EXPRESS2 Online Workshop: A future we build together 27 June, 2025

The EXPRESS2 project aims to develop a more inclusive, democratic, and sustainable new social contract for the European Union (EU). We want a social contract that strengthens democracy, promotes justice and equality, and protects the rights and well-being of everyone living in the EU.

This new Social Contract is being developed through research, public dialogue, and participatory engagement. A fundamental aspect in this process and in achieving this goal is engaging citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) through a series of well-structured events and workshops. These gatherings will emphasize and discuss themes such as trust in institutions, populism, climate change, digitalisation and insecurity, which are identified as potentially disruptive elements affecting social cohesion and trust in Europe.

From June 2025 until June 2026 the EMI, which leads the work on citizens engagement and deliberation, will organise a series of online and offline meetings with the key European civil society stakeholders from European and national level to craft together the input for the European Social Contract.

If you could choose the kind of future we live in — Would you want to retire with peace of mind?  Should every young person have access to quality education? How should AI and tech be regulated to protect people’s data and privacy, not just profits?

These are the kinds of questions we will explore together.

Through the EU-funded EXPRESS2 project, we’re creating a new vision for the future of Europe — one that puts people first.  Some call it a social contract. We call it a shared vision we can all stand behind.

We’re working with CSOs across Europe to gather real input, on real issues — from democracy and justice to digitalisation and climate.

Your ideas will help shape recommendations that will go directly to top EU researchers, academics, and decision-makers at the European Commission.

Each workshop will focus on one big theme. They’re collaborative, interactive, and yes, even fun.

First up: our Introductory Workshop on June 27 from 10.00 to 12.00 CET.

• Hear from Fabien Dell (DG EMPL)

• Join small group discussions

• Connect with CSOs from across Europe

• Be part of shaping the process from the start

This is your chance to help write what comes next. Let’s make it count. Register here.