The public services sector in the EU adapted to new challenges

Key points

The EESC:

• considers that high-quality, accessible and affordable public services are a cornerstone of democratic societies, social cohesion, economic development and the effective functioning of the European Union. Public services should be recognised as a strategic investment serving the common good;
• underlines that current challenges, including demographic change, digital transformation, climate-related risks, hybrid threats and public health emergencies, require strong and resilient public services. Preparedness and continuity of public service provision should therefore become key policy priorities;
• emphasises that efficient services as well as combating corruption, fraud and tax evasion are essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring sufficient resources for public services. Member States should swiftly and effectively implement relevant EU legislation and, where necessary, strengthen administrative capacities, particularly tax administrations and oversight bodies;
• calls on the European Commission to develop, in consultation with social partners and civil society organisations, a comprehensive action plan on services of general interest;
• recommends that the quality, accessibility and operational capacity of public services be systematically monitored within the European Semester, supported by appropriate indicators measuring access to public services across the EU, while ensuring better and more systematic involvement of social partners and civil society organisations;
• stresses the need for adequate and sustainable financing of public services;
• believes that digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) usually contribute to the efficiency and accessibility of public services, provided that human oversight, transparency, interoperability and data protection are guaranteed;
• reiterates the central role of social dialogue and collective bargaining in managing change within the sector.