The Annual Competition Report for 2023 presents the key policy developments and legislative initiatives undertaken in 2022, as well as a selection of important enforcement actions.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: Report on Competition Policy 2023
Every year in February, the EESC adopts an opinion on the Annual Sustainable Growth Survey (ASGS), which the Commission usually presents at the end of November in the year before. The Communication on the ASGS 2024 outlines the economic and employment policy priorities for the EU for the following 12 months, focusing on short-term energy shock mitigation, medium-term sustainable growth and resilience in the EU, and alignment with the long-term EU objectives.
The structured approach centres around the 4 dimensions of competitive sustainability, and is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The ASGS continues to guide Member States in the implementation of the national Recovery and Resilience Plans, with the European Semester playing a central role, especially in the ongoing revision of the European economic governance framework.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: Additional considerations on the Annual Sustainable Growth Survey 2024
, Arnold PUECH d'ALISSAC (Employers - GR I/France)
Plenary session number
591
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In this opinion, the EESC calls for a sustainable EU Food Policy that supports farmers' incomes, protects food security and strengthens crisis management. Proposals include introducing tools and mechanism to strengthen the position of farmers and devising an EU-wide system of public insurance against natural disasters.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: Fostering sustainable and resilient food systems at times of growing crises
Public Procurement was better framed in successive EU regulations and, with a view to more accessible and transparent access to it, the procedures were formulated in a more supportive manner. Its importance will continue to increase, both at a national level in the Member States and at a more local level.
Several challenges remain Particularly at the national level, the size and volume play to the advantage of larger companies that can rely on experience and expertise when drawing up files. At a more local level, there are opportunities for MSMEs and, even more specifically, for companies in the social economy. These opportunities require active attention and guidance from both the requesting and offering parties.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: The potential of Public Procurement for Social Economy enterprises
The EESC stresses the urgent need to adapt strategies for work-life balance taking into consideration the shifting demographics, new forms of work, flexible working arrangements and rising care demands, also in view of the 2027 revision of the Directive (EU) 2019/1158 on work-life balance for parents and carers. While looking at the increased demand for care services, it recommends the Council asks the Commission to develop a Care Toolbox with indicators for long-term care. Highlights that despite some progress, women still bear most unpaid care work, contributing to the “feminisation of poverty” as women leave their jobs or reduce their working hours to care for relatives or children. Stresses that care work and financial security of families and workers should be seen as an investment benefiting society and the economy and not as an expense.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: Ensuring a needs-based work-life balance for all: How adequate flexible working conditions can support intergenerational solidarity and the empowerment of women
The employment guidelines, proposed by the Commission and approved by the Council, set common priorities and targets for national employment policies. Despite strong labour market performance in 2023, growing labour and skills shortages are hindering economic growth and competitiveness, potentially slowing green and digital transitions. Inequalities in the labour market persist, and artificial intelligence is reshaping work and employment structures. Social protection systems must adapt to this evolving landscape. In this opinion, the EESC stresses the importance of upward convergence, enhancing the European Semester's role in coordinating economic policy, and strengthening social dialogue and collective bargaining. The EESC also calls for greater involvement of social partners in employment reforms, boosting labour supply, improving access to quality jobs, and addressing staff shortages.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States
The European Union’s ambitious climate targets have significantly impacted resource and energy-intensive industries (REIIs), which are crucial to the EU economy. These industries face rising costs due to high energy prices, carbon pricing, and regulatory changes. This opinion reflects on the optimal solutions to maintain the competitiveness of EU industry in face if the rising energy prices and the costs required to support the transition towards a low-carbon economy. The EU Youth Test at the EESC was applied to this opinion.
Vedtaget on 18/09/2024 - Bureau decision date: 18/01/2024
Consumers are increasingly mindful of environmental and social issues when buying products, emphasizing the importance of information on product origin and distribution in their decision-making process.
Download — Udvalgets udtalelse: Strengthening Consumer Information Requirements in the EU
