As the European Commission President prepares to deliver her State of the Union address on the current overall condition of the EU, how can civil society make our collective voice known on the matters that affect citizens the most?
This is why Civil Society Europe, along with a large group of civil society organisations, present our ‘Civil Society State of the Union 2025’ report. This document is both a response and a proposal – it aims to present the EU’s current state and propose solutions for positive change. Since 2023, CSE’s working group on the state of the union has been working tirelessly to support civil society and citizens’ participation in the EU, and follow-up on the Conference on the Future of Europe and its final proposals.
This document is split into six sections, each addressing a specific area:
- Strengthening democracy, fundamental rights and civic space in the EU and the world
- Enhancing freedom of movement and solidarity for a more inclusive European society
- A socially just EU
- Averting the planetary crisis through climate action, nature restoration and sustainable resource use
- A digital transformation that leaves no one behind in the EU
- Shielding European society through human-centred security & readiness policies
When compared to our 2023 State of the Union report, we see the alarming decline in democracy, human rights and the rule of law has continued across the EU. Amidst climbing global political tensions, the EU must incorporate a holistic approach, factoring in all sectors of our society, while reinforcing the role civil society plays.
“This report is crucial for the next period of EU decision-making to fill gaps in some areas and set the agenda in others. The rapid changes we all see require timely and sustainable responses. As independent civil society organisations representing a wide range of citizens’ experiences and interests, we offer clear analysis rooted in lived experience and grassroots contexts.“ – Gabriella Civico, President of Civil Society Europe.
We hope this document provides a sound basis as we work towards a democratic, socially, and environmentally just EU. Read the full report now.
On July 3rd, we launched our report at the European Parliament! Taking place in the Presidential Salon, the event brought together key figures from civil society, while the panel discussion brought together MEPs Katarina Barley (S&D), Nicolae Ștefănuță (Greens/EFA), Abir Al-Sahlani (Renew), and Marc Angel (S&D).
We thank all those who participated and contributed to a successful launch.
Photographer: Laurie DIEFFEMBACQ / © European Union 2025 – Source : EP
