EESC President

The President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and its Group on Fundamental Rights and the Rule of Law express deep concern over the recently introduced Hungarian draft law titled “On Transparency in the Public Sphere.” It is our understanding that this bill poses a significant threat to the operations of civil society organisations and independent media in Hungary.

Today, on Europe Day, we celebrate the peace, unity, and shared values that bind our continent together. It is a moment to reflect on the achievements of the European project—how far we’ve come in strengthening democracy, human rights, and cooperation across borders.

The European Economic and Social Committee expresses deep concern over the recent imprisonment of opposition leader Ekrem İmamoğlu. This development raises serious questions about the state of democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental freedoms in Türkiye.

Three years ago, Russia launched its brutal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, an attack not just on a sovereign nation but on fundamental values of democracy, human dignity, and the rules-based international order. As we mark this anniversary, we stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in defending their country and the principles that bind us together as Europeans. Since the first day of this invasion, the EESC, its members, and the European civil society it represents have stood by Ukraine - not only symbolically but with concrete action. 

As we mark the third anniversary of Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked aggression against Ukraine, we remember the immense suffering endured by the Ukrainian people. The aggression led to widespread death, suffering and massive destruction, the Ukrainian people continue their fight for freedom and democracy. The EESC stands with Ukraine’s civil society and reconstruction, committed to democracy. We reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with Ukraine and its democratic aspirations, including integration with the European Union.

On behalf of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), we express our deep concern about recent developments in Serbia and the troubling reports of growing pressures on civil society representatives. The protection of freedom of expression, freedom of association and assembly for citizens and civil society organisations are fundamental rights, and should be respected even in times of turmoil and protests.

Following the conference on "Artificial Intelligence and Industrial Relations," held in Rome on January 24, 2025, the President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Oliver Röpke, and the President of the Italian National Council for Economics and Labour (CNEL), Renato Brunetta, reaffirmed their commitment to fostering inclusive governance and promoting the ethical and participatory development of artificial intelligence (AI).

On behalf of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), we express our deep concern about recent developments in Georgia. The decision of Georgian authorities to halt the EU accession process is a clear indication of the country's ongoing democratic backsliding and deviation from the European path. We believe this decision does not reflect the will of the vast majority of Georgians. At the EESC, we stand in solidarity with Georgian civil society and the people, who have consistently demonstrated their dedication to democratic values and principles. 

As we confront the somber reality of 1000 days of relentless Russian aggression against Ukraine, and approach 4000 days since their occupation of Crimea, the European Economic and Social Committee reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the Ukrainian people.