The Commission proposal is an important element of the Savings and Investments Union agenda. The EESC recognises the benefits of a multi-pillar pensions system, calls for a holistic approach, proposes a number of amendments to the legislative proposals to better serve its objectives, and explores changes on governance.
In this Opinion, the EESC fully supports the Culture Compass as a transversal strategy to promote culture, democracy and European values across all policy areas. It calls for strong, cross-cutting funding in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), including adequate budgetary targets, alongside effective implementation, clear governance and broad stakeholder involvement. The EESC highlights culture’s economic and social role, urging fair conditions for artists, improved access to finance, dedicated AI safeguards, and a reinforced international dimension and cooperation.
This exploratory opinion on the request of the Cyprus Council presidency is focused on the implementation of the Startups and Scaleup Strategy, with particular emphasis on the forthcoming European Innovation Act (EIA), planned for 2026. The EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy seeks to make Europe the leading hub for launching and expanding global technology-driven companies, including deep tech ventures.
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.
Chips Act 2, the revision of the EU Chips Act, aims to further strengthen Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem and competitiveness across the full value chain, with a particular focus on advanced manufacturing and AI chips.
The European shipping fleet is one of the largest in the world, representing 35% of the world fleet enabling the EU to play a leading role in the global supply chains.
Europe’s maritime manufacturing and shipping cluster faces increasing global competition and security risks. Strengthening its competitiveness – while advancing the cluster’s green and digital transition – is essential. The industry aims, by 2035, to invest more than €10 billion in highly efficient, automated and sustainable production facilities, and to recruit and re/upskill a total of 500,000 qualified workers.
