European Economic
and Social Committee
Liaison Group Newsletter February 2024
Dear members and colleagues,
In 2024, there will be a record number of elections worldwide, while populists and extremists are dividing our societies and stirring up anti-European sentiment with a steadfast gaze on the vote on Europe’s future in June. At a time when millions are taking to the streets of Germany to defend democracy, the EESC is launching its first Civil Society Week. As a call to action ahead of the EU elections to preserve our democratic life and to ensure that our core European values are protected, the Committee urges us to Rise Up for Democracy!
Seventeen civil society organisation members of the Liaison Group, together with EECS members, are responding to this call, co-organising fourteen sessions over the 4 days. And they are not alone. We will join forces with colleagues dedicated to promoting participatory democracy through the European Citizens’ Initiative, and those seeking to inspire young people and first-time voters to exercise their democratic right to vote and engage in civic life. We will explore the various threats facing democracy, and how to strengthen the assets we have in Europe's democratic life and values.