Latest documents

Summary : On 16 December 2025, the European Commission published the automotive omnibus as part of a broader automotive package aimed at supporting the sector in the transition to clean mobility. The automotive omnibus is the ninth set of simplification measures (also known as 'omnibus packages') that have been published by the Commission since 2025. Its purpose is to simplify the rules governing the EU automotive industry and improve coherence and consistency between different regulatory requirements. The two legislative proposals included in the package would amend the EU rules concerning tachograph obligations for electric light commercial vehicles (electric vans) and motor caravans, as well as those applying to speed limitation devices for electric vans. Additionally, the package would introduce a definition of a small electric car in motor vehicle legislation and authorise the Commission to adopt delegated acts to lay down the technical requirements for vehicle interoperability with charging infrastructure and grid. Furthermore, the proposals would simplify the rules for EU type-approval of new motor vehicles in terms of their sound level; remove some low- temperature laboratory tests from the Euro 7 Regulation; simplify Euro 7 rules for heavy-duty vehicles; and empower the Commission to adopt implementing acts on car data management.

Authors : RAGONNAUD Guillaume

Summary : The First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels (TAFF) is intended to mark a fresh start by providing a “safe harbour” for state and non-governmental actors that aim to advance the transition at the national and international level. Co-hosted by the governments of Colombia and the Netherlands, the conference aims to form a "coalition of the willing", establish a science-led coordination process, and produce a consolidated report on concrete transition solutions. International cooperation initiatives that do not require the agreement of all parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Paris Agreement are increasingly important for implementation. With this conference being the first of its kind, the briefing for the ENVI mission to the conference outlines the conference's methodology as well as central dynamics and processes: enablers and barriers, TAFF in the UNFCCC context, parallel initiatives, as well as EU actions in the field.

External author : Juliane Schell, Max Schulze-Steinen, Wolfgang Obergassel. Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy

Summary : This briefing provides a comparative analysis of anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks in five major financial jurisdictions: the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan and Singapore. Although these jurisdictions broadly follow international standards developed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), their institutional architectures and supervisory approaches differ significantly. The analysis examines several key dimensions of AML governance framework, including the legal foundations of AML obligations, supervisory structures, beneficial ownership transparency, the scope of obliged entities, the regulation of crypto-assets, and enforcement mechanisms. Particular attention is given to how different institutional designs influence the credibility and effectiveness of AML supervision.

Authors : IGLESIAS ESCUDERO Santiago

Summary : The study examines the feasibility of an optional 28th EU tax regime to support competitiveness. It proposes a framework parallel to those of the 27 EU Member States to reduce cross-border tax complexity and legal uncertainty while preserving subsidiarity, fiscal sovereignty, and safeguards against abuse. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economy and Growth at the request of the Subcommittee on Tax Matters (FISC).

Authors : GRZELCZYK MATEUSZ

External author : Filip DEBELVA, Joris LUTS, Anne Mieke VANDEKERKHOVE, Niels BAMMENS

Summary : The study examines the feasibility of an optional 28th EU tax regime to support competitiveness. It proposes a framework parallel to those of the 27 EU Member States to reduce cross-border tax complexity and legal uncertainty while preserving subsidiarity, fiscal sovereignty, and safeguards against abuse. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economy and Growth at the request of the Subcommittee on Tax Matters (FISC).

Authors : GRZELCZYK MATEUSZ

External author : Filip DEBELVA, Joris LUTS, Anne Mieke VANDEKERKHOVE, Niels BAMMENS

Summary : This study explores how patient-centredness is understood and applied in research and innovation (R&I) across the European Union. Drawing on case studies from Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium, and insights from a range of stakeholders, it aims to inform future policy and practice. While patient-centredness is gaining prominence at the EU level, its implementation remains variable across Member States and funding instruments. Overall, the findings highlight both the recognised value of patient involvement in enhancing research relevance and the need for more coherent structures, definitions, and approaches to support its consistent uptake. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on Public Health (SANT).

External author : Cosima LENZ, Petra VARKONYI, and Marta DELL’AQUILA

Summary : This study provides information on farm businesses of young farmers in Finland, Spain, Luxembourg and Poland. It examines EU and national measures supporting generational renewal under the CAP 2023-2027, alongside structural trends in the farming sector in the four Member States. The analysis highlights the role of integrated policy mixes and complementary national policies targeting financial liquidity, access to land and retirement.

External author : Arndt MÜNCH, Manon BADOUIX (ÖIR GmbH)

Summary : This study provides information on farm businesses of young farmers in Finland, Spain, Luxembourg and Poland. It examines EU and national measures supporting generational renewal under the CAP 2023-2027, alongside structural trends in the farming sector in the four Member States. The analysis highlights the role of integrated policy mixes and complementary national policies targeting financial liquidity, access to land and retirement.

External author : Arndt MÜNCH, Manon BADOUIX, ÖIR GmbH

Summary : In July 2023, the European Commission tabled a package of three proposals for the greening of freight transport. Among them is a proposal for a single methodology for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport services, referred to as CountEmissionsEU. The initiative covers both freight and passenger transport. It seeks to ensure that GHG emissions data provided regarding transport services are reliable and accurate, to allow fair comparison between transport services. It establishes a methodological framework but does not govern where it has to be used. Nonetheless, if an organisation decides to calculate and disclose information on GHG emissions from transport services it needs to use the methodology provided. To avoid extra red tape for small and medium-sized enterprises, the proposal exempts these companies from mandatory verification of adherence to the rules. In the European Parliament, the file has been dealt with through the joint committee procedure, involving the Committees on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) and on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI). The committees adopted their joint report on 4 March 2024. Parliament voted on its first-reading position during its April I plenary session. Parliament's TRAN and ENVI committees voted to enter into trilogue negotiations with the Council on 4 December 2024. On 5 November 2025, Parliament and the Council reached a preliminary agreement. After the TRAN and ENVI committees endorsed the provisional agreement on 4 December, the Council formally adopted its first-reading position on 26 February 2026. The vote in plenary, following the recommendation of the joint committee, is scheduled for the April 2026 session. Fifth edition of a briefing, the previous editions of which were drafted by Jaan Soone. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

Authors : KISS Monika

Summary : Commissioner Dombrovskis has been invited to an Economic Dialogue, following the 15 December 2025 Economic Dialogue on the launch of the 2026 European Semester Cycle, which covered the key elements of the Commission’s package, including the Macroeconomic Imbalances Procedure, the Joint Employment Report, the Euro Area policy recommendations and ongoing efforts to strengthen the EU’s global competitiveness. This briefing first takes stock of the latest economic developments, including the impact of the conflict in the Middle East, notably through higher energy prices and their implications for the EU economy. It then provides an update on recent developments on EU fiscal surveillance, focusing on the state of play and implementation of the medium-term fiscal-structural plans (MTFSPs), draft budgetary plans for 2026, and the broader implementation of the revised economic governance framework. Finally, it covers latest developments related to the simplification package, forthcoming changes to the methodology of Country-Specific Recommendations (CSRs), and key findings from the Debt Sustainability Monitor.

