The EU must take responsibility for its own security and strengthen its competitiveness. That was the key message to emerge from the July plenary session of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The Brussels-based EESC, which represents civil society at EU level, hosted a debate on the political priorities of the current Presidency of…
Photo by Masood Aslami on Unsplash The European Conservatives and Reformists Group says it has reservations about several key elements of the European Commission’s proposal for the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). While acknowledging the need for a more responsive and strategic EU budget, the group is cautioning against a shift that could increase uncertainty…
Photo by Sandy Millar on Unsplash Brussels-based foreign correspondents association API-IPA says it has taken note of the European Commission’s formal reply to a case involving the European Ombudsman. The case concerns how the European Commission dealt with the request by a journalist working at a news agency to be added to a mailing list…
Photo by Elliott Stallion on Unsplash The last EU elections showed the continued vibrancy of our EU democracy, says a key new report. Turnout, it says, was 50.74 per cent. The report outlines targeted measures taken by Member States and EU institutions to engage young people and boost women’s participation. The report also notes the…
Photo by Immo Wegmann on Unsplash The European Commission and European Central Bank’s recommendations for Bulgaria to join the Eurozone as the 21st member state by January 1 2026 have been welcomed by leading MEPs. “We support Bulgaria’s entry in the Eurozone and expect our potential new member to contribute to the success of the common European currency”, said…
Photo by 1Click on Unsplash Most people familiar with EU affairs know the single market is a myth. Hailed as the bedrock of the European Union, it was never completed and is now crumbling, writes Giles Merritt Saving it is vital but difficult. The Commission has just announced a new single market strategy, although it…
Photo by Masood Aslami on Unsplash A campaign group claims that plans outlined recently by the European Commission will boost corporate power. Campaigners allege that the Commission’s Single Market Strategy communication will limit the democratic space that national and local authorities need to protect people and the environment. The Commission’s plans were launched in the…
Photo by Lola Kümmecke on Unsplash A new report has identified areas for improvement in working conditions. Over 14 million EU citizens work and live in a Member State other than their own, new figures show. But many face possible inequalities when it comes to employment rights and working conditions. That is one reason why…
Photo by Marc Obiols on Unsplash The EU says it has put together teams of firefighters and aircraft to help European countries affected by wildfires. This, it says, is to prepare for the increased wildfire risk during the upcoming summer months, To quickly support local fire brigades, throughout July and August, almost 650 firefighters from 14 European countries will…
Photo by ev on Unsplash The EU has not been effective in supporting the development of supplementary pensions, which complement state pensions and help ensure an adequate retirement income for EU citizens, according to a new report by the European Court of Auditors (ECA). Against the backdrop of an ageing population in the EU, the…
