JPP14 HR Interview Flashcards
What are the key points of the European Council’s Strategic Agenda 2024-2029?
- A free and democratic Europe
- A strong and secure Europe
- A prosperous and competitive Europe
- protect EU founding values, promote and safeguard rule of law, strengthen democratic resilience + support international legal order (UN Charter, SDGs, 2030 Agenda)
- become strategic global player in multipolar geopolitical world; promote security, stability, peace and prosperty; mutually benefial, strategic partnerships
+ strengthen defence,contribute more to NATO, fight crime (drugs, online)
+ prepare for bigger + stronger Union –> enlargement as a geostrategic investment in peace, security, stability, prosperity
+ comprehensive approach to migration and border management, legal pathways, mutually benefial cooperation with countires of origin and transit - long-term competitiveness, improve citizens’ economic and social wellbeing, deepen the Single Market, esp. in areas of finance, energy and telecom, remove barriers (goal: Capital Markets Union), strengthen economic security
+ successful twin green and digital transition
–> harness potential of the transition
fair + just cliamte transition, staying globally competitive, increase energy sovereignty
build an energy union, focus on net-zero and net-carbon solutions, circular and resource-efficient economy, develop clean tech
+ promote innovation and business-friendly environment –> reduce bureaucratic and regulatory burden at all levels
What were the founding principles of the EU?
securing peace in Europe
building on cooperation
solidarity
common economic prosperity
What are key challenges in today’s political landscape?
strategic competition
growing global instability
attempts to undermine the rules-based international order
e.g. Russian aggression on Ukraine, Middle East, climate crisis (biodiversity loss, pollution, etc.), pandemics
Trump’s own attacks on the rule based orders via his imperialist intentions and possibly illegal abolition of USAID.
What are current priorties of the EU?
strengthen our competitiveness
become the first climate-neutral continent (by 2050)
leaving no one behind
tackle challenges of migration
EU security and defence
championing international law and institutions
fair global governance
inclusive multilateralism
sustainable growth and development
strong and competitive social market
bost economic growth
world leader in green and digtial industries and technologies
What are the founding values of the EU?
laid out in article 2 of the Lisbon Treaty and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights
respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, respect of human rights (including rights of minorities)
What are the political priorities of VDL2 2024-2029 according to the Political Guidlines of the European Commission?
- A new plan for Europe’s sustainable propserity and competitiveness
- A new era for European Defence and Security
- Supporting people, strengthening our societies and our social model
- Sustaining our quality of life: food security, water, and nature
- Protecting our democracy, upholding our values
- A global Europe: leveraging our power and partnerships
- Delivering together and preparing our Union for the future
What are the key elements of the following priority: 1. A new plan for Europe’s sustainable propserity and competitiveness
the European Prosperity Plan:
make business easier (cut red tape, reduce administrative burden: -25% + -35% reporting obligations for SMEs) and deepen/complete our Single Market
build Clean Industrial Deal –> decarbonise, bring down energy prices
focus on research and innovation
focus on boosting productivity through digital transition
invest massively in sustainable competitiveness
tackle skills and labour gap –> STEM education strategic plan
key: competitiveness of SMEs
Competitiveness Compass –> deregulation + decarbonisation
focus on implementing the existing legal framework for 2030 –> Green Deal!
development of Energy Union –> clean + green, bring down energy prices, reduce dependencies
more circular and resilient economy –> Circular Economy Act
make economy more resilient + less dependent
complete European health union
AI Act, focus: supercomputing
DSA, DMA –> digital laws
2024-2027: EUR 4bn in AI research and deploymnet, AI factories initative+ European AI Research Council, European Data Union Strategy
boosting porductivity with digital tech diffusion
“This will be an investement Commission”
What are the key elements of the following priority: 2. A new era for European Defence and Security
“best investement in European security is investing in the security of Ukraine”
increase investments in defence, military capabilites –> Single MArket for Defence product & services
build true European defence Union –> new: Cssr for defence
strenghten EU-NATO cooperation
VDL + Cssr defense”spend more, spend better, spend together”
prioritise crisis and security preparedness –> war, cyber attacks, chemical, bio weapons, health threats; key: improve internal security
fight crime –> drug + human trafficking, terrorism –> better EU police, critical communication system
stronger common borders –> digitial + fully functioning , Frontext: tripled, 30 000 coast guards
fully functioning Schengen
implement Pact on Migration and Asylum (5 years); 10% og INTPA budget earmarked for migration and forced displacement-related actions (2021-27) –> currently over 190 actions, 5.3bn EUR, sub-saharan Africa, North Africa, Asia-Pacific
focus: Mediterraneaun –> smugglers, peace, security, prospertiy –> DG MENA
What are the key elements of the following priority: 3. Supporting people, strengthening our societies and our social model
strengthen our social market model
social faireness in the modern economy –> European Pillar of Social Rights to become reality across the EU –> to reach 2030 action targets
just transition for all –> regions –> leaving no one behind
Eu-Anti-Poverty Strategy, European Affordable HousingPLan,
Social Climate Fund: investment in affordable and sustainable housing
strengthen cohesion and growth policies –> countries and regions
engage with young people –> strengthen Erasmus+, Youth Policy Dialogues; focus: mental health crisis
Union of euqality–> Cssr for Equality
focus: women –> Gender Equality Strategy for post-2025, focus: women at hte work place (board), tackle gender-based violence, empower women in politics + labour market
–> Roadmap for Women’s rights
What are the key elements of the following priority: 4. Sustaining our quality of life: food security, water, and nature
Europe: 9 mil farmers, 17 mil jobs
affected by climate change, unfair global competition, higher energy prices, lack of young farmers
ensure farming remains a core part of European way of life + boost sustainability + competitiveness of blue economy
need: fair and sufficient income, improve CAP
reward farmers working with nature (biodiversity, decarbonise, protect ecosystem), goal: net-zero by 2050
support competitiveness of food value chain
goal: EU food sovereignty
protect Oceans –> European Oceans Pact
climate adaptation, preparedness, solidarity
–> resilience, European Climate Adaptation Plan
European Water Resilience Strategy
What are the key elements of the following priority: 5. Protecting our democracy, upholding our values
prosperity, competitiveness, well functioning single market –> united by democracy, rule of law, respect of fundamental freedoms