Authors : SABOL MAJA, STIEBER Harald, MEHMEDI MENTOR, RUANO REMIREZ SOFIA

Summary : This briefing provides a summary overview on the public health system and pharmaceutical industry in Poland. Poland combines a comparatively large pharmaceutical market with a health system that remains relatively underfunded by EU standards. Poland has a meaningful domestic manufacturing base, especially in generics and over the counter (OTC) products, but it is still highly dependent on imported active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and many finished medicines. This makes “critical medicines” both a health-policy and an industrial-policy issue. The main health-system challenges are workforce shortages, long waiting times, relatively high out-of-pocket spending on medicines, uneven access between urban and rural areas, hospital fragmentation and debt, and weak development of long-term care and prevention. From an economic angle, health policy in Poland faces the challenge of ensuring the right balance between cost containment, access to medicines, and security of supply.

Authors : JOUINI LEILA

Summary : This study provides an in-depth analysis of the role of EU Cohesion Policy in supporting SMEs operating in critical technology areas, with a particular focus on biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced connectivity, and energy technologies. It examines both performance effects and implementation challenges using econometric analysis and qualitative case studies. Policy recommendations are provided to strengthen support under a post-2027 Cohesion Policy framework, focusing also on inputs for the Commission’s MFF 2028-2034 proposals.

External author : Stefan APOSTOL, Anastasia KUBLASHVILI & Rusne NAUJOKAITYTE (PPMI, part of the Verian Group)

Summary : This study assesses the adequacy of the post-2027 MFF proposals in providing support for dealing with natural disasters. It examines measures related to prevention and preparedness before disasters occur, as well as immediate responses and recovery support afterwards. Based on this analysis, it formulates policy recommendations on how the proposals could be improved.

External author : Iain BEGG, Professorial Research Fellow, London School of Economics and CEPS, Brussels Eulalia RUBIO, Associate Senior Research Fellow, CEPS, Brussels Andreas EISL, Senior Research Fellow, Jacques Delors Institute, Paris Cinzia ALCIDI, Senior Research Fellow, CEPS, Brussels Eulalia RUBIO, Associate Senior Research Fellow, CEPS, Brussels Andreas EISL, Senior Research Fellow, Jacques Delors Institute, Paris Cinzia ALCIDI, Senior Research Fellow, CEPS, Brussels

Summary : This workshop assessed recent developments in human rights and accountability across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) in the context of the 4th EU–CELAC summit (Santa Marta, 9 November 2025). Bringing together EU policymakers, regional human rights representatives, academics and civil society actors, the discussion examined the structural challenges affecting democratic governance and the institutional mechanisms available to address them. Participants highlighted the coexistence of democratic backsliding, organised criminal violence, institutional fragility and shrinking civic space with enduring commitments to international human rights law and multilateral cooperation. Particular attention was given to the region’s complex “accountability mosaic”, comprising international and regional judicial bodies, national human rights institutions, transitional justice mechanisms and protection frameworks for human rights defenders. While these mechanisms have produced meaningful advances, their effectiveness remains uneven and vulnerable to political, economic and security pressures. The workshop also explored the human rights implications of transnational organised crime, climate-related vulnerabilities and trade-based cooperation frameworks, emphasising the need for policy coherence, sustained multilateral engagement and capacity-building. Overall, the discussion underscored that EU–LAC relations are grounded in shared normative principles but require more systematic operationalisation through political dialogue, cooperative instruments and support for regional and domestic accountability structures.

External author : Par Engstrom

Summary : Overcapacities, particularly from China, are perceived as a threat to European manufacturers, distorting competition and straining bilateral trade. On the basis of a dynamic definition of ‘industrial overcapacity’, this study identifies overcapacities for most industrial sectors in China. Absorption occurs primarily through inventory accumulation, while six sectors with rising export-to-revenue ratios account for the large increase in China’s exports to the EU. At the same time, case studies of semiconductors, electric vehicles and batteries, hydrogen, and robotics show that concrete risks from overcapacity for manufacturing in the EU are sector-specific and partly mitigated by value-chain dynamics and technological leadership. In China, overcapacities — discussed as ‘involution’ — are perceived as an unwelcome outcome of industrial policies and an obstacle to the high-priority objectives of technological upgrading and self-sufficiency. As the effectiveness of Chinese policies to reduce overcapacities remains uncertain, competitive pressures upon European companies are likely to persist or intensify. This highlights the need for context-specific EU policy responses, including the full use of traditional trade defence as well as other EU instruments. Policy space provided by WTO law should be tested, renewed efforts for a targeted reform of WTO rules be made, while cooperative efforts with China should be maintained.

External author : Stefan MAYR, Lia MUSITZ, Simela PAPATHEOPHILOU, Werner RAZA, Bernhard TRÖSTER, Tobias WUTTKE

Summary : This study provides an in-depth analysis of the role of EU Cohesion Policy in supporting SMEs operating in critical technology areas, with a particular focus on biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced connectivity, and energy technologies. It examines both performance effects and implementation challenges using econometric analysis and qualitative case studies. Policy recommendations are provided to strengthen support under a post-2027 Cohesion Policy framework, focusing also on inputs for the Commission’s MFF 2028-2034 proposals.

External author : Stefan APOSTOL, Anastasia KUBLASHVILI & Rusne NAUJOKAITYTE (PPMI, part of the Verian Group)

Summary : This study provides country-specific data and analysis on the potential impacts of the proposed revision of the EU Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD). Using the Tobacco Excise Tax Simulation Model, it focuses on nine Member States. Simulations of higher minimum excise rates for cigarettes, roll-your-own tobacco, heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes indicate higher prices, narrower price gaps between countries, reduced consumption, higher revenues and declines in premature mortality. These findings support timely and undiluted implementation of the proposed revision of the TTD.

External author : Kristijan FIDANOVSKI, Biljana JOVANOVIKJ, Nóra KUNGL, Hana ROSS, Hannah KRANAWETTER

Summary : This study provides country-specific data and analysis on the potential impacts of the proposed revision of the EU Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD). Using the Tobacco Excise Tax Simulation Model, it focuses on nine Member States. Simulations of higher minimum excise rates for cigarettes, roll-your-own tobacco, heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes indicate higher prices, narrower price gaps between countries, reduced consumption, higher revenues and declines in premature mortality. These findings support timely and undiluted implementation of the proposed revision of the TTD.

External author : Kristijan FIDANOVSKI, Biljana JOVANOVIKJ, Nóra KUNGL, Hana ROSS, Hannah KRANAWETTER

Summary : The objective of this briefing is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of EU financial support to Ukraine, in light of the ongoing debate on the need for continued financial assistance in the short and medium term. It assesses Ukraine’s short- and medium-term financing needs, provides an overview of the past, current and planned EU instruments and funding volumes. It takes stock of the position and future liabilities of the EU budget due to the aid provided. It also provides an overview of the state of play regarding frozen Russian assets and their potential use, including budgetary and legal considerations.

Authors : SCHWARCZ András, LINDER JULIA SOFIA VIOLA MARGARETA, FIORELLO Fabio

Summary : This briefing is prepared in view of the public hearing with the Chair of the Financial Stability Board (FSB), Andrew Bailey, scheduled for 9 April 2026 in the European Parliament’s Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SABOL MAJA, SPITZER Kai Gereon, RUANO REMIREZ SOFIA

Summary : This briefing provides additional economic background ahead of the public hearing of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs on 8 April 2026. It complements EPRS briefings (here and here) on the recent Commission proposal on pensions of 20 November 2025, as well as on the revised regulatory framework for insurers (Solvency II) which will apply as of 30 January 2027. All initiatives aim to contribute to achieving the objectives of the Savings and Investment Union (SIU) by giving additional latitude to institutional investors on how to channel more “patient” long-term funding to growth and scale-up companies, including via investments in venture and private capital funds. The European Council conclusions of 19 March called on co-legislators to conclude negotiations on supplementary pensions by the end of the year. The current briefing provides (i) general information on the magnitudes involved; (ii) enabling conditions to be kept in mind also based on the Danish experience; (ii) a discussion of the transmission channel that has been identified between supplementary pensions and the stock market; (iv) as a form of summing up the topic a basic check list for policy makers who aim to boost domestic capital markets using this channel.

