The EU/European Union describes a economical and political union of 28 States. With an estimated population of around 510 million the European Union policies aim to allow the free movement of people, goods and services. Within the internal market it aims to maintain common policies on agriculture, trade and more.
Members
The EU and European citizenship were established in 1933. With the inner original 6 being Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. Although no member state has ever left, in 2016 the UK announced its intention to leave and has begun negotiating their departure for 2019.
More foreign aid is provided by the EU than any other economic union. Due to its Global influence and reach the Union has been described as an emerging superpower.
This overview by Open Access Government examines the priorities of three departments within the European Commission. It covers topics such as tech sovereignty, security and democracy, social rights and skills, quality jobs and preparedness, as well as the cohesion and reforms portfolios.
Nicoló Giacomuzzi-Moore, Executive Director ad interim at CBE JU – Circular Bio‐based Europe Joint Undertaking, explains how European bio-based industries are leading the green transition.
Mattie Yeta – Chief Sustainability Officer, CGI, UK & Australia, provides a detailed & think tank view of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.
Ioannis Vardakastanis, Member of the European Economic and Social Committee, argues that the EU and Member States must do more to tackle energy poverty and protect vulnerable consumers.
The UK government has decided to extend the financial support provided to Horizon Europe applicants, continuing funding to researchers, businesses and innovators.
Research, knowledge & education in Norway are placed into the spotlight by Open Access Government, areas that are led politically by Ola Borten Moe, Minister of Research and Higher Education.
Nikolina Angelkova, former Tourism Minister for Bulgaria, speaks with Open Access Government about Bulgaria and Southeastern Europe's uncapped tourism potential.
Experts warn that the EU agriculture sector is stuck in "permanent pesticide-dependence," and that major flaws exist in the current attempts to reduce the use of pesticides across the EU.
European cities are moving towards becoming fully circular – not only recycling all their waste but also changing their production modes to fit circular waste models.
Mateusz Szymański, Member of the European Economic and Social Committee, sheds light on sustainable and inclusive urban mobility, including a call for the better use of inland waterway transport.
The Nature Restoration Law aims to restore damaged ecosystems and bring nature back across Europe, as well as reduce the use and risk of chemical pesticides by 50% by 2030.
