On 12 January, the European Commission launched a call for data to shape the European Ocean Law, which is expected to be adopted in 2026. This initiative underscores the EU’s commitment to developing cohesive maritime governance and sustainable use of ocean resources. The call will remain open until 9 February 2026 and is open to […]
Commission hosts the G7 meeting on global health security
From 12 to 14 January, the European Commission is hosting a meeting ofthe Global Health Security Initiative (an informal network of G7 countries and organisations) in Brussels, with the aim of strengthening public health preparedness and addressing new global health risks. The meeting will discuss new and emerging health threats, as well as the group’s […]
Commission proposes to support dismissed workers in the car industry in Belgium
The European Commission has proposed to mobilise €7.5 million from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF) to help 3,414 workers dismissed after the closure of carmaker Audi’s plant in Brussels. In February 2025, Audi stopped producing the Q8 e-tron car model in Brussels and closed its plant. As a consequence, several suppliers of Audi […]
EU and Jordan deepen partnership with first-ever Summit
Last January 8, the EU and Jordan are marking a key milestone in their long-standing relationship with a first-ever bilateral Summit. The EU was represented by President von der Leyen and President Costa, and Jordan by His Majesty King Abdullah II. The leaders took stock of the implementation of the EU-Jordan Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership (SCP) […]
New measures to boost circular economy and strengthen Europe’s plastic recycling
The European Commission has unveiled a first set of pilot actions to accelerate Europe’s transition to a circular economy, with a particular focus on the plastics sector. By optimising the recycling of plastics, these measures will further unlock the potential of the Single Market and enhance the EU’s economic security, strategic autonomy, competitiveness and environmental sustainability. This […]
EU agriculture ministers meet to focus on securing EU food security and sovereignty
Last January 7, EU agricultural ministers met in an extraordinary meeting, on the invitation of the European Commission and Minister Maria Panayiotou for the Cypriot Presidency of the Council. The Commission was represented at this meeting by Commissioners Hansen, Šefčovič and Várhelyi. Recognising that agriculture is crucial for European sovereignty and that the EU agri-food sector is key […]
Commission registers European Citizens’ Initiative on ‘Ethics, Transparency and Integrity for European Political Parties’
Last January 5, the European Commission has registered a European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI), entitled ‘Ethics, Transparency and Integrity for European Political Parties’. The initiative invites the Commission to “devise a European model of ethical governance based on transparency, integrity and shared responsibility”. To this end, the organisers call for the Commission to “propose a legislative […]
EU stands in full solidarity with Switzerland and evacuates victims after Crans-Montana tragedy
EU reacts swiftly after the tragic fire in the bar during the New Year’s celebrations at the ski resort Crans-Montana, the Swiss canton Valais. In response to Switzerland´s request for emergency assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, efforts are underway to evacuate severely injured patients for specialised treatment. To that end, experts, known as […]
Bulgaria have joined euro area from 1 January
On 1 January 2026, Bulgaria have adopted the euro as its currency, marking an important milestone for the country, for the history of the euro, and for the EU as a whole. This follows a period of intensive preparation and effort by Bulgaria to meet all the necessary requirements. The euro will deliver practical benefits […]