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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
The Commission is taking Ireland, Spain, France and the Netherlands to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose the cybersecurity rules
The European Commission has decided to refer Ireland, Spain, France and the Netherlands to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to notify the measures transposing the SRI 2 Directive on the security of network and information systems into national law [Directive (EU) 2022/2555]. The Directive strengthens the EU’s cybersecurity by setting […]
Enlargement: Parliament commends Ukraine’s progress despite the war
On 8 July, MEPs called for a constructive debate on how to take Ukraine’s European integration forward, taking into account the European Union’s strategic interests. In its annual assessment of Ukraine’s progress on reforms related to the EU accession process, the European Parliament welcomed the opening, in June 2026, of the first chapter in the […]
Aid of 120 million has been approved for Spain following the fires in August 2025
On Tuesday, the European Parliament gave the go-ahead for a grant of 144.1 million euros to help Spain, Romania and Cyprus cope with the damage caused by forest fires, floods and heatwaves. MEPs backed the proposal to release funds from the EU Solidarity Fund by 642 votes in favour, 13 against and one abstention. The […]