Enhanced cooperation with the European Parliament ahead of the elections The Committee of the Regions signed a cooperation agreement with the European Parliament on 5th February 2014, which reinforces the political relationship between the two EU institutions. It strengthens the political and consultative role of the Committee of the Regions throughout the EU’s legislative and decision-making process, notably by better involving CoR rapporteurs. CoR members will be able to use the expertise of the new Parliament Research Service and to take part in European Semester Works of the Parliament, including the participation of a CoR delegation into the European Parliamentary Week. This cooperation shows the commitment of both institutions to join forces and increase the democratic legitimacy of the EU.
The Europe of the Future In an evolving Europe, and one which needs find new ways to reconnect with its citizens and to reinforce its democratic legitimacy, the future role of the CoR needs to be explored further. But what is already clear is that the CoR needs to be better integrated into the EU policy-making cycle. For its part, the EPP Group will continue to seek to strengthen its role as a political assembly. Moreover, it will continue its complimentary role to that of the directly elected representatives in the European Parliament and the representatives of national governments in the Council. This publication is a small part of a greater process to demonstrate what the CoR can offer to the legislators via its proximity to the citizens and its expertise on how existing legislation and spending programmes are effectively working on the ground. Only time will tell if Treaty Changes and further developments will follow, but the EPP Group looks forward to finding its place in the Europe of the future. A Europe of ever growing efficiency, proximity and legitimacy.
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