Join us on 29 September 2026 from 10:30 to 16:15 CEST in Brussels, when the Liberal Professions Category of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will proudly present the 10th edition of the Liberal Professions Day. This year’s theme, Preparedness in the EU: the role of the liberal professions, will explore how the liberal professions contribute to anticipating risks, responding effectively under pressure to crisis situations and supporting recovery. Bringing together policymakers, practitioners and other stakeholders, the event will examine preparedness both at policy level and in practice, highlighting the need for coordination, appropriate regulation, professional independence and accountability.

The event will address key dimensions of preparedness, including EU policy priorities and funding frameworks, practical approaches to prevention and crisis response, and the growing importance of digital and cyber readiness. Particular attention will be given to how the liberal professions safeguard public interests – through resilient infrastructure, trusted health systems, support to businesses and citizens, and reliable information in times of uncertainty. By fostering dialogue and sharing expertise, the Liberal Professions Day 2026 aims to reinforce the contribution of liberal professions as key actors in strengthening Europe’s preparedness, resilience, and capacity to respond to future challenges.

Simultaneous interpretation will be available in English, German, French and Italian.

With the participation of ACE President-

12.00 – 13.00 – Panel 2: Preparedness in practice – prevention, continuity, public health 

Moderator: Danko Relić, Member of the EESC 

• Dr.-Ing. Heinrich Bökamp, President of the German Federal Chamber of Engineers: Resilient infrastructure
• Daniel Fügenschuh, President of the Architects’ Council of Europe: Preparedness by design 
• Prof Mary Codd, University College Dublin: Public health systems 

The conference is open to the public. 

For in-person participation, please register by 24 September 2026 via our registration form.

The event will also be webstreamed (available in English, French and German). Prior registration for the streaming is not required.

For further information consult the programme.