Human rights violations in Nicaragua, Belarus and Burkina Faso 

This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament.This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. On Thursday, Parliament adopted three resolutions on the human rights situations in Nicaragua, Belarus and Burkina Faso. Political prisoners in Nicaragua – the cases of Carlos Brenes, Salvadora del Socorro Martínez Aburto and Brooklyn RiveraMEPs strongly condemn the Ortega-Murillo regime’s systematic repression, arbitrary detentions, […]

New rules for a more sustainable EU automotive sector 

This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament.This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. On Thursday, Parliament gave its final approval of new EU circularity rules covering a vehicle’s entire lifecycle, from design to end-of-life treatment. The agreement reached by Parliament and Council at the end of 2025 was adopted with 437 votes in favour, 112 against and […]

Cuba: MEPs call for EU sanctions and a push towards transition 

This article is brought to you in association with the European Economic and Social Committee.This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. On Thursday, Parliament condemned the systematic repression carried out by the Cuban regime and demanded profound economic and political change. In a resolution approved by 283 votes to 199 and 85 abstentions, MEPs say that after five decades of a communist regime Cuba is […]

Parliament condemns Russia’s drone incursions in the EU 

Commission presents action plan to counter drone threatsThis article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. The EU will not be intimidated by Russia’s campaign of destabilisation and is determined to defend its security, MEPs say in a resolution adopted on Thursday. Drone incursions and airspace violations of EU territory are not isolated incidents but an integral part of Russia’s […]

Commission approves €1 billion Slovak State aid scheme to support cleantech manufacturing capacity

