Browsing: EU Featured

The European Union’s anti-corruption efforts have stalled, with Hungary and Bulgaria scoring the lowest in Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, said Flora Cresswell, regional advisor for Europe. The findings are crucial as the EU prepares to adopt a new Anti-Corruption Directive.

The European Parliament approved a legislative change allowing the transfer of asylum seekers to unrelated countries before claim processing, stated German MEP Lena Düpont. This move is significant as it may reshape EU cooperation with third countries regarding migration.

Political groups in the European Parliament agreed on the EU-US trade deal, established in July 2025 by US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The deal requires ratification following controversies around tariffs and territorial sovereignty issues.

MEPs from Hungary’s Tisza party opposed European Parliament safeguards for the EU’s Mercosur trade deal, asserting support for local farmers. Their stance raises concerns within the European People’s Party as they lead in upcoming elections against Viktor Orbán’s government.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have called for the European Union to re-engage diplomatically with Russia to influence post-war security discussions. This push has intensified amid debates on appointing a special envoy to streamline communication with the Kremlin.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the proposed “European preference” aims to prioritise EU-made products in public procurement, essential for enhancing competitiveness and reducing dependency on foreign imports. Industry leaders warn of supply chain disruptions and increased costs.

EU officials have expressed concerns about Spain’s plan to regularise undocumented migrants, stating it could set a precedent for other member states. This development is significant as the EU seeks to manage migration effectively amidst ongoing challenges.

The European Court of Auditors (ECA) has raised concerns about a lack of clarity in tracking public funds in the EU’s proposed long-term agricultural budget for 2028-2034, warning it may create unpredictability for beneficiaries and hinder fund delivery.

Iranian chess grandmaster Mitra Hejazipour has urged international powers to intervene against the Iranian government’s crackdown on protests, claiming over 30,000 have died since demonstrations began in December. She criticizes negotiations and sees Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as a leader for democratic transition.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, proposed that countries unable to reach consensus on economic policies should form smaller groups to advance initiatives, ahead of a pivotal summit aimed at strengthening Europe’s economy against US and China pressures.