European Economic
and Social Committee
Workers’ group - Our priorities for social progress
We strive to forge an equal, strong and independent Europe in a fairer world, where both the burdens and the benefits are shared fairly, using social dialogue to set the solid foundations of a democratic and free society. We turn ideas into policy actions to build a Europe that leaves no one behind.
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Social Challenges
The European Union must return to a balanced vision of its social market economy model, based on the convergence between economic efficiency, social justice and environmental sustainability. Economic progress will not be sustainable without social progress.
Economic Challenges
Added to this is an unstable geopolitical environment marked by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, strategic tensions that extend even to territories such as Greenland, and new US tariffs affecting key sectors. These developments underscore the need for coordinated European responses that strengthen the EU’s economic and social resilience.
Environmental Challenges
The green transition, decarbonisation and the circular economy, along with digitalisation, are all having an impact on the world of work in terms of changing the nature of jobs and tasks, and creating new occupations, while eliminating others. These transitions are interlinked and mutually reinforcing.
Digital Transition
The digital landscape is rapidly reshaping the foundations of work, compelling us to confront critical questions about the future of labor in an increasingly digital and automated world. Within this paradigm, European workers emerge as central actors in shaping the trajectory of the digital transition.
Industrial Change
Industrial change in Europe is accelerating, driven by the twin green and digital transitions, geopolitical shifts and the reconfiguration of global supply chains. This transformation is reshaping industrial ecosystems, employment structures and regional development patterns.
Migration
Migration has become one of the main political divides in recent times, as far-right parties attempt to capitalise on it to gain support and push their narratives. The migration flows we witness are often due to problematic economic, social and political situations in many countries, sometimes reaching catastrophic levels
Rule of Law and Fundamental Right
Democracy rests not just on the will of the majority, but also on respect for minorities and for political differences, and on the fact that everyone is subject to the rule of law and protected by fundamental rights.
Global Agenda
The polycrises seen in recent years have provided a mixed image of Europe. While the reaction to the pandemic, despite its first slow steps, was largely a common effort (for issues like buying doses of the vaccines) and the EU has kept a unified front in Ukraine, new wars and conflicts have again completely divided the EU’s external policy.
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Better Policymaking and Strategic Foresight
Strategic foresight is part of the EU’s Better Regulation agenda. It involves systematically exploring possible future developments, trends, opportunities, and risks rather than trying to predict one specific future.