On behalf of the EESC, vice-president Giulia Barbucci participated in the 42nd edition of the Brussels 20-km run on 29 May, along with representatives of other EU institutions, including Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament.

In Ms Barbucci's opinion, this event is of great importance, especially now. "The successful 20 km of Brussels race sent a strong message for peace, standing united with Ukraine".

More than 33 000 people with 137 different nationalities took part in the run this year, as well as 800 staff members from the "Running for Europe" team. As in 2021, the race was won by Belgium's Amaury Paquet, who covered the 20-km distance in 1:00:01.

This year's event was dedicated to showing that the European Union stands united with Ukraine. The funds raised for this event will be donated to the National Organization of the Scouts of Ukraine to provide food, medicine, sleeping bags and other necessary supplies, along with coordinating psychological support for people and communities impacted by the conflict. (ehp)