The EU brings crypto-assets, crypto-assets issuers and crypto-asset service providers under a regulatory framework. Setting an EU level legal framework for this sector for the first time, the Council adopted a regulation on markets in crypto-assets (MiCA). MiCA will protect investors by increasing transparency and putting in place a comprehensive framework for issuers and service providers including compliance […]
Council and European Parliament agree to protect geographical indications for artisanal and industrial products
The Council and the European Parliament reached today a provisional deal on the regulation for geographical indication protection for craft and industrial products. Once this regulation is finally approved, geographical indications (GIs), which up to now were used mainly for foods and beverages, will be enlarged to industrial products whose qualities are essentially linked to the […]
Agreement between the European Parliament and Council to install more recharging and refuelling stations across Europe
Following the provisional political agreement reached today by the Council and the European Parliament, more alternative fuel refuelling and recharging stations will be installed across Europe in the coming years, enabling the transport sector to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. What is the EU doing to promote the development of renewable energy? The objective of […]
EU renews individual sanctions against Russia
1 473 individuals and 205 entities are subject to an asset freeze and/or a travel ban because their actions have undermined Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence. The Council decided to prolong the restrictive measures targeting those responsible for undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine for another six months, until […]
Provisional agreement reached on European green bonds
The new regulation aims to prevent greenwashing in the bonds market. Issuers of bonds will be able to demonstrate that they are funding green projects aligned with the EU taxonomy, whilst investors will be able to identify high-quality green bonds more easily. The EU is taking further steps to implement its strategy on financing sustainable […]
Traineeships at the General Secretariat of the EU Council
Every year, there are around 100 places available for paid traineeships, and up to 6 places for paid trainees with a disability. What can you expect from your traineeship? A traineeship at the General Secretariat of the Council (GSC) offers: first-hand experience of the work of the GSC EU knowledge – insight into the processes and policies of the EU […]
Extraordinary European Council meeting: discussion on further assistance to Ukraine
Russia’s war against Ukraine, the economic situation in the EU and migration are on the agenda of EU leaders as they meet in Brussels for a special European Council meeting, which kicks off on 9 February. Agenda highlights: Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine EU leaders will discuss recent developments with regards to Russia’s war of […]
The Single Market, the key instrument for meeting current challenges, turns 30 years old
The Commission has published the 2023 Annual Single Market Report and the 2022 Single Market Scoreboard, as part of activities to mark the 30th anniversary of the Single Market. The reports confirm that the Single Market remains a key tool to address Europe’s current challenges and highlight the importance of continuously improving its functioning, as well as […]
Agriculture and Fisheries Council: EU ministers discuss progress on the EU Forest Strategy for 2030
Agriculture New EU Forest Strategy 2030 Agriculture ministers discussed the progress made so far on implementation of the New EU Forest Strategy for 2030, as well as measures that could be taken both at national and EU level to enhance its efficiency. Ministers also exchanged views on how to enhance cooperation between the Commission, member […]