Liaison Group Newsletter September 2022

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Dear Readers,

I am pleased to introduce this newsletter in September, a time of high activity after a summer that you could all, hopefully, enjoy.

A much-expected moment at EU level was the State of the European Union address of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on 14 September.

The important elements mentioned by the Commission President in her speech tie in with EESC's activities and prove that the Committee is setting forward looking priorities and has an impact on the Commission's work. This is for example true as regards an increased citizens' involvement following up the Conference on the Future of Europe, which is something the EESC has been asking for. The Committee endeavours to be a partner of strategic importance for the Commission. The EESC has also urged the Commission "to acknowledge more the importance of civil society and their institutions by providing a prominent place to them in EU policy".

The Commission President has also mentioned that NextGenerationEU will continue to invest in our economy, maintaining jobs and growth and bringing a much-needed renewal. This is also exactly what has been asked by the EESC. We must ensure that the funds reach those in need – be it vulnerable people or businesses. Therefore, it is vital to involve civil society organisations at all stages, including when EU-funded projects are implemented. The aim is to make Europe greener, more digital, more resilient and better adapted to current and future challenges.