Authors : STIEBER Harald

External author : VASILIKI Charisi

Summary : Newborn screening is an established preventive healthcare practice that enables the detection and treatment of health conditions at an early stage. It could reduce the risk of 'diagnostic odyssey' often experienced by persons affected by rare diseases, which in Europe are defined as health conditions that affect less than 1 in 2 000 persons. This briefing presents the findings of a desk review of publicly available sources on newborn screening practices in the EU and the United States (US), which serves as a benchmark. The research finds that these practices vary widely in the EU, which raises concerns regarding equal access to healthcare and the promotion of health outcomes. In total, 87 different rare conditions are covered in national newborn blood screening (NBS) panels (including those conditions in pilot programmes) across the EU. However, only two rare health conditions – congenital hypothyroidism and phenylketonuria (PKU) – are included in all national NBS panels. Other notable differences between Member States include the sample collection window, which ranges from 24 to 144 hours after birth. The draft legislative-initiative report calling for an EU rare disease action plan (2025/2130(INL)), being discussed in the European Parliament's Committee on Public Health, calls for stronger measures to harmonise and promote NBS in the EU. A February 2026 EPRS study finds that stronger EU action on newborn screening – as part of an overall EU rare disease action plan, as called for by the European Parliament – could boost access to health care and social inclusion, promote better health outcomes, lower healthcare costs and promote health sector innovation and competitiveness. This briefing presents further evidence to support this claim. First, the diffusion of newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) was faster in the US, where SMA is included in federal guidelines, than in the EU, where there are presently no such guidelines. Some research has found that earlier diagnosis of SMA is associated with better health outcomes and lower health care costs. Second, the rate of infant mortality is lower in EU Member States that cover more health conditions in their NBS panels.

Authors : FERNANDES MEENAKSHI, KOREIMANN-ÖZKAN CLAUDIA SUSANNE

External author : CHOUNTA Irene-Angelica

Summary : This briefing provides background information for the mission of the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) to India on 16-20 February 2026. The mission will allow Members to assess the implementation of the EU Gender Action Plan III (GAP III) in India and evaluate how EU external action supports gender equality and women’s empowerment in a key strategic partner country and Indo-Pacific actor. It also offers an opportunity to engage with key national stakeholders, including representatives from government institutions, EU Delegation officials, civil society organisations, think tanks, and private-sector actors as well as social enterprises implementing gender-inclusive initiatives. The briefing first provides an overview of India’s political, social, and economic context. It then outlines EU-India relations, their strategic partnership, and the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement. Chapter three introduces the European Gender Action Plan III. Chapter four examines the current state of gender equality in India. Chapter five highlights the contribution of EU action in India. Finally, the briefing offers concluding remarks.

Authors : VINSON Katharina

Summary : This study explores the competitiveness gap faced by the EU’s seafood sector. Five case studies illustrate how high input costs and relatively low productivity mean that imports, now supply over 80% of the EU’s consumption of fisheries and aquaculture products (FAPs). The policy recommendations provided aim to help secure a more self-sufficient, sustainable, and resilient seafood system. This document was prepared at the request of the Committee on Fisheries (PECH).

External author : Tim HUNTINGTON; Rod CAPPELL

External author : Wayne Holmes

Summary : This study maps EU allocations and instruments supporting natural disaster prevention, preparedness, response and recovery under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and compares them with the European Commission’s proposals for the 2028–2034 MFF. It highlights key structural and budgetary differences, including changes affecting climate and biodiversity mainstreaming, and identifies limits to comparability. The study provides Members of the European Parliament with a clear analytical basis for scrutiny of the post-2027 EU budget.

External author : James RAMPTON, Christine STEDTNITZ, Luca MARCOLIN

Summary : On 19 November 2025, the Commission published a proposal for a Digital Omnibus on AI: amendments to the Artificial Intelligence Act (in force since 1 August 2024) and to Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 on common rules for civil aviation (in force since 11 September 2018). These amendments seek to address implementation issues and reduce the regulatory burden arising from the AI Act. However, its timely application has faced delays, particularly regarding the designation of national competent authorities and the publication of harmonised standards and compliance tools for high-risk AI requirements. The minor amendments to Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 aim to ensure the consistent application of the AI Act's high-risk requirements in civil aviation. The Digital Omnibus on AI is part of a broader digital package published on 19 November 2025, which includes two digital omnibus proposals (henceforth referred to as 'the digital omnibus': one amending personal and non-personal data and cybersecurity rules, and another – the Digital Omnibus on AI – amending AI rules), the European data union strategy and a proposed regulation on European business wallets. The digital package aims to simplify and enhance the effectiveness of the EU's digital laws, and help EU businesses to innovate, scale, and save on administrative costs. While the digital package has been welcomed by most stakeholders, the digital omnibus has raised concerns about achieving simplification while ensuring fundamental rights. It also entails a risk that simplification could upset the fragile equilibrium achieved during the initial trilogue negotiations. In the Parliament, the file on the Digital Omnibus on AI was referred to the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). The Council adopted its negotiating mandate on 13 March 2026. The IMCO and LIBE committees adopted a joint report on the file on 18 March 2026. Once Parliament's mandate is approved in plenary (vote expected during the March II part-session), the EU co-legislators can launch trilogue negotiations.

Authors : Niestadt Maria

Summary : ISSUES AT STAKE: • Every year around €2.5 trillion, roughly 15 % of the combined GDP of the EU's 27 Member States, is spent on public procurement. The perceived failure of current EU public procurement rules to deliver on the economic potential of this part of the economy lead to a need for review. Findings show competition in public procurement did not increase from 2011 to 2021, a period which comprises the last review of the rules, which date to 2014. Successful public procurement could be leveraged to provide investment in the EU economy, thus playing its part in the drive to improve its competitiveness as a whole and the strategic autonomy of the Union. • The review will be expected to simplify the current rules. The notion of 'simplification' has two potential aspects, namely removal of complexity present in the procurement framework legislation itself, and simplification of the interaction between that framework and sectoral legislation. • The previous revision of the EU's public procurement rules strengthened the power of public authorities to award contracts on non-price criteria. To increase the take-up of procurement on such strategic bases, it will be necessary to improve the legal framework to give greater clarity as to the conditions for such awards. • One aspect of the strategic approach to procurement which has gained significant political traction recently is the encouragement of procurement of goods and services made in the EU – the 'European preference'. This is fully in line with recent efforts to develop the EU's autonomy in strategically important sectors. Complex interrelationships exist between these drivers. Some are in inherent contradiction, while others are necessarily complementary. For example, development of non-price award criteria by means of increased legal certainty implies developing additional, more detailed legal rules. This is prima facie opposed to the simplification agenda, if simplification is to be understood just as reducing the number of rules. Similarly, any 'European preference' will need legal delineation, which, depending on how it is executed, may run counter to any notion of simplification. Developing secure legal criteria for non-price awards will impact positively on the competitiveness gain from EU public procurement, if those rules cater for increased innovative tenders. While an EU preference could support local industries, it could also limit contracting authorities' (CAs) choice of international tenderer, with a possible negative impact on competitiveness. Resolving these trade-offs will be at the heart of the political deal to be struck on this reform.

