Obstacles to businesses' cross-border operations and expansion constitute a major hurdle to an effective single market. The International Monetary Fund estimates that persistent barriers to the single market represent the equivalent of a 44 % and 110 % tariff on goods and services, respectively. The Letta report emphasised that a single business code would be a 'game-changer', making all business procedures – from establishment to end of activity – smoother and more transparent. To address this issue, the European Commission published a proposal on 18 March 2026 for a regulation establishing the 28th regime corporate legal framework that introduces a new legal entity, EU Inc. Any company would be able to register in any Member State and opt in to the EU Inc. company form. The framework would allow quick, fully digital registration that is automatically valid across the whole EU, thereby benefiting the operations and expansion of EU Inc. businesses. In addition, the proposal provides for a single tax treatment of employee remuneration through stocks and enables employee participation schemes. It also provides for fast-track termination of solvent companies, and a legal framework for winding up insolvent small and young innovative companies, known as start-ups. Parliament adopted a resolution in January 2026 supporting the approach but remained cautious about its chances of success. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

This digest provides a collection of documents prepared by the 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 monthly by the Budgetary Support Unit of DG BUDG and the European Parliamentary Research Service. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Latvia is set to receive non-repayable financial support (grants) worth €1 969 million to implement its national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP), including for the REPowerEU chapter. These resources represent 0.3 % of the RRF, equal to 6.4 % of the country's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019. Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the original plan had an initial value of €1 826 million. In June 2022, Latvia's grant allocation was increased by €9 million. In September 2023, Latvia submitted a request to amend its NRRP, to which it added a REPowerEU chapter endowed with an additional grant allocation of €124 million. It also requested to transfer a portion of its share of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to its plan (€11 million). In December 2023, the Council adopted an amending implementing decision greenlighting the modified plan. In December 2024, Latvia submitted a second modified NRRP. In February 2025, the Council approved the revision of Latvia's plan. In November 2025, Latvia submitted a third modified NRRP. In December 2025, the Council approved the new revision of Latvia's plan. The current plan contains 24 reforms and 69 investment measures to be completed by 31 August 2026. Latvia has so far received 55.6 % of the resources, or €1 094 million, in the form of pre-financing, and three payments of grants (see annex to this briefing). The disbursements are below the current EU average of 69 %. A further two payments for grants will depend on progress made in implementing the plan. The European Parliament participates in discussions on the implementation of the RRF and continues to scrutinise the European Commission's work. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Fifth edition. The 'NGEU delivery' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

The virtual, online world is a significant part of everyday life. As a reflection of modern society, it features a range of criminal behaviour. The internet is a complex system of interconnected computer networks allowing applications to communicate with one another. Through this complexity, it has a simplistic structure with a visible top layer, a deeper content layer and finally, a small but significant dark layer. This dark layer, known as the dark web, is a less explored and understood part of the web. It contains content that is not searchable and is accessed using a process to maintain anonymity. There are legitimate and appropriate reasons for accessing the dark web, such as activists and whistleblowers avoiding identification. However, it has a reputation for illicit content and activity. This notoriety can be justified, as the dark web, while not unlawful in itself, does contain websites providing access to illegal content and services such as drugs, firearms, stolen data and child sexual abuse material. This online space is being progressively scrutinised by law enforcement agencies, who have become increasingly specialised in countering certain aspects of the dark web, with some notable successes in dismantling cybercrime infrastructure and bringing criminals to justice. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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). Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

EU-US trade relations in 2025 were marked by frequent changes in tariffs on a variety of goods. Nevertheless, the value of total trade continued to grow compared to previous years and it reached an all-time high of €908 billion in goods and €827 billion in services. The EU's trade balance showed a record surplus of €200 billion in goods, and a record deficit of €139 billion in services. The US remains the EU's most important trade partner, with a share of 17.6 % of EU total trade with the world. Similarly, the EU ranks first on the list of the US's main trade partners, with a share of 18.7 %, slightly higher than in 2024. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

