Germany



At a Glance - AI investment: EU and global indicators - 27-03-2024

Economic indicators show that the United States (US) is the front-runner for both private investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and venture capital in generative AI, followed by China. US companies are also developing most of the large languages models (
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At a Glance - AI investment: EU and global indicators - 27-03-2024

Economic indicators show that the United States (US) is the front-runner for both private investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and venture capital in generative AI, followed by China. US companies are also developing most of the large languages models (LLMs) underpinning AI innovation. EU starts-up are beginning to scale up. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Recent threats in the Red Sea: Economic impact on the region and on the EU - 27-03-2024

Since mid-November 2023, the Iran-backed Houthi militia, which controls large parts of Yemen, has attacked numerous Western commercial ships near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea. In response, major shipping companies have temporarily suspended Suez tr
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Briefing - Recent threats in the Red Sea: Economic impact on the region and on the EU - 27-03-2024

Since mid-November 2023, the Iran-backed Houthi militia, which controls large parts of Yemen, has attacked numerous Western commercial ships near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea. In response, major shipping companies have temporarily suspended Suez transits and diverted their trade. This diversion coincides with decreasing freight in another maritime chokepoint, the Panama Canal, provoked by lowered water levels. Rounding South Africa via the Cape of Good Hope is the shortest alternative route for travel by ship between Asia and Europe, a route that increases shipping time by 10 to 14 days. Shipping prices had already been on the rise recently, owing to increased fuel and insurance costs. The diversion has caused delays that have disrupted global supply chains, with certain companies choosing to halt production in their factories. If the situation persists or worsens, it could further affect energy supplies and prices, all this potentially contributing to higher inflation. This could, in turn, hamper the efforts of central banks to achieve a 'soft landing'. If, in addition, United States (US) and European Union (EU) central banks decide to keep interest rates high, developing countries will have to pay premium prices for international debt, raising repayment risks for many countries in Africa that have maturity deadlines this year. The attacks have reduced income from maritime fees and could affect commodity exports for some countries in the region, worsening an already precarious economic situation. If the situation persists or worsens, it could also impact trade for other countries in east Africa and aggravate food security challenges, generating social unrest in countries in the region. In addition to the attacks on ships, there are suspicions that the Houthis have been involved in damage to submarine communications cables. This damage – to what is categorised as critical infrastructure – could represent a significant cost to the EU and other economies. Following calls by the European Parliament and Council, the European Commission has recently adopted a recommendation on the security and resilience of submarine cable infrastructures. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Artificial intelligence [What Think Tanks are thinking] - 27-03-2024

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act moved close to final adoption when the European Parliament voted in favour of the text on 13 March. It will become law after the final endorsement of the Council of the European Union, making the Union the first major worl
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Briefing - Artificial intelligence [What Think Tanks are thinking] - 27-03-2024

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act moved close to final adoption when the European Parliament voted in favour of the text on 13 March. It will become law after the final endorsement of the Council of the European Union, making the Union the first major world power to adopt horizontal legislation governing AI. The act defines the rules for using and selling artificial intelligence systems in the EU, and regulates general-purpose AI tools such as ChatGPT and AI-based biometric surveillance. It also requires much more transparency than up to now in high-risk AI systems, and delineates unacceptable risks of AI. This note offers links to recent reports and commentaries from some major international think tanks and research institutes on artificial intelligence. More publications on the topic can be found in a previous edition of What think tanks are thinking. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

EU Fact Sheets - The principle of subsidiarity - 26-03-2024

In areas in which the European Union does not have exclusive competence, the principle of subsidiarity, laid down in the Treaty on European Union, defines the circumstances in which it is preferable for action to be taken by the Union, rather than the Member
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EU Fact Sheets - The principle of subsidiarity - 26-03-2024

In areas in which the European Union does not have exclusive competence, the principle of subsidiarity, laid down in the Treaty on European Union, defines the circumstances in which it is preferable for action to be taken by the Union, rather than the Member States. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

EU Fact Sheets - Intergovernmental decision-making procedures - 26-03-2024

In the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), as well as in several other fields such as enhanced cooperation, certain appointments and treaty revision, the decision-making procedure is different from that prevailing in the ordinary legislative procedure
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EU Fact Sheets - Intergovernmental decision-making procedures - 26-03-2024

In the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), as well as in several other fields such as enhanced cooperation, certain appointments and treaty revision, the decision-making procedure is different from that prevailing in the ordinary legislative procedure. The dominant feature in these fields is a stronger component of intergovernmental cooperation. The challenge of the public debt crisis has led to increased use of such decision-making mechanisms, notably in the framework of European economic governance. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Fit for 55 package: Reducing methane emissions in the energy sector - 26-03-2024

On 15 December 2021, the Commission presented a proposal to regulate methane emissions reductions in the energy sector. The proposal is part of the second batch of proposals in the 'fit for 55' package, seeking to align EU climate and energy laws with the EU
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Briefing - Fit for 55 package: Reducing methane emissions in the energy sector - 26-03-2024