Authors : ASHTON DAVID, KARAMFILOVA Ekaterina

Summary : The original full study assesses the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 multiannual financial framework (MFF) from a climate and environmental perspective. It examines changes to spending architecture, targets and tracking methodologies, and evaluates potential implications for biodiversity and climate mainstreaming and performance monitoring, drawing on experience from the 2014–2020 and 2021–2027 MFF cycles. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

External author : Robert WILLIAMS, Jeanet BENSCHOP, Rahadian RUKMANA

Summary : This IA accompanies three proposals designed to support the establishment of the savings and investment union, as well as the EU's efforts to deepen capital market integration, strengthen supervision and foster innovation. Overall, the IA is meaningful, but could have been shorter, in line with the Better Regulation Guidelines. The IA identifies three problems and two drivers. While the consequences are well-defined across the different stakeholder groups, the scale and scope of the problem remain difficult to assess due to the limited quantification provided. The principles of subsidiarity and proportionality are respected. The IA defines one general objective, which it breaks down into three specific objectives, but does not provide operational objectives. The European Commission has presented two policy packages: one for reducing barriers to cross-border operations and innovation and another for addressing supervisory divergence. Each package includes two policy options. These options are based on previous research and stakeholder consultation; however, the choice of options is quite limited, even though the IA specifies which options were discarded at an early stage and why. The IA only assesses the economic impact of the proposed legislation, omitting impacts on citizens. It would have been relevant to include a wider range of impacts such as territorial or digital effects. Additionally, the costs and benefits are mainly discussed qualitatively. The IA includes an SME test and a competitiveness check. The Commission consulted a broad range of stakeholders and included their views in the IA. In addition, the IA uses robust data sources, provides a clear monitoring plan and is transparent about its limitations. The IA openly knowledges that it did not address all the Regulatory Scrutiny Board's comments, due to time and data constraints. Finally, the legislative proposals are aligned with the IA.

Authors : CAPDEVILA PENALVA Josefina

Summary : The purpose of this study is to enhance the evidence base on how organised crime groups (OCGs) have evolved into transnational geopolitical actors, to evaluate the suitability of international legal frameworks for holding them accountable, and to offer policy recommendations to strengthen this accountability. The study finds that international law fails to adequately define or reflect the transformation of OCGs into geopolitical actors. Instead, it relies on outdated conceptions of criminal hierarchies, which confine organised crime to the transnational rather than international legal domain . International law is therefore restricted in its ability to categorise these groups as legal entities, even where their actions resemble crimes against humanity in their intent and scale . This definitional oversight has practical consequences: EU external action efforts generate relatively little information on geopolitical threats tied to OCGs, and the international criminal, humanitarian, and human rights infrastructure is unable to directly confront the actions of these groups. The study calls for the redefinition of OCGs as part of a new Directive, as well as practical measures to refine criminal justice mechanisms, improve cross-border cooperation, update EU external action threat assessments and support existing international legal frameworks to more effectively account for the geopolitical behaviours and impacts of OCGs.

External author : Mark Williams, Joana de Deus Pereira, Elijah Glantz, Jennifer Scotland

Summary : The infographic “Menopause Care in the EU” supports the joint SANT/FEMM public hearing on menopause by presenting key information on menopause, its symptoms, and potential treatments, and by highlighting the results of the European Parliament’s consultation on women’s health regarding the state of menopause care in the EU.

Summary : Against the backdrop of a rising U.S. federal deficit and increasing geoeconomic tensions, understanding who holds U.S. debt instruments could have important policy implications, including for the EU. This briefing provides an overview of the size and ownership structure of U.S. public debt and assesses the extent of Europe’s exposure. It further considers whether such exposure could translate into potential political leverage. The first part of the briefing outlines recent developments in the evolution of U.S. public debt, including its size, trajectory, and changing composition. The second part analyses EU Member States’ exposure to U.S. Treasury instruments. It further discusses the implications and limits of potential political leverage arising from Europe’s significant holdings of U.S. assets, highlighting the dominant role of private investors and the constraints on coordinated policy action. Finally, it considers how a possible gradual portfolio adjustment, including a gradual reduced accumulation of U.S. assets, and stronger home bias, could shape future financial flows, and how initiatives such as the Savings and Investment Union (SIU) may support a greater reallocation of European savings toward euro-denominated assets.

Authors : MEHMEDI MENTOR, RUANO REMIREZ SOFIA

Summary : This at-a-glance provides an overview of the EU carding system established by Regulation 1005/2008 on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The carding system is a key EU tool in combating illegal fishing globally, which has shaped the EU’s fisheries relations with countries considered uncooperative in the fight against IUU fishing.

Authors : POPESCU Irina

Summary : Erasmus for All is a pilot initiative implemented by the European University Foundation in cooperation with participating higher education institutions and funded under the Erasmus+ programme. The initiative explored whether city-based top-ups to Erasmus+ student mobility grants could improve affordability in high-cost destinations. The pilot’s outcomes indicate that additional support can reduce perceived financial pressure during mobility in higher-cost cities. However, it does not address the main barriers to equal access to mobility, notably upfront costs, liquidity constraints and institutional and administrative pressures. There is no evidence that the approach influences students’ destination choices or the overall distribution of mobility. As the pilot allocates resources based on destination characteristics and adds administrative complexity without means to process these, it should be seen as an affordability adjustment rather than a solution to unequal participation.

External author : Alexander ESPERET, Bert-Jan BUISKOOL

Summary : This paper assesses the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 multiannual financial framework (MFF) from a climate and environmental perspective. It examines changes to spending architecture, targets and tracking methodologies, and evaluates potential implications for biodiversity and climate mainstreaming and performance monitoring, drawing on experience from the 2014–2020 and 2021–2027 MFF cycles. This document was prepared by the Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health at the request of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI).

External author : Robert WILLIAMS, Jeanet BENSCHOP, Rahadian RUKMANA

Summary : This study examines the WTO’s economic and legal value for the European Union and draws policy implications for the European Parliament ahead of MC14. Economically, it shows how MFN non‑discrimination and bound tariffs reduce transaction costs and uncertainty for EU exporters – especially SMEs – and warns that a two‑tier system of bilateral ‘deals’ would fragment markets and penalise EU high‑value trade. It reviews recent quantitative evidence on the welfare and export gains from GATT/WTO Membership and assesses early findings on the Trade Facilitation Agreement, noting that trade‑cost reductions abroad can benefit EU firms via supply chains. Legally, it maps how WTO disciplines shape EU legislation and how EU FTAs both embed WTO rules (‘WTO‑plus‘) and pioneer ‘extra‑WTO‘ and sustainability provisions. It also tests the available policy space to design ‘buy European‘ procurement measures consistently with WTO/GPA commitments. On reform, the study analyses pragmatic pathways for integrating new plurilaterals, improving disciplines on State interventions (including transparency), addressing non‑market practices (subsidies and public bodies), refining Special and differential treatment (SDT), and restoring a functioning dispute settlement system. Key recommendations urge Parliament to champion WTO stability, support integration of plurilaterals, help broaden participation in the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA), and ensure credible use of EU enforcement tools against ‘appeal into the void‘ tactics.

