Helping NGOs find their voice in Europe

The EESC provides an official platform for interest groups including employers’ groups, trade unions and other parties including non-profit associations, consumer organisations to put forward their points of view on policy and legislation in Europe.

The COR gives a voice to local and regional authorities like town, city and county councils and is also consulted regularly by the Commission on upcoming proposals.

The European Commission and the European Council have to consult COR whenever new proposals are made that might impact at regional or local level.

The opinions of the EESC are also forwarded to the larger institutions so it too has a key role to play in the EU’s decision-making process.

NGOs looking to be heard in Europe can get in contact with Irish representatives on the European Economic and Social Committee or the Committee of the Regions and see if they can help them influence the Commission or the Council.