Young people are the most under-represented age group in the European Parliament, with only 6% of MEPs younger than 35, according to figures from the European Youth Forum. The EESC is determined to change that. Including young perspectives in EU decisions is not just desirable, it is essential for creating policies that truly represent the future of Europe.
At its December plenary session, the European Economic and Social Committee (EEESC) hosted a debate on democracy in Africa with representatives from the African Union Economic and Cultural Council (AU ECOSOCC). Both sides agreed that civil society is the driving force for a successful EU-Africa partnership based on equality, fostering civil and social dialogue.
In recent years, overlapping crises – from the lingering effects of the pandemic to the escalating challenges of climate change, increasing living costs, and widening income disparities – have created fertile ground for widespread polarisation. Social instability, economic downturns and widespread discontent, particularly among those who feel unheard and left behind, have further deepened societal divisions.
In an opinion adopted in plenary, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) made key recommendations to advance the EU’s Territorial Agenda 2030. The strategy should promote cohesion and the ‘freedom to stay’ in one’s home, align with cohesion policy to reduce disparities, and drive sustainable growth, while increasing civil society participation in regional development.
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1 year 3 months ago
Decision on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty
Download — EESC opinion: Reindustrialisation of Europe – opportunity for businesses, employees and citizens in the context of the cost-of-living crisis
