The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is organising a public hearing to assess the economic impact of extending the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) to the maritime sector.
The hearing will focus on the risks of carbon and business leakage, and how these developments may affect port competitiveness and trade flows- particularly in smaller and peripheral EU Member States. The event will provide a platform for maritime stakeholders, economic experts, and EU institutions to discuss real-world implications and explore fiscal and strategic solutions to mitigate negative effects.
Speakers will include representatives from DG CLIMA, maritime and port organisations, as well as leading economists and policy analysts.
Malta’s strategic location and role in European maritime logistics make it an ideal setting for this timely discussion.
Economic and Social Council of Spain,
c/ Huertas, 73
Madrid
Spain
The 20th meeting of the EU-China Round Table took place in Madrid, Spain on 9 and 10 June 2025.
The EU-China Civil Society Round Table was established in 2007 following a decision taken by the 9th EU-China Summit in Helsinki. The delegations from the EESC and its Chinese counterpart, the China Economic and Social Council, meet regularly to discuss topics relating to economic and social issues relevant to both parties.
By elaborating reports, discussing them and exchanging ideas, the representatives of the European Economic and Social Committee and the China Economic and Social Council contribute to the development of the overall EU-China relationship, from a civil society perspective.
The EESC organises a public hearing on Financial literacy and education for Europeans. It will gather together institutions, industry and civil society stakeholders, and will discuss desirable policy actions and share good practices along the EU.
Surveys keep reporting high rates of discrimination experienced by members of the Roma community in view of their Roma origin. Long history of discrimination and negative perceptions towards the Roma community further entrench prejudicial practices and antigypsyistic sentiments, manifesting themselves in various contexts. Focussing on various policy areas, this hearing will look at institutional antigypsyism and discuss ways how this can be tackled effectively.
In a context such as the one that Europe is experiencing, characterised by multiple crises, it is appropriate to promote a reflection on European public goods and on fundamental political priorities capable of ensuring the sustainable growth of the EU and the well-being of its citizens. This reflection gets ever more important in view of the upcoming negotiations on the next European Multiannual Financial Framework for the period post 2027.
Rue Van Maerlant/Van Maerlantstraat 2, 1040 Bruxelles/Brussel
Brussels
Belgium
Persistent labour market inequalities across Europe affect women, young people and vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities. Entrepreneurship holds significant potential to address these disparities by empowering individuals, fostering innovation and generating economic growth that benefits society as a whole. This hearing will bring together experts and stakeholders to identify common challenges, share good practices and propose policy solutions to foster equality and social inclusion through entrepreneurship.
Teatro Thalia, Estrada das Laranjeiras 205, Lisboa 1600-134
Lisbon
Portugal
This conference in Lisbon is the fourth event on disinformation being hosted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) as part of its ongoing project aiming to fight disinformation with the help of civil society.
On 21 May 2025 the EESC will hold an online event on the link between trade policy and sustainability, with a particular focus on agri-food systems. Through panel discussions, EESC members, representatives of the European Commission and of civil society will exchange views on the role of reciprocity in achieving a fair green transition.
The EESC considers it important to create a well-functioning, prosperity-enhancing tax system that works for people and businesses and that fosters competitiveness. The different and recent legislative acts have been adding layers of legislation to the existing taxation framework, at the hearing the EESC will look into ways to simplify complex tax framework in the EU.
