Explainers

The EU is the Republic of Korea's largest foreign direct investor, ahead of Japan and the USA.

The EU has the toughest data protection rules in the world. Protection of personal data is considered a fundamental right in the EU.

Human trafficking, cybercrime, drug trafficking and environmental crime are among the threats the EU tackles through EMPACT, its multidisciplinary platform for coordinating action against the most serious organised crime networks.

The EU is committed to protecting its economic security and addressing threats to its supply chains, infrastructure, key technologies, as well as threats coming from the weaponisation of its economic dependencies.

EU rules on screening foreign investment enable member states to control foreign investments in the EU and address any risks to security or public order. This is done in cooperation with other member states and the Commission.

The EU is committed to improving ocean health, driving economic growth related to its seas, and supporting people living along coastal areas and on islands.

The Western Balkans is of strategic importance to the EU and the EU is the regions' largest investor, trading partner and donor.

The European Central Bank (ECB) executive board is appointed by the European Council in euro area composition by reinforced qualified majority.

Human rights are at the core of the EU's external action. The European Union is committed to protecting and promoting human rights worldwide.

The EU has imposed sanctions against individuals, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts, including ISIL/Da'esh, Al-Qaida, Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.