On 15 December 2021, the Commission presented a proposal to regulate methane emissions reductions in the energy sector. The proposal is part of the second batch of proposals in the 'fit for 55' package, seeking to align EU climate and energy laws with the EU Climate Law's 2030 target. The proposal addresses gaps in the current legislation: those relating to methane emissions from upstream exploration and the production of oil and fossil gas, but also those from the gathering and processing of fossil gas, the transmission, distribution and underground storage of gas, and liquid gas terminals operating with fossil and/or renewable methane. In Parliament, the proposal was referred to the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) and on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). On 26 April 2023, they adopted their joint report, which introduced several amendments to the proposal. Parliament adopted its position for the trilogue negotiations on 9 May 2023, without changes to the joint committee report. On 15 November 2023, Parliament and Council reached a provisional agreement on the proposal. Coreper endorsed it on 15 December 2023 and ENVI and ITRE on 11 January 2024. Parliament is expected to vote on the agreed text during its April I plenary session. Fourth edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages in the legislative procedure. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

In-Depth Analysis - EU-China relations: De-risking or de-coupling − the future of the EU strategy towards China - 26-03-2024

To evaluate the European Union’s (EU) policy framework towards China, this study analyses the varied facets of bilateral relations and the EU’s approach towards China, including its policy of de-risking, together with issues relating to China’s domesti
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In-Depth Analysis - EU-China relations: De-risking or de-coupling − the future of the EU strategy towards China - 26-03-2024

To evaluate the European Union’s (EU) policy framework towards China, this study analyses the varied facets of bilateral relations and the EU’s approach towards China, including its policy of de-risking, together with issues relating to China’s domestic politics and foreign policy. It highlights the need for the EU to adopt a coherent vision and a comprehensive and consistent long-term China strategy that can guide its future actions towards China and on the world stage. Based on its findings, it also provides a series of specific recommendations for the EU on the numerous topics analysed in the study. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - A Union certification framework for carbon removals - 26-03-2024

On 30 November 2022, as part of the European Green Deal, the European Commission presented the legislative proposal for a Union certification framework for carbon removals. The initiative was first announced in the March 2020 new circular economy action plan
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Briefing - A Union certification framework for carbon removals - 26-03-2024

On 30 November 2022, as part of the European Green Deal, the European Commission presented the legislative proposal for a Union certification framework for carbon removals. The initiative was first announced in the March 2020 new circular economy action plan and again highlighted in the climate target plan, as well as in the 'fit for 55' revision of the Regulation on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), as an essential tool to drive progress towards the 2050 climate neutrality target. The stated aim of the initiative is to ensure high-quality EU certified carbon removals, through a transparent and credible governance framework. This would open up the possibility for further investments towards carbon removal activities and increased deployment. The European Parliament adopted its position during the November II 2023 plenary session, and the Council adopted its general approach on 17 November 2023. A provisional agreement was reached on 20 February 2024, and subsequently endorsed by Member States on 8 March 2024 and by Parliament's Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) on 11 March 2024. The vote in plenary is scheduled for the April I 2024 part-session. Third edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Understanding EU action on Roma inclusion - 25-03-2024

The Roma are Europe's largest ethnic minority. Out of an estimated total of 10 to 12 million Roma in Europe as a whole, some 6 million live in the European Union (EU) and most of them are citizens of an EU Member State. A significant number of Roma people liv
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Briefing - Understanding EU action on Roma inclusion - 25-03-2024

The Roma are Europe's largest ethnic minority. Out of an estimated total of 10 to 12 million Roma in Europe as a whole, some 6 million live in the European Union (EU) and most of them are citizens of an EU Member State. A significant number of Roma people live in very poor socio-economic conditions. The social exclusion, discrimination and segregation they face are mutually reinforcing. Their restricted access to education and difficulties entering the labour market result in low income and poor health compared with non-Roma people. Since the mid-1990s, the EU has been stressing the need for better Roma inclusion. In 2011, a key EU initiative was launched with the adoption of an EU framework for national Roma integration strategies up to 2020. The aim was to tackle the socio-economic exclusion of and discrimination against Roma, by promoting equal access in four key areas: education, employment, health and housing. When the framework came to an end, in early October 2020 the European Commission adopted a new strategy for 2021 to 2030. Through this new strategy, Member States were invited to tackle the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on Roma people. In March 2021, the Council adopted a recommendation on Roma equality, inclusion and participation, replacing an earlier one from 2013. This recommendation encouraged Member States to adopt strategic frameworks for the inclusion of Roma communities. The EU also supports Member States in their duty to improve the lives of all vulnerable people, including Roma people, through the European structural and investment funds and other funding instruments. Issues relating to the promotion of democratic values and practices, and economic, social and cultural rights for Roma people have received particular attention from civil society organisations, while Parliament has been advocating for Roma inclusion since the 1990s. This is an update of a briefing published in April 2023. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - European Council: Facts and figures - 22-03-2024

The European Council brings together the Heads of State or Government of the 27 EU Member States in regular meetings which seek to define the overall political direction and priorities of the European Union. This briefing offers a selection of key facts and f
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Briefing - European Council: Facts and figures - 22-03-2024

