The External Relations Section (REX) of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is responsible for dialogue between European civil society organisations and their homologues from the countries with which the European Union has formal relations (e.g. under the form of a Free Trade Agreement). Through this dialogue, made possible by a series of bilateral bodies, and through specialized opinions and information reports, the Committee is able to concretely contribute to EU foreign policy.
The corona crisis is a huge human and societal tragedy for Europeans and for people throughout the world. Tackling its diverse impacts requires a series of measures, from coping with the emergency stage and proceeding via recovery and rebuilding towards long-term success and stability. Businesses that manage to recover well and succeed are key to the recovery of the EU economy as a whole.
The corona crisis is changing the global economy daily, with the results still being uncertain. The crisis has hit all sectors, from services to industries and agriculture. The most serious problems have been encountered by SMEs and micro-entrepreneurs who have had their businesses disappear and are in a very critical situation.
To limit the economic and social damage caused by this critical situation, a series of measures is needed, extending from coping with the emergency stage towards recovery and rebuilding.
Our members comment on the results of the US presidential election and reflect on their possible impact;
Guest articles by Lennart NILSSON (General Confederation of Agricultural Cooperatives - COGECA), Beatriz ABELLÁN MERELO (Foundation for European Progressive Studies - FEPS) and Francesca CARLSSON (European Environmental Bureau - EEB);
Report on our recent conference on protecting Europe's most vulnerable through sustainable and affordable housing;
Interview with rapporteur Anastasis YIAPANIS on the new EESC opinion on 'Advanced materials for industrial leadership'.
Civil Society Organisations' Bulletin - December 2024
