At its plenary session, the Economic and Social Council adopted its Plan of Activities for 2026, which outlines the main priorities and topics on which the consultative body of employers, trade unions and civil society organisations will work in the coming year.
Within the framework of the plan, a number of key issues related to the economic and social development of Bulgaria will be brought to the attention of the ESC. These include the challenges facing the labour market and labour shortages, re-industrialisation and the development of clean technologies, the integration of Bulgarian industry into European economic and defence chains, sustainable management of natural resources, energy and climate policies, digital transformation, social aspects of artificial intelligence, healthcare, education and the role of citizen participation in decision-making processes.
The Economic and Social Council, commissioned by the National Assembly, will develop an analysis on the reproduction of the workforce in occupations supporting key economic and social sectors, which will offer expert assessment and recommendations to support long-term employment and human capital policies.
The 2026 Plan also foresees the preparation of opinions and analyses on current European and national policies, including economic and social recommendations for Bulgaria, working conditions, tax policy, social protection, as well as the development of strategic sectors relevant for sustainable growth.
International cooperation remains an essential focus of the work of the ESC. In 2026, the Council will actively participate in bilateral and multilateral discussions with national economic and social councils as well as with the European Economic and Social Committee. These initiatives and fora are aimed at exchanging good practices, deepening social dialogue and supporting the development of organised civil society at national and European level.
During the ESC plenary session, Iliana Ivanova, Member of the European Court of Auditors, presented the main conclusions of the institution’s work on the implementation of the EU budget and the preparation of the next Multiannual Financial Framework. The presentation outlined the key risks and challenges facing European public finances, as well as lessons learned from the Recovery and Sustainability Mechanism, including the need for more effective control and traceability of expenditure. Special emphasis was placed on the EU’s future priorities – competitiveness, cohesion, security and sustainable development. It was underlined that the European Court of Auditors will continue to give opinions on the main legal acts that will shape the framework of European policies and finances after 2027.