External author : Peter-Tobias STOLL, Jan HAGEMEJER, Stephen WOOLCOCK, Zaker AHMAD, Oskar CHMIEL

Summary : To support the CONT Committee’s work with evidence-based insights, this study assesses the extent to which institutional design, management and control structures, and administrative capacity shape the implementation and effectiveness of European Regional Development Fund programmes. It traces the evolution of these arrangements from 2000 to 2027 in the most recently acceded Member States.

Authors : HAASE Diana, MILICEVIC Vera

External author : Alessandro VALENZA, Cristina NEACSU, Rebeca NISTOR, Lorenza ODOARDI, Emma Giovanna MARCHETTI,

Summary : The impact assessment (IA) underpins the European Commission's proposal to review the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), which aims to enhance the implementation of the EU sustainable finance framework with simpler rules, lower administrative burden and better enforcement. The IA sufficiently explains the need for the revision of the SFDR, drawing on different data sources such as the evaluation and stakeholder consultation. While the problem definition defines and explains the problems and their drivers, some information – for example, on the estimates of the scale of the costs – is scattered across other parts of the IA. The retained policy options, linked to the defined objectives, appear to offer alternative ways to address the defined problems. The IA substantiates the choice of the preferred options package. It expects the combination of the product-level disclosures, based on simpler concepts and reduced data points, and three product categories with criteria for environmental, social and governance (ESG) claims to provide cost savings and enhance comparability of financial products, reduce greenwashing risks, and facilitate investor protection. The stakeholder consultation shows wide support for reviewing the SFDR instead of repealing it, and for the categorisation system of ESG financial products. However, stakeholders seemed to have divergent views on different measures. The SME test, conducted as the initiative is relevant for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), considered that SMEs as financial market participants would benefit from cost savings resulting from the elimination of the entity-level disclosures and other simplification measures. The IA transparently recognises and describes weaknesses in the analysis. It considers that data availability issues would be mitigated by focusing the concepts on information that is available, widely used and possible to estimate, while recognising risks in using data estimates in the absence of data. The IA explains that for the categorisation options, the efficiency analysis is only qualitative, owing to data limitations and uncertainty of costs relating to establishing product categories. The final IA, revised based on two Regulatory Scrutiny Board (RSB) opinions, seems to have made efforts to address the RSB's comments. The legislative proposal appears to follow the IA's preferred combination of options.

Authors : TUOMINEN ULLA-MARI

Summary : This study maps EU allocations and instruments supporting natural disaster prevention, preparedness, response and recovery under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and compares them with the European Commission’s proposals for the 2028–2034 MFF. It highlights key structural and budgetary differences, including changes affecting climate and biodiversity mainstreaming, and identifies limits to comparability. The study provides Members of the European Parliament with a clear analytical basis for scrutiny of the post-2027 EU budget.

External author : James RAMPTON, Luca MARCOLIN,Christine STEDTNITZ

Summary : The impact assessment supports the proposed legislative amendments to extend the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to downstream goods, prevent the circumvention of CBAM obligations, and encourage the decarbonisation of electricity imports. While overall it provides a good evidence-based analysis supporting the proposal, it could have been better structured and presented. One of the main shortcomings is that the downstream study, which provides a lot of supporting data justifying the proposal, is not publicly available. The IA defines the problems clearly, despite the challenge that, due to the nature of the basic act, these identified problems have not yet occurred. The IA openly acknowledges this limitation. Given that the three identified problems are very different, the IA analyses several policy options for each of them. Some options are analysed well; however others could have been better developed and explained. The IA presents the preferred policy combination that appears to be the best in terms of potential outcomes, i.e. reducing global emissions and carbon leakage, minimising the risk of circumvention, lessening administrative burden, and improving the treatment of electricity imports. The IA identifies the initiative's general and specific objectives, which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound, as recommended by the Better Regulation Toolbox 'S.M.A.R.T.' criteria. The assessment of environmental, economic and social impacts is carried out, but it is elaborated unevenly. Stakeholders were widely consulted, clearly divided per problem they were addressing, and their views were considered. It appears that efforts were made to address the Regulatory Scrutiny Board's recommendations, but some shortcomings remain, related to the CBAM anti-avoidance measures. Lastly, it appears that the proposal is in line with the preferred policy option combination as identified in the IA.

Authors : GRGAS BRUS KATARINA

Summary : This briefing provides background information for the members of the Special committee on the European Democracy Shield (EUDS) on election infrastructure vulnerabilities to foreign interference and on corresponding countermeasures. The briefing focuses on the criticality of election infrastructure and on safeguarding electoral integrity, also in light of the approach set out in the Commission’s Communication on the European Democracy Shield. Moreover, the paper considers the role of private sector election interference services. The briefing begins with an introduction to the different components of election infrastructure and general information on the conduct of elections. It continues with an overview of the election infrastructure interference threat landscape, taking the findings of the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) into account. It then examines recommendations provided by the European Cooperation Network on Elections to mitigate these threats. Next, the briefing presents a section on critical infrastructure legislation and on the measures outlined in the European Democracy Shield to protect election infrastructure. This briefing has been prepared internally by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs at the request of the EUDS Committee

Authors : PASSAMERA Olga Johanna

Summary : This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM), Claudia Buch, scheduled for 18 March 2026 in the ECON Committee.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SPITZER Kai Gereon

Summary : This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Resolution Board (SRB), Dominique Laboureix, scheduled for 18 March 2026 in the ECON Committee.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SPITZER Kai Gereon

Summary : The Statistical Dialogue is a regular exchange between the Director-General of Eurostat and the ECON Committee, enabling its Members to engage on key statistical issues related to EU economic governance. It is based on Regulation (EC) No 223/2009, which enshrines principles of professional independence and accountability, and was reinforced by Regulation (EU) 2015/759, introducing a formal obligation for regular appearances before Parliament. This is the second Statistical Dialogue of the 10th parliamentary term.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SABOL MAJA

Summary : This study examines the evolving relationship between principles and interests in European Union (EU) development and cooperation policies. Against the backdrop of global fragmentation and heightened geopolitical competition, the EU has increasingly reframed its external action as ‘strategic’ and ‘geopolitical’, most notably through the Global Gateway initiative. While the EU Treaties enshrine poverty eradication as the primary objective of EU development cooperation policy, the study finds a significant shift towards integrating development cooperation with EU security, economic, and migration interests. This creates tensions between the normative core and legal foundation of the EU’s development policy and its strategic self-interests. Through a combined legal and political analysis, the study assesses the coherence of current priorities against the Union’s own benchmarks. It concludes by offering recommendations for the European Parliament to strengthen oversight, transparency, and the operationalisation of development principles within an increasingly complex and contested policy landscape.