The Commission today presented the Automotive Package to support the sector's efforts in the transition to clean mobility. It sets an ambitious yet pragmatic policy framework to ensure 2050 climate neutrality and strategic independence while providing more flexibility to manufacturers. It also responds to calls by EU industry to simplify rules. The automotive sector has been key to Europe's industrial strength for decades, sustaining millions of jobs and driving technological innovation. As the world is changing, the car industry is transforming through new technologies and actors. Today's package maintains a strong market signal for zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) while giving the industry more flexibility to achieve CO2 targets, and supports vehicles and batteries made in the European Union. The corporate vehicles initiative will support the uptake of zero- and low-emission vehicles. The automotive omnibus enhances competitiveness by saving costs, expected to be approximately €706 million per year, and cutting red tape, while providing greater investment certainty. Commission President von der Leyen said: “Innovation. Clean mobility. Competitiveness. This year, these were top priorities in our intense dialogues with automotive sector, civil society organisations and stakeholders. And today, we are addressing them all together. As technology rapidly transforms mobility and geopolitics reshapes global competition, Europe remains at the forefront of the global clean transition.” Staying the course towards clean mobility with pragmatism The Commission presents a package that addresses both supply and demand of the automotive sector's transition: on the supply side, it presents a review of the existing CO2 emission standards for cars and vans and a targeted amendment to those for heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). On the demand side, it proposes an initiative to decarbonise corporate vehicles with binding national targets for zero- and low-emission vehicles. The CO2 standards now provide further flexibilities to support the industry and enhance technological neutrality, while providing predictability to manufacturers and maintaining clear market signal towards electrification. From 2035 onwards, carmakers will need to comply with a 90% tailpipe emissions reduction target, while the remaining 10% emissions will need to be compensated through the use of low-carbon steel Made in the Union, or from e-fuels and biofuels. This will allow for plug-in hybrids (PHEV), range extenders, mild hybrids, and internal combustion engine vehicles to still play a role beyond 2035, in addition to full electric (EVs) and hydrogen vehicles. Prior to 2035, car manufacturers will be able to benefit from “super credits” for small affordable electric cars made in the European Union. This will incentivise the deployment on the market of more small EV models. For the 2030 target for cars and vans, additional flexibility is introduced by allowing “banking & borrowing” for 2030-2032. An additional flexibility is granted for the vans segment, where the electric vehicle uptake has been structurally more difficult, with a reduction of the 2030 CO2 vans target from 50% to 40%. The Commission is also proposing a targeted amendment to the CO2 emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles with a flexibility easing the compliance with the 2030 targets. Regarding corporate vehicles, mandatory targets are set at the Member State level to support the zero- and low-emission vehicle uptake by large companies. Having more zero- and low-emission vehicles on the market, both first- and second-hand markets – will benefit all customers. As companies' cars cover higher yearly mileages, it also means more emission reductions. It will also make zero- or low- emissions and “Made in the EU” a pre-requisite for vehicles benefitting from public financial support. Strengthening Europe's own battery industry With €1.8 billion, the Battery Booster will accelerate the development of a fully EU-made battery value chain. As part of the Battery Booster, €1.5 billion will support European battery cell producers through interest-free loans. Additional targeted policy measures will support investments, create a European battery value chain and foster innovation and coordination across Member States. These measures will enhance the cost competitiveness of the sector, secure upstream supply chains and support sustainable and resilient production in the EU, contributing to the derisking from dominant global market players. Less red tape and stronger enabling conditions for the transition The Automotive Omnibus will ease administrative burden and cut costs for European manufacturers, boosting their global competitiveness, and freeing up resources for decarbonisation. Businesses are expected to save approximately €706 million per year, bringing the administrative savings thanks to all omnibuses and simplification initiatives the Commission has presented so far to around €14.3 billion per year. Among other things, it proposes to reduce the number of secondary legislation that will be adopted in the upcoming years and to streamline testing for new passenger vans and trucks. This will reduce costs while maintaining highest environmental and safety standards. The roll-out of electric vans in domestic transport is supported by measures that place them on an equal footing with internal combustion vans regarding drivers' rest times and rules. The Omnibus also introduces a new vehicle category under the Small Affordable Cars initiative, covering electric vehicles up to 4.2 meters in length. This will enable Member States and local authorities to develop targeted incentives, stimulating demand for small EVs made in the EU. The Commission is also updating and harmonising car labelling rules, for customers to have complete information about the cars' emissions when making purchases. Background Today's proposals build on the Automotive Action Plan, and input from industry and key stakeholders gathered during the Strategic Dialogue under President von der Leyen's leadership since January 2025. In January 2025, President von der Leyen launched a Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the Automotive Industry, bringing together industry representatives, social partners, Member States, regions and civil society. Three Dialogue meetings have taken place to date, providing a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities the sector faces. For more information Questions and answers Factsheet - Taking action for a clean and competitive European automotive sector Factsheet – Revision of the CO2 standards and Corportate vehicles Proposal Automotive Package – webpage (all proposals will be available) Automotive Action Plan – webpage Clean Industrial Deal Net-Zero Industry ActThis article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has approved a €1 billion Slovak scheme to support clean technology (cleantech) manufacturing capacity in line with the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal. This measure will contribute to the transition towards a net-zero economy. The scheme was approved under the […]

2026 State of the Digital Decade report shows progress but urges closing structural gaps to reach 2030 goals

This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission published the fourth State of the Digital Decade report, showing thatEurope has made progress on its 2030 digital transformation targets, such as secure and sustainable digital infrastructures and the digitalisation of public services – but the challenge now is delivering results […]

Commission approves €85 million Irish State aid for agricultural companies facing increased fuel prices

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has approved an €85 million Irish State aid scheme to support agricultural companies facing increased fuel prices due to the Middle East crisis. The scheme was approved under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF) adopted by the Commission on 29 April […]

Commission welcomes political agreement on seeds and other plant reproductive materials

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission welcomes the political agreement reached last night by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament on the revision and simplification of EU rules for plant reproductive material (PRM). Today’s agreement modernises current rules, enabling producers and companies to benefit […]

