Sir Stuart Etherington, chief executive of the voluntary sector umbrella body NCVO, has been appointed to the major civil society body of the EU, the European Economic & Social Committee (known as EcoSoc).

Commenting on his appointment, Sir Stuart said: "I am delighted to be joining EcoSoc, and look forward to working with my fellow committee members to ensure the needs of European civil society are reflected in EU policy and legislation.

"This is a key time to push for a more transparent EU and greater recognition of the voluntary sector across Europe. My work with EcoSoc will build on the progress NCVO has already made in forging close links with European partner organisations through membership and development of ENNA (the European Network of National Civil Society Associations)."

The EcoSoc is an official consultative body holding a key position of influence within European Union institutions.

The group makes policy recommendations on social and economic issues to the EU Council, the European Commission and European Parliament, and also gives opinions on draft legislation.

Amongst its current work, EcoSoc is supporting a declaration marking the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the Community Charter of Fundamental Social Rights by calling on the European Commission to propose a Social Action Programme.

The programme would guarantee fundamental social rights are placed on an equal footing with the rules on competition and economic freedom.

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