A European Sustainable Development Civil Society Forum (exploratory opinion requested by the Dutch presidency)

EESC opinion: A European Sustainable Development Civil Society Forum (exploratory opinion requested by the Dutch presidency)

Key points:

The Sustainable Development Forum, recommended by the EESC, will facilitate the dialogue and communication between the European institutions and non-governmental stakeholders and between non-governmental stakeholders from different constituencies on progress towards sustainable development in the EU. It will raise awareness of the 2030 Agenda, provide an informed debate and foster ownership on all sides involved.

The Committee is convinced that organising the Forum would be practically feasible and beneficial for the various parties involved. This is based on an in-depth investigation in this opinion, including hearings and meetings where stakeholders expressed support for the idea of establishing the Forum, and considering the very successful example of the European Migration Forum.

The Forum must be well embedded in the processes of SDG implementation, monitoring and review. The composition should be as inclusive as possible without compromising the possibilities to manage and operate the Forum efficiently. It should also be open to grassroots initiatives in sustainable development. The participation of the European Commission at a high level is crucial and representatives from the Council of the EU and the Parliament will be invited.

 

Relevant opinions adopted by the EESC:

Other relevant documents:

 

Downloads

Building the Europe We Want - Models for civil society involvement in the implementation of the Post-2015 agenda at the EU level
The Role of National Sustainable Development Councils in Europe in Implementing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
Making civil society a driving force in the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development - Position paper – September 2015