Last December 1, the Commission has granted 235 cross-border energy projects the status of Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) and Projects of Mutual Interest (PMIs) – the second such list since its launch in 2023. The selected projects will be eligible to apply for EU financing from the Connecting Europe Facility and will benefit from expedited permitting and regulatory […]
EU opens registration for craft and industrial product names under new geographical indication scheme
From 1 December 2025, Europe’s glassblowers, potters, cutlers, jewellers and other makers will be able to register their product names under the EU’s new geographical indication (GI) scheme for craft and industrial goods. This marks the first time GI protection, long used for food and drink, will cover non-agricultural products, completing the Single Market for […]
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: Council agrees its position on support for people at risk of unemployment
On December 1, the Council agreed its position on a regulation that seeks to broaden the scope of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF), extending support to workers facing unemployment. The new rules would apply until the end of 2027, when the current EGF programme expires. The purpose of the EGF is […]
European Union and Singapore discuss reinforcing digital cooperation
Last December 1, the EU and Singapore held their second Digital Partnership Council meeting in Brussels, reiterating their intention to cooperate across a range of digital areas from Artificial Intelligence (AI) to cybersecurity and beyond. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to enhance mutual competitiveness, foster innovation and shape digital rules and standards. Today’s Digital Partnership Council, co-chaired […]
EU launches plan to strengthen preparedness for cross-border health crises
Last November 28, the European Union is boosting its health preparedness architecture through the new Union prevention, preparedness and response plan for health crises. It will provide policymakers, crisis managers, and stakeholders with practical tools, such as exchanging information, expertise and technical assistance when a crisis occurs, for coordinated action in times of health crises […]
Safeguarding democracy in Europe: Council shines a light on culture’s vital role
At a time of increasing geopolitical uncertainty, culture and cultural heritage are essential to safeguarding democracy and upholding European values. This is the message put forward by EU culture ministers in conclusions approved in Brussels today. The ministers stress the need to protect and promote culture in all its forms and Europe’s cultural heritage as crucial factors in […]
EU and Southern Mediterranean partners launch the Pact for the Mediterranean in Barcelona
On November 28, Ministers from EU Member States and Southern Mediterranean partner countries gathered in Barcelona to jointly launch the Pact for the Mediterranean: an historic moment for the EU’s deeper cooperation with Mediterranean countries. The launch took place on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Barcelona Process, a partnership that promotes cooperation and stability between […]
Disability strategy: EP calls for greater efforts in employment, housing and healthcare
The EP wants ambitious measures to ensure access for people with disabilities to the labour market, social protection, education, healthcare, housing and digital services. In a resolution adopted on Thursday by 490 votes to 9, with 109 abstentions, MEPs call for an effective strategy for 2025-2030 that includes concrete measures and legal instruments to address […]
Commission launches Skills Guarantee to support workers in transition
Last November 27, the European Commission has launched a new scheme – the Skills Guarantee – to support workers and businesses and tackle labour shortages in strategic and growing sectors. A flagship initiative under the Union of Skills, the Skills Guarantee will reinforce strategic sectors in line with the future European Competitiveness Fund. Ιt will enable workers […]