Clear EU taxation rules for energy products and electricity are needed to make sure they continue to contribute to the smooth functioning of the internal market, while at the same time tackling climate- and environment-related challenges. In an opinion "Revision of the Energy Taxation Directive", adopted during its plenary on 20 January 2022, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) welcomed the objective of the European Commission (EC) to clarify and update the existing Union framework and to structure European taxation in a way that favours sustainable non-fossil energy.

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has welcomed the designation of 2022 as the European Year of Youth, but feels that it should go beyond mere promotional activities: it should contribute towards the EU's Youth Strategy through clear plans and commitments aimed at achieving concrete results for all young Europeans.

566th Plenary Session, with the following guests: Presentation of the priorities of the French Presidency, with Clément BEAUNE, and debate related to the European Year of Youth 2022, with Anne Kjær BATHEL, Joe ELBORN,  and Miriam TEUMA. The debates can be followed by web streaming.

The French Presidency of the Council of the European Union comes at a vital moment, while the European Union is facing many challenges – health, social, economic and environmental.

The European Economic and Social Committee is committed to collaborating closely with the French presidency and is looking forward to working together for a strong European Union, close to its citizens.