the latest positions in the Council and in the relevant European Parliament committee. The EESC therefore laments the fact that the Commission's revised proposal envisages deep cuts in the relevant budget and expresses its regret that the Commission has been forced to make far-reaching changes to projects of common interest for the development of broadband networks and digital service infrastructures.
Download — Guidelines for trans-European telecommunications networks
The EESC supports the strategy on adaptation to climate change proposed by the Commission, while at the same underlining that mitigation policies are a key priority given the negative impact that climate change has already had in Europe. The implementation of the new adaptation plan must take account of the fact that higher temperatures in Europe and the possibility of an increased rate of extreme phenomena may cause damage to people, the economy and the environment that is greater than initially thought.
Download — EU strategy on adaptation to climate change
