The European Economic and Social Committee has adopted its position on the EU's economic priorities for 2021.

It welcomes the steps taken in the strategy to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of the European Green Deal, but is disappointed that the strategy proposed by the European Commission devotes too little attention to social issues. It also warns against phasing out support measures too early and advocates establishing new fiscal rules that will reflect social and economic realities after the pandemic.

The EESC is disappointed that the economic strategy proposed by the Commission, this year also complemented with guidance on the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility, pays little attention to social issues. On the one hand, this approach will not lead to the consistent and long-awaited implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights. On the other, it will endanger the just transition towards a green and digital economy. The transition, notes the EESC, must not result in a further increase in poverty and in greater social exclusion.

This concern is reflected in one of the conclusions adopted by the EESC on 24 February in its opinion on The Annual Sustainable Growth Strategy 2021.

Krzysztof Balon, rapporteur for the opinion, said: "It will be crucial to ensure balanced distribution of the benefits of economic recovery, which will contribute not only to improving social justice, but also to stabilising demand as a precondition for economic recovery". (na)