External author : Lukas SCHLÖGL, Stefan MAYR, Simela PAPATHEOPHILOU, Werner RAZA

Summary : The impact assessment (IA) identifies four problems relating to slow development and deployment of advanced digital networks in the EU. Relying on the evaluation of the current regulatory framework, the IA discusses the problem drivers, defines specific objectives, and compares and ranks policy options. The objectives are generally well defined. However, the second specific objective refers to closing the high-quality connectivity gap with competing regions without acknowledging that its achievement also depends on developments in those regions. The third specific objective, on increasing pan-European network operation and service provision, is defined in rather generic terms. The policy options seem relevant and sufficiently distinct, although the presentation of the options is not well balanced, with some options discussed in more detail than others. The IA assesses the economic, social and environmental impacts of policy options, although the analysis varies in depth across the problems and options. The costs and benefits for major stakeholders are analysed, including for small and medium-sized enterprises. The preferred options are chosen transparently, and they generally follow the conclusions of the comparative assessments. However, several preferred options could have been justified more effectively. For example, the preferred option for governance has been selected despite ranking second best in the comparison of policy options. Whereas subsidiarity is sufficiently addressed, proportionality is discussed only briefly and selectively. The IA defines a set of indicators and operational objectives to monitor actual impacts. However, some of these indicators are not sufficiently explained, and lack specific targets. The IA makes use of a wealth of data and sources, including feedback from all major stakeholders. The methodology, data and sources are generally explained, although some references are missing or are incomplete. The Regulatory Scrutiny Board (RSB) issued a 'positive with reservations' opinion on the draft IA after initially issuing a negative opinion. The revised draft appears to have addressed the RSB's comments. The proposal appears generally to follow the preferred policy options identified in the IA. One notable addition in the proposal is the creation of a voluntary conciliation mechanism to facilitate dialogue on technical and commercial arrangements, which was not properly addressed in the IA.

Authors : DUMBRAVA Costica

Summary : This study provides an overview of the EU policy instruments, including Cohesion Policy Funds, that are used in natural disaster response and recovery. It assesses their contribution to strengthening resilience to climate change and to meeting disaster-relief and reconstruction needs. The study also examines how the ‘Build Back Better’ approach can be integrated into future Cohesion Policy to ensure that disaster-affected areas are rebuilt in a more resilient and sustainable manner. Recommendations are provided on how Cohesion Policy can be improved to support EU regions in responding to disasters.

External author : Andrea CIFFOLILLI, Marco POMPILI, Luca PAVAN, Claudia BERCHTOLD, Maike VOLLMER, Sonja GRIGOLEIT

Summary : The IA underpins the revision of legislation on precursors to enhancе the monitoring and control of drug and designer precursors in order to reduce the availability of drug precursors for illicit drug manufacturing and to facilitate legitimate trade and use of drug precursors. The IA provides an overall well-structured and evidence-based analysis supporting the legislative proposal on drug precursors. The need for EU action is sufficiently justified and subsidiarity is adequately addressed; however, proportionality is only partially examined. The IA presents a well-evidenced problem definition and identifies the initiative's general and specific objectives, which appear to be specific, achievable, relevant and measurable, but not time-bound, as recommended by the Better Regulation Toolbox 'S.M.A.R.T.' criteria. The IA considers three policy options; however, they appear partly cumulative and not always clearly differentiated, while certain measures lack clarity in their design and justification. The assessment of economic impacts is detailed, including quantified administrative cost savings and expected burden reduction through digitalisation, with positive implications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and competitiveness. Social and environmental impacts are discussed transparently, though largely qualitatively and with limited quantification. Nevertheless, the IA is transparent about the evidence and analytical methods used, including the underlying assumptions and limitations. Stakeholders were widely consulted, and their views considered; however, the feedback from this consultation strategy could have been reflected more effectively in the IA. The preferred option (PO2) is presented as the most balanced and effective, combining strengthened controls with simplification and digitalisation, while monitoring indicators – particularly on social outcomes – could be strengthened. It appears that efforts were made to address the Regulatory Scrutiny Board's recommendations, but some weaknesses remain. Finally, it appears that the proposal is mostly in line with the preferred option of the IA, with a couple of issues remaining, which are detailed in the briefing.

Authors : EFTHYMIADOU Andriana

Summary : This study assesses how the proposed National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs) Regulation restructures the support relevant to Cohesion Policy and regional development. Based on this analysis, it formulates policy recommendations on how the Proposal could be adjusted to better achieve cohesion objectives. This document was commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Regional Development, Agriculture and Fisheries at the request of the Regional Development Committee.

External author : Eulalia RUBIO, Cinzia ALCIDI

Summary : This study assesses how the proposed National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs) Regulation restructures the support relevant to Cohesion Policy and regional development. Based on this analysis, it formulates policy recommendations on how the Proposal could be adjusted to better achieve cohesion objectives. This document was commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Regional Development, Agriculture and Fisheries at the request of the Regional Development Committee.

External author : Eulalia RUBIO, Cinzia ALCIDI

Summary : This briefing examines the European Commission’s proposal to recalibrate the EU securitisation framework within the broader context of the Savings and Investments Union (SIU). It explains how securitisation operates, why the European market remains structurally smaller than that of other major jurisdictions, and how the post-crisis regulatory architecture has shaped current market dynamics. The paper analyses the 2025 European Commission’s reform proposals to the Securitisation Regulation, the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) and the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) Delegated Regulation, with particular attention on implications for bank capital efficiency, lending capacity and balance-sheet management. It further assesses systemic considerations, including risk distribution, leverage dynamics and cross-sector interconnectedness. The analysis concludes that the reform constitutes a proportional recalibration within an established prudential framework, whose long-term effects will depend on supervisory consistency, market responses and the outcome of the legislative process.

Authors : IGLESIAS ESCUDERO Santiago

Authors : SANDERSKI ANDRZEJ, CROSSFIELD CLARE BABETTE, SERPIERI Margherita

Summary : This digest provides a collection of documents prepared by academia, think tanks, other EU institutions and bodies, as well as stakeholders, that can be useful for Members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Budgets to stay informed about the debate concerning the next Multiannual Financial Framework, starting in 2028. The document is produced on a monthly basis by the Budgetary Support Unit of DG BUDG and the European Parliamentary Research Service.

Authors : SCHWARCZ András, HOPP Balazs

Summary : The EU4Health, the EU's largest ever health programme in monetary terms, running from 2021 until 2027, has a dedicated budget, specific objectives and includes the possible eligible actions. The interim evaluation of the Programme found that it has invested significantly to directly support health promotion and disease prevention. The COVID-19 crisis highlighted the importance and the potential of the EU health policy, leading to the adoption of the EU4Health Regulation and the Health Union package, aimed at strengthening health security, preparedness, and coordination. These measures demonstrated that the EU possesses legal instruments capable of advancing its health policy objectives. The Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) proposed by the European Commission for 2028-2034 covers the health policy primarily through the newly created European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), which merges 14 existing Programmes (including EU4Health) into a single fund. The exact share of the ECF budget dedicated specifically to health is not specified. The proposed MFF includes a flexibility mechanism that is meant to allow for the coordination of funds across different financial programmes. It provides the ability to reallocate parts of the budget as needed to support financing of specific unforeseen expenditure that may arise during the MFF cycle. Nevertheless, as important elements of EU public health policy depend on EU funding, the question arises as to whether the flexibility of the next MFF corroborated with the general health framework in the ECF could affect the pace at which progress towards the Health Union is sustained. A key challenge ahead will be to ensure that EU public health policy, including the principle of Health in All Policies, retains a role in the next MFF that is comparable in importance to the position it gained in the post-COVID period, and that health considerations are integrated across budgetary decisions.

