Water resilience requires stronger cooperation, recognition of access to affordable water as a universal right, and a more effective multilateral framework. The EESC brought together civil society actors to help shape the EU contribution to the 2026 UN Water Conference.
On 15 September, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will bring together civil society organisations, EU institutions and other stakeholders to help shape an ambitious, resilient and inclusive European contribution to the UN Water Conference, taking place on 8 – 10 December 2026.
In this overview the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) shares its opinions on the European Commission’s proposals for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034, bringing together the perspectives of organised civil society on the future direction of the EU budget.
As part of the preparation of the EESC opinion on an EU Strategy for Islands, the European Economic and Social Committee, in cooperation with INSULEUR, will hold a public hearing in Syros, at the heart of the Cyclades. The hearing aims to bring together local and regional authorities, organised civil society, businesses, academia and citizens to exchange views on both the challenges and the untapped opportunities facing Europe's islands. Beyond discussing issues such as connectivity, demographic change, access to services and climate resilience, the event will highlight the unique assets of islands like Syros, including their strategic location, cultural heritage, blue economy potential, innovation capacity, renewable energy opportunities and sustainable tourism. The insights gathered will contribute directly to the EESC opinion by ensuring that the voices, experiences and aspirations of island communities are reflected in future EU policies and in the implementation of the first European Strategy for Islands which was adopted in June 2026.
rue Belliard 101, Jacques Delors building, room JDE 63, 9:30-11:00
Brussels
Belgium
EESC, room JDE 63, 9:30-11:00
The policy debate brings together stakeholders to assess how National and Regional and Partnership Plans will work in practice. In a workshop setting connected to the European Economic and Social Committee, participants from civil society, social partners and institutions will exchange perspectives on transparency, inclusiveness and impact. The discussion aims to highlight gaps, share best practices and strengthen the role of organised civil society in shaping and monitoring the implementation of NRPPs in the EU.
Save the date! On 15 September, the CCMI will organise a high-level event bringing together European civil society and key stakeholders to help shape the EU’s contribution to the UN Water Conference 2026. Building on the EESC’s work on the EU Blue Deal and its recently adopted opinion on this process, the event will foster dialogue and deliver key recommendations from civil society to EU and global decision-makers, feeding into global water policy discussions.
Ahead of the UN Water Conference 2026, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) held a plenary debate with EU Commissioner for Environment and Water Resilience Jessika Roswall. The EESC calls for water to be treated as a strategic resource for Europe’s economy, security and global role.
This study examines the potential of sodium ion battery technology to strengthen energy resilience in European households and businesses, particularly in meeting a 72 hour electricity self sufficiency objective under the EU’s preparedness strategy.
