Victor Negrescu, Vice President of the European Parliament, participated in the Civil Society Week, an event hosted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on 17-20 March, which was attended by more than 800 people – representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, youth groups, journalists and other stakeholders. The event was dedicated to strengthening social cohesion and combating polarization in EU societies.

During the event, Victor Negrescu emphasized the crucial importance of collaboration between the European institutions and civil society to defend democracy and promote European values. 

”We need people with vision, who will fight for Europe and who will not let politics drift away from the people. Real partnership between the institutions and civil society is no longer optional but necessary,” said Negrescu.

The Vice President of the European Parliament drew attention to the vital role of civil society in fighting extremism and promoting social cohesion.

”We need a strong civil society and a real partnership between civil society and decision-makers to jointly build a cohesive society with real impact on people’s lives.”

Victor Negrescu thus reaffirmed his commitment to supporting civil society organizations at European level, advocating for the creation of a framework that provides them with the resources and civic space they need to make their voice heard. 

”Civil society is not something abstract, it is not a construct whose role is to please someone, but it represents the totality of organizations, groups and initiatives that act independently of the state and the political or economic environment, with the aim of promoting the interests, values and needs of citizens,” explained Negrescu.

The conclusions and recommendations resulting from the Civil Society Week discussions will be presented at the EESC plenary session in March, alongside the Commissioner for Democracy and the Rule of Law, Michael McGrath. They will form the basis for future measures to strengthen civic participation and promote unity in Europe.

“Personally, I am and will remain a partner of all those who choose to engage, build and defend citizens and democracy. Europe needs a strong civil society,” concluded Victor Negrescu.