On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the EESC's Liaison Group, the founders and current members of the Group called for active steps to defend European democracy, open public space and a just Europe.

On 11 December, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) hosted the 20th anniversary of its Liaison Group with European civil society networks, the only permanent body for political dialogue and structured cooperation between civil society organisations (CSOs) and the EU institutions. Over its two decades of existence, the Liaison Group has played a major role in amplifying the voice of organised civil society and bringing its concerns to the European agenda. The group comprises 45 civil society networks active at European level, fully embodying the principles enshrined in Article 11 of the Treaty.

'As we celebrate 20 years of the EESC Liaison Group, we honour not only its remarkable achievements but also the enduring partnerships that have shaped participatory democracy in Europe. Over two decades, the Liaison Group has grown into a vibrant platform, amplifying civil society voices and fostering collaboration between diverse stakeholders. As we look to the future, let us continue to stand together to strengthen democratic values, expand civic space, and create a Europe that truly serves all its people,' said EESC President Oliver Röpke in his opening address.

'Our journey has not been easy,' explained Brikena Xhomaqi, Co-chair of the Liaison Group, 'but we have learned to trust each other. And I hope we will strengthen our cooperation to fight together for a coherent European civil society strategy'.

In her keynote speech, Katarina Barley, Vice-President of the European Parliament, responsible for relations with civil society organisations declared that 'As the European Parliament, we are ready to strengthen our cooperation with the Liaison Group. We need increasingly structured cooperation with civil society organisations.  Together, we must do more to counter the threats to democracy in the European Union, which are greater than at any time in the EU's history,' adding that, when it came to the Liaison Group, 'If it didn't exist, it would have to be created.'

The vibrant event marking the 20th anniversary of the Liaison Group was attended by more than one hundred invitees, including several key figures of the civil society sector. They included representatives of civil society organisations from Serbia and Moldova, in line with the EESC's policy of inviting representatives of EU candidate countries to participate in its work. Also in attendance were four former presidents of the EESC, Staffan Nilsson, Henri Malosse, Luca Jahier and George Dassis. Mr Jahier emphasised that the EESC has the responsibility to establish and maintain a platform for civil dialogue, while Mr Dassis stated that 'the main thing is to have peace, and to achieve peace we must be strong and stand together.'

Were you unable to attend? Catch up with the recording of the event, the joint statement by the Liaison Group presidency, the wrap-up video, pictures and press release on the event page here.  (lm)