Competitiveness Compass: SGIs will be instrumental to the EU long-term stability, innovation, and social cohesion

SGI Europe, representing at European level employers and providers of Services of General Interest (SGIs), acknowledges the publication of the European Commission's Competitiveness Compass. In particular, we welcome the Commission's efforts in outlining a strategic vision for enhancing the EU's economic resilience and growth.

Following the publication of the Compass, General Secretary Valeria Ronzitti commented:

“The emphasis put in the Compass on sustainable growth and the digital transformation is crucial for the future of SGIs in Europe. Investments in green technologies and infrastructure will bolster the ability of our members to provide services of general interest efficiently for the benefits of all citizens and companies.”

“However, more clarity is needed on how these initiatives will be shaped and implemented, as they should not compromise the quality and accessibility of SGIs. The potential impacts of the implementation of the Compass on the delivery of SGIs and essential services will need to be dully taken into account across the three pillars of action and across the horizontal enablers.”

“The Competitiveness Compass cannot become a missed opportunity to recognize SGIs as direct actors of competitiveness. A truly resilient and competitive European economy cannot be built without acknowledging the essential and proactive role of SGIs in delivering long-term stability, innovation, and social cohesion.”

"SGI Europe remains committed to ensuring that, as the Competitiveness Compass moves from vision to action, the identified loopholes on SGIs are effectively addressed. We will continue working to make sure that our proactive and essential role in shaping the European brand of competitiveness is fully recognized in the initiatives stemming from the Compass."