As the Federal Republic of Germany takes over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 July – 31 December, it will work closely with the succeeding EU Council Presidencies of the Governments of Portugal and Slovenia in a cooperation referred to as a “Trio Programme.” ...

The following issues are some highlights from the upcoming 18-month programme of the Council...

- Sustaining a fair and social Europe while promoting Europe’s interests and values around the world. Promoting social cohesion, the rule of law, equality, human rights and corporate social responsibility while also incorporating lessons learned during the pandemic.

- Securing transparent and European-wide digital transformation that respects human rights...

- Increasing efforts against illegal migration and human trafficking, while also addressing the root causes of migration and forced displacement...

- Promoting open, ambitious, fair, sustainable and rules-based trade...

- Building a climate-neutral and green Europe and achieving the 17 sustainable development goals and the objectives of the EU Green Deal...