Explainers

Every year, the European Semester starts in autumn with the presentation of the Commission’s priorities. It ends in October of the following year when the euro area member states submit their budgetary plans.

The package proposes measures to make EU clearing services more resilient, harmonise corporate insolvency rules and lower administrative burdens for companies.

The Eastern Partnership (EaP) aims to strengthen and deepen the political and economic relations between the EU, its member states and the six Eastern European partner countries. It also supports sustainable reform processes in the partner countries.

How the EU supports education, training, youth and sport in Europe, promotes common European values, fosters social integration and intercultural exchange.

The EU has set rules for businesses to prove the green claims they make about sustainability are founded, and to prevent consumers from being victims of greenwashing and unfair commercial practices.

An independent body to set common ethical standards and increase transparency across the EU institutions.

EU member states have defined common rules, via the EU's common fisheries policy, to manage fish resources sustainably and provide food to people.

On a yearly basis, EU countries agree on how much fish can be caught in EU waters or by EU vessels in other waters. The Council is the sole legislator on this matter.

The Earth's resources are not infinite. The circular economy makes the use of products and materials more sustainable and offers the EU an opportunity to become more competitive.

EU rules on food safety aim to protect consumers while guaranteeing the smooth functioning of the single market.