EESC President

This past week, President Oliver Röpke led a series of high-impact missions across Europe, reinforcing the EESC’s commitment to a fairer, greener and more democratic Europe.

Copenhagen – Extraordinary Bureau Meeting
The week began in Denmark with the EESC’s Extraordinary Bureau Meeting in Copenhagen. Discussions focused on equipping people with green skills, promoting lifelong learning, and exploring how the upcoming Danish Presidency can help drive the twin transition. President Röpke highlighted the importance of inclusive civil society engagement in shaping a just and sustainable future.

Belgrade – ETUC Mid-Term Conference
From Copenhagen, the President travelled to Belgrade to participate in the European Trade Union Confederation’s (ETUC) Mid-Term Conference. In his address, President Röpke called for a strong social Europe, where workers’ rights are safeguarded, precariousness is tackled head-on, and economic growth is aligned with social justice and fairness.

He also met with Spanish Minister of Labour Yolanda Díaz and engaged with national media outlet N1 to underline the essential role of civil society in the EU enlargement process, and the need to safeguard democratic space in the Western Balkans.

Lisbon – Citizens Can Defeat Disinformation Conference
The week concluded in Lisbon at the “Citizens Can Defeat Disinformation” conference, co-organised with the Portuguese Economic and Social Council. The event was a powerful call to action for civil society and institutions to empower citizens in the fight against disinformation and to strengthen democratic resilience. President Röpke also exchanged views with Minister Ana Mendes Godinho, reaffirming their shared commitment to defending social rights and democratic values.

This week marked a clear and consistent message from the EESC: civil society matters, and its voice is essential in building a more just, inclusive and democratic Europe.