22 May 2026: SGI Europe French national section General Assembly – Debate around the Coalition for the Freedom to Stay

On Friday 22 May 2026, SGI Europe General Secretariat attended the SGI France General Assembly in Paris.

​

The meeting provided an important opportunity to exchange with SGI Europe’s French members on the main policy files currently followed by the General Secretariat, as well as on the state of play of the French section. Discussions also focused on ways to strengthen further the contribution of French members to SGI Europe’s work at the EU level, ensuring that national experiences and priorities continue to inform the organisation’s advocacy.
 

The General Assembly was followed by a debate dedicated to the Freedom to Stay. On this occasion, SGI Europe General Secretary, Valeria Ronzitti, presented the concept and introduced the Coalition for the Freedom to Stay, launched on 23 February 2026. The Coalition promotes a balanced vision of Europe, where the Freedom to Move is complemented by the Freedom to Stay. Emphasised in Enrico Letta’s report, this approach calls for a revitalised Single Market that strengthens economic, social and territorial cohesion, while ensuring that people can live, work and thrive in the territories they call home.
 

The meeting also marked Pascal Bolo's last General Assembly as President of the French section. A former President of SGI Europe, Mr Bolo has played a key role in defending and promoting the contribution of providers of services of general interest, both in France and at the European level. The General Assembly, therefore, offered a timely opportunity to acknowledge his long-standing commitment and thank him for his continued engagement.