Europe’s bathing waters remain safe to swim

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, the vast majority of bathing waters in Europe met the European Union’s most stringent ‘excellent’ bathing quality standards in 2025, according to the latest annual Bathing Water report published today. This represents 85% of Europe’s bathing sites, with […]

Navigating crises and delivering results with the EU Budget in 2025

EU long-term budget: MEPs want a 10% increase to support EU priorities This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the College of Commissioners adopted the Annual Management and Performance Report for 2025 (AMPR). The AMPR highlights the key role the EU budget played in navigating multiple crises that year and shows that it continued to deliver for European citizens. The EU budget […]

Commission strengthens migration management along the Channel route

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the Commission is presenting an EU action plan for the Channel migratory route, setting out a comprehensive European response to the challenges posed by illegal migration along this route. The action plan puts forward operational measures starting in countries of origin and transit […]

Commission will engage with industry following European Citizens’ Initiative on the disabling of videogames by publishers

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission will engage with consumers and publishers by the end of 2026 to explore ways to improve industry standards, as a response to the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) ‘Stop Destroying Videogames’.    Modern video games often rely on publishers’ servers to function. Publishers may stop supporting […]

Deal on air passenger rights: MEPs secure improved traveller protection 

This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament.This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. MEPs have secured an air passenger rules deal that maintains compensation for three-hour delays, ensures faster reimbursement, fee-free child seating and flight price transparency. On Monday evening, a provisional agreement on a review of air passenger rights rules reached by Parliament and Council negotiators […]

June plenary session opening: Metsola presents procedural reforms 

EU must respond decisively to any form of coercion against EU member states This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. President Metsola opened the 15-19 June plenary session in Strasbourg by announcing several changes to plenary procedural rules. Roberta Metsola opened the session by reminding MEPs that, as agreed by the Conference of Presidents on 21 May, certain innovative measures would be put to […]

Commission approves €8 million Croatian State aid for fishing companies facing increased fuel prices

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has approved an €8 million Croatian State aid scheme to support fishing companies facing increased fuel prices due to the Middle East crisis. The scheme was approved under the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF) adopted by the Commission […]

EU agrees to accelerate defence industrial base ramp-up and simplify defence procurement

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission welcomes the provisional political agreement reached today between the European Parliament and the Council of the EU to simplify security and defence procurement, facilitate defence investments and support the defence industry. The Commission proposed the defence omnibus a year ago, as part of the EU’s simplification agenda […]

Commission proposes €540 million in financial relief and other supports for farmers facing fertiliser crisis

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the European Commission presents measures to help farmers facing sharply rising fertiliser costs and to support Europe’s food security, delivering on the recently announced Fertiliser Action Plan. In recent months, geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions have pushed prices of fertilisers up across Europe. […]

EU and Brazil deepen ties through Digital Partnership

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Union and Brazil will sign a Digital Partnership in Brasilia today, bringing their digital cooperation to a new strategic level. Building on more than two decades of close collaboration, the partnership will strengthen EU-Brazil cooperation on shared digital priorities, including data governance, […]

Pact on Migration and Asylum enters into application on 12 June

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Tomorrow, 12 June 2026, the Pact on Migration and Asylum will start to apply in all EU Member States. Adopted in May 2024, the Pact has overhauled the EU’s migration and asylum framework and now forms the centrepiece of the EU’s new approach on […]

EU concludes modernised Economic Partnership Agreement with Sub-Saharan Africa partners

This article is published in association with European Investment Bank.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the EU and four Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) States (Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles) concluded negotiations on an enhanced Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maros Šefčovič, participated via videoconference in the conclusion ceremony that took place today […]

Commission publishes Code of Practice on marking and labelling AI-generated content

This article is published in association with European Investment Bank.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the European Commission published the final Code of Practice on marking and labelling of AI-generated content. The Code is voluntary and sets out practical steps to help providers and deployers of generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems meet the AI Acttransparency obligations that will […]

