The EU and Ukraine took another important step in the accession process by launching negotiations on the so-called ‘external relations’ thematic group (Group 6). This is a key thematic group within the EU’s accession negotiation framework, which sets out the parameters for how candidate countries must align their international, trade and defence policies with those […]
Read More
The EU is stepping up its international support for the Palestinians through an initiative for the swift recovery of Gaza and greater international coordination
On 13 July, the European Commission held the second meeting of the Donors’ Group for Palestine, co-chaired by the Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, and the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, Mohammad Mustafa. Sixty-five delegations gathered in Brussels to launch a new early recovery initiative in Gaza and discuss the Palestinian Authority’s reform […]
Read More
Europeans are calling for stronger measures on online child safety, democratic resilience, defence and the energy transition
A newly published Eurobarometer survey reveals that Europeans are extremely concerned about the risks children face on social media. Given the growing reliance on these platforms, the public believes that greater protection and more robust measures are needed to combat disinformation. Furthermore, in light of global challenges, Europeans are calling for greater democratic participation, stronger […]
Read More
Hungary joins the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, further strengthening the protection of EU funds
Today, the European Commission adopted a decision confirming Hungary’s participation in the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), following Hungary’s application to join it in May 2026. With this decision, Hungary becomes the twenty-fifth Member State to join the EPPO, reflecting its renewed commitment to restoring the rule of law in the country. The EPPO will […]
Read More
The Commission issues guidelines to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure
On 10 July 2026, the European Commission adopted a Communication providing Member States and their critical infrastructure operators with non-binding guidance on technical, security and organisational measures to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure against natural and man-made risks. The Communication offers practical guidance on addressing all risks that could lead to disruptive incidents, including […]
Read More
Digital euro: green light for negotiations
On July 18th, the European Parliament backed the start of talks with the Council on the proposal for a digital euro, to ensure secure payments and reduce reliance on providers outside the EU. With 416 votes in favour, 169 against and 22 abstentions, Parliament authorised the opening of interinstitutional negotiations on the creation of the […]
Read More
The Commission considers, on a preliminary basis, that the addictive design of Instagram and Facebook infringes the Digital Services Regulation
The European Commission has reached a preliminary conclusion that Meta has breached the Digital Services Act due to the addictive design of Instagram and Facebook. The investigation focuses on features such as ‘infinite scroll’, ‘autoplay’, ‘push’ notifications, and the platforms’ highly personalised recommendation systems. The Commission’s investigation indicates that Meta failed to adequately assess the […]
Read More
The EU and South Africa launch an intergovernmental dialogue on the Clean Trade and Investment Partnership
On 9 July, the EU and South Africa held their first intergovernmental dialogue at senior official level to take forward the implementation of their Clean Trade and Investment Partnership. Collaboration between the two regions will strengthen clean and resilient supply chains, support local strategic industries and accelerate investment in green hydrogen and critical raw materials. […]
Read More
The Commission and the International Labour Organisation set out a renewed strategic agenda for social justice, quality jobs and a people-centred future of work
The European Commission and the ILO share a commitment to building a fair future for work. Both institutions confirmed their joint support for: multilateral cooperation and international labour standards decent work, quality jobs and robust labour market institutions inclusive labour markets and greater social cohesion They emphasised that social justice and fundamental rights in the […]
Read More