Featured news

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a global mineral fertiliser and energy crisis is now weighing on global food security and food prices. The European Commission therefore presented a Communication on ensuring availability and affordability of fertilisers.

The Commission presented a proposal to reduce air pollution from new motor vehicles sold in the EU to meet the European Green Deal's zero-pollution ambition, while keeping vehicles affordable for consumers and promoting Europe's competitiveness.

The Commission and the High Representative put forward an Action Plan on Military Mobility and a Joint Communication on an EU Cyber Defence policy as part of a European Security and Defence package to boost the EU's capacity to protect its citizens and infrastructure.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signed five Memoranda of Understanding for a Forest Partnership with Guyana, Mongolia, the Republic of Congo, Uganda and Zambia. The partnership aims at reversing deforestation in supported countries.

The European Commission has adopted a Communication setting out orientations for a simpler, more transparent and effective EU economic governance framework to strengthen debt sustainability and enhance sustainable and inclusive growth through investment and reforms.

The Commission has proposed an unprecedented support package of up to €18 billion to cover a significant part of Ukraine’s short-term funding needs for 2023. With this package, Ukraine will be able to keep on paying wages and pensions, maintain essential public services and restore infrastructure.

The European Commission is launching the third call for large-scale projects under the EU Innovation Fund. With a budget of €3 billion, this 2022 call for large-scale projects will boost the deployment of industrial solutions to decarbonise Europe.

On 1 November, the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) enters into force. The new Regulation puts an end to unfair practices by companies that act as gatekeepers in the online platform economy.

The Commission proposes stronger rules on ambient air, surface and groundwater pollutants, and treatment of urban wastewater. The new rules provide clear return on investment thanks to benefits in health, energy savings, food production, industry and biodiversity.

The Commission has adopted a legislative proposal to make instant payments in euro available to all citizens and businesses holding a bank account in the EU and in EEA countries. The proposal aims to ensure that instant payments in euro are affordable, secure, and processed without hindrance.

During the International Expert Conference on the Recovery, Reconstruction and Modernisation of Ukraine, EU leaders discussed how the international community can best help and support Ukraine with its reconstruction. This conference is another important step to face Russia's unprovoked aggression.

In the face of Russia’s weaponisation of energy, the EU remains united to protect its citizens and businesses. The Council agreed that efforts to reduce demand, to ensure security of supply, and to lower energy prices need to be accelerated and intensified.

EU leaders and social partners met at the Tripartite Social Summit to discuss the assessment of the impact of the war on the current socio-economic situation, measures to tackle the energy crisis as well as the economic and social support measures to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.

The European Commission is proposing a new emergency regulation to address high gas prices in the EU and ensure security of supply this winter. Some of the measures include joint gas purchasing and price limiting mechanisms on the Title Transfer Facility (TTF) gas exchange.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced that the 2022 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought will be given to the people of Ukraine. The nomination highlights the efforts of President Zelenskyy, citizens, representatives of civil society initiatives and state and public institutions.

In its 2022 Enlargement Package, the Commission provided a detailed assessment of the state of play and the progress made by the Western Balkans and Turkey on their respective paths towards the EU membership. The Commission also recommended a candidate status for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), European cities have a unique opportunity to better align their post-COVID-19 recoveries with efforts to make them more sustainable and tackle the impacts of climate change at the same time.

The agreed package includes biting measures intended to reinforce pressure on the Russian government and economy. On 7 October, EU leaders will meet in Prague to discuss the three most pressing, and interlinked, issues facing the EU, namely Russia's war in Ukraine, energy and the economy.

By the end of 2024, the EU will have one single charger for all mobile phones and tablets. USB Type-C port will be the new standard for portable devices, being beneficial for both consumers and the environment.