Last week, we had the privilege of participating in Civil Society Week 2025 in Brussels, a dynamic gathering of civil society stakeholders from across Europe and beyond. This annual event served as a vibrant platform for exchanging ideas, discussing challenges, and exploring opportunities to strengthen social cohesion and democratic engagement.
Showcasing our contributions
At our stand, we had the opportunity to showcase the work of our network and highlight the Back on Track project. Through engaging conversations, we shared our commitment to supporting young NEETs and fostering inclusive opportunities for personal and professional growth. The interest from fellow participants underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling social challenges.
Joining crucial discussions
We also took part in insightful discussions that highlighted the essential role of civil society organisations (CSOs). Sustainable funding mechanisms and institutional support were emphasised as key to empowering CSOs in their work. A spotlight was also placed on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), with an emphasis on the need for CSOs to advocate for policies and funding that prioritise social cohesion and the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR), as the YES Forum does.
Another prominent topic was the development of a European Strategy for Civil Society. Participants welcomed Commissioner McGrath's mention of this initiative in the Commission's work programme, as well as the appointment of a Vice-President for Civil Society. These steps are significant milestones, underscoring the growing recognition of civil society's contribution to democratic engagement. It was evident that for the strategy to succeed, CSOs must proactively communicate their needs and experiences to the Commission. Ensuring inclusivity by moving beyond the Brussels bubble and involving organisations from all regions of Europe was also highlighted as a crucial consideration. This approach is rooted in our advocacy strategy, and it is the source of the invaluable input we, as a network, bring to European policymaking.
Looking Ahead
The Civil Society Week 2025 reaffirmed the resilience and determination of CSOs to drive positive change. As we move forward, we remain committed to contributing to these important conversations and advocating for policies that support inclusive growth and democratic participation by ensuring social rights.
