European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)
European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) : Founded in 1957 under the Treaty of Rome (1957), the EESC is an advisory body representing employers, trade unions, farmers, consumers and other interested groups making up "civil society". It presents their views and defends their interests in policy discussions with the European Commission, the European Council and the European Parliament. The EESC is a bridge between the European Union's decision-making process: on its own initiative it may give opinions on other matters it considers important. The EESC has 222 members, the number from each EU country roughly reflecting the size of its population. Since new Member States have joined as a result of enlargement, there are a total of 344 members. Members are appointed by unanimous Council decision for four years and this term may be renewed. The Treaty of Nice, adopted in December 2000, did not change the number and distribution by Member State of seats on the Committee. However, eligibility for membership was clarified: the EESC is to consist of "representatives of the various economic and social components of organised civil society" (Article 257, TEC)
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