Last May 4, the Commission is setting out a common European path for the future of Ukrainian refugees in the EU. This will ensure stability and continued protection, while also paving the way for a transition out of temporary protection once the necessary conditions are met. By doing so, the Commission is reinforcing its unwavering commitment […]
Commission restricts use of chemicals to protect workers’ health
The Commission has restricted the use of the chemicals N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC) and 1-ethylpyrrolidin-2-one (NEP) to protect workers from exposure to these substances. DMAC and NEP are solvents used in many industrial processes, including the production of chemicals, coatings, cleaning agents and fibres. DMAC is commonly used to manufacture synthetic fibres and varnishes for electrical cables, […]
6 tips to spot and stop information manipulation
Information manipulation can prevent people from making informed decisions by misleading them. New technologies allow false or distorted content to spread faster and on a larger scale than ever before. To stop its harm, it is needed to learn how to recognise it. Factchecking can help set the record straight. Empowering citizens, independent fact-checkers and civil society is therefore essential. What […]
Commission carries out unannounced inspections in the non-alcoholic beverages sector
The European Commission is carrying out unannounced inspections at the premises of companies active in the non-alcoholic drinks sector in several Member States. In parallel, the Commission has sent out a formal request for information to a company active in the personal care sector. The Commission has concerns that the companies concerned may have violated […]
4.3 million under temporary protection in December 2024
On 31 December 2024, nearly 4.3 million non-EU citizens who fled Ukraine as a consequence of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine had temporary protection status in the EU. The EU countries hosting the highest number of beneficiaries of temporary protection from Ukraine were Germany (1 161 450 people; 27.3% of the EU total), Poland (991 630; 23.3%) and […]
EU announces new €120 million humanitarian aid package for Gaza
As part of the EU’s long standing commitment to support Palestinians in need and in light of the latest developments in the region, the European Commission today announced a new aid package for Gaza worth €120 million. This brings total EU humanitarian assistance to Gaza to over €450 million since 2023 and comes in addition […]
New wolf protection statute proposal approved
The Standing Committee of the Bern Convention today voted in favour of the EU proposal to adapt the protection status of the wolf from “strictly protected” to “protected”. The change will enter into force on 7 March 2025. After this date, the EU may adapt the relevant annexes of the Habitats Directive. The Commission will […]
Commission protects dolphins and small cetaceans in the Bay of Biscay
The Commission adopted on 30 September a delegated act establishing measures in the Bay of Biscay by 2025 to prevent incidental catches of dolphins and other small cetaceans caused by fisheries. These measures are the subject of a joint recommendation by Belgium, Spain, France and Portugal. Unless the European Parliament or the Council objects within […]
Commission recommends stronger measures on smoke-free environments to better protect public health
Today, the Commission has recommended to better protect people from the effects of second-hand smoke and aerosols through the revision of the Council Recommendation on smoke-free environments. The new initiative recommends that Member States extend smoke-free environment policies to key outdoor areas, to better protect people in the EU, particularly children and young people. These areas include outdoor recreational areas where children are likely […]