On 9 May, Europeans will celebrate Europe Day. This year marks the 76th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundations for the European Union as we know it today, and led to an unprecedented era of peace, democracy, prosperity, integration and cooperation across the continent.
At its April 2026 plenary session, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) adopted an exploratory opinion on EU competitiveness and youth entrepreneurship. Requested by the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, the opinion sets out how supporting young entrepreneurs can strengthen innovation, foster sustainable growth and help secure the future of Europe’s SMEs.
The European Economic and Social Committee says Europe’s cities are central to economic growth, social cohesion and the green and digital transitions. In its response to the European Commission’s proposed EU Agenda for Cities, the EESC welcomes the overall vision but warns that it lacks concrete measures and risks falling short of its goals.
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) calls for a renewed genuine partnership between the European Union and southern Mediterranean countries—one that places people, sustainability, and shared responsibility at its core.
The EU needs a strong and coherent bioeconomy strategy grounded in strict sustainability safeguards, circular design, and reduced resource use, ensuring competitiveness and climate goals remain within planetary boundaries. It must also clearly define the societal value of the bioeconomy.
EU policymakers, industry leaders and innovation experts are calling for sweeping reforms to help European startups scale and compete globally, warning that persistent barriers such as fragmented regulations, limited market access and risk-averse culture are stifling Europe's innovation potential.
Nature-based biodegradable materials could become a cornerstone of Europe’s circular economy, helping cut pollution, reduce reliance on fossil resources and revitalize rural industries. To achieve this, the European Union must align its regulatory framework.
As part of European Youth Week 2026, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) highlighted its long‑standing commitment to meaningful youth participation through direct engagement with young people and a range of concrete policy tools designed to strengthen their influence on decision‑making.
On a mission to Moldova, European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) President Séamus Boland met with Moldova’s political leadership, civil society organisations and young people to reaffirm the EESC’s strong support for the country’s European path.
