EEA social partners call for stronger cooperation on security, defence and civil preparedness

The meeting brought together representatives of workers’ and employers’ organisations, as well as civil society groups from the EU and the EEA EFTA States. It was co-chaired by Juraj Sipko from the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and Thea Forsberg from the EFTA Consultative Committee (EFTA CC).

Key role for social partners in Single Market for Defence and Civil Preparedness

In its resolution and report on a European Single Market for Preparedness and Defence, drafted by rapporteurs Kim Sivertsen (EFTA CC) and Tomas Arvidsson (EESC), the EEA Consultative Committee notes the increasingly hostile international security environment and urges cooperation across the EEA on security, defence and civil preparedness issues.  

“Threats to Europe’s security endanger the well-being and social security of its citizens, as instability and conflict can disrupt essential services, infrastructure and economic stability. Ensuring strong security measures and comprehensive preparedness across the EEA is thus crucial to protecting the social fabric, safety and livelihoods of all Europeans”, said Mr Sivertsen.  

Mr Arvidsson added: “With their knowledge of ground realities, social partners and civil society can play a key role in ensuring civil and military preparedness at all levels. They should hence be considered key partners in a Single Market for Defence and Civil Preparedness.” 

Denmark as best practice for collective bargaining and VET

Seemab Sheikh, Deputy Director in the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Carsten Sander, Director of International Affairs, Ministry of Employment, briefed participants on the key actions and outcomes of the Danish EU Presidency in the fields of competitiveness and social policy. Participants also received presentations on the role of coordinated multi-employer collective bargaining in Denmark and the Danish model of vocational education and training (VET) and upskilling. A company visit to the consumer owned cooperative Coop gave participants a practical insight into the VET system and into initiatives for those facing challenges entering the labour market.  

“The Danish model for collective bargaining and its system of vocational education and training are unique and provide many best-practice lessons for other countries across the EEA”, observed Ms Forsberg. “Gaining insights into the practical functioning of these models is extremely valuable for our committee.” 

The Arctic in the spotlight of geopolitical interests  

Finally, participants focused on geopolitical tensions in the Arctic. They were briefed by Anders Ladefoged (EESC) on the Nordic Circular Summit, held in Nuuk, Greenland, on 19 and 20 November, and by Arctic Affairs expert Nauja Bianco, who highlighted the significance of human capital, sustainable development and indigenous rights as a means of overcoming the challenges facing the Arctic. 

About the EEA Consultative Committee  

The EEA Consultative Committee is an advisory body made up of members of the EFTA Consultative Committee and the European Economic and Social Committee. It works to strengthen contacts between social partners on both sides, and to enhance awareness of and provide input on the economic and social aspects of the European Economic Area.