Explainers

The EU recognises the strategic nature of space and that space is key for the EU’s freedom of action and autonomous decision-making in security and defence.

Healthy nature and soils are important not only for biodiversity, but also for the capture of CO2 emissions and resilience to climate change. That is why the EU is working to protect ecosystems and natural habitats.

Treating wastewater properly is necessary to ensure good water quality. The EU has introduced new rules to better protect people and the environment.

Following a series of citizens-led debates held over the course of a year, the Council has been acting on citizens' recommendations and proposals to help shape the future of Europe.

Fighting terrorism is a top priority for the EU. Member states work closely together to prevent terrorist attacks and ensure the security of citizens.

EU ecodesign rules make products placed on the EU market more environmentally sustainable, energy-efficient, durable and circular.

The EU has developed a robust framework to manage the orderly resolution of failing banks in order to protect financial stability, ensure the continuity of critical banking functions, and minimise the impact on the economy and taxpayers.

The single supervisory mechanism is an EU-level system to ensure enhanced supervision of Europe's banking sector.

The Samoa agreement is the overarching framework for EU relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. 

Jordan is one of the EU's closest partners in the Middle East, with an important role in ensuring stability in the region.