democratic systems and institutions are under attack –> esp. cyber attacks, disinformation, deepfakes –> protect and defend democracy
need: societal resilience and preparedness whilst promoting free speech –> DSA, DMA, AI Act
strengthen rule of law –> conduct Rule of Law Report; European Media freedom Act
champion civic engagement and participation
focus: citizen participation across the EU –> every year: European Citizens’ Panel for a chosen policy area
What are the key elements of the following priority: 6. A global Europe: leveraging our power and partnerships
be more assertive in pursuing strategic interest
attack: EU, our values, rules-based international order –> age of geostrategic rivalries, shift from cooperation to competition
enlargement as a geopolitical imperative –> greater geopolitical weight + influence, reduce dependencies, enhance resilience + competitiveness
of course: need comply with EU criteria
more strategic approach to neighbourhood –> Mediterranean –> new Pact for the Mediterranean, new EU-Middle East Strategy
new economic foreign policy
–> geopolitics + geoeconomics are linked!
focus:
1. economic security
2. trade
3. investement in partnerships
Global Gateway: infrastructure investment –> trade, macro-economic support
mutually benefitial partnerships
–> through Team Europe: EU institutions, MS, finance institutions, EIB, EBRD, export credit agencies, private sector
foucs: transport corridors, ports, renewable energy generation, green hydrogen production, critical raw material value chains
reshape multilateralism for today’s world –> play leading role in reforming international system + UN
What are the key elements of the following priority: 7. Delivering together and preparing our Union for the future
ambitous programme of modernisation
new budget fit for ambitions: more focused (policy-based budget, not porgramme based), simpler (promote social, economic and territorial cohesion), more impactful
–> modern + reinforced EU budget –> proposal in 2025
revamp external action financing –> more impactful, targeted, more aligned with EU strategic interests
ambitious reform agenda for Europe:
need Treaty change where we can improve our Union, enlargement as a catalyst, enhance EU’s capacity to act
delivering together with the European Parliament
What are the priority areas of the Global Gateway Strategy?
- (green) energy
transition to clean energy production and distribution - digital (infrastructure)
universal access to an open and secure internet - transport
sustainable, multimodal transport, incl. roads and ports - education and research
high quality education and vocational training, focus on girls and women and vulnerable groups - health
strengthen supply chains and loval vaccines production
uderpinned 360 degree enabling environment: democratic values and high standards, good governance and transparency, equal partnerships, green and clean, security focused, catalysing private sector investment
EU’s contirbution to achieving the SDGs
promote sustainable development, reduce poverty, address root causes of irregular migration, bolster economic security
GG does not directly link to EU’s migration and asylum policies but support through job creation and development, investing in tech and vocational education, mobilising investment that the EU can use as aleverage to negotiate migration partnerships with third countries
addresses gender inequality
What is Global Gateway
marks paradigm shift, awaty from dono-recipient paradimg to cultivating partnerhsips of equals
EU’s external investment strategy, aimed at boosting developmnet of quality infastructre in partner countries, to create sustainable prosperity, jobs and services for local communitites, strengthen the connection of EU and partners
comprehensive strategy to connect the world through sustainable investments and reliable partnerships
boost smart, clean and secure links in 5 priortiy sectors
narrowing global investment gap, reducing strategic dependices, accomapy twin green and digtial transitions
combine support for sustianable development with strong assessment of EU’s strategic interests +
creates powerful transformative packages –> both “hard” infrastructure and “soft” investments for sustainable development that pormote high social, environmental and governance standards (ESG)
global in scope, adapting to needs and strategic interest of different regions
“coherent strategic policy framework for the EU’s geopolitical priorities and the EU’s external brand” –> position ourselves more boldly in an increasingly contested international environment
VDL “we want to create links, not dependencies. We want to sho that democracies and value-driven investments can deliver”
GG is ideal model based on combining trade and development
response to urgent needs of partners
focus: Africa, Central Asia, Latin America
positive offer to partner countries to tackle the infastructure investment deficit + support the green and digital transition globally
1. principles and values-based offer
2. aligned with the 2030 agenda, supports SDG implementation and financing
3. implemented in Team Europe approach
Europe’s offer to connect the wolrd + boost resilience of the EU + partner countries
distinctive + values-based offer, adopted in Dec 2021
EU’s investment strategy
infrastructure development –> “build more resilient connections with the world”
EU contribution to 2030 Agenda + SDGs
comprehensive, qualitative, sustainable offer, rooted in our shared values + norms and standards;
+ EU’s contribution to G7 PGII (transport e.g. corridort) + G20’s Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty –> GG showcased here
+EU’s contribution to Paris Agreement
2021-2027: mobilise 300 bn EUR as Team Europe
2021-2023: already mobilised 179 bn EUR for GG
360 approach:
combines investment in infrastructure (e.g. roads, cables, solar plants)
with investements in enabling environment (e.g. education, skills, research, regulatory farmeworks, good governance) to support human development and strengthen the capacity of our partners –> investment in hard infrastructure goes together with sectoral reforms, improved capacities of State institutions and regulatory environment, more predicatability of trade + investment conditions
priorities:
1. (green) energy
2. digital (infrastructure)
3. transport
4. education and research
5. health
–> change: limited strategic priorties vs everything before
boosts smart, clean and secure links in the digital, energy and transport sectors and helps strengthen health, education and research systems
enabling environment but not covered by GG:
peace and security
migration management
humanitarian aid
social protection
fodd assistance
key guiding principles for investments:
1. democratic values
2. good governance and transparency
3. equal partnreships
4. green and clean
5. security focused
6. catalysing private sector investment
involvement of private sector is key
provides technical and financial support undre fair and favourable terms, limit risk of debt distress
eunsures transparency, good governance, good governance, high standards of human, social and workers’ rights
core: transformative, large-scale projects that combine public and private financing for investments, with a strong infrastructure element
goal> triple win –> partner countries, political win, private secotr
Eu functions as a matchmaker __> private sector + developing countries
led by SecGen –> whole of EC approach, coordinate
What does it mean to be a geopolitical Commission (priority 2019-2024)?
