European Economic
and Social Committee
Programme
Pre-Programme
Public hearing on Volunteering for European Population Preparedness
Tuesday, 24 June 2026, 10.00-13.00
Hybrid meeting via Interactio,
European Economic and Social Committee, Rue Van Maerlant 2, 1040 Brussels, room VMA 23
09.30 - 10.00 | Testing possibility for Interactio
10.00 - 10.30 | Welcome words and framing
Speakers to be confirmed
10.30 - 11.30 | Panel 1 - Continuous threats
This panel will address the role of volunteers in combatting the continuous and chronic crises that erode security and resilience over time including: the rise of hate speech, racism and other forms of discrimination; attacks on democracy, democratic institutions, independent media and the rule of law; foreign interference and disinformation campaigns; digital and financial fraud; and the long‑term effects of poverty, inequality, social exclusion and loneliness.
Speakers to be confirmed
11.30 - 11.45 | Break
11.45 - 12.45 | Panel II - Crisis Moments
This panel will address the role of volunteers in preparing for and responding to sudden crisis moments and disasters, such as floods, wildfires, storms, heatwaves, earthquakes, industrial accidents, pandemics, terrorist attacks and other large‑scale violent incidents.
Speakers to be confirmed
12.45 - 13.00 | Concluding remarks
Interpreting: Participants can speak French, English, Italian, Polish, Spanish & Slovak and listen to French, English, Italian, Polish & Slovak.