SGIs at the heart of a competitive and inclusive Europe: Highlights from the first SGI Intergroup event at the European Parliament

On 8 April 2025, the European Parliament hosted the first event organised by the Intergroup on Social Economy and Services of General Interest (SGIs), titled “The EU Way of Competitiveness”. The gathering spotlighted the vital role of SGIs in shaping a sustainable, resilient, and socially inclusive European competitiveness model.

The event, held in the European Parliament, brought together Members of the European Parliament, EU Commission, providers of services of general interest representatives, and EU policy experts to discuss how SGIs act as both enablers and as core actors of the EU's competitive strategy, particularly in the context of the green and digital transitions.

Two panels, one clear message: SGIs are essential

Following opening addresses by MEP Camilla Laureti (S&D) and MEP Ignazio Marino (Greens/EFA), the first panel, moderated by MEP Marion Walsmann (EPP), focused on SGIs as enablers of competitiveness. Speakers from RATP Group, GdW, and La Poste showcased how public transport, housing, and postal networks underpin innovation, social cohesion, and local economic development. MEP Gabriele Bischoff (S&D) emphasised the need to view SGIs not as market correctors but as integral to Europe’s long-term strategy.

The second panel, led by MEP Benedetta Scuderi (Greens/EFA), highlighted the active role of SGIs in driving competitiveness. Contributions from A2A and the Dutch Water Authorities illustrated innovative projects in energy storage and sustainable procurement, reinforcing SGIs' capacity to foster strategic autonomy and environmental leadership.

A call for structural change

Throughout the event, SGI Europe reiterated its call for a paradigm shift: SGIs must be recognised as structural components of EU competitiveness. This includes investing in critical infrastructures, reducing administrative burdens, and ensuring SGIs are fully integrated into the Clean Industrial Deal, Preparedness Strategy, and the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

Keynote speaker Pablo Fons from the European Commission’s Competitiveness Task Force underlined the alignment between SGI-driven approaches and the EU's broader economic vision.

The event concluded with remarks by MEP Alexandra Mehnert (EPP), reaffirming the Intergroup’s commitment to placing SGIs at the heart of Europe’s competitiveness agenda. With a full room, the event made a strong case for shifting the EU’s narrative from market-driven growth to a people-centred, service-empowered model of sustainable prosperity.