In this opinion, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) welcomes the proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States. At the same time, the EESC warns of persisting political instability, high levels of inflation and high interest rates, which reduce citizens' purchasing power and businesses' competitiveness and affect investment decisions. These difficulties could jeopardise the implementation of employment policy guidelines in the Member States, the achievement of the European Pillar of Social Rights and 2030 targets. The Committee believes that it is all the more necessary to strengthen both the role of the social partners and their involvement in designing and implementing employment, social and economic reforms and policies, including by building their capacity.
The Commission proposal is an important element of the Savings and Investments Union agenda. The EESC recognises the benefits of a multi-pillar pensions system, calls for a holistic approach, proposes a number of amendments to the legislative proposals to better serve its objectives, and explores changes on governance.
The upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU has asked the EESC to draw up an exploratory opinion aimed at providing insight and recommendation on the establishment of the European centre of clinical excellence for pharmaceuticals, with the view to serve as a unified, evidence-based authority issuing pharmacotherapy recommendations, guidelines, and protocols for a wide range of diseases.
The opinion contributes to the revision of the EU standardisation framework by underlining its strategic importance and advocating for an inclusive, competitive and socially balanced system.
The initiative revises the Cybersecurity Act to clarify ENISA’s mandate, strengthen EU cybersecurity certification, simplify legislation, and support a secure and resilient European supply chain and industrial base.