The reintegration of Ukrainian war veterans into civilian life presents both a significant challenge and an opportunity for Ukraine's economic reconstruction. Veterans are facing various difficulties depending on factors such as their educational background, military role, access to healthcare (including psychological assistance), gender and access to housing, especially for those from territories currently occupied by Russia. Ukraine recently adopted its veterans policy strategy for 2030, aiming to restore the human capital and wellbeing of veterans and their families. It also seeks to express respect and gratitude towards veterans, commemorate fallen soldiers and define the role of veterans in ensuring Ukraine's security and defence capabilities. The European Commission's Ukraine 2025 enlargement report addresses the situation of veterans in several sections, assessing reforms and providing recommendations for progress on the path to EU membership. These sections concern employment and the rights of people with disabilities. Implementing the veterans policy for 2030 and various recommendations from the European Commission will require further resources to build a lasting support system for veterans. This issue is expected to be discussed during the Council of the European Union meeting on 21 April 2026. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

The Polish national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP) – Krajowy Plan Odbudowy – is the third biggest plan under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). It totals €54.7 billion, including €25.3 billion in grants and €29.4 billion in loans. The loan component has been reduced from €34.5 billion following the decrease in the level of implementation of several measures. Poland's NRRP has been revised four times, first on 8 December 2023 to add the REPowerEU chapter. The latest amendment was approved by the Council on 12 December 2025. The REPowerEU chapter has an estimated cost of €20.6 billion. The December 2025 revision aimed at streamlining implementation and included the amendment of 80 measures. Poland submitted another request to amend the plan on 11 March 2026, with the goal of aligning the schedules of reforms and investments with the actual pace of implementation. The NRRP includes 54 reforms and 59 investments aiming to promote economic recovery, while addressing structural weaknesses and pursuing the EU's objectives. The revised plan devotes 40.3 % to the green transition and 13 % to the digital transition (20.9 % excluding the REPowerEU chapter). Poland has so far received 49.2 % of the resources (€5.1 billion in pre-financing and €21.8 billion for three payments, covering five instalments, for both grants and loans); this is below the EU average (69 %) and corresponds to 45 % of all milestones and targets assessed as fulfilled (below the EU average of 53 %), suggesting that the period through to the August 2026 deadline will be crucial to ensure full implementation. The fourth payment request, covering the sixth and seventh instalments, is being assessed by the European Commission. The last payment covering the eighth and ninth instalment will depend on further progress in the implementation of the plan. Its submission is currently planned for September 2026. The European Parliament participates in interinstitutional forums for cooperation and discussion on RRF implementation and scrutinises the Commission's work. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Fifth edition. Earlier editions were co-authored by Magdalena Sapała and Božena Destin Bobková. The 'NGEU delivery' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

In 2025, ransomware – malicious software that demands a ransom – remained a major cybersecurity threat in the EU, impacting individuals as well as the public and private sectors. Recent reports confirm that attack strategies have developed into complex, multilayered software systems that enable malicious actors to evade identification and carry out decentralised attacks. Additionally, artificial intelligence has emerged as a facilitator in both spreading and combating ransomware. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Access to affordable, adequate and energy-efficient housing has become one of the EU's most pressing socio-economic challenges. Rising house prices and rents, limited affordable supply and regional disparities have intensified housing insecurity, especially for low-income households and young people. Although housing policy remains primarily a national competence, it has gained prominence on the EU agenda in response to concerns about affordability, social exclusion and energy poverty. In December 2025, the European Commission published an affordable housing plan aimed at boosting housing supply, mobilising investment, simplifying permits, and targeting young people and the homeless to facilitate access to affordable housing. Additionally, the Commission provides guidance to Member States on housing issues through the European Pillar of Social Rights and the European Semester. The Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the main instrument of Next Generation EU, plays a significant role in supporting housing-related reforms and investments through Member States' national recovery and resilience plans (NRRPs); it supports 50 housing-related investments and 21 reforms. Housing-related investments are also supported by traditional EU funding instruments under the multiannual financial framework (MFF), including cohesion policy funds and InvestEU. The NRRPs cover a wide range of relevant investment and reform measures, including areas such as social and affordable housing supply, energy renovation, urban regeneration and regulatory reforms. An analysis of the 10 plans with the largest share of measures supporting affordability and availability of housing show the different approaches Member States have taken within the RRF framework. The European Parliament has called for access to decent and affordable housing to be recognised as a fundamental right and put forward a set of recommendations prepared by its Special Committee on the Housing Crisis. Overall, the EU's evolving approach aims to enhance coordination between Member States, increase funding mobilisation and provide clearer policy guidance to tackle the housing crisis. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

In 2026, disbursements from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) could amount to some €180 billion in the best‑case scenario, more than twice the level of 2025. This support could help EU Member States mitigate the challenges they face in an increasingly uncertain global outlook. