The President of the European Commission, Ms. Von der Leyen during in her 2023 State of the Union Adress stated that EC will open the Rule of Law Reports to accession countries who get up to speed even faster, placing them on an equal footing with member states, supporting them in their reform efforts. This was welcomed by EESC President Mr. Röpke who stated that in addition to appointing “Honorary Enlargement Members” from EU candidate countries, promoting an “EESC Civil Society Health Test” to monitor the freedom of civil society in EU Member States and candidate countries is one of his political priorities. In his speech, he further added that EESC is forward to supporting the EC in this endeavor and working together towards a common goal – an enlarged Union of freedom, rights and values for all.
Source: EESC/ Independent