The European Commission has today adopted a Communication in response to the European Citizens’ Initiative ‘Ban Conversion Therapy in the European Union’. This response comes just four days before the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia and reaffirms the Commission’s commitment to the rights of LGBTIQ people and to building a true Union of […]
Internships – Blue Book Traineeship programme
Twice a year, the European Commission organises a five-month professional development programme for university graduates. This five-month paid training programme offers graduates: Practical experience in EU policy-making and administration. Professional skills for a global career Intercultural awareness and personal development Trainees work in a multicultural environment, develop professional skills and gain an in-depth insight into […]
Commission seeks feedback on the Ocean Observation Initiative
The European Commission has launched a call for evidence to shape the European Ocean Observation Initiative, one of the cornerstones of the European Ocean Pact. The initiative will improve access to actionable marine knowledge for everyone who relies on the ocean and make Europe a global leader in ocean observation and the development of related technologies. […]
Research to make Europe a leader in the quantum field
The EU-funded QuantERA III project has launched a new call for international research projects in quantum technologies. This is part of the QuantERA network’s efforts to promote quantum research that connects people, promotes excellence and fosters responsibility across borders, industries and disciplines. Building on the momentum The QuantERA 2025 call is the fifth organised by […]
Migration: Commission proposes a new approach to returns
Return rates across the EU stand today at around 20 percent. Persons ordered to leave an EU country frequently escape the authorities. The European Commission has now proposed to help EU countries increase return rates while fully respecting fundamental rights by establishing a common EU return system. This will complement the EU Pact on Migration […]
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 […]
New headquarters for civilian security and defense missions.
The European External Action Service (EEAS) has unveiled the new Civilian Operations Headquarters for all EU civilian crisis management missions deployed under the umbrella of the Common Security and Defence Policy. Following a decision by the High Representative Kaja Kallas, the new Civilian Operations Headquarters (CivOpsHQ) aims to enhance the impact of the 13 EU […]
Protecting EU consumers: More than half of second-hand online traders fail to meet EU consumer laws
Every year, millions of European consumers use online traders to buy second-hand goods, such as clothes, electronic equipment, toys, and more. When buying second-hand goods, European law states that consumers are entitled to the same guarantee and information on a product, on their rights and the trader they are buying from, as when buying any […]
Commission proposes to align the protection status of the wolf in EU legislation to the Bern Convention
Today, the Commission is proposing a targeted amendment of the annexes of the Habitats Directive. This will align the Habitats Directive to the changed protection status of the wolf from ‘strictly protected’ to ‘protected’ under the Bern Convention, which entered into force today. The Commission’s proposal will give additional flexibility to Member States in managing their local wolf […]