Defence of Democracy package

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    Participatory Democracy

    Background

    The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) expresses concerns regarding the timing of the European Commission’s Defence of Democracy package and the content of the proposed directive on interest representation from third countries. The Committee believes that the package has arrived far too late for proper implementation before the 2024 European elections, and that it fails to adequately consider EESC suggestions from its opinion on the European democracy action plan.

    Key points

    The EESC:

    • while supporting the goal of transparent lobbying, strongly disagrees with the proposed focus. The Committee urges a comprehensive EU-wide approach that minimises burdens, safeguards civil society and strengthens existing transparency measures for all kinds of lobbying activities. This should include clear definitions and criteria, and robust coverage of subcontractors and funding sources;
    • calls for harmonising electoral processes across Member States to ensure inclusivity, accessibility for people with disabilities, better inclusion of young voters and increased resilience against potential manipulation;
    • emphasises the importance of bolstering citizen engagement through innovative formats. The Committee advocates reforms to the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) and proposes establishing an EU-wide framework for effective participation.

    The text of the adopted opinion can be found here. 
     

    Additional information

    Section: Employment, Social Affairs and Citizenship (SOC)

    Opinion number: SOC/773

    Opinion type: mandatory

    Rapporteur: Christian MOOS

    Co-rapporteur: José Antonio MORENO DÍAZ

    Reference: COM(2023) 630 final, COM(2023) 630 final, COM(2023) 636 final 2023/0462 COD, COM(2023) 637 final 2023/0463 COD, COM(2023) 637 final 2023/0463 COD

    Date of adoption in section: 12/4/2024

    Result of the vote: 77 in favour / 1 against / 5 abstentions

    Date of adoption at plenary: 24/04/2024 
     

    Contacts

    Giorgia Battiato (Press Officer) 
    Tel.: + 32 2 546 9449 | Mob: +32 475 999 431 
    Email: giorgia.battiato@eesc.europa.eu

    Jean-Marie Rogue (Administrator) 
    Tel.: +32 2 546 8909 
    Email: JeanMarie.Rogue@eesc.europa.eu