The European Council brings together the Heads of State or Government of the 27 EU Member States in regular meetings which seek to define the overall political direction and priorities of the European Union. This briefing offers a selection of key facts and figures about this institution, detailing its membership, role, activities, political composition and development over time. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Study - Implications of the Digital Transformation on Different Social Groups - 25-03-2024

This study, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Citizens’ Rights and Constitutional Affairs at the request of the PETI Committee, analyses the impact of digitalization on vulnerable social groups in terms of lower income and ed
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Study - Implications of the Digital Transformation on Different Social Groups - 25-03-2024

This study, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Citizens’ Rights and Constitutional Affairs at the request of the PETI Committee, analyses the impact of digitalization on vulnerable social groups in terms of lower income and education, age, people affected by disabilities, minority ethnic groups and people living in remote/isolated geographic areas. It includes a review of the relevant academic literature, secondary data analysis, as well as three case studies focused on digital inequality in e-commerce and digital financial services. The study reviews the EU legislations relevant in the policy areas that are the object of the case studies and elaborates some recommendations on the actions that the EU could undertake to tackle the digital divide affecting vulnerable social groups. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Voting from abroad in European Parliament elections - 22-03-2024

Across the European Union (EU), national provisions regarding the right to vote for citizens living abroad are not consistent. However, recent legislative changes seem to suggest a positive trend towards allowing out-of-country voting in most EU Member States
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Briefing - Voting from abroad in European Parliament elections - 22-03-2024

Across the European Union (EU), national provisions regarding the right to vote for citizens living abroad are not consistent. However, recent legislative changes seem to suggest a positive trend towards allowing out-of-country voting in most EU Member States. When it comes to voting from abroad, countries need to carefully assess and address various issues. These include: the identification of potential voters; how to inform them about their right to vote and stand as a candidate from abroad; the design and implementation of timely registration processes; the training of staff in diplomatic missions (for in-person voting in consular and diplomatic missions); the design and implementation of secure voting procedures, as well as the possible transportation of ballots from abroad. Against this backdrop, the legal and practical arrangements for voting in the European elections for citizens who live or are temporarily outside their home Member State vary greatly between the Member States. Most allow voting at embassies or consulates abroad, several allow citizens living abroad to vote by post, a few allow voting by proxy, and one (Estonia) allows electronic voting. On the other hand, Czechia, Ireland, Malta and Slovakia do not permit their citizens to vote in the European elections from abroad. Ahead of the European elections in June 2024, this briefing provides an overview of the national provisions concerning voting from abroad in the 27 EU Member States. This briefing is an update of one published in September 2023. The latest elections-related statistical information about the Member States is from August 2023, with the exception of Greece and Belgium, for which it was updated in March 2024. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Study - Performance framework for the EU budget - Concepts and practices - 22-03-2024

Performance-based budgeting has latterly become integral to the governance of EU spending. This study looks at the principles behind this approach and explores how it is being implemented in Cohesion Policy and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. The analys
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Study - Performance framework for the EU budget - Concepts and practices - 22-03-2024

Performance-based budgeting has latterly become integral to the governance of EU spending. This study looks at the principles behind this approach and explores how it is being implemented in Cohesion Policy and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. The analysis reveals marked differences between how performance-based budgeting functions in these two frameworks and sheds light on both benefits and drawbacks in their implementation. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Preventing and countering the facilitation of unauthorised entry, transit and stay in the EU - 22-03-2024

In November 2023, the Commission proposed a directive to modernise and strengthen the legal framework on the fight against migrant smuggling. The proposal addresses the steady rise in irregular arrivals in the EU and the rise in smuggling on all main EU entr
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Briefing - Preventing and countering the facilitation of unauthorised entry, transit and stay in the EU - 22-03-2024

In November 2023, the Commission proposed a directive to modernise and strengthen the legal framework on the fight against migrant smuggling. The proposal addresses the steady rise in irregular arrivals in the EU and the rise in smuggling on all main EU entry routes. The current directive defining the offence of facilitation of unauthorised entry, transit and residence in the EU, and the framework decision on strengthening of the penal framework have both been widely criticised for their failure to provide legal certainty and uniformity of implementation. Parliament has been the main critic of these legal acts since their adoption in 2002. Many human rights players have also warned that the overly broad definition of migrant smuggling has resulted in the investigation and prosecution of innocent people, be they smuggled migrants or individuals providing humanitarian assistance to irregular migrants. To clearly define and effectively sanction migrant smuggling, the Commission would replace the existing rules with others focused on criminal offences, penalties for natural persons, liability of and sanctions for legal persons, but also on jurisdiction, prevention, investigation and data collection. In Parliament, the file has been assigned to the LIBE committee, with Birgit Sippel (S&D, Germany) as rapporteur. The next expected step is the publication of a draft report. First edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Harmonising transfer pricing rules within the EU - 21-03-2024

