Liaison Group Newsletter February 2025

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Dear Members of the Liaison Group,

I am writing to you following a week of very important discussions at the EESC, where civil society’s role in democracy, governance, and technological change has been at the heart of our debates. In an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, your voices are more important than ever in shaping policies that protect fundamental rights, strengthen democratic participation, and ensure social justice.

Recently, I had the opportunity to represent the EESC at the AI Summit in Paris, where global leaders and experts gathered to discuss the societal and economic implications of artificial intelligence. Our discussions underscored the need for a human-centric and responsible approach to AI – one that not only fosters innovation but also upholds workers’ rights, democratic integrity and inclusivity. AI is already reshaping our societies and labour markets, bringing both immense opportunities and significant challenges. It is imperative that civil society plays a key role in shaping the governance of AI to ensure that it serves all citizens and not just the interests of a few.

At the same time, recent developments in the United States, and particularly cuts to USAID programmes, have raised serious concerns about the sustainability of funding for civil society players in Europe and beyond. We are already witnessing the direct consequences of this, especially for our candidate countries, where CSOs are struggling to maintain their activities. This highlights the urgent need for the EU to step up and reinforce its commitment to civil society funding, ensuring that democracy and fundamental rights remain protected despite shifting global priorities.

These concerns were at the core of our EESC plenary session last week, where we held a dedicated debate on The EU and civil society: strengthening democracy and participation. I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Liaison Group members who participated as speakers in this debate. Your contributions have been instrumental in advocating for stronger and more predictable support for civil society organisations across Europe.

Looking ahead, I am pleased that the preparations for our second Civil Society Week with the timely title Strengthening cohesion and participation in polarised societies are in full swing. I look forward to engaging in lively debates with all of you!

Thank you once again for your dedication and invaluable contributions to the work of the Liaison Group. I am eager to continue our work towards a more resilient and inclusive European Union.

Best wishes,

Oliver Röpke

President of the EESC