Explainers

At the March 2026 European Council, EU leaders agreed on an agenda of concrete measures with ambitious deadlines to strengthen the EU's competitiveness, resilience and strategic autonomy. 

The EU has set rules to guarantee the protection of posted workers while also preserving the freedom to provide cross-border services.

The EU is reforming its customs union to make procedures more efficient, strengthen security measures and improve risk management across member states.

To strengthen the EU's long-term competitiveness, simpler rules are key. The EU is on track to simplify legislation in several areas, while also protecting its economic, social and environmental goals.

The competitiveness compass provides a plan to allow Europe to regain its economic growth and prosperity.

The package proposes measures to better connect companies and investors, improve funding and investment opportunities for retail investors, and further integrate capital markets.

The EU has established rules to limit costs for consumers when calling and sending text messages to and from other EU countries, and when using data and accessing online content throughout the EU.

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.

Organic farming produces food by means of natural methods that have a limited environmental impact. The EU wants 25% of its farmland to be organic by 2030 and has clear rules to support that goal.

Coordination amongst EU countries ensures that EU citizens can transfer their social security rights when moving and working within Europe.