Blockchain can have multiple applications in the social economy, but must not create a new "digital economy elite"

Staff

Originally associated with cryptocurrencies, blockchain and distributed ledger technology (DLT) are in fact very versatile and can be usefully applied to the social economy. However, it is important to regulate them properly and gear them to benefits for all, allowing everyone to participate, says the EESC in a report tabled at its July plenary

Circular Economy: time to unleash the power of consumers, urges the EESC

Staff

So far, actions to boost the development of a circular economy in Europe have centred on production, getting industries to introduce circular business models and bring circular options to the market. Now conditions are ripe for getting consumers involved, and empowering them to make sustainable purchasing choices in their daily lives, says an EESC report adopted in July

Belgian artist launches worldwide Human Rights project

Staff

In the context of the 58th Venice Biennale, internationally renowned Belgian artist Koen Vanmechelen launches a project called the Human Rights Pavilion, whose purpose is to explore the possibility of a universal concept of human rights and the role of art in its development, with the collaboration of the Global Campus of Human Rights, Fondazione Berengo and the MOUTH Foundation. The launch of the project will take place at the Fondazione Berengo ART SPACE in Murano, Venice, on 8 May. Vita International is media partner of the project

European Philanthropy Manifesto calling for a Single Market for Philanthropy

Staff

European foundations, philanthropic organisations and policymakers have come together to jointly launch the European Philanthropy Manifesto and to advocate for an enabling environment for philanthropy in Europe. The European Philanthropy Manifesto is a call to policy makers in Europe to work towards a Single Market for Philanthropy

The reform of the European Citizens’ Initiative is underway

Cristina Barbetta

The European Economic and Social Committee has organised in its headquarters in Brussels the 7th ECI Day to shed light on the new European Commission’s reform proposal and to make the European Citizens’ Initiative a more efficient instrument of dialogue between the EU and its citizens

Future of Europe: Towards a European Education Area by 2025

Staff

With the debate on the future of Europe in full swing, the European Commission is setting out its vision for how we can create a European Education Area by 2025.

Clean Air Forum: better air for European cities

Staff

The forum will be the occasion for decision makers and stakeholders to share knowledge and assist in the implementation of European, national and local air policies.

4 European cities shortlisted for Access City Award 2018

Staff

4 European cities were shortlisted for the award that recognises and celebrates a city's willingness, capability and efforts to ensure accessibility : Ljubljana (Slovenia), Luxembourg (Luxembourg), Lyon (France), and Viborg (Denmark)

Financing of civil society is essential for democracy

Staff

The EU institution should promote a positive image of civil society organisations, preserve their independence and ensure they are properly funded, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) says.

Prevent radicalisation: the role of civil society

Cristina Barbetta

The European Economic and Social Committee (Eesc) has organised a public hearing on “The role of civil society in the prevention of radicalisation of young people” in its headquarters in Brussels. The aim? Clarify how EU policy-makers can help civil society practitioners to successfully prevent radicalisation.