The latest economic forecasts show pressing challenges for Europe, with weakened economic growth and inflation remaining at high levels. In order to successfully address them, the Commission's 2023 Work Programme must prioritise the EU's recovery and mitigating the economic, social and societal impacts of the war in Ukraine and the resulting energy crisis.

The EU is faced with an unprecedented surge in energy prices, aggravated by the consequences of the Russian aggression in Ukraine and placing an unbearable burden on European households and businesses. Ahead of the extraordinary Energy Council on 9 September, the EESC calls for joint European action to ensure the stability of electricity prices and to urgently reform the energy market.

In its Resolution on War in Ukraine and its economic, social and environmental impact adopted on Thursday, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) strongly condemns the ongoing unilateral aggression against Ukraine ordered by the President of the Russian Federation.

The situation in Ukraine worsens hour by hour. Ukrainian women, men and children need us to be united in these challenging times. The EU and every Member State need to continue to live up to their responsibilities by protecting people, democracy and our shared values.

EESC President Christa Schweng on Twitter: "On #InternationalWomensDay, I wish to pay tribute to all women and stand up for #GenderEquality. United we must shape a peaceful future in which ️women have as many opportunities to flourish as ️men. #IWD2022.

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United for the future of Europe. This is the guiding principle for my work as new president of the European Economic and Social Committee. Only united we can successfully overcome the economic and social hardship caused by CoViD-19. Only united we can shape a Europe that is economically prosperous, socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.