Authors : POSTU IOANA-ALICE, VANDE LANOITTE EVELYNE ANNA

Summary : This briefing provides an overview of the economic, financial, and monetary implications of US tariffs for the EU over the past year, as of the cut-off date of 25 February 2026. Given the high level of uncertainty, the analysis presented assumes a continued implementation of the EU-US framework agreement. The briefing and the analysis presented were prepared prior to the recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, and therefore do not take into account any subsequent market volatility or change in the underlying assumptions. This briefing updates a previous one. The first part of the briefing outlines recent developments, including the EU-US trade deal, the 20 February 2026 US Supreme Court ruling on the legality of the imposed tariffs by the US President, and the EU’s countermeasure toolkit. The second part analyses the impact on the EU economy across sectors and Member States, financial markets and monetary policy challenges.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, LOI GIACOMO, SPITZER Kai Gereon, BECKER ĐURIČIĆ RUDI, MEHMEDI MENTOR

Summary : New digital technologies are a mixed blessing for women's rights and representation in the information sphere in general, and in the democratic debate in particular. Innovative digital tools often promise to make public debates more inclusive, for women too. In practice, recent AI-enabled technology – including deepfake tools – appears to facilitate an increasingly hostile information environment for women, with repercussions for their democratic participation both online and offline. At the same time, the ongoing global wave of autocratisation goes hand in hand with a backlash against women's rights and gender equality. Authoritarian regimes have strategic reasons for suppressing women, and often use gendered disinformation to undermine women opposition leaders, as well as to erode confidence in democratic values and rights. In the European Union, equality between men and women is a fundamental right and a founding value enshrined in the Treaties. Over the past decades, the EU has worked to increase gender equality at home, and used its global influence to support women's rights abroad. At the same time, its evolving digital regulatory framework aims to make the digital space safe for all, including by protecting the rights of women online.

Authors : BENTZEN Naja

Summary : In February 2026, two and a half years after the European Commission's proposal, trilogues started on a new regulation on the production and marketing of plant reproductive material (PRM). The proposal, put forward on 5 July 2023, would replace 10 of the 12 PRM directives that currently lay down the rules for seeds, tubers, cuttings, seedlings and young plants. It would introduce sustainability requirements for registering new varieties of agricultural plants, vegetables and fruits intended for professional users, while PRM intended for amateur gardeners and conservation organisations – such as seed banks – would be exempt from many of the requirements. There would be less stringent conditions for registering conservation varieties, and the exchange of seed in kind between farmers would be allowed in small quantities.

Authors : SAJN Nikolina

Authors : VALLEDOR DE VICENTE Victoria, JOUINI LEILA

Summary : The briefing provides background information for the inter-parliamentary committee meeting on ‘Women's rights and democracy: combating stereotypes, disinformation and violence in the digital age’, which will take place on 5 March 2026. The expansion of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), presents both transformative opportunities and profound challenges for the advancement of women’s rights. While these innovations have revolutionised access to education, economic empowerment, and global advocacy—amplifying feminist movements and breaking down structural barriers—they have also exacerbated gendered risks, from algorithmic bias and online harassment to the weaponisation of deepfake technology. The same tools that enable progress can equally entrench inequality. By embedding rights-based frameworks into AI, platform policies, and data systems, digital innovation can be transformed into a tool for empowerment.

Authors : SANDU Georgiana, CSÉBY RÓZA BELLA

Summary : This briefing considers the relevance of neobanks for the Banking Union by discussing the nature of the phenomenon, its size and development so far and its prospects going forward. It also considers the benefits of neobanks along with possible challenges they pose for supervision and resolution, and for the institutional set-up of the Banking Union.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SPITZER Kai Gereon

Summary : This study was prepared at the request of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO). It analyses the European Commission’s Digital Omnibus package proposals published on 19 November 2025, distinguishing administrative simplification from more substantive recalibration of safeguards across data, privacy, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence areas. The study highlights key areas of controversy (legal certainty, enforcement capacity, and impacts on rights) and sets out areas for consideration for parliamentary scrutiny.

External author : Goda Skiotytė, Audronė Sadauskaitė

Summary : Petition 0445/2025 on the closure of a nuclear power plant in Almaraz, Spain Petition 0819/2024 and Petition 1334/2024 concerning the environmental damage to Cabañeros National Park resulting from the ban on the hunting of ungulates

Authors : CHIFAN Andreea Simona, OPREA KARINA-DARIA

Summary : The carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) is being implemented to create a level playing field on carbon pricing of specific goods within the EU single market. For CBAM-covered goods, free allowances under the EU′s emissions trading system (ETS) will be progressively phased out by 2034. With the phase-out of free allowances in CBAM-covered goods, EU operators producing goods for export will be at a disadvantage in markets without similar carbon pricing. The European Commission is proposing a temporary decarbonisation fund to support certain goods in the aluminium, fertilisers, iron and steel sectors. Other energy-intensive industries at continued risk of carbon leakage could also benefit. The fund would provide short-term support as a temporary bridge solution, pending a review in the context of the forthcoming revision of the EU ETS due in 2026.

Authors : JENSEN LISELOTTE

Summary : On 20 February 2026, the United States (US) Supreme Court ruled, in a landmark case, that the US International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977 does not authorise the US president to impose tariffs. The ruling invalidates all tariffs that President Trump imposed under IEEPA on US trading partners, including the April 2025 'reciprocal' tariffs. The ruling is without prejudice to the US sector- and country-specific tariffs that have been levied under different legal bases. While the ruling confirms the US checks and balances and the rule of law, it is silent on the potential refunding of tariffs that have already been collected. The ruling is likely to prompt US trading partners to seek clarity or even the renegotiation of the agreements recently reached with the US.

Authors : GRIEGER Gisela

Summary : This study was prepared at the request of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO). It analyses the European Commission’s Digital Omnibus package proposals published on 19 November 2025, distinguishing administrative simplification from more substantive recalibration of safeguards across data, privacy, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence areas. The study highlights key areas of controversy (legal certainty, enforcement capacity, and impacts on rights) and sets out areas for consideration for parliamentary scrutiny.

External author : Goda SKIOTYTĖ, Audronė SADAUSKAITĖ

Summary : This paper presents the aggregated results of a survey conducted among Members of the Monetary Policy Expert Panel (MPEP) ahead of the February 2026 Monetary Dialogue with ECB President Christine Lagarde. The opinions expressed in this document are the sole responsibility of the survey respondents and should not be attributed to the European Parliament or its services.

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SABOL MAJA, LOI GIACOMO, MEHMEDI MENTOR

Summary : This paper assesses the ECB’s monetary policy stance and communication amid declining inflation, persistent uncertainty, and renewed external risks. It documents how trade-policy shocks and global spillovers affect inflation surprises, highlights substantial cross-country inflation heterogeneity within the euro area, and shows that common shocks generate uneven national responses. Using a novel multi-agent LLM framework, it evaluates ECB communication, revealing strengths during active policy adjustments but gaps in addressing inflation dispersion and uncertainty communication. This document was provided by the Economic Governance and EMU Scrutiny Unit at the request of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) ahead of the Monetary Dialogue with the ECB President on 26 February 2026.

