The majority of Europe’s bathing areas met the European Union’s strictest “excellent” quality standards in 2022, according to the latest annual bathing water report published on Friday. The assessment, produced by the European Environment Agency (EEA) in cooperation with the Commission, points out where bathers can find the cleanest bathing areas in Europe this summer. […]
EU steps up the fight against antimicrobial resistance
The Commission welcomes the adoption by the Council of the European Union of the Commission’s proposal to strengthen EU action against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Announced together with the Commission’s revision of the pharmaceutical legislation on 26 April, the AMR Recommendation helps combat AMR in the fields of human, animal and environmental health, following the so-called One Health approach. […]
EU AI Act will be the world’s first regulation on artificial intelligence
As part of its digital strategy, the EU wants to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure better conditions for the development and use of this innovative technology. AI can create many benefits, such as better healthcare; safer and cleaner transport; more efficient manufacturing; and cheaper and more sustainable energy. In April 2021, the European Commission […]
Deal on penalties for EU sanctions violation
The Council has settled on its negotiating position (general approach) for an EU law which introduces criminal offences and penalties for the violation of EU sanctions. This directive, when adopted, will be an important tool to ensure that violating sanctions does not pay off. The draft law defines the conduct member states will need to […]
Council agrees stronger press freedom and free speech protection
EU member states have reached a common position (general approach) on a draft law which will protect journalists and human rights defenders against manifestly unfounded claims or abusive court proceedings. Such so-called strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) are an increasing phenomenon to silence people who speak out on issues of public interest. The draft […]
President von der Leyen travels to Latin America to strengthen ties with key partners
Following last week’s presentation of the New Agenda for EU-Latin America and Caribbean relations, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will travel to Latin America this week to strengthen relations with key partners in the region. Today, Monday, June 12, President von der Leyen will be in Brasilia, where she will be received by […]
The European Union and Tunisia agreed to work together on a comprehensive partnership package
Building on our shared history, geographic proximity, and strong relationship, we have agreed to work together on a comprehensive partnership package, strengthening the ties that bind us in a mutually beneficial manner. We believe there is enormous potential to generate tangible benefits for the EU and Tunisia. The comprehensive partnership would cover the following areas: […]
How the European Union contributes to the protection of the oceans
Oceans are indispensable for achieving the European Union’s climate and environmental objectives. The seas and oceans are a source of natural and economic wealth for Europe. They provide us with a wealth of natural resources, keep our climate stable and, in addition, contribute to boosting our economy through activities such as fishing and tourism. However, […]
EU responses to climate change
Fighting climate change is a priority for the European Parliament. Below you will find details of the solutions the EU and the Parliament are working on: Mitigating global warming: a matter of 2°C increase Average global temperatures have risen significantly since the industrial revolution and the last decade (2011–2020) was the warmest decade on record. Of […]