A group of European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) MEPs, including Alessandro Ciriani and others, have raised concerns about the exclusion of the Automotive Regions Alliance (ARA) from a key automotive sector meeting on September 12, 2025. The MEPs argue that ARA's absence from the dialogue risks sidelining more than 40 European regions deeply involved in automotive manufacturing and supply chains, potentially reducing the inclusivity and practical input in the EU's green and digital transition efforts in the sector. This challenge directly impacts regional representatives, industry stakeholders, and institutional dialogue frameworks.

This issue was brought to light through a parliamentary question by Paolo Inselvini and colleagues, aiming to probe the European Commission about the rationale behind ARA’s exclusion, future inclusion plans, and commitments to broad representative participation.

The Commission’s reply, authored by President Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized that the Strategic Dialogue process is designed to be inclusive and collaborative but must balance broad input with practical meeting management. Over 100 organizations, including ARA, were consulted extensively during thematic dialogues informing the Industrial Action Plan for the sector. The response noted that the Committee of the Regions—which sponsors the ARA—will have a formal role in consulting on upcoming legislative proposals.

The Commission avoids expanding the primary group meeting due to logistical constraints, highlighting a cleavage between ensuring efficient deliberations and maximizing stakeholder involvement. The political balance here leans toward maintaining smaller, manageable forums for direct exchange while embedding wider consultation through other mechanisms.

Business interests in the automotive supply chain and regional authorities advocating local manufacturing capabilities stand to gain from continued thematic involvement. However, ARA’s absence from the core meeting may limit its immediate influence in dialogue sessions. EU institutions face pressure to reconcile efficiency with inclusivity.

The Commission is expected to maintain dialogue with the ARA and the Committee of the Regions as it advances legislative proposals following the Strategic Dialogue, signaling ongoing consultation but within defined consultation forums rather than expanded plenaries.

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