Explainers

The EU's annual budget lays down all of the European Union's expenditure and revenue for one year. It provides for the funding of EU policies and programmes in line with the EU's political priorities and legal obligations.

This infographic shows the main areas of the 2025 EU budget.

How is the EU financing the transition to climate neutrality? The EU set the target of using 30% of its long-term budget for climate action.

Rule of law is one of the EU’s founding values, and essential to its very functioning. It is fundamental for the application of EU law, protects citizens and establishes the conditions for a well-functioning single market.

A healthy banking system is essential for the lives of all EU citizens and for the stability and prosperity of the European economy. Since the 2007–2008 financial crisis, European and international leaders have implemented international banking standards to ensure that banks are sound and can weather the storm of any potential future crises.

The use of forced labour in the manufacture of products remains a worldwide problem. The EU's legislation aims to effectively eliminate products made using forced labour from the Union market.

EU rules on markets in crypto-assets better protect consumers and investors, regulate risks against financial crime and boost innovation.

Learn who does what in the European Semester.

Find out more about the EU's works to combat human trafficking.

The EU coordinates policies in the fields of employment and social inclusion to support social rights in all EU member states.