Explainers

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 Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming and fight climate change. All EU countries have ratified the agreement.

EU countries are working to fight climate change and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

Healthy forests are vital for people and the environment. EU rules aim to reduce global deforestation by regulating the import and export of goods, the production of which contributes to the loss of forests worldwide. 

Forests offer a wide range of benefits for human health and the environment, but are under increasing strain. Several EU initiatives and laws support forests, both within the European Union and worldwide.

The EU and the UN are committed to upholding the multilateral system that governs global relations in a way that benefits all. The EU and its member states together are the largest financial contributor to the UN system.

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

The EU and its member states are working together to develop a better connected, safe and sustainable railway network.

The EU's industrial policy aims to strengthen the competitiveness of EU industry and to promote a more sustainable, resilient and digitalised economy that creates jobs.

The EU helps countries prepare for and respond to disasters through the EU civil protection mechanism. It coordinates assistance for emergencies such as wildfires, floods, epidemics, earthquakes and human-induced disasters, in Europe and beyond.