The External Relations Section (REX) of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) held a debate on 23 February 2026 to address the alarming deterioration of trade union freedoms in Belarus. Despite sustained international pressure and the appointment of an International Labour Organization (ILO) Special Envoy in June 2025, the Belarusian authorities continue to refuse any dialogue aimed at restoring compliance with fundamental labour standards. Around twenty trade unionists remain imprisoned.
To mark four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EESC held a dedicated debate during its February plenary session with the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, and EESC President Séamus Boland. Special guests Olha Fozekosh, a Ukrainian teacher, and Yaryna Bohun, a young student who both fled in 2022, shared their stories with EESC members. #EESCPlenary #StandWithUkraine #Ukraine #OlenaZelenska #EUUkraine #CivilSociety
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) recognises the need to adapt the excise duty framework for tobacco products in line with market developments. However, it urges caution regarding excessive increases in excise duties, as these could lead to an increase in illicit trade.
Europe cannot afford to treat biodiversity as a secondary concern. In the recent opinion adopted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in its February plenary, is stressed that the Kunming‑Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework set ambitious global targets, but ambition alone will not restore degraded ecosystems or protect collapsing species. Delivery, not declarations, will determine whether 2030 marks a turning point or another missed deadline.
As Europe grapples with persistent inflation, fragmented regulation, and the accelerating impact of digital transformation, partner organisations of the Employers' Group, representing commerce and agriculture, are calling to join forces to urge the EU for a renewed focus and accelerated implementation to deliver competitiveness and coherence across the Single Market.
This conference will serve as a platform to showcase the societal and political significance of public services in promoting intergenerational solidarity, providing concrete action points for policymakers and practitioners. The aim is to broaden the debate and to serve as a constructive contribution to the development and refinement of the Intergenerational Fairness Strategy announced by the European Commission, to be adopted in the second quarter of 2026.