External author : Laura BOTTAZZI , Carlo FAVERO , Ruben FERNANDEZ FUERTES , Francesco GIAVAZZI , Veronica GUERRIERI , Guido LORENZONI, Tommaso MONACELLI , Antonella TRIGARI

Summary : In December 2025, the European Commission published a communication entitled Strengthening EU economic security as a follow-up to its 2023 economic security strategy. Economic developments – whether related to trade, investment or industry – are increasingly viewed through the lens of security. From a foresight perspective, this development can be analysed as the result of three overlapping and partly reinforcing trends. The first is the weakening of a value-based approach to the economy, as exemplified by fair trade agreements and the EU Green Deal. The second is the rise of geo-economics, which places the interests of countries and regional blocks at the forefront, increasing the need for mitigating policies such as economic security. The third is the growing interaction between defence policy and economic policy, with military security influencing economic decisions and the defence sector growing in importance in the EU economy. This briefing argues that these combined trends are transforming the EU's economic policy and economy, and that the growing prominence of security as a guiding principle of economic and trade policies is bringing the question of EU strategic autonomy back to the centre of EU policy. Although the increasing importance of economic and defence security appears to be mutually reinforcing, with both trends potentially enhancing EU strategic autonomy, synergy between them is not a given. The raw materials and finances needed to reinforce the EU defence industrial base require a strong and open economy. However, concerns about foreign influence require economic decoupling from certain countries (e.g. Russia) and de-risking from others (e.g. China). Moreover, the EU faces unexpectedly difficult choices in its relations with the United States (US), where its dependence on US support in defence and security reduces its capacity to act independently as an economic player and rule-maker.

Authors : DAMEN Mario

Summary : The Commission is proposing to revise CO2 emission performance standards for new cars and vans. The amendments aim to introduce flexibilities and enhance technology neutrality to achieve the related targets. The proposal also establishes a new labelling system based on CO2 emission performance classes, with the aim of facilitating the purchase of electric vehicles and harmonising labelling across the EU. The proposal builds on feedback from the 2025 strategic dialogue on the future of the automotive industry, which sought to address challenges in the sector. It forms part of the automotive package for a clean and competitive European automotive sector.

Authors : LÓPEZ HERNÁNDEZ Juan Fernando

Summary : This study maps funding gaps affecting EU customs and market surveillance authorities. It reviews existing EU and national financing mechanisms, identifies structural imbalances and operational challenges, and assesses policy options for complementary funding in light of the EU Customs reform and the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework. The study was provided by Policy Department A at the request of the European Parliament’s Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO).

Authors : MARTINELLO BARBARA

External author : Giangiacomo D’ANGELO, Federico CASOLARI, Martina MINARDI, and Carlo TOVO

Summary : Academic freedom is widely recognised as a fundamental value of contemporary higher education and research, and as a prerequisite for well-functioning democratic societies. However, in recent years, major concerns have been expressed by various stakeholders about the state of academic freedom in the European Union. The European Parliament annual Academic Freedom Monitor aims to improve the promotion and protection of academic freedom in the EU. The 2025 edition is organised in two parts. The first part consists of an update of existing measures of academic freedom in all EU Member States, an updated overview of public debate and studies of the state of academic freedom in four selected EU Member States, and an examination of the EU's state of academic freedom in a global context. The second part contains a thematic analysis of the potential impact of selected trends in academic freedom within the EU, namely political polarisation, recent developments in the US higher education and research system, the commercialisation of academia, and foreign interference. Furthermore, EU-level policy options are proposed for possible legislative and non-legislative initiatives to enhance the support for academic freedom in the EU Member States.

External author : Ceran, Olga; Kosta, Vasiliki; Maassen, Peter A. M.; Martinsen, Dennis; Mattei, Paola; Živanić, Lazar , Živanić, Lazar

Summary : The ECB anticipates stable growth and inflation, while Europe is faced with geopolitical threats, lack of competitiveness and fiscal challenges. At such a time, central bankers need to consider the dynamics of risk scenarios that arise from potentially mis-aligned or mis-perceived trends and policy-relevant parameters and prepare for timely policy responses. This paper focusses on potentially unsustainable fiscal trends, potential growth misperceptions and their implications for inflation developments and the policy stance. It highlights risks for fiscal inflation in the euro area. This document was provided by the Economic Governance and EMU Scrutiny Unit at the request of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) ahead of the Monetary Dialogue with the ECB President on 26 February 2026.

External author : Henrik HEGEMANN & Volker WIELAND

Summary : In this issue: ECB keeps key rates unchanged for the fifth consecutive time; ECB enhances repo lines for other central banks to support global liquidity and monetary policy transmission; Fed holds policy rates steady; Trade tensions have eased in the recent months; More than half of MPEP members consider the ECB’s monetary policy stance as appropriate, while around quarter find it slightly restrictive; Special focus on food inflation and labour market developments in the euro area

Authors : MAZZOCCHI Ronny, SABOL MAJA, MEHMEDI MENTOR

Summary : Rare diseases, which are defined as conditions that affect fewer than 1 in 2 000 individuals, affect around 36 million people in the European Union. Despite existing measures at the EU, national, regional and local levels, there remain significant gaps in research and knowledge as well as variations in access and treatment. This study investigates possible measures that could be taken at EU level to address these challenges. It finds significant European added value in harmonising coordination and access across the 27 Member States, mainly in terms of improved diagnostic tools and availability of medical treatment, better health outcomes, particularly lower infant mortality, and improved well-being of family members and caregivers.

Authors : FERNANDES MEENAKSHI, KOREIMANN-ÖZKAN CLAUDIA SUSANNE

External author : Dates, Mariana; Voarino, Lugh; De Weert , Matis; Kazlauskaitė, Deimantė

Summary : This study, undertaken by Ecocentric, evaluates Malta’s implementation of EU Directive 2002/49/EC on the assessment and management of environmental noise. It evaluates the reasons for the several complaints about noise pollution in Malta and provides suggestions to overcome these. The study has been commissioned by the European Parliament’s Committee of Petitions and managed by the Policy Department for Citizens, Equality and Culture.

External author : HJERP Peter

Summary : This paper examines the persistent upward bias in euro area households’ inflation perceptions and expectations, even when realized inflation is near the ECB’s target. It discusses behavioural and informational drivers of this bias, its implications for consumption, wage setting, and monetary policy transmission, and the challenges it poses for ECB communication and credibility. The study concludes that improved monitoring and household-oriented communication are essential. This document was provided by the Economic Governance and EMU Scrutiny Unit at the request of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) ahead of the Monetary Dialogue with the ECB President on 26 February 2026.

External author : Peter ANDRE , Claudia SCHAFFRANKA, Michael WEBER

Summary : 'In 2026, we will deliver', was the main message of European Council President António Costa after the EU leaders' informal competitiveness retreat at Alden Biesen castle, Belgium, on 12 February 2026. There was a shared sense of urgency on the need to fix the ailing EU economy, which suffers from low productivity, expensive energy, bureaucracy, a fragmented single market, fierce competition from the United States and China, and the unravelling rules-based global order. As usual, no formal conclusions were adopted, but in light of the new geoeconomic situation a consensus emerged among EU leaders to move forward rapidly and decisively on: 1) the simplification agenda, 2) the completion of the single market towards 'one market for one Europe', 3) the review of the merger guidelines to allow champions to emerge in strategic sectors, 4) the need for short-term measures to address the cost of energy, notably electricity prices, 5) the introduction of a targeted European preference for strategic sectors, 6) a proactive trade policy, with swift implementation of recent trade deals and the negotiation of further ones, and 7) accelerated implementation of the savings and investment union. The meeting paved the way to the adoption of concrete measures at the March European Council, at which European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will present a 'One Europe, One Market Roadmap and Action Plan'. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola was invited to join EU leaders, as were the authors of two landmark competitiveness reports, Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi.

Authors : PAPUNEN Annastiina