By the EESC Workers' Group

Political decision-making must always have the concerns and well-being of citizens and workers at its core. They are important human factors that should be taken into account. It is the only way to ensure decent living conditions. Through policies that ensure these decent conditions for all we increase trust and widespread acceptance of current and future political measures and prevent popular disenchantment that provides a fertile ground for right-wing populism and extremism.

These concerns were the foundation of the Workers' Group priorities for 2023-2025, setting clear demands for future EU leaders to embark on a progressive agenda with a more social and human dimension at its core. After decades of crises, the costs of which have unequivocally been borne by European citizens and workers, we hope that the EU debate can again shift towards what really matters – social progress.

Our priorities outline the Workers' Group's vision of a Europe that is not only social and sustainable but that also upholds the rule of law, human rights, gender equality, solidarity and diversity. We need a Europe that prioritises tackling inequality, poverty and the climate emergency, ensures just green and digital transitions and secures decent work for all. It is the best way of empowering our democracy and society and every individual in it. We hope that this vision can be taken on board.