This opinion explores modernising grids, adopting smart technologies, expanding connections and investing in storage and transmission innovation. It aims to improve integration and reliability to build a resilient European energy system in collaboration with neighbouring regions.
The EESC calls for the establishment of a dedicated Union strategy for islands (Islands Pact), supported by a specific legislative framework (Islands Act). That framework should be accompanied by a formal strategy and provide for the effective implementation of an ‘insularity clause’, with a view to systematically integrating the specific needs and constraints of islands into Union policies on cohesion, transport, energy, state aid, the environment and maritime affairs.
The EESC regrets, that the Commission has once again refrained from presenting the Annual Sustainable Growth Survey (ASGS) and stresses that sustainable economic growth is a necessary condition for Europe to meet its multiple commitments, welcomes the European Macroeconomic Report, which provides a deep dive into the underlying structural challenges facing the EU and the new recommendation on human capital, which is a crucial element in filling the EU technological gap, also taking into account the EU demographic challenge. The Committee reiterates its call for more robust commonfiscal capacity, supported by targeted issuances of joint debt, to help fill this growing gap in public investment, and for permanent macroeconomic stabilisation instruments to address shocks.
Download — Opinjoni tal-KESE: 2026 European Semester – Autumn Package
The EESC welcomes the proposed Home Affairs funds for migration, border management and internal security for 2028–2034, but warns that, taken together, they reflect a strong shift towards security and control that risks marginalising integration, inclusion and fundamental rights. While acknowledging the need for effective border management, returns and internal security, the EESC stresses that migration policy must prioritise legal, safe pathways, respect for EU and international law, and robust individual protection. The Committee calls for independent monitoring of fundamental rights at borders, stronger commitments to legal migration and integration, and strict human-rights compliance in cooperation with third countries. Ultimately, the EESC argues that the EU’s legitimacy in migration, border and security policies depend on its ability to defend democratic values and fundamental rights.
Download — Opinjoni tal-KESE: Enhancing EU strategic autonomy and developing a greener and bluer economy: the potential of the sodium battery manufacturing sector
The EESC supports the revision of the Tobacco Taxation Directive, recognizing the need to adapt the excise framework to market developments, new products and public health objectives. The Committee stresses that actions taken should be in line with the principle of ‘less harm, less tax’ and the objectives of the Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan.
The European Social Fund (ESF) is the EU's main instrument to promote and strengthen social cohesion in Europe's societies by investing in Europe's people, their future and preparedness. The EESC's opinion welcomes the proposal to establish the ESF within the National and Regional Partnership Plans for 2028–2034, but calls for a stronger social dimension, clearer governance, and reinforced partnership structures. The EESC insists on protecting the ESF's distinctive role in supporting quality employment, skills development and social inclusion while ensuring that funding remains adequate, targeted and complementary with other EU instruments.
The proposal establishes the tenth Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon Europe, a key instrument for delivering the policy ambitions outlined in the Commission’s proposal for the next long-term EU budget (2028–2034) and the political priorities for 2024–2029. It places research and innovation at the heart of the Union’s economy and investment strategy, promotes simplicity and flexibility, enabling faster and more strategic EU spending through clearer rules and more transparent procedures for applicants and stakeholders.
The debate on new own resources should evolve beyond technical adjustments and become a strategic reflection on how to strengthen the EU’s financial autonomy, cohesion and competitiveness. The EESC encourages the European Commission to further refine the overall design of the proposed own-resources package to make it ambitious, balanced and future-oriented.
The EESC warns that a weak long-term EU budget would undermine competitiveness, cohesion, agriculture and democracy. The Committee calls for a stronger, fairer and future-proof multiannual financial framework (MFF) for 2028 to 2034.
Luca JAHIER (Civil Society Organisations - GR III/Italy)
Presentation of the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council on the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) by Mr Constantinos Masonos, co-chair of the MFF Ad Hoc Working Party
Adottati on 21/01/2026 - Bureau decision date: 02/12/2025
Referenza
SOC/855-EESC-2026
Rapporteur
Christa SCHWENG; Giulia BARBUCCI; Juliane Marie NEIIENDAM
Plenary session number
602
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In this Resolution, the EESC reaffirms its long-standing commitment to gender equality, women’s rights and the rule of law as core foundations of democracy, social justice and inclusive growth, the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls, and the full and effective participation of women in economic, political and social life. As to the specific focus of the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, it stresses that access to justice is both a fundamental human right in itself and a precondition for the implementation of other human rights such as gender equality. Ensuring it requires, among others: eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices, strengthening gender-responsive justice systems, accessible, affordable and quality legal aid and representation, protection, safety and confidentiality for survivors of violence; digital access to legislation; removing socio-economic barriers.
