The European Commission published its 2023 Summary Report on the Implementation of the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESI Funds), showcasing some of the overarching achievements of the ESI funds as things stood at the end of 2022. These funds are the main financial instruments of Cohesion Policy, supporting regional development investments from the 2014 – 2020 […]
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Guatemala: Council establishes dedicated framework of restrictive measures in support of democracy
The Council established a dedicated framework for restrictive measures in support of democracy and a peaceful and orderly transfer of power in Guatemala. This decision will allow the European Union to hold accountable those obstructing a democratic transition following the 2023 general elections, which resulted in a clear victory of President-elect Bernardo Arévalo, as attested […]
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Ukraine Facility: Council agrees on elements of new support mechanism for Ukraine
On last Wednesday 10th January, member states’ EU ambassadors approved a partial negotiating mandate on a proposal to set up a new single dedicated instrument to support Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction and modernisation, while supporting its efforts to carry out reforms as part of its accession path to the EU. The Ukraine Facility would thus pool […]
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Council agrees to lift air and maritime internal border controls with Bulgaria and Romania
EU member states have reached an agreement on removing air and maritime internal border controls with Bulgaria and Romania. The decision has been taken by unanimity, following a written procedure. From 31 March 2024, there will no longer be checks on persons at EU internal air and maritime borders between Bulgaria and Romania and the […]
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Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the parliamentary elections in Bangladesh
The European Union takes note of the outcome of the Parliamentary elections, which were held in Bangladesh last Sunday and reiterates that the long-term EU-Bangladesh partnership is underpinned by the values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. The EU regrets that not all major parties participated in this election. The EU welcomes […]
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Priorities of the Belgian presidency of the Council of the European Union
Belgium holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2024, from 1 January to 30 June. Here are the six priorities of the Belgian presidency for this semester. Defending rule of law, democracy, and unity The European Union is based on the respect for fundamental rights, the rule […]
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December infringement package: main decisions for Spain
In its regular package of infringement decisions, the European Commission pursues legal action against Member States for failing to comply with their obligations under EU law. These decisions, covering various sectors and EU policy areas, aim to ensure the proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses. The key decisions taken […]
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Commission launches three new initiatives to support Ukrainian researchers and innovators
Yesterday, the Commission has launched three new initiatives boosting the EU research and innovation cooperation with Ukraine New Horizon Europe Office in Kyiv; New European Innovation Council (EIC) action to support the Ukrainian deep tech community; New European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Community Hub. Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Iliana Ivanova, […]
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Human rights breaches in Belarus, Tanzania and Tibet
On Thursday, the European Parliament adopted three resolutions on the human rights situation in Tanzania, Belarus and Tibet. The Maasai communities in Tanzania MEPs urge the Tanzanian government to immediately halt ongoing forcible evictions of Maasai communities in the country’s Ngorongoro District due to, among other reasons, plans to turn large parts of traditional grazing […]
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