EESC President

António Costa, the new President of the European Council, used his first appearance at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) to share his key priorities for the EU. He highlighted competitiveness as the basis for Europe’s future prosperity and reiterated his commitment to combining competitiveness with social rights to secure a sustainable future for Europe. In line with this, EESC President Röpke highlighted that the EU needs to strive for a competitiveness works for the many, not the few. 

Speaking just days after taking office on 1 December, António Costa emphasised the urgent need for collective action. ‘We are on track. We have made the diagnosis, we have ambitious proposals, but we must have political will.’  ‘Let us concentrate on everything we can do for growth, jobs and a Social Europe. So that today’s young generation can look back in ten years and say: this was the time when the European Union laid the foundations for our prosperity.’

Competitiveness and tailored reforms are central to his agenda. He wants to renew and improve the single market, cut unnecessary regulations, and invest in skills and innovation to ensure sustainable growth and strengthen Europe’s economy. ‘We need strong companies - not because they are cheaper, but because they innovate with new business ideas and a skilled workforce,’ Mr Costa said.

‘Competitiveness is not just about economic goals; it’s about creating opportunities for all Europeans and fostering resilience,’ said EESC president Oliver Röpke. ‘Economic growth must go hand in hand with social progress, ensuring that no one is left behind.’

To reach these goals, Mr Costa called for reforms tailored in a similar way to the NextGenerationEU framework: performance-based funding with clear targets and timelines. ‘This is a logic we introduced in Next Generation EU. And this is a good logic for the future.” Regarding the upcoming negotiations of the MFF, he added: “We should look at the next EU budget with an open mind.’

Mr Costa also highlighted the urgency of a common European agenda, stressing that unity is essential in addressing Europe’s geopolitical challenges. He referenced the ongoing war in Ukraine, security concerns, and the importance of strengthening international trade agreements and highlighted the EU's role in shaping relations with both China and the USA.

The EESC a key partner in advancing Costa’s vision

Mr Costa explained that cooperation with the EESC will be crucial in addressing the real concerns of Europeans and achieving meaningful solutions. ‘The EESC embodies the European model. […] Social dialogue enables us to find sustainable solutions based on a constant negotiation between various representatives of our societies. This is the way to connect with citizens at a time when it is more important than ever to do so.’

The EESC praised António Costa’s focus on competitiveness as essential for Europe's future. His emphasis on combining economic growth with innovation, sustainability, and social progress resonated strongly with the Committee. The EESC, as a vital ally, will help shape these reforms and ensure that the EU’s actions benefit all its people.

Mr Costa’s vision for performance-based reforms, modelled on the success of NextGenerationEU, was also welcomed. Mr Röpke emphasised the role of civil society in these reforms: ‘Civil society brings unique perspectives and expertise to these discussions. The EESC is fully committed to bringing the voice of civil society into the process of shaping a Europe that is inclusive, resilient and prepared for the challenges of the future.’

The plenary debate also touched on important concerns such as housing, migration and energy costs - issues that Mr Costa identified as priorities for his presidency. ‘Investments in education, reskilling, affordable housing, and the green transition will be crucial to this vision,' said Mr Röpke as he called for practical solutions in these areas.

Perspectives from the EESC groups

As part of the plenary discussion, the EESC’s three groups shared their views on Mr Costa's priorities, emphasising the need for action on competitiveness, fairness, and addressing citizens' concerns. Their comments reflect the Committee’s broader commitment to ensuring that the EU meets its challenges with the help of civil society.

Stefano Mallia, President of the EESC Employers’ Group, emphasised the importance of competitiveness and economic resilience under Mr Costa's leadership: ‘In the past years, we have seen one strategy after another, but promises without tangible outcomes only breed frustration. We call on the European Council to have the courage to take bold action to restore competitiveness. The actions taken today during this mandate will set Europe’s course for generations.’

Lucie Studničná, President of the EESC Workers’ Group, highlighted the social dimension of Mr Costa’s priorities: ‘The key challenge will be to bring the 27 countries together to develop policies that promote a more sustainable, just and inclusive Europe, in order to bridge the gap between institutions and people and boost confidence in the EU. Preserving and strengthening the European Union’s legacy is essential.’

Séamus Boland, President of the EESC Civil Society Organisations’ Group, urged Mr Costa to pay close attention to EU citizens' main concerns, namely the cost-of-living crisis, energy poverty, affordable and decent housing and efficient healthcare: ‘Citizens are interested in social justice and a just green transition. It is imperative to keep these topics, as well as the protection of freedoms and democracy, high on the agenda of the European Council.’