The EESC’s July plenary session hosted a debate on the political priorities of the current Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which started on 1 July and will come to an end on 31 December 2025. Under the motto ‘A strong Europe in a changing world’, the Danish Council Presidency will work for a secure, competitive and green EU, making sure that the EU takes more ownership of its own security and strengthens its competitiveness.

Europe is currently undergoing significant change, with uncertainty, global competition and increased conflict in a number of areas. ‘For this reason – said Marie Bjerre, Denmark’s Minister of European Affairs – we need a strong, competitive and green Europe. A Europe that is able to take responsibility for its own security. And a Europe that is able to innovate and compete at global level. Supporting Ukraine and moving forward on enlargement will be key’.

For his part, EESC President Oliver Röpke stressed that ‘the Danish presidency arrives at a defining moment for Europe. Its priorities on security, competitiveness and the green transition closely align with the EESC’s core concerns. We stand ready to provide practical expertise and reflect the voices of Europe’s organised civil society in support of a resilient, values-based Europe that is connected to its people.’ (mp)