On 21–22 January, the 602nd plenary session of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels adopted important opinions that will shape EU policies and future decisions in the EP and EC.
One of the key highlights was the adoption of the opinion on the AI Apply Strategy. Discussions underlined that Europe must move beyond regulation towards real AI deployment in industry, logistics, energy and the public sector. At the same time, the need to invest in workers’ skills, training and a socially fair digital transformation was strongly emphasized.
The plenary also discussed and adopted opinions on the Quantum Technologies Strategy, the Single Market and Customs Programme, the upcoming 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, the Connecting Europe Facility, the future of the European Social Fund, the Common Agricultural Policy, and the new European Prosperity and Security Fund.
EU policy is increasingly integrating competitiveness, technology, security, social policy and regional cohesion into a single strategic agenda.
For workers and social partners, these opinions mean both opportunities and responsibilities: technological transformation must be accompanied by investments in people, strong social dialogue and regional inclusion. Only then can Europe be both competitive and socially fair, – emphasizes Jurga Subačiūtė-Žemaitienė, EESC member and Vice-President of the Lithuanian Industry Trade Union Federation.