By Kristina Aaltonen

The implementation of EU laws and standards is central to the accession process. However, the sustainable democratic development of a country requires more than just compliance with EU law. Civil society plays a crucial role in deepening understanding and promoting the development of society in line with European values. A successful transformation into an EU Member State therefore demands initiatives that focus on citizens, civil society and social partners. 

The public service sector plays a central role, as it profoundly affects citizens' everyday lives. Trust in public services and the political system is crucial. Education is an essential example of this. Education – both formal and informal – is one of the most critical pillars of a democratic society. It prepares the population to become democratic citizens, developing critical thinking, knowledge, skills, attitudes and values. To achieve this, professional autonomy and academic freedom are indispensable. Protecting the democratic role of education is an absolute necessity for safeguarding European values. Teachers, school leaders and local education authorities should have a voice, and play a central role for the transformation to actually happen.

Cooperation between civil society and public authorities is key to promoting transparency, accountability and public trust. By engaging in structured dialogue and contributing to policy processes, civil society organisations and social partners help strengthen democratic governance and reinforce resilience. This inclusive approach is essential for countering populism and safeguarding fundamental rights.

At the European Economic and Social Committee, we believe that supporting social partners and civil society organisations must be a strategic priority in the enlargement process. Strengthening civil society organisations' capacity through targeted EU programmes and funding, and encouraging partnerships and peer learning with counterparts in Member States, are crucial steps. Joint Consultative Committees (civil society platforms between the EESC and candidate countries) and other platforms, have already proven their value as spaces for dialogue and mutual learning. As discussions on the European Union's next multiannual financial framework have begun, we must ensure that funding instruments are used more strategically to further empower democratic actors in candidate countries.