reinforce EU’s role as an international actor. shaping a better global order through supporting multilateralism
“stronger Europe in the wolrd” (Priority VDL1); “A global Europe: leveraging our power and partnerships” (Priority VDL2)
multilateralism and rules-based global order
strong, open and faire trade agenda
ensure highest standards of climate, environmental and labour standards
working shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbouring countries and partners
coordinated approach to external action
more active role and stronger voice for the EU in the world
paradigm shift in INTPA: from donor-recipient to equal partnerships
toolbox:
NDICI - Global Europe (Neighbourhood Development and International Cooperation Instrument)
Global Gateway
Team Europea approach and Team Europe initatives
What is policy coherence?
ensure that our work in complementary and enhances sustainable development globally
key approach to the achievements of SDGs + 2030 Agenda
considers possible impact of EU policy choices on developing countries, ensuring that policies enhance each other and considers potential negative spill-over impacts
through GG. build on SDG interlinkages and accelrate progress
Trump 2nd term: what does it mean for the EU
huge financial and political pressure on UN and other international organisation –> end US AID, withdrawl from WHO and Paris Agreement, America-first foreign policy doctrine, 90 day freeze on US foreign aid)
renewed political and financial strains on international oganisation
stress test for rules-based internaitonal order
FfD Conference will be key!
financial gap could be opportunity for CHina –> other actors can step up their presence in key organisations
GG emerged as the right approach in these challening times of profoud geo-political tension and increased pressure on our development cooperation resources
major tarrifs on Canada, 25% Mexico 25%, China additonal 10%
potentially also coming for EU
Trumpo on EU: hostile trade actor, hotbed of socialist ideas , not psending enough on defence, drag on US resources, overregulate strangling EU economy and threaten US companies
EU is overregulating
criticsm DSA, DMA
US= largest single donor of humanitarian assistanc globally –> cut will be evident, close US Aid
terminating funding, unclear what will happen to UN –> Trump: transactional appraoch to foreign policy –> chalenge rule of law, humanitarian values
imapcts on: trade and economic relations, Nato and defense spending, climate change and environemtnal policy, immigration and refugees, geoloticial relations
What are the beneifts for the EU of its partnerships
stimulating inclusive growth –> bost developing countries + trade with EU
inssues affecting everybody are tackled –> cost-efficient
promote internaitonal vlaues + principles –> Hr, democracy, rule of law, gender equality, women empowerment
strenghen EU + increase its visibility
What are the main goals of the Green Deal?
introduced in Dec 2019
comprehensive set of policy initatives
includes European Cliamte law –> enshrines 2050 climate neutrality yo get itno law
Fit for 55 Package: aim reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030
goals
1. 2050 net zero greenhouse gas emisisons
2. Clean energy transition –> increase share of renewable energy, phase out oil coal, gas
3. sustinabale industry –> greener porudcts and porcesses, circular economy and less poluting
4. sustinable mobility –> encourage development of green, enrgy efficinet transport, including EVs, alternative fuels
5. biodiversity protection
challenges:
1. ecnomic transformation –> shift business model
2. investment –> needs signifianct amounts, target 1 trillion EU
China is world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases
3. international cooperation –> trade, energy policies, access to CRM
What are the key target’s of EU’s digital transformation
build digtial infrastructure
digtial skills and literacy
innovation and digital entrepreneurship
secure and ethical digtial environment
challenges: digitla divide, data privacy and security ,sustianble digital transformation, potential of increased monopolies, impact on traditional industries and jobs, regulaotry burden, esp onSMEs
key polices: DSA, DMA, AI Act
EU vs China: development investment
EU is struggling to ocunter China’s growing influence around the world
China is more agile
EU: complex beauracracy, environemtnatal and social conditions attached to fundinf
2013-2023: BRI invested 1tirllion EUR in 152 countries
! annual funding dropped after several borrowers defaulting on replayment began rising in 2020 –> BRI created dependicies on China
EU as alternative –> make countries resilient, self-relient, independent
What does it mean to be a geopolitical Commission
stronger Europe in the world
mutlilateralism and rules-based global order, strong, open and fair trade agenda, ensure highest standards of climate, environemnt and labour protection, wokring shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbouring countries and partners
coordinated appraoch to external action
more active role and stronger voice for EU in the world
What were the policy prioritse of VDL1?
Green Deal
Digital Transformation
–> digital innovation, AI centres, fair and competitivenss market, protection of citizen’s rights
Economic Recovery
Social Europe
–> promote fair wages, social inclusion, gender equality
European Democracy
–> rule of law, fundemental rights, democratic, resilient EU
What is the DSA
digital service act, proposed 2020
pioneer in digtial policy
aim: updating regulatory framework for digital services in EU, make transparent,
seeks to address whole range of issues –> online platforms, content moderation, user rights, responsibilites of digital service providers
make safer + more transparent digital environemnt
how t handle illegal content
protect user rights
transparencz and accoundability about content moderation + how algorithems function
What is the GDPR
General Data Protection Regulation
strengthen control of indivuals over personal data
companies require to obtain explicit consent for data processing
What is NextGenerationEU
economic temporary recovery plan: 750bn EUR
post-covid recovers
response to economic and social consequences
focus:
digitalisatoin
green transition
reskilling of workforce to ensure a more resilient and sustainable economy
What is the European Pillar of Social Rights
fund:
ensure a fiar and inlcusive labour market and social protection systems
skills
education systems fit for the futue
What is the EU Health Union
3 pillars
1. crisis preaprdness and response
2. pharmaceutical strategy
3. EUrope’s beating cancer plan
What is the European Pillar of Social rights
set of 20 principles and rights designed to guide the development of social and labour policies in the EU
goal: fair, socialm inclusive society with equal opportunities and acess to social protection
aims:
1. equal opportunites + access to labour market
2. fair working conditions
3. social portection and inclusion
Eu does not have competenvies to national social policy making
therefore not legally binding or in the Treaty
but a political declaration
circular economy and EU
EU circular Economy Action Plan launched in 2015, updated in 2020
away from linear economy model
focus: sustainable resource use, waste prevention, recycling, promote more ciruclar business models
sectors: plastics, constructions, electronics, food waste, textiles
What is Europe’s AI strategy
build first AI factories –> bild 1.5 bn EUR, combining national and EU funding
50% from EU Digital Europe programme for AI infrastrcutre, Horizion Europe for AIF services
–> new AI-optimised supercomputers
deployment 2025-26
goal: Ai-start ups to innovate and scale up
comibnr: compting power, data, talent
key sectors: health and life sciecne, manufacturing, climate and environment, automotive and autonomous systems, cybersecurity, agri-tech and agrifood, education, arts and culture, green economy, space
European Defense
1bn EUR bost in R&D
EDF 2021-27:7.3bn EUR
5th annual Work Programme for European Defence Fund (EDF)
What does the new Competitiveness Compass say
basis: Draghi report
3 pillars
1. closing innovation gap
–> new tech, start-up, AI –AI-Gigafactories, “Apply AI” initative –> dedicated EU start-ups and scale-up strategy
2. joint roadmap for decarbonisation and competitveness
–> upcoming Clean Industrial Deal –> with competitivness driven approach –> aim: EU attractive location for manufacturing and promote clean tech and circular economy business model; Affordable Energy Action PLan to bring down own energy prices and costs; industrial Decarbonisation accelerator Act will extent acellerated permitting to sectors in transition
3. reducing excessive dependencies and increasing security
–> diversify and strengthen European supply chains
–> new range of Clean Trade and Investment Partnerships to secure supply of CRM, clean energy, sustainable transport fuels and clean tech from across the world, review public procurement rules
5 enablers:
1. simplify regulatory and adminstrative processes
2. new single market strategy
3. European savings and investment union
4. union of skills w/ focus on investment, adult and life long learning, future-proof skills creation, skill retention
5. Competitiveness coordination tool to ensure implementation at EU and national levels and shared EU objectives
R&D private investments:
1. USA 42.3%
2. EU 18.7%
China 17.1%
What are the main aims of the EU
article 3, Lisbon Treaty
promote peace, its values, well-being of citizens
offer freedom, security, justice without internal bordres
extrenal poarders: regulate asylum and migration, combat crime
estbalish internal market
achieve SD
–> based on economic growth and price stability
–> hihgly competitive market economy with full employment and social progress
rptoect and imporve quality of environment
promote sicentific and technological progress
cobact social exclusion and discripimintation
promote social justice and protection, equality btw men and women, protection of the rights of children
enahnce ecnomic, soical, territorila cohesion and solidarity among EU countries
respect its rich culutre and linguistic diversity
establish economic and monetary union , with EU currency
what are the EU values, according to article 2 of the Lisbon Treaty and EU Charter of Fundamental Rights
Human Dignity
Freedom
Democracy
Equality
Rule of law
Human Rights
What are recent EU successes
Eu engagement in fragile contexts and countries –> address root causes of migration and fragility, support basic needs and livelihoods of populations
–> Pact on Migration and Asylum
support SDs –> strengthen mulilatral engagement with global instistutions –> UN, G7, G20, IFIs
Glboal Partnerships for Education 2021-27 –> 700 mil eur global health, education, equality
427mil EUR Pandemic Fund
300 mil Eur Vaccine Alliance (for poorest countries)
2023 Samoa Agreement –> African Caribbean, Pacific States
What is the Treaty of the European UNion?
55 Articles; TEU
1992 - Maastricht Treaty
External Action
Common Foreign Security Policy/Common Security and Defense Policy (CFSP/CSDP)
What is the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU)
2007: Lisbon Treaty
policies and legal instruments
EMU - Economic and Monetary Union, EU citizenship
legislative procedures (ordinary legislative procedure)
budget
institutions (detailed)
–> 358 articles
What is the Charter of Fundamental rights
legally binding
value of legally binding law
Why are the TEU, TFEU and the Fundamental Rights Charta so important?
they are not a real EU constitution but they are EU primary law
What is the Single European Act
2986: completion of the internal market
Who is allowed to introduce legislative proposals
only the EC (quasi monopoly)
How are decision made in the Council of the EU
qualified majority
What role does the European Parliament play in creation of laws
co-legislator or at least consulted
Who implements EU policies
EU Member States
Who ensures the correct application of the Treaties?
The European Commission and the Court of Justice ensure that the Treatie are respected and applied, as well as their interpretation
What is the final step of the decision making process
The College of Commissioners adopts a decision
What is the COREPER?
Committee of Permanent Representatives
What are the 8 key treaties in the history of the European Union?
1951/52 Treaty of Paris
1957/58 Treaties of Rome –> establishment of European Economic Community (EEC) and Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM)
–> economic growth
1965/67 The merger Treaty/Treaty of Brussels –> unified ECCSC, EEC, EURATOM
–> creation of Council of European Communities
1986/87 Singe European Market Act –> First revision of Treaties ofRome; estalishement of Single Market by 1992 –> can live, work, travel in the zone, free moments of goods and sercies –> 1992/93 complemtented by 4 freedoms: goods, services, people, capital –> 1995 establishment of Schengen Zone
1992/93 The Treaty of Maastricht/Treaty of the European UNion –> foundation treaty of the EU –> shared EU citizenship, common foreign and security policy, eventual introduction of single currency
1997/99 Treaty of Amsterdam –> absorbed Schengen Convetion into EU law; more power to EP; Common foreign and security plicy (CFSP)
2001/2003 Treaty of Nice –> amended Maastricht Treaty and Treaty of Rome; reformed institutional structure to withstand eastward extension
2007/09 Treaty of LIsbon –> move from unaminity to qualified majority voting in 45 policy areas in the Council of EU; more power to EP
When was the Schengen Zone established
1995
What was the European Coal and Steel Community?
founded 1951
France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands
–> trade together –> not able to create defense community or political community, even though tried
When did the several different MS join the EU?
1951: France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands
1968: Denmark, Ireland, UK
1981: Greece
1986: Spain, Portugal
1995: Austria, Finland, Sweden
2004: Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia
2007: Bulgaria, Romania
2013: Croatia
2020: Brexit
When was the Customs Union established
1968
When was the Euro introduced?
1999 agreement, start cash: 2002
What are current challenges of the EU
economic ciris –> COVID-19 recovery, high energy prices
terrorism
migration crisis
climate change
populism
disinformation
war on European ground
What does the qualified majority mean?
55% of MS in Council of EU
65% of EU population
What are the 8 EU bodies?
they have a specialised role in helping the EU to fulfil its tasks
European External Action Service (EEAS)
European Economic and Social Committee
European Committee of the Regions
European Investment Bank
European Ombudsman
European Data Protection Supervisor
European Data Protection Board
European Public Prosecutor’s Office
What are the 4 interinstitutional services of the EU?
EPOS; Publication Office; European School Administration; Computer Emergency Response Team
What are the four main EU institutions?
European Parliamnet
European Council –> 27 heads of state/government, president: 2.5 year; define general direction of the EU
Council of the EU –> represents governments of the EU –> national ministers meet to adopt laws, coordinate policies; configuration of meetings is topic-based; together with EP: decision on EU laws
European Commission –> executive body
What are the other European institutions
Court of Justice of the EU
European Central Bank
European Court of Auditors
How many de-centralised agencies does the EU have?
+30
How often do the European elections take place
every 5 years, new European Parliamnet and College of commissioners
How big is the population of the EU
448 million, 5.6% of world population
about 41 million citizens are foreign citizens
14% from other EU MS nationality than they reside in
Germany: largest EU populiation
France: largest EU country in terms of area
Malta: smallest EU MS (inhabitans + area)
39% of inhabitants live in cities
36% in suburbs, towns
25% in rural areas
What is the Schengen area?
since 1985: people can move without border checks
“free movement principle” –> work, travel, live in any EU country without specialised formalities
all MS, excpet for Cyprus, are part of Schengen
4 non-EU countries are also part of Schengen: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein
What are the so-called European years?
awareness campaign on specific issue to encourage debate and dialogue in and between EU countries –> inform and change attitudes
have been running since 1983: for more than 40 years
many European Years offer extra funding to local, national, cross-border projects, addressing the specific topic
some cases: EC proposes new legislation on the theme
2023-24: European Year of Skills –> right skills for quality jobs, address skill shortage
2022 - European Year of Youth –> learning and civic engagement opportunities, discover other cultures, improve employment prospects
2021- European Year of Rail –> promote rail as sustainable, innovative and safe mode of transport –> benefits for people, economy, climate
2018 - European Year of Cultural Heritage –> protection and guarantee its sustainability for the future
2015 - European Year of Development –> EU development cooperation, getting involved
2013-14: European Year of Citizens –> citizen’s dialogues, get public involved to build a stronger and more political Europe
2012 - European Year of Active Aging
2011 - European Year of Volunteering
2010: European Year of Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion
How do the Council Presidencies work?
trios: 18 months, 3 grouped presidencies, started in 2007
2016-17: Netherlands, Slovakia, Malta
2017-18: Estonia, Bulgaria, Austria
2019-20: Romania, Finland, Croatia
2020-21: Germany, Portugal, Slovenia
2022-23: France, Czech Republic, Sweden
2023-24: Spain, Belgium, Hungary
2025-26: Poland, Denmark, Cyprus
2026-27: Ireland, Lithuania, Greece
What were the priorities of the trio Council Presidency 2020-21?
Germany, Portugal, Slovenia
1. fair and social Europe while promoting Europe’s values and interests around the world
2. transparent and European-wide digital transformation; protect against disinformation
3. comprehensive, permanent, crisis proof solutions for migration
4. strengthening industrial competitiveness; ensure stable investment environment for SMEs
5. innovative, sustainable and smar economic transformation; strengthen competitiveness
6. promote European values on international level
What were the priorities of the trio Council Presidency 20222-23?
France, Czech Republic, Sweden
1. Protecting citizens and freedoms –> respect and protection of EU’s common values: democracy, rule of law, fundamental rigths; Migration, Schengen, police and judicial cooperation; Crisis management and civil protection
2. Developing our economic base: the European Model for the Future –> ensuring an effective recovery for green and sustainable growth; strengthening the single market and developing an assertive, comprehensive and coordinated industrial policy to foster growth and innovation; accompanying the digital transformation and reaping its full benefits; deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union, and financial serivices, company law and corporate governance issues; increasing EU autonomy and competitiveness in the space sector; supporting research, education and our youth; supporting the development of regions,; strengthening consumer protection; bringing culture to the fore; strengthen and promote tourism in the EU
3. Building a climate-neutral, green, fair and social Europe
–> building a climate-neutral and green Europe; building a fair and social Europe; building a Europe that protects health;
4. Promoting Europe’s interests and values in the world –> defending and promoting multilatrealism and responding to major challenges and international crises; Trade; Relations with partners: the EU’s neighbourhood, Africa, Americas, Asia-Pacific; Connectivity; development and humanitarian aid; security and defense;
What were the priorities of the trio Council Presidency 20223-24?
Spain, Belgium, Hungary
1. reinforcing the EU’s global competitiveness by strengthening its industrial base in line with the accelerated twin green and digital transitions and making use of innovation;
2. ensuring the twin transitions are fair, just and inclusive by enhancing the social dimension of Europe, including by addressing the demographic challenge the EU is facing;
3. strengthening international partnerships, multilateral cooperation, and security in all its dimensions, as well as building up an ambitious and balanced trade policy, whilst at the same time defending EU interests more assertively, based on our values, and strengthening the EU’s capability to act in the field of security and defence.
he Digital Services Act. The trio will work to strengthen the rights and protection of consumers, encouraging changes in consumption habits towards patterns that are more sustainable for the planet. The trio will undertake a reflection process on the future of a sectoral EU framework for e-commerce that complements the recent Digital Services Act.
Research and Innovation. The trio will prioritise EU research and innovation cooperation with a view to addressing key challenges for the EU with the help of research and innovation.
Digital Inclusiveness. The trio will take work forward on the digital transformation while making sure to leave no one behind (digital inclusiveness) and ensuring the trustworthiness of and a human rights-based approach to artificial intelligence and new technologies.
Connectivity. The trio will take work forward on a digital euro and access to financial data, and make progress on delivering on the 2030 Digital Decade targets, including fostering gigabit connectivity and the implementation of 5G and 6G.
Lifelong learning, Re-skilling and Up-skilling. The trio will make provision for strengthening lifelong learning opportunities, making education and training – including digital education and training – inclusive and accessible to all. Particular attention will be paid to re-skilling and up-skilling opportunities for European citizens to prepare them to cope with future transformations in society, the economy and the labour market. The trio will continue to further develop digital education and training.
Fair Labour Mobility in the EU. Special attention will be paid to exploring ways to address the demographic challenge the EU is facing. The trio will focus on strengthening fair labour mobility in the Union, access to social protection and to the protection of workers, and on ensuring health and safety, inclusiveness and non-discrimination at work.
Inclusion, Mental Health at Work. The trio will pay particular attention to stress and burn-out at work, in line with the new Commission initiative on mental health. The trio will support inclusion, in particular by facilitating the integration of those categories that are most vulnerable or at risk of exclusion.
What were the priorities of the trio Council Presidency 2025-26?
- strong and secure Europe –> coherent and influential external action, strategic action on security and defence, comprehensive appraoch to migration and border protection, well-prepared enlargement and internal reforms
2.prosperous and competitve Europe –> an integrated approach to competitiveness, succeedin in the green and digital twin transition, promoting an innovation and business friendly environment, advancing together - free and democratic Europe –> upholding European Values within the EU, rule of law, HR
What does the concept of conferral mean?
The EU may only act within the competences conferred upon it by the MS in the Treaties –> the EU does not have full competencies; Treaties: TEU, TFEU
What does the subsidiarity principle mean?
EU may only act if the objective cannot be reached sufficiently at a nantional (or subnational) level
–> applies to shared competences and supporting competences
What the proportionality principle mean?
EU action is only allowed as much as is needed to achieve the objective, not more
this applies to all actions!
What are exclusive competences of the EU ?
Customs Union
Competitions Rule of the Internal Market
Montery Policy of the Eurozone
Marine Bilogical Resources under the Common Fisheries Policy
Common Commerical Policy
Conclusion of INternational Agreement
What are the shared competences of the EU and its MS?
Internal Market
Social Policy
Economic, Social and Territorial Cohesion
Agriculture and Fisheries
Environment
Consumer Protection
Transport
Trans-European Networks
Energy
Area of Freedom, Security and Justice
Public Health
What are Ares in which the EU can intervene to support, coordinate or supplement the actions of member countries but cannot harmonise national law?
Industry
Culture
Tourism
Education, Youth, Sport and Vocational Training
Civil Protection (disaster protection)
Administrative Cooperation
Where are the rules for exclusive competences of the EU layed out?
Art. 3 TFEU; Union has exclusive competences to adopt legally binding acts
What are the rules for shared competences of the EU with MS?
Art. 4TFEU; MS can only act if EU has not done so already
What are therules for supporting competences of the EU to MS?
Art. 5+6 of TFEU; exclusive competences of the MS; EU can carry support and supplementary role
How is the EU contributiong to the Greening of its cooperation, esp. in its external action
TFEU Art. 11: “environmental protection requirements must be integrated into the definition and implementation of the EU’s policies and activites,” esepcially when promoting sustainable development
2017: European Consensus on Development: highlights need to incorporate green solutions in development
different varibales that need to remain within certain boundries: biodiversity, freshwater, biogeochemical flows, land-use, climate
population, esp. middle class, grows –> rising (product) needs; increased pressure on natural resources
What are the key points of the European Green Deal
ambitous, timely, comprehensive and cross-cutting growth strategy
key ambition: climate neutrality by 2050, leaving no one behind
Goals:
climate pact and climate law
investing in smarter, more sustainable transport
striving for greener industry
eliminating pollution
ensuring a just transition for all
financing green projects
making homes energy efficient
leading green change globally
from farm to fork
protecting nature
promote clean energy
! Green deal is not only climate policy, but also economic policy!
impacts sectors such as energy, agriuclture, health, education, etc.
VDL: “Green Deal is our new growth strategy”
EU programmes:
Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+)
Switch to Green
Biodiversity for Life (B4Life)
EU FLEG + Geographical programmes
–> adress global and regional climate change issues
areas tackles:
agriculture and food secuirty
private sector development
water and sanitation
energy
fit for 55: by 2030: reduce emisisons by 55%
2021-2027: dedicate at least 25% of budget to climate-related action
mobilising tools:
regulations and standards
policies
investment
taxation
research
diplomacy
exapmles of policies:
Farm to Fork
Biodiversity Strategy 2030
Circular Economy Action Plan
Towards a comprehensive strategy with Africa
European Cliamte Law (2050 climate-neutrality)
What is the international Climate POlicy Framework?
3 pillars:
1. UNFCCC (1994) - UN Framework Convention on Climate change
2. Koyoto Protocol (1997)
3. Paris Agreement - biggest multialteral cliamte agreement
–> 3 key objecitves:
1. Mitigation targets
2. adaptation goal
3. Finance
–> important: there are no binding targets; global objective is mendatory but the means to do so are left up to the countries
4 main topics:
1. mitigation —> reduce greenhouse gas emmsions
2. adaptation goals –> 5 year progress cycles
3. support –> financial, technology transfer, capacity building
4. transparency and compliance –> reporting (SIDS; LDCS are given more flexibility as less capacity to develop and report)
COP = Conferences of PArites = governing body of UNFCCC
CMP= Conference of Parties that signed Koyoto Protocol
NDCs = Nationally-Determined Contributions
What is the G7
France, Germany, Italy, UK, USA, Canada, Japan –> 7 largest developed economices –> dominate global trade and international financial systems
Russia joined in 1998 but excluded in 2914
the EU attends the annual summits
emerged in 1970s (first 1975) –> informal gathering of finance ministers of USA, France, West-Germany, UK
–> energy crisis: to better coordinate Japan, Canada and Italy were brought in
influece of G7 gets weakened as other countries develop further and power relations change
focus: global economic, political and social issues, coordinating policies
rotating presidency among members
G7 presidency 2025: Canada –> common priorities, such as building economies that benefit everyone, fighting climate change and managing rapidly evolving technologies; support projects that research how artificial intelligence can be used without breaching human rights and democratic values, and said last week he will champion “peace and freedom for Ukraine.
What is the G20
Germany, Italy, France, EU (EC + ECB), UK, USA, Canda, Russia, Brazil, India, Japan, South Korea, China, Indonesia, South Africa, Turkey, Australia, Argentina, Mexico, Suadia Arabia
Spain is a permanent guest
G20 is a strategic multilateral platform connecting the world’s major developed and emerging economies –> goal: secure future global growth and prosperity
represent: >80% of world GDP; >75% of international trade; >60% of world population
informal governance clubs
annual summits of heads of state to discuss topics of global importance
has guest countries
interantional and regional organisations join e.g. UN, African UNion, WOrld BAnk, ASEAN (Association of Sotuh East and Asian countries)
rotating presidency among members –> troika rotation –> in 3 (past-current-future)
no permenant Secretariat
agenda and work coordination completed by G20 leaders representation = SHERPA
+ finance ministers
+ cetnral bank governors
topics:
global and economic financial stability, SD, international cooperation on issues: climate change, energy, trade
sustainability of sovereign debt
global financial stability
global ecnomic growth and international trade
regulation of financial markets
–> G20 role changed from economic crisis manager to facilitator for structural change on global and domestic level
2025 presidency: South Africa
Theme: Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability
priorities:
1. take action to ensure debt sustainability for low-income countries
2. take action to strengthen disaster resilience and response
3. mobilise finance for a just energy transition
4. work together to harness cirtical minierals for inclusive gorwth and sustainable development
3 task forces:
1. inclusive economic growth, industrialisation, employment and reduced inequality
2. food secuirty
3. AI, data governance, innovation for sustainable development
What is the UN
founded 1945 –> China, France, SU, UK, USA –> 50 more joined that year
wolrd’s largest intergovernmental organisation
now: 193 sovereign states
What is the African Union
formed in 1963, continential union, 55 mebmers
replaced OAU
AU’s secretariat in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)
What is the World Bank
international financial institutions –> provides loans and grants to governments of low and middle income countries for purpose of pursuing capital projects
establisehd 1944 –> Bretton Woods Conference
189 member countries
What is ASEAN
Association of South East Asian Nations
established 1967 –> reaction to Vietnam war against China and SU
seat: Jakarta (Indonesia)
original goal: economic, political and social cooperation
now: more economic zone –> EU as model
What is the Samoa Agreement
overarching framework for EU relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific COuntries
new legal framework for EU relations with 79 countries –> 48 African, 16 Caribbean, 15 Pacific –> ACAP countries
cover 2 bn people
6 priority areas:
1. democracy and governance, HR
2. peace and security
3. human and social development
4. inclsuive, sustainable economic growth and development
5. environmental sustainability and climate change
5. migration and mobility
includes: common foundation at ACP level combined with 3 regional protocols
replaces Cotonou agreement (2000-2020)
main goal: eradication of poverty, integrate ACP countries into world economy
What are the main takeaways from the 2023 State of the UNion Speech by VDL
14 Sept 2023
1. addressing the energy crisis –> caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, inclduing REPowerEU plan –> reduce dependencies on Russian fossil fuels, diversify energy supplies, accelerate transition to renewable energy
2. strengthening European defense –> need more robust European defense –> creation of a European Defence UNion –> joint investments in defense capabilities, increased cooperation, common defense and industry strategy
3. promoting digital sovereignty and technical innovation –> Chips Act to boost semi-conductor production; Data Act to ensure better access to and control over data
4. fighting climate change –> committment to Green Deal –> reduce emissions, invest in renewable energy, promote sustainable agriculture and sustainable transport; need for Just Transition Fund to support workers and regions affected by the transition
5. strengthening social Europe –> new European Care Strategy to support carers and improve access to care services; Child Guarantee to ensure access to essentail services for children in need
6. building a stronger Europe in the world –> commitment to multialteralism, peace, democracy; plans for new European Peace Facility to support conflict prevention and peacebuilding efforts; stronger partnerships with Africa
7. promote European democracy –> stronger and more transparent democracy
focus: transparency, accountability and citizen egnagement
proposed Conference on the Future of Europe
–> involve citizens in shaping the EU’s priorities and policies
What are the 5 key Challenges of the EU in the next 5 years
- Economic Recovery –> post-Covid-19 –> unemployment, struggling businesses; ensure sustainable growth
- Climate change and environmental stustainability –> transition to low-carbon economy; investment in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, green technology
- digital transformation –> data privacy, rapid digital innovation, cyber security, digital infrastrucutre, regulation of AI and emerging technologies
- migration and asylum –> managing migrant flows and addressing the humanitarian and political implications; context: geopolitical instability
- demographic shifts and aging population –> aging populiation, declining brith rates, challenges for healthcare system, pensions, labour force participation, social welfare systems
- geopolitical relations –> navigating relationships with major global powers, including USA, China, Russia, while addressing regional security concersn, conflicts, instability in neighbouring rgions such as Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe
- Social Cohesion and Inequality –> address social inequalities, promote social inclusion, ensure equal opportunities for all, address disparities btw MS
- governance and institutional reform
–> address issues related to democratic governance, rule of law, transparency, effectivenss of EU institutions –> continue to evolve and adapt to changing geopolitical and internal dynamics
–> require coordination efforts, policy innovation, strategic decision-making at EU and MS level to ensure prosperity, stability, resilience of the EU
What are the different stages of the EU policy cycle?
- Agenda Setting
identifiying and prioritising issues that require EU intervention –> may involve various stakeholders –> MS, EU institutions, CSOs, experts - Policy Formulation
EU, esp. EC; develop policy proposals based on research, consultation, impact assessments; may involve drafting legisaltive proposals, guidelines, other policy instruments - Decision-Making
negotiation and decision-making on policy proposals among EU institutions –> EP and Council of EU –> involves amendments, compromises, votes to finalise policy - implementation
policy is implemented by MS + relevant stakeholders; involves allocation of resources, setting up administrative structures, monitoring progress - evaluation
evaluates policies to assess their impact, effectiveness, efficiency; collecting data, conducting studies, soliciting feedback from stakeholders - Revision
based on evaluation, EU may decide to amend, revise, repeal existing policies to address shortcomings/changing circumstances
–> throughout policy cyle: EU seeks to ensure transparency, accountability, stakeholder participation –> involves public consultations, impact assessments, regular reporting on progress of policy implementation
–> policy cycle is designed to be interactive and adaptive
–> allowing continuous improvement and adjustment of policies as needed
What are the roles of the different EU institutions in the policy cycle?
EC: initiating and developing policy proposals, conducting impact assessments, drafting legislative acts; oversees implementation of EU policies and monitors their effectiveness
EP: directly elected by EU citizens and is involved in decision-making stage of the policy cycle; reviews, amends and votes on legislative proposals, in collaboration with Council of the EU
Council of the EU: represents member states and shares legisaltive and budgetary autohrity with the EP; negotiates and adopts legisaltive proposals with the EP
European COunci: provides strategic guidance and sets overall political direction of the EU; no formal legislative role
sets agenda for EU priorities, addresses major issues that require collective action by MS
EEAS: implemtns EU’s foreign and security policy; coordinates EU’s external actions
Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU)
ensures consistent interpretation and application of EU law; authority to review the legality of EU actions and setlle disputes btw EU institutions and MS
