The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will host its High-level Debate on EU Enlargement 2026 on 16 July in Brussels, bringing together EU institutions, governments and organised civil society to discuss the future of enlargement. The event will be opened by EESC President Séamus Boland and Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, while Valentina Superti, Director for the Western Balkans at DG ENEST, will deliver the concluding remarks. Discussions will examine how enlargement can strengthen Europe’s security, democratic resilience and preparedness, including through closer cooperation with civil society and social partners. A second panel will explore socio-economic convergence, the implementation of reforms and the role of civil society in ensuring the Growth Plans deliver tangible benefits for citizens. The debate will also feature Enlargement Candidate Members (ECMs), including BCSDN members’ representatives Juliana Hoxha (Partners Albania) and Dren Puka (KCSF), who will contribute civil society perspectives from the region. Read more here.
Source: EESC