Commission presents first-ever EU strategies for islands and coastal communities

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the European Commission adopted two dedicated strategies, one for EU islands and one for EU coastal communities, setting out for the first time a coordinated European approach to support both types of territories and unlock their long-term potential. The two initiatives introduce a […]

EU and Republic of Korea bolster strategic partnership with new areas of cooperation

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Union and the Republic of Korea held their 11th Summit in Brussels today. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the President of the European Council, António Costa, met with the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee […]

Commission and EU Drugs Agency present the 2026 European Drug Report

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner and the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) are presenting the 2026 European Drug Report2026, with the latest evidence on the state of the drugs situation in Europe.  Based on data from 29 countries (EU-27, Norway and Türkiye), the report shows that drugs have an increasingly […]

Commission greenlights Slovenia’s sixth payment request for €41 million under NextGenerationEU

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the European Commission positively assessed Slovenia’s sixth payment request for €41 million under the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the centrepiece of NextGenerationEU. This is an important step in the delivery of the reforms and investments tied to this payment request, which aims to support Slovenia’s […]

EU to mobilise up to €25 billion for renewable energy and clean technology by 2035 through Pact for the Mediterranean initiative

Connecting Europe Facility – EESC calls for strong increase in funding for energy and transportThis article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. Today, the European Union launches the Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy and Clean Tech Cooperation (T-MED) – a flagship initiative under the Pact for the Mediterranean. T-MED aims to accelerate the development of renewable energy, hydrogen, clean technology manufacturing and modern electricity networks across the Mediterranean […]

Commission imposes interim measures on Meta to preserve free access to WhatsApp for rival AI assistants

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has ordered Meta to restore free access to WhatsApp for rival general-purpose AI assistants, and maintain it until the end of the Commission’s antitrust investigation. This will prevent serious and irreparable harm to competition in this growing market by Meta’s conduct, […]

Commission updates EU Air Safety List: Air Express Algeria added, air carriers from Kyrgyzstan removed

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The Commission published its 48th update of the EU Air Safety List yesterday. First released in 2006, the EU Air Safety List informs passengers of airlines that are subject to an operating ban or operational restrictions within the European Union because they do not […]

Commission issues €8 billion in its sixth syndicated transaction of 2026

This article is published in association with European Investment Bank.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has raised €8 billion of EU-Bonds in its 6th syndicated transaction for 2026. The dual-tranche transaction concerned a €3 billion tap 5-year EU-Bond,maturing on 14 October 2030 and a €5 billion tap of the 15-year EU-Bond,maturing on 12 December 2040. Building […]

Ukraine: MEPs welcome reform efforts amid ongoing war 

This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament.This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament. MEPs are encouraged by the EU accession-related reforms carried out by Ukraine’s government, and insist Ukrainians should determine the conditions for peace with Russia. On Wednesday, the Foreign Affairs Committee adopted, by 54 votes in favour, 17 against, and with 5 abstentions, a report […]

Commission endorses Lithuania’s €884 million Social Climate Plan to support vulnerable households and small enterprises in the clean transition

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has approved Lithuania’s Social Climate Plan – the second national plan approved under the new Social Climate Fund, which uses revenues from carbon pricing to ensure a fair and inclusive clean transition for vulnerable communities and businesses. The Lithuanian Social Climate Plan will […]

Commission approves €23 billion Italian State aid scheme to support renewable electricity production

This article is published in association with European Investment Bank.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Commission has approved a €23 billion Italian State aid scheme to support electricity production from renewable energy sources, in line with the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal. This measure will contribute to the transition towards a net-zero economy and reaching the […]

EU and Kenya strengthen partnership

This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission.This article is brought to you in association with the European Commission. The European Union and Kenya are deepening their strategic partnership on trade, digital transformation and sustainable investment to drive mutual economic growth for the benefit of businesses and citizens on both sides. This reinforced cooperation reflects Kenya’s pivotal role as a key partner for […]
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