In this opinion, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) outlines its recommendations regarding the proposed regulation for the Erasmus+ program spanning 2028 to 2034. The recommendations include the following: • Establish a clear distinction between Youth, Education and Training, and Sport. • Ensure transparent budget allocation between Youth and Vocational Education and Training (VET). • Implement measures to safeguard youth participation and support the Solidarity Corps. • Develop strategies to enhance inclusion across the program. • Strengthen initiatives to improve skills, thereby facilitating better outcomes in the labor market.
Download — EESC opinion: Proposal for a regulation on Erasmus+
The European Social Fund (ESF) is the EU's main instrument to promote and strengthen social cohesion in Europe's societies by investing in Europe's people, their future and preparedness. The EESC's opinion welcomes the proposal to establish the ESF within the National and Regional Partnership Plans for 2028–2034, but calls for a stronger social dimension, clearer governance, and reinforced partnership structures. The EESC insists on protecting the ESF's distinctive role in supporting quality employment, skills development and social inclusion while ensuring that funding remains adequate, targeted and complementary with other EU instruments.
Download — EESC section opinion: Establishing the European Social Fund as part of the National and Regional Partnership Plan
This exploratory opinion on the request of the Cyprus Council presidency is focused on the implementation of the Startups and Scaleup Strategy, with particular emphasis on the forthcoming European Innovation Act (EIA), planned for 2026. The EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy seeks to make Europe the leading hub for launching and expanding global technology-driven companies, including deep tech ventures.
Ongoing (updated on 15/01/2026) - Bureau decision date: 15/07/2025
Presentation of the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council on the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) by Mr Constantinos Masonos, co-chair of the MFF Ad Hoc Working Party
The proposal establishes the tenth Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon Europe, a key instrument for delivering the policy ambitions outlined in the Commission’s proposal for the next long-term EU budget (2028–2034) and the political priorities for 2024–2029. It places research and innovation at the heart of the Union’s economy and investment strategy, promotes simplicity and flexibility, enabling faster and more strategic EU spending through clearer rules and more transparent procedures for applicants and stakeholders.
The opinion focuses on the proposal for a new funding programme on Single Market and Customs for the period 2028-2034. With € 6.2 billion (double the funding compared to the current long-term EU budget), the reinforced Single Market and Customs Programme will combine several previously standalone programmes (Single Market Programme, Customs, Customs Control Equipment Instrument, Fiscalis and the Union Anti-Fraud Programme) into one coherent strategy that should preserve EU economic security.
Download — EESC section opinion: Single Market and Customs Programme 2028-2034
In line with the European Commission President’s political guidelines, the initiative will aim to boost new industrial uses of AI and improve public services’ delivery, fostering innovation and competitiveness.
Download — EESC section opinion: Apply AI Strategy – strengthening the AI continent
