European Ombudsman, brings high-level experts to discuss how the EU can help SMEs

28 Jan 2014 | Network Updates
The European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly, is organising a high-level event to discuss solutions to the struggles of small and medium enterprises.

The economic crisis may have reached a turning point. After several tough years for European businesses, the outlook for 2014 is largely positive according to a Eurochambres survey. Yet many businesses continue to struggle and look to the EU for support.

The European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly, is bringing together high-level experts to discuss what is being done at the EU level to help small and big businesses. She will also explain her own role in resolving complaints from companies about red tape, lack of transparency, and other forms of poor or failed administration in the EU institutions.

The event will feature the following talks:

  • Arnaldo Abruzzini, Secretary-General of Eurochambres: "Economic survey: Business optimism returns in 2014"
  • Luc Hendrickx, Director for Enterprise Policy and External Relations, UEAPME: "Small versus big: What are the key challenges for SMEs in Europe?"
  • Markus Ferber, Member of the European Parliament (EPP): "What can Europe learn from Germany's successful business model?"
  • Member of the European Parliament's S&D group (name to be confirmed): "What more should be done for businesses in the EU's most-affected countries?"
  • Emily O'Reilly, European Ombudsman: "The European Ombudsman is good for business"


The event will take place in Room ASP A1-G2 at the European Parliament in Brussels.To attend the event, please register by 3 February on the European Ombudsman website.

The live webstream will be available on the European Ombudsman website, and you can participate in the Twitter debate at #EObusiness

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