EESC President

Today marks the solemn anniversary of the tragic events that occurred on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched brutal terrorist attacks against Israel, resulting in the loss of innocent lives. I condemn once again, in the strongest possible terms, these unjustified acts of deliberate violence. As we reflect on that dark day, our thoughts remain with the victims, their families, and the hostages taken by Hamas.

The resilience and strength of the families affected, whom I had the honour to meet last November, continue to inspire us. As we call for the unconditional release of all hostages, we also reiterate the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a significant increase in humanitarian aid, and an end to the ongoing conflict.

On this day, we urge all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and commit to a future where peace prevails and such violence is never repeated. The path to lasting peace lies in dialogue, respect for human rights and civil society, and the full implementation of international law.

As the President of the European Economic and Social Committee, I am deeply concerned by the escalation of violence in the Middle East. The EESC expresses its deepest solidarity with the affected populations and urges all actors involved to prioritise the protection of civilians and civilian critical infrastructure in line with international humanitarian law.

European Leaders just agreed on the direction the European Union should take in the coming years. The European Council not only adopted a Strategic Agenda to define the political priorities of our institutions, but also took a decision on the leadership that will guide them. I welcome the election of António Costa as President of the European Council, and the nomination of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission, as well as Kaja Kallas to be the next High Representative. 

The European Parliament elections came at a critical time for Europe and for our democracy. European citizens have spoken. While the pro-democratic majority in the European Parliament remains overwhelming, the rise of the far right and Eurosceptic forces is deeply worrying. I call upon the democratic forces to take the responsibility, work together, show a clear commitment to a strong Europe, and appoint a new Commission that is determined to take on the key challenges ahead. 

The EESC is deeply concerned about the reintroduction of the law on "Transparency of Foreign Influence" in Georgia.  This initiative targets in a discriminatory manner civil society organisations (CSOs), including employers' associations, trade unions and media. Hundreds of thousands are taking to the streets to protest against this law which they see as a means to silence NGOs and independent media. 

The European and Economic and Social Committee has always been a strong ally in elaborating and implementing the Social Pillar and safeguarding sustainable competitiveness. A regular and meaningful dialogue with civil society can only strengthen the EESC´s commitment to a strong European Social model. 

Following the meeting of the Sustainable Economic and Social Development Council of Brazil (CDESS) and the European Economic and Social Committee, held in Brasília, 9-10 April 2024, the President of the EESC, Oliver Röpke and Minister Alexandre Padilha, representing the CDESS, decided to work towards the establishment of a new EU-Brazil Civil Society Round Table.

The people and the planet cannot afford a lost decade. This is not the time to backtrack on the 2030 agenda. It is time to accelerate action and take everyone along on this journey. The world needs to move in the right direction. It is not a task to be left to future generations, nor a job to be left to incoming governments. It is our task for now.