In a final, 16-hour trilogue negotiation, the Belgian Council Presidency and the negotiators from the EU Parliament reached an agreement on the reform of EU debt rules. Although the outcome largely aligns with the Council's position, it is intended to create minor additional leeways for investments.
By Marc Winkelmann
The strong centrifugal forces within the German government are also being felt at the EU level. FDP ministers are causing turbulence in the Council with sudden maneuvers – and facing harsh criticism for it.
By Till Hoppe
New agreements between the EU and Canada aim to clarify that investment protection claims cannot hinder legitimate regulatory projects. Additionally, access to investment protection for SMEs is to be facilitated by reducing legal costs.
By Marc Winkelmann
With a new industry alliance, the EU Commission aims to make modular nuclear power plants (SMRs) deployable by the early 2030s. While small modular reactors offer some theoretical advantages, there are still several questions to be addressed.
By Manuel Berkel
After the electoral victory in November, Geert Wilders is struggling to rally partners for a right-wing coalition. A minority government with the right-wing populist at the helm may now be the outcome. Fresh elections don't seem to be an option at the moment.
By Stephan Israel
Environmental Action Germany (DUH) offered to conduct a lobbying campaign promoting fossil gas as a fuel in cars in exchange for a payment of €2.1 million. The campaign was supposed to last for three years and be funded by an association supported by gas companies.
By Markus Grabitz
As the trilogue negotiations on the reform of European fiscal rules continue, the Belgian Council presidency staunchly defends the position of the EU Council. Irene Tinagli, Chair of the Economic Affairs Committee of the EU Parliament, now threatens to delay the negotiations, which could push the reform into the next legislative term.
By Marc Winkelmann
Commission President von der Leyen has withdrawn the proposal to reduce pesticide use. This shows that the political consensus prevalent in the energy and climate sectors of the Green Deal has been shattered in agricultural matters. Their future now depends on the next EU Commission.
By Claire Stam
As the latest concession to farmers, the EU Commission is withdrawing its controversial proposal for pesticide reduction (SUR). The project was already at a standstill, but the retreat carries significant symbolic weight and paves the way for a new proposal after the elections.
By Julia Dahm
The Council and Parliament have reached an agreement on amendments to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. Today, Parliament will vote on it. Additionally, the Commission is investigating whether further revisions are necessary.
By Leonie Düngefeld
