Explainers

The EU is concerned about the situation in Venezuela and calls for full respect for human rights. It is providing humanitarian aid to help Venezuelans in need and has adopted sanctions to encourage democratic solutions.

The EU and its member states work together in a comprehensive and evidence-based way to reduce drug demand and related harm, protect public health and tackle drug trafficking and drug-related organised crime.

The EU's AI act is the world's first law on artificial intelligence. It aims to ensure AI systems are safe, ethical and trustworthy.

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.

Horizon Europe is the EU's leading initiative for research and development. It fuels EU's scientific and technological excellence, boosts competitiveness and creates jobs.

The EU wants to strengthen its energy infrastructure and cross-border interconnections to increase competitiveness and achieve its climate goals.

The EU and the US have the biggest bilateral trade and investment relationship in the world. In 2024, transatlantic trade in goods and services reached over €1.68 trillion

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.

EU legislation sets minimum standards for health and safety at work, and protects workers against exposure to dangerous substances, such as asbestos.