The pricing of goods and services traded within a multinational group is known as 'transfer pricing'. The prices charged on such transactions affect the allocation of income among the different entities of the multinational group (and consequently, the taxabl
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Briefing - Harmonising transfer pricing rules within the EU - 21-03-2024

The pricing of goods and services traded within a multinational group is known as 'transfer pricing'. The prices charged on such transactions affect the allocation of income among the different entities of the multinational group (and consequently, the taxable profits of each country). To ensure that transactions between group entities are priced in a way that reflects their fair market value – i.e. as if the transactions were made between independent entities – countries have put in place strict transfer pricing rules. While these rules are established at the national level, EU Member States generally align with the (non-binding) OECD Guidelines. However, the number of transfer pricing tax disputes has risen over the years, with both tax authorities and companies dedicating significant time and resources to resolving such cases. On 12 September 2023, the European Commission tabled a proposal for harmonising transfer pricing rules within the EU. The main goal is to establish a common approach at the EU level towards transfer pricing and define key transfer pricing principles to be incorporated into EU law. The European Parliament's Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) has drawn up a (non-binding) report, which is expected to be put to the vote during Parliament's April I plenary session (10-11 April). Second edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

EU Fact Sheets - Three Eastern Partnership neighbours: Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus - 20-03-2024

The EU’s Eastern Partnership policy, established in 2009, covers six post-Soviet states: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. It was created to support political, social and economic reform efforts in these countries with the aim of
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EU Fact Sheets - Three Eastern Partnership neighbours: Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus - 20-03-2024

The EU’s Eastern Partnership policy, established in 2009, covers six post-Soviet states: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. It was created to support political, social and economic reform efforts in these countries with the aim of increasing democratisation and good governance, energy security, environmental protection, and economic and social development. All the members except Belarus participate in the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

EU Fact Sheets - The common agricultural policy – instruments and reforms - 20-03-2024

The common agricultural policy (CAP) has undergone six major reforms, the most recent of which were in 2013 (for the 2014-2020 financial period) and 2021 (for the 2023-2027 financial period). The latest reform and new legislation came into force in January
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EU Fact Sheets - The common agricultural policy – instruments and reforms - 20-03-2024

The common agricultural policy (CAP) has undergone six major reforms, the most recent of which were in 2013 (for the 2014-2020 financial period) and 2021 (for the 2023-2027 financial period). The latest reform and new legislation came into force in January 2023. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Anti-money-laundering authority (AMLA): Countering money laundering and the financing of terrorism - 20-03-2024

In July 2021, the European Commission tabled a proposal to establish a new EU authority to counter money laundering and the financing of terrorism (AMLA). This was part of a legislative package aimed at implementing the 2020 action plan for a comprehensive Un
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Briefing - Anti-money-laundering authority (AMLA): Countering money laundering and the financing of terrorism - 20-03-2024

In July 2021, the European Commission tabled a proposal to establish a new EU authority to counter money laundering and the financing of terrorism (AMLA). This was part of a legislative package aimed at implementing the 2020 action plan for a comprehensive Union policy on preventing money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The AMLA would be the centre of an integrated system, composed of the authority itself and national authorities with an AML/CFT supervisory mandate. It would also support EU financial intelligence units (FIUs) and establish a cooperation mechanism among them. In the European Parliament, the file was referred to the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). The co rapporteurs' draft report was voted on 28 March 2023 and the plenary mandate on 17 April 2023. The Parliament and the Council reached a provisional agreement in December 2023, and the decision on the seat was taken by a joint vote on 22 February 2024. Fourth edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure. The first edition was written by Carla Stamegna. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Study - La libertad de empresa, una perspectiva de Derecho Comparado - España - 20-03-2024

Este documento se integra en una serie de estudios que, desde una perspectiva de Derecho Comparado, tienen como objeto el análisis de la libertad de empresa en los diferentes ordenamientos jurídicos de la Unión Europea. Tras la explicación de su normativ
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Study - La libertad de empresa, una perspectiva de Derecho Comparado - España - 20-03-2024

Este documento se integra en una serie de estudios que, desde una perspectiva de Derecho Comparado, tienen como objeto el análisis de la libertad de empresa en los diferentes ordenamientos jurídicos de la Unión Europea. Tras la explicación de su normativa y jurisprudencia, se examina el contenido, los límites y su posible evolución. La Constitución española de 1978 regula la libertad de empresa dentro del Capítulo II del Título I dedicado a los “Derechos y Libertades”; concretamente, en su artículo 38. En el mismo precepto se reconoce, paralelamente, la economía de mercado y su defensa, encomendadas ambas a los distintos poderes públicos, junto con la productividad, de acuerdo con las exigencias de la economía general y, en su caso, de la planificación. La ordenación de la libertad de empresa es transversal y está condicionada, principalmente, por seis realidades: 1) Los límites impuestos por la configuración de España como un Estado social (art. 1.1 CE); 2) La defensa de otros derechos y bienes constitucionales igualmente recogidos en la Constitución y que el Tribunal Constitucional ha perfilado al hilo de su jurisprudencia; 3) Las tensiones competenciales entre el Estado y las Comunidades Autónomas a la hora de reglamentar y ejecutar diversas políticas sobre la materia; 4) Los conflictos entre los derechos de los trabajadores y el margen de dirección del empleador en el momento de preservar su contenido esencial; 5) El límite del artículo 128.2 CE, al constitucionalizar, además de la libertad de empresa, la iniciativa pública en la actividad económica y la reserva mediante ley al sector público de recursos o servicios esenciales; y 6) El cumplimiento y respeto, lógicamente, a toda una amplia normativa comunitaria que sobre la libertad de empresa han promulgado las distintas instituciones de la Unión Europea. La combinación de estos seis factores, entre otros no tan determinantes, ha dado lugar a un complejo entramado normativo y jurisprudencial que ha desarrollado y tutela de forma eficaz, con carácter general, el derecho a la libertad de empresa en España. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - African Union–European Union cooperation on health - 20-03-2024

In line with its 2022 global health strategy (GHS), the expansion of international partnerships on health is a priority for the European Union (EU). As the 2020 Africa strategy underlines, the African continent, including at regional and national levels, is o
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Briefing - African Union–European Union cooperation on health - 20-03-2024

In line with its 2022 global health strategy (GHS), the expansion of international partnerships on health is a priority for the European Union (EU). As the 2020 Africa strategy underlines, the African continent, including at regional and national levels, is one of the EU's strategic partners, not least on health. Nevertheless, it was not until February 2022, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, that health was explicitly included as one of the strategic priorities of the EU–African Union (AU) partnership. Since then, AU–EU cooperation on health has evolved. In February 2024, the partners confirmed their intention to enhance their health partnership, and identify new areas of joint work within the frameworks provided by the EU GHS and the AU New Public Health Order. Five Team Europe initiatives (TEIs) underpin the EU's cooperation with African partners on health. The focus is on sustainable strengthening of the African architecture for health security and pandemic preparedness with the 'One Health' approach; enhancing Africa-based public health capacity, including through digital health; local production of health products; and improving sexual and reproductive health. The TEIs are supported by investment from the Global Gateway Africa–Europe investment package. The EU is also committed to the EU–Africa Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking under the Horizon Europe research and innovation funding programme. Despite significant progress in EU–African cooperation on health during the past few years, several divergences and points of contention exist. For instance, both the EU and African partners state their commitment towards their shared goal of equity and equitable access to health products; however, their stance on making this priority operational diverges, and arguably constitutes the main friction point in the relations. The ongoing negotiations at the World Health Organization aiming to strengthen international health security highlight persisting issues. The European Parliament advocates an ambitious and comprehensive AU–EU health agenda. Parliament has for instance called for prioritisation of health in AU–EU relations, technology transfer, enhanced financing, and a focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights and a 'One Health' approach. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Improving the working conditions of platform workers - 20-03-2024

On 11 March 2024, employment and social affairs ministers from the EU Member States endorsed the agreement reached with the European Parliament in February 2024 on the platform work directive. The directive introduces the presumption of employment – to be a
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Briefing - Improving the working conditions of platform workers - 20-03-2024

On 11 March 2024, employment and social affairs ministers from the EU Member States endorsed the agreement reached with the European Parliament in February 2024 on the platform work directive. The directive introduces the presumption of employment – to be applied following national rules – as well as the first EU rules to regulate algorithmic management in the workplace. Platform work is an umbrella concept covering a heterogeneous group of economic activities completed through a digital platform. Platform workers' rights are not enshrined in EU labour law and this is increasingly leading to problems relating to various aspects of their work and human development. To remedy this situation, the European Commission submitted a proposal for a directive aimed at improving the working conditions of platform workers, clarifying their employment status, and establishing the first EU rules for the use of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Fifth edition of a briefing originally drafted by Monika Kiss. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Proposal on welfare of dogs and cats and their traceability - 18-03-2024

In the framework of the 'farm to fork' strategy, the Commission committed to a complete overhaul of the animal welfare rules. Accordingly, on 7 December 2023 it published a proposal on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, together with a proposal fo
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Briefing - Proposal on welfare of dogs and cats and their traceability - 18-03-2024

In the framework of the 'farm to fork' strategy, the Commission committed to a complete overhaul of the animal welfare rules. Accordingly, on 7 December 2023 it published a proposal on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, together with a proposal for a new regulation on animal welfare in transport. At present, the rules on the protection of dog and cat welfare across the EU are not harmonised. The proposal therefore aims to establish EU standards for the breeding, housing and handling of pets in breeding establishments, pet shops and shelters. To combat the illegal trade in dogs and cats – a ruthless practice that is flourishing through online sales – the Commission seeks to reinforce the traceability of dogs and cats by introducing mandatory identification and registration in national databases. In the European Parliament, the file has been assigned to the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRI), with Veronika Vrecionová (ECR, Czechia) as rapporteur. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Public hearing with Dominique Laboureix, Chair of the Single Resolution Board - 21 March 2024 - 18-03-2024

This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Resolution Board (SRB), Dominique Laboureix, scheduled for 21 March 2024. This briefing addresses: • New SRM strategy: Vision 2028 • Single Resolution Fund at target l
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Briefing - Public hearing with Dominique Laboureix, Chair of the Single Resolution Board - 21 March 2024 - 18-03-2024

This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Resolution Board (SRB), Dominique Laboureix, scheduled for 21 March 2024. This briefing addresses: • New SRM strategy: Vision 2028 • Single Resolution Fund at target level • Liquidity and liquidity in resolution • MREL dashboard Q3/2023 • List of consultations and requests to the industry. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Study - Key Issues in the European Council - State of play in March 2024 - 18-03-2024

This EPRS publication, 'Key issues in the European Council', which is updated every quarter to coincide with European Council meetings, seeks to provide an overview of the institution's activities on major EU issues. It analyses 12 broad policy areas, explain
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Study - Key Issues in the European Council - State of play in March 2024 - 18-03-2024

This EPRS publication, 'Key issues in the European Council', which is updated every quarter to coincide with European Council meetings, seeks to provide an overview of the institution's activities on major EU issues. It analyses 12 broad policy areas, explaining the legal and political background, the main priorities and orientations defined by the European Council and the results of its involvement to date, as well as some of the future challenges in each policy field. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - France's National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play - 18-03-2024

France's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) is a subpart of 'France Relance', a larger recovery strategy France adopted in 2020 at national level, worth €100 billion in total (4.1 % of France's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019). The NRRP had a
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - France's National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play - 18-03-2024

France's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) is a subpart of 'France Relance', a larger recovery strategy France adopted in 2020 at national level, worth €100 billion in total (4.1 % of France's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019). The NRRP had an initial value of €40.9 billion (total costs), while the plan as amended in 2023 is worth €41.9 billion. Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), at the core of the Next Generation EU (NGEU) instrument, France's RRF grant allocation decreased from €39.4 billion to €37.4 billion, following the June 2022 update. In April 2023, France submitted a request to amend its NRRP – partly in order to take into account the decrease in the EU's financial contribution, but also to add a new REPowerEU chapter, which comes with an additional grant allocation of €2.3 billion. France also requested to transfer a portion of its share of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to its plan (€504 million). With these funds, the overall EU financial contribution to the French amended plan amounts to €40.2 billion in grants, with the rest to be covered by national means. France has not requested loans. The RRF resources allocated to France represent 5.3 % of the entire RRF resources for the EU, and 1.6 % of the country's GDP in 2019 (the RRF representing 5.2 % of EU-27 GDP in 2019). Measures under the plan are to be completed by 2026. So far, France has received €23.4 billion. The next payments will depend on progress in implementing the plan. The European Parliament, which was a major advocate of the creation of a common EU recovery instrument, participates in interinstitutional forums for cooperation and discussion on its implementation and scrutinises the European Commission's work. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Fourth edition. The 'NGEU delivery' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Belgium's National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play - 18-03-2024

The EU's Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) is the core component of Next Generation EU, a temporary recovery instrument that allows the European Commission to raise funds to help the economic and social recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. By promoting
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - Belgium's National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play - 18-03-2024

The EU's Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) is the core component of Next Generation EU, a temporary recovery instrument that allows the European Commission to raise funds to help the economic and social recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. By promoting the sustainable and inclusive recovery that ensures the green and digital transitions make progress, the RRF is consistent with the Commission's priorities. Belgium's initial maximum contribution to finance its national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP) was set to €5 924 million in grants. However, the maximum financial contribution was updated in June 2022 and reduced to €4 523 million. In addition, the non-repayable allocation for the REPowerEU chapter to reinforce the NRRP's energy dimension is set at €281 million. Belgium also submitted a reasoned request to transfer part of its provisional allocation from the resources of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to the RRF (€228 million). Finally, Belgium requested a loan support of €264 million. The overall EU financial contribution to the amended Belgian NRRP stands thus at €5 298 million; it represents 0.7 % of the entire RRF, and 1.1 % of Belgium's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019. The Council approved Belgium's amended NRRP on 8 December 2023. In total, Belgium received €915.1 million in pre-financing: 13 % of the initial NRRP (€770 million, all grants) in 2021, and 20 % of the REPowerEU chapter (€102.1 million in grants, €43 million in loans) in January 2024. The European Parliament, which was a major advocate of creating a common EU recovery instrument, participates in interinstitutional forums for cooperation and discussion on RRF implementation and scrutinises the European Commission's work. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Second edition. The 'NGEU delivery' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

At a Glance - Public hearing with Dominique Laboureix, Chair of the Single Resolution Board - 21 March 2024 - 18-03-2024

This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Resolution Board (SRB), Dominique Laboureix, scheduled for 21 March 2024. This briefing addresses: • New SRM strategy: Vision 2028 • Single Resolution Fund at target l
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

At a Glance - Public hearing with Dominique Laboureix, Chair of the Single Resolution Board - 21 March 2024 - 18-03-2024

This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Resolution Board (SRB), Dominique Laboureix, scheduled for 21 March 2024. This briefing addresses: • New SRM strategy: Vision 2028 • Single Resolution Fund at target level • Liquidity and liquidity in resolution • MREL dashboard Q3/2023 • List of consultations and requests to the industry. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Lithuania's National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play - 18-03-2024

Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), Lithuania's national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP) had an initial value of €2 224 million. In June 2022, Lithuania's grant allocation was revised downwards to €2 100 million (- 5.6 %). In October 202
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - Lithuania's National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play - 18-03-2024

Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), Lithuania's national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP) had an initial value of €2 224 million. In June 2022, Lithuania's grant allocation was revised downwards to €2 100 million (- 5.6 %). In October 2023, however, Lithuania submitted a request to amend its NRRP, which includes an additional grant allocation of €193.7 million for a new REPowerEU chapter and a loan request worth €1 551.7 million. Lithuania also requested to transfer a portion of its share of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to its plan (€4.7 million). Together, these additional resources have brought the overall EU contribution to Lithuania's amended NRRP to €3 849 million. These resources represent 0.5 % of the entire RRF, equal to 7.9 % of the country's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019. In November 2023, the Council adopted an amending implementing decision by which it gave the green light to Lithuania's modified plan. The new plan contains 31 reforms and 10 investments including the REPowerEU chapter with one reform and three investments. Apart from the added chapter, the other modifications submitted by Lithuania affect 46 measures of the initial plan. Moreover, Lithuania proposed to add six new measures (three investments and three reforms), to be funded by additional loan support. Measures under the current NRRP are to be completed by 2026. Lithuania has so far received 25.5 % of the resources (in the form of pre-financing and one grant payment). Further payments will depend on progress made in implementing the plan. Lithuania's NRRP is consistent with the challenges and priorities identified in the European Semester, the annual cycle for coordinating and monitoring each EU country's economic policies. The European Parliament participates in interinstitutional forums for cooperation and discussion on the implementation of the RRF and continues to scrutinise the European Commission's work. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Third edition. The 'National Recovery and Resilience Plans in the EU' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

In-Depth Analysis - Capital Markets Union: Ten Years Later - 18-03-2024

The European Union’s project of capital markets union (CMU) has disappointed in its first decade. The best way to revitalise it is to focus on supervisory integration through in-depth reform and further empowerment of the European Securities and Markets Aut
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

In-Depth Analysis - Capital Markets Union: Ten Years Later - 18-03-2024

The European Union’s project of capital markets union (CMU) has disappointed in its first decade. The best way to revitalise it is to focus on supervisory integration through in-depth reform and further empowerment of the European Securities and Markets Authority. If, conversely, more integrated supervision cannot be achieved, then it may be time to discard the CMU slogan altogether. This document was provided by the Economic Governance and EMU Scrutiny Unit at the request of the ECON Committee. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Main activities of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs 2019-2024 - 15-03-2024

The European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission proclaimed the European Pillar of Social Rights in 2017. Spelled out in 20 principles, the social pillar has since served as a compass towards building a stronger social Europe. In the related a
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - Main activities of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs 2019-2024 - 15-03-2024

The European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission proclaimed the European Pillar of Social Rights in 2017. Spelled out in 20 principles, the social pillar has since served as a compass towards building a stronger social Europe. In the related action plan, the Commission set out concrete initiatives and, after the Porto Social Summit of May 2021, EU lawmakers committed to headline targets for 2030 regarding employment, training, and poverty. Consequently, this legislative term has seen concrete steps towards implementing the pillar, with the Commission tabling a number of proposals for recommendations and several directives that were subsequently negotiated by EU lawmakers and where Parliament sought to assert its positions. The preparatory work for these negotiations was done by Parliament's Committee on Employment and Social Rights (EMPL), alone or together with other parliamentary committees. Without attempting a thorough end-of-term overview or an in-depth analysis of achievements, this briefing sketches out Parliament's main activities in this legislative term that bear the signature of the EMPL committee. After a glimpse at successfully concluded legislative files relating to the world of work, equality between men and women, health and safety at work, skills and EU funding, it looks at legislative own-initiative resolutions and demands put forward by the EMPL committee. With the European elections approaching and several files still ongoing, the time has also come to look forward to some EMPL-related issues that are likely to fill the agenda of the next legislative term. Owing to space constraints, this text cannot do justice to the broad variety of challenges to which the EMPL committee has devoted its energy and expertise, leaving aside, for instance, the work done in relation to the integration of third-country nationals into the labour market and the equal treatment of persons with disabilities. Nor does it examine in detail the dynamics of Parliament's resolutions that help to push social issues into the EU political spotlight. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Expansion of BRICS: A quest for greater global influence? - 15-03-2024

On 1 January 2024, BRICS – the intergovernmental organisation comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – admitted four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. The group's decision to open the door to new members wa
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - Expansion of BRICS: A quest for greater global influence? - 15-03-2024

On 1 January 2024, BRICS – the intergovernmental organisation comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – admitted four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. The group's decision to open the door to new members was taken at its Johannesburg summit in August 2023, sparking a debate about its growing international influence. According to estimates, BRICS+, as the organisation has been informally called since its expansion, now accounts for 37.3 % of world GDP, or more than half as much as the EU (14.5 %). However, besides an increase in economic power the new members could bring potential conflicts (Saudi Arabia/Iran or Egypt/Ethiopia) into the group, making the reaching of consensus on common political positions more difficult. Since the new members would only contribute roughly 4 % to the group's cumulative GDP, the significance of the expansion should be seen beyond the purely economic effect, in the form of greater influence for the group and for developing countries as a whole within international organisations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization and the Bretton Woods institutions. The EU engages with BRICS+ countries individually. For instance, it has strategic partnerships with Brazil, India and South Africa, and is negotiating a free trade agreement with India. On the other hand, current conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza show the divergent approaches to security taken by the EU and BRICS+. The European Parliament has stressed that further political dialogue with the BRICS countries is needed, including on an individual basis. In an exchange of views with European Commission representatives in October 2023, Members of the Parliament's Committee on International Trade (INTA) underlined the need to keep an eye on the group's expansion, especially considering the effect of a potential BRICS+ currency and the consequences for EU trade policy. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Briefing - Count Emissions EU: Measuring emissions from transport services - 15-03-2024

In July 2023, the European Commission tabled a package of three proposals for the greening of freight transport. Among them is a proposal for a single methodology for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport services, referred to as CountEmis
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - Count Emissions EU: Measuring emissions from transport services - 15-03-2024

In July 2023, the European Commission tabled a package of three proposals for the greening of freight transport. Among them is a proposal for a single methodology for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport services, referred to as CountEmissionsEU. The initiative covers both freight and passenger transport. It aims to ensure that the GHG emissions data provided regarding transport services are reliable and accurate, to allow fair comparison between transport services. It establishes a methodological framework but does not govern where it has to be used. Nonetheless, if an organisation decides to calculate and disclose information on GHG emissions from transport services it needs to use the methodology provided. To avoid extra red tape for small and medium-sized enterprises, the proposal exempts these companies from mandatory verification of adherence to the rules. In the European Parliament, the file is being dealt with through the joint committee procedure, involving the Committees on Transport and Tourism and on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety. The committees adopted their joint report on 4 March 2024. Parliament is expected to vote on its first-reading position during a forthcoming plenary session. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

EU Fact Sheets - Economic, social and territorial cohesion - 14-03-2024

In order to promote its overall harmonious development, the European Union is strengthening its economic, social and territorial cohesion. In particular, the EU aims to reduce disparities between the levels of development of its various regions. Special atten
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

EU Fact Sheets - Economic, social and territorial cohesion - 14-03-2024

In order to promote its overall harmonious development, the European Union is strengthening its economic, social and territorial cohesion. In particular, the EU aims to reduce disparities between the levels of development of its various regions. Special attention is paid to rural areas, areas affected by industrial transition and regions that suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps, such as the northernmost regions with very low population density, as well as island, cross-border and mountainous regions. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

At a Glance - 'This is Europe' debate in the European Parliament: Speech by Petteri Orpo, Prime Minister of Finland, 13 March 2024 - 14-03-2024

'This is Europe' – an initiative proposed by the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola – consists of a series of debates with EU leaders to discuss their visions for the future of the European Union. The trilogy of resilience, competitiven
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

At a Glance - 'This is Europe' debate in the European Parliament: Speech by Petteri Orpo, Prime Minister of Finland, 13 March 2024 - 14-03-2024

'This is Europe' – an initiative proposed by the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola – consists of a series of debates with EU leaders to discuss their visions for the future of the European Union. The trilogy of resilience, competitiveness and security was at the centre of the vision of Europe that the Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo, shared with the European Parliament on 13 March 2024. Regarding competitiveness, he mentioned the single market, State aid, trade and economic governance. On security, he argued that the concept not only included security and defence, but also border protection and preparedness to make the EU more resilient. Orpo also emphasised that, for Finland, 'the EU is the most important political and economic frame of reference and community of values', and stressed that EU leaders had to 'fight against any pessimism and show an example and leadership'. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

At a Glance - Maritime security: Situation in the Red Sea and EU response - 14-03-2024

The Iran-backed Houthi militia, which controls large parts of Yemen, has attacked numerous commercial ships in the Red Sea since mid-November 2023 'in solidarity with the Palestinians'. This poses a significant threat to the global economy, and has led to an
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

At a Glance - Maritime security: Situation in the Red Sea and EU response - 14-03-2024

The Iran-backed Houthi militia, which controls large parts of Yemen, has attacked numerous commercial ships in the Red Sea since mid-November 2023 'in solidarity with the Palestinians'. This poses a significant threat to the global economy, and has led to an escalation of tensions in the Middle East. The United States has launched an international operation in the Red Sea to protect commercial vessels and keep this vital shipping route open. The EU launched its own 'purely defensive' mission, EUNAVFOR Operation ASPIDES, on 19 February 2024. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

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