EU Sets Course for 2026

In a significant collaborative effort, the European Union’s three key institutions have agreed on legislative priorities for the year 2026. A Joint Declaration was signed today by the Presidents of the European Parliament, the Council, and the Commission, outlining a strategic focus aimed at enhancing the EU’s resilience, competitiveness, and security.

The declaration was endorsed on the fringes of the European Council meeting by Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, Mette Frederiksen, the Danish Prime Minister representing the Council of the EU, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. This agreement sets a clear agenda to tackle the speed and complexity of current challenges facing the Union through unity, urgency, and ambition.

Central to the Joint Declaration are ten legislative priorities, which include boosting the EU’s competitiveness, safeguarding citizens and businesses, and pursuing ambitious simplification goals. Additionally, a key focus will be on reaching an agreement on the next Multiannual Financial Framework. The priorities will be closely monitored throughout the year to ensure timely progress and to address any potential delays.

Roberta Metsola emphasized the unity in direction, stating, “Europe moves when we all pull in the same direction. This Joint Declaration for 2026 is more than just words on a paper – it is a sign of unity and our firm conviction to deliver on people’s expectations.” Ursula von der Leyen added, focusing on achieving a new era of European security and a competitive, fairer Europe.

The Joint Declaration is set to be published in the EU’s Official Journal soon, with both legislative bodies committed to the effective and timely implementation of the agreed priorities. This agreement aligns with the objectives set by the Interinstitutional Agreement on better law-making from 2016, which facilitates efficient collaboration on significant legislative proposals.