Real dialogue is not about everyone agreeing; it is about staying at the table when we disagree… Our shared purpose to defend democracy, human rights, the rule of law, solidarity and civic participation is always stronger than what divides us, writes our surprise guest Piotr Sadowski. Mr Sadowski has just taken up the role of co-chair of the EESC Liaison Group, a platform connecting the EESC with civil society organisations to promote dialogue and cooperation on key European values, which he will steer together with the EESC president Seamus Boland.

Piotr Sadowski was elected co-chair of the EESC Liaison Group with European civil society organisations and networks in early October. He also serves as the secretary-general of Volonteurope, a Brussels-based European network dedicated to social justice through volunteering and active citizenship. He is vice-president of the Conference of INGOs at the Council of Europe and vice-president of the Lifelong Learning Platform. Throughout his career, he has championed European values and ensured that the voices of organised civil society are represented at both EU and Council of Europe level. A long-standing member of the European socialist and democratic movement, Mr Sadowski is a vocal supporter of progressive policies and an active advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights.