This EPRS publication seeks to put into context, and offer insights on, 10 key issues and policy areas on the European Union's political agenda in 2026.

Cyprus assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 January 2026 and will be in office until 30 June 2026.

The EU and China account for nearly 30 % of global trade. The EU has defined China as a ‘partner, competitor, and systemic rival.’ ...

This briefing is part of an EPRS series on national parliaments and EU affairs. It offers an overview of the way the EU Member States' national parliaments are structured and how they process, ...

The Cybersecurity Act (CSA) came into force in 2019 as part of the EU's efforts to build strong cybersecurity.

Across the EU, the definition of a start-up varies. However, characteristics frequently mentioned across a number of sources describe start-ups as new, innovative, technology-driven companies that ...

The EU Recovery Instrument, Next Generation EU (NGEU), was specifically created to help Member States address challenges created by the pandemic.

Extreme heat, flooding and drought are no longer distant warnings of climate change. They are becoming part of everyday life. Across Europe, measures to cut emissions, from electric vehicles to ...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we look for information online. Search engines increasingly offer AI-generated answers that keep users on their platforms instead of redirecting them ...

On 18 December 2025, International Migrants Day was marked, honouring the contribution and value of migrants. This commemoration follows a year of notable reforms. For example, in November 2025, the ...