Explainers

The EU has in place a number of measures to ensure a fair and equitable trade with third countries.

Find out which countries supply the most gas to the EU and how much gas the EU imports.

The EU has imposed extensive sanctions against Belarus in response to human rights abuses, Belarus' support for Russia's war against Ukraine, and its hybrid attacks against the EU.

The European Semester is a framework for the coordination of economic, budgetary, employment and social policies within the European Union.

The EU and its 27 member states together are the leading donor of humanitarian aid to populations affected by disasters around the globe. EU assistance aims to save lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering, and maintain human dignity.

The EU has developed corporate sustainability policies for businesses, with the aim of enhancing protection for the environment and human rights in the EU and beyond.

The European Union is based on international treaties agreed by all EU countries. Over time, these treaties have progressively defined the roles and responsibilities of the Council of the EU and the European Council.

The EU’s rules on anti money laundering and countering terrorist financing protect its financial system and contribute to security and growth.

The EU facilitates common procurement through different initiatives. Cooperation between member states on defence procurement brings greater efficiency and cost savings.

Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine caused an unprecedented energy crisis in Europe in 2022. EU countries stood united and their response helped keep prices down.