EuroCham Executive Director Delphine Rousselet attended the five-day annual general meeting of the European Business Organisation Worldwide Network (EBOWWN) in Brussels, held from 3-7 June 2024. This gathering brought together representatives from a rapidly expanding network of European Business Organisations (EBOs) worldwide. Initially a network of 12 EBOs, it has now grown to include 55, representing every continent, thanks to the support of the European Commission’s Directorate for the Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship & SMEs (DG GROW).
EBOWWN ASEAN Cluster (Vietnam, Singapore, Philippines, Myanmar), Mr Tomas Baert (Member of the Cabinet of President Von Der Leyen, Jason Collins (EBO Australia, chairman of EBOWWN )
This year’s AGM was particularly significant, coinciding with the European election season, making it a crucial period for engagement and advocacy. The event provided a unique opportunity to enhance the visibility and impact of both EBOWWN and EuroCham Vietnam in Brussels, especially with the European Commission. Participants engaged with cabinet members of commissioners and Directorates-General (DGs), discussing common actions, exchanging best practices, and developing joint initiatives under the “Team Europe” approach, which emphasises coordinated action among EU institutions, member states and European businesses.
Ms. Rousselet used this platform to inform attendees about the upcoming Green Economy Forum & Exhibition (GEFE) 2024. She stressed EuroCham Vietnam’s commitment to sustainability and regional cooperation, working to increase regional presence at the event and highlighting its importance in promoting green economic initiatives that align with Team Europe’s global sustainability goals.
Throughout the week, delegates participated in high-level meetings with key EU officials and stakeholders. Discussions with figures such as Michael Hager, Head of Cabinet for Executive Vice President Dombrovskis, and Taneli Lahti, Head of Cabinet for Commissioner Urpilainen, covered critical topics like raw materials partnerships, economic security, and the Net Zero Industry Act. These meetings are essential for shaping policies that impact European businesses operating globally. Regional meetings offered a platform for focused discussions on regional challenges and strategies, allowing for tailored approaches to specific issues faced by different regions.
The European Business Organisation Worldwide Network also released its position on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) Position Paper during the AGM. The paper contains 18 recommendations on how to effectively implement the CSDDD and create clear pathways for compliance by working closely with companies and governments in partner markets. Read the full position paper here.
The EBO meeting in Brussels was a vital platform for EuroCham to strengthen its ties with the European business community and EU institutions. It highlighted the growing recognition and engagement of the EBO and underscored the importance of sustainability and the green transition within the European context.
