The construction sector is a strategic pillar of the EU economy and a key enabler of the green and digital transitions. It has a direct impact on housing, transport, energy and climate-resilience infrastructure across Europe. Strengthening innovation and digitalisation is therefore essential not only to decarbonise the economy by 2050, but also to reinforce the EU’s industrial autonomy, productivity and global competitiveness in a sector that underpins many strategic value chains.
This timely opinion will examine civil society proposal on how to reform climate governance, including decision-making processes, negotiation frameworks, and the participation and impact of civil society organisations at global climate summits. It will also assess how international climate litigation is shaping climate negotiations and may further influence the governance of the UNFCCC, particularly in the light of the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion of 23 July 2025.
Download — Avizul Secțiunii CESE: Reforming climate governance in light of recent international judicial decisions
