Initiative on virtual worlds, such as the metaverse

Background:

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has prepared an opinion on the development of the metaverse, highlighting its potential impact on society, commerce and the environment. The metaverse, which encompasses technologies such as virtual reality and digital twins, offers new immersive ways for users to engage with products and services. However, there are several critical questions that organisations must consider to remain competitive, including evaluating the market, sourcing capabilities and adapting business models. Areas of concern also surround the need to ensure safety, protect vulnerable groups and address issues such as taxation and employment.

Key points:

The EESC:

• is convinced that the metaverse and the development of virtual worlds will have a drastic impact on the way we live together. We need progress with regard to acceptance of the use of these new technologies and increasing safety for all kinds of workers;
• calls on the EU institutions to ensure that existing real-world legislation and taxation are also respected in the virtual world. Where appropriate, new measures should be taken to regulate the metaverse and address specific needs;
• believes that the metaverse must provide solutions to unsolved problems or enable products to be manufactured at lower cost and in less time, with improved quality and reduced risks. The metaverse could also have a positive impact on the environment and climate change by facilitating remote working on a new level and reducing the need for travel and carbon emissions.

The text of the draft opinion can be found here.

Background information:

Commission: Consultative Commission on Industrial Change (CCMI)

Opinion type: Exploratory opinion – Commission

Rapporteur: Martin BÖHME 

Co-rapporteur: Hervé JEANNIN 

Reference:  CCMI/206-EESC-2023

Date of adoption by commission: 19/04/2023

Results of the CCMI meeting vote (members): 15 votes in favour, no votes against and no abstentions

Results of the CCMI meeting vote (delegates): 11 votes in favour, no votes against and no abstentions

Date of adoption in plenary: 27/04/2023

Result of the vote: 153 votes in favour, 1 vote against and 2 abstentions

Contacts:

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

Marie-Laurence Drillon (Administrator)
Tel.: +32 2 546 8320
email: Marie-laurence.Drillon@eesc.europa.eu