Portugal's Costa is considered the favorite for the office of EU Council President. However, investigations by the public prosecutor's office, which led to his resignation as head of government at the end of November, could stand in his way – even if they are increasingly proving to be the result of speculation.
By Isabel Cuesta Camacho
At the EU summit in Brussels, the heads of state and government discussed possible new sanctions against Iran and the dramatic situation in Ukraine. Ukraine is to receive additional air defense systems quickly.
By Stephan Israel
The Council and Parliament have reached a political agreement on the Single Market Emergency Instrument (SMEI). In times of crisis, border closures should be avoided as much as possible. Member states have 18 months to implement the rules.
By Markus Grabitz
The Belgian Council Presidency has failed in its attempt to negotiate an agreement on Regulation 883 on social policy. This also concerns proof of social insurance for employees working abroad in the EU (A1 certificate). The European Parliament does not want to negotiate on partial aspects, but only on the entire dossier.
By Markus Grabitz
In two reports, the European Parliament has massively criticized Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and the way the EU Commission and the Council deal with Hungary. The Parliament is examining whether it will refer the release of €10.2 billion to the ECJ.
By Markus Grabitz
Political compromises on 102 open legislative procedures should be negotiated by February 9. Otherwise, adoption in the European Parliament before the elections is no longer possible. An emergency procedure is now to ensure that the co-legislators have time until March 14 in individual cases.
By Markus Grabitz
The poker game for the top jobs that will be distributed after the European elections in June has already begun. Who will do what? This is what the personnel packages that are on the table with the heads of state and government and in the European Parliament are all about.
By Markus Grabitz
Germany is massively underrepresented in the EU institutions. The EU's largest country accounts for 18.6 percent of the EU population. In the Commission, the Parliament and the Council, however, Germany consistently accounts for less than ten percent of civil servants, temporary and contract staff.
By Markus Grabitz
The European Council unanimously decides to open accession negotiations with Ukraine. The decision was possible because Hungary's head of government Viktor Orbán briefly left the room. The procedure was agreed.
By Eric Bonse
Rarely is so much at stake and rarely is the starting position as open as it is today ahead of the arrival of the heads of state and government in Brussels. Difficult talks are expected on Ukraine's accession to the EU and the increase in the medium-term financial framework.
By Stephan Israel
