Video message by President von der Leyen at the Plenary Session of the European Economic and Social Committee

President Boland, dear Séamus,

Congratulations on your election as President of the European Economic and Social Committee. And let me extend a warm welcome to all the new and returning members gathered today. This is a special moment, as you mark your 600th plenary session. What a milestone! For almost 70 years, this committee has played a vital role in the story of our Union. You have brought together employers, trade unions, and civil society – to shape Europe's policies and purpose. To make sure they reflect what is really happening in workplaces and communities across our continent. And by including representatives from candidate countries in your daily work, you extend that spirit of cooperation beyond our borders. In doing so, you are shaping Europe's future.

Your work embodies Europe's unique model. A strong market economy with robust social policies. Our ability to combine innovation with fairness. Built on dialogue. Grounded in cooperation. And always focused on delivering both opportunity and protection for our citizens. This matters now more than ever. We live in a world that is faster, tougher, and more volatile than before. We must make sure Europe has what it takes to thrive in this new age. That is the focus of this European Commission. With our Competitiveness Compass, we are turning the Draghi Report into action. And we are doing it together. Because competitiveness and our social model are two sides of the same coin. Our social model depends on our ability to compete in these turbulent times. On us building the technologies of the future right here in Europe. But that is only possible if our workers have the skills to succeed. That is why social dialogue will always be central to shaping our policies.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Our democracies rely on a strong civil society. In an age of misinformation and distrust, we must strengthen the bond with our citizens. That is why, in our next long-term budget, we have proposed the AgoraEU programme. EUR 8.6 billion to support democracy and civil society. And soon, we will launch a new EU Civil Society Platform, to connect even more closely with those who feel the pulse of Europe every single day. As we shape this platform, we will keep working hand in hand with you. To ensure that your role in bringing organised civil society to Europe's heart is strengthened.

I wish you a successful mandate, and I look forward to working with you in the years ahead.

Thank you very much and long live Europe.