European Economic
and Social Committee
Liaison Group Newsletter October 2025
Civil society at the heart of Europe’s future
Europe stands at a defining moment. Social and economic inequalities, democratic fatigue and geopolitical instability are reshaping the way citizens see the EU and their place within it. Yet in the face of these challenges, one truth endures: civil society is not a decorative element of democracy; it is its beating heart.
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and its Liaison Group exist to make sure that citizens’ voices are not just heard but shape the policies that affect people’s daily lives. The Liaison Group was established in 2004 to connect European-level umbrella organisations, networks and movements with the EESC, whose members come from national contexts. Two decades later, that bridge is more essential than ever. It is what allows participation to become partnership; consultation to become co-creation.
Based on the EESC president’s work programme for the next 2.5 years, our shared commitment for the years ahead is rooted in three interlinked priorities: opportunities, security and resilience. Each priority represents a promise: to people, to democracy and to the Europe we want to build.
Opportunities, because inclusion is the lifeblood of democracy. We must ensure that every citizen, regardless of background or geography, has the chance to engage, contribute and belong. From eradicating poverty and advancing equality, to empowering young people and smaller organisations often furthest from Brussels, inclusion is not only about fairness; it is also the foundation of legitimacy.
Security, because the civic space must be protected if democracy is to thrive. Across Europe, we see growing challenges to freedom of association, expression and participation. But safety is also emotional; it is about creating spaces of trust, openness and care. Vulnerability is not weakness; it is courage, and that courage binds our community together.
Resilience, because Europe cannot rely on reaction alone. Foresight and preparedness must become part of how we think and act. Civil society is Europe’s early-warning system and is the first to sense when trust is breaking down or exclusion is turning to anger. A resilient Europe is one that listens early, acts inclusively and plans ahead.
We also want to highlight the EU Blue Deal, which shows how policy can meet purpose. It proves that the EESC can go beyond consultation by shaping cross-sectoral, inclusive solutions in areas vital to our safety, resilience and dignity, such as water justice and environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Civil Society Week 2026 will be a flagship moment. Together, we want it to grow as a visible celebration of equality, solidarity between generations, youth and foresight – a festival of ideas where civil society feels at home and Europe feels alive.
Even when we disagree, civil dialogue demands empathy, creativity and persistence. Because our shared purpose – to defend democracy, human rights, the rule of law and solidarity – will always be stronger than what divides us.
Civil society is where democracy learns to breathe again. Together, we will help it breathe deeply.
Seamus BOLAND
President of the EESC
Piotr SADOWSKI
Co-chair of the Liaison Group