Comitetul Economic si Social European
The recent flow of disinformation in Europe, following the crisis in Ukraine, has underlined the need to consider the influence it has on social and political processes in the EU and the Eastern neighbouring countries. The impact caused by disinformation is often underestimated, as heavily funded disinformation is being spread not only via media, but also through cultural channels and public figures; its presence is strong and influential in the lives of European citizens, especially in Eastern Europe.
At the Vilnius Summit, which took place on 28-29 November 2013, it was expected that Ukraine, as the first of the EaP countries, would sign the Association Agreement, including Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, with the European Union. However, the Ukrainian Government, rather unexpectedly, took the decision to temporarily suspend the process of preparations for signature of the Association Agreement. This decision caused political turmoil and instability in the whole country, with, to this day, far-reaching political consequences.
High-level officials from the European External Action Service (EEAS), members of the European Parliament (EP), and a representative from the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) convened in Kiev for the 3rd Association Exchange Forum. Together they discussed recent achievements and shared experiences, best practices and lessons learnt regarding AAs, institutional set-ups, implementation monitoring issues and civil society involvement. Dr. Istvan Komoroczki, EESC chairman of the EU-Georgia Civil Society Platform from the Employers Group, also took part in the Forum.
To turn solidarity with Ukraine into concrete action, the EESC is joining the European Parliament's "civil society hub" initiative for Ukraine, allowing the NGO Promote Ukraine to use part of its premises at rue de Trèves 74, along with logistical equipment.
The 11th meeting of the EU-Ukraine Civil Society Platform took place on 20 April 2022. During the meeting, an exchange between authorities and members of the civil society platform was held with special focus on the unprovoked and unilateral armed aggression initiated by the Russian Federation against Ukraine on its independent and sovereign territory. A joint declaration, prepared by both sides, was discussed and adopted.
The representatives of the two Domestic Advisory Groups (DAGs) from the EU and Ukraine held their fifth joint meeting via a videoconference on 22 October 2021.
The 11th meeting of the EU Domestic Advisory Group under the EU-Ukraine DCFTA will take place via a videoconference on 18 October 2021.
The 10th meeting of the EU-Ukraine Civil Society Platform took place on 27 September 2021 remotely by videoconference. During the meeting, a debate was held to assess the state of play of the implementation of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement with special focus on rural youth, and on digital and green skills.
The 10th meeting of the EU Domestic Advisory Group under the EU-Ukraine DCFTA took place via a videoconference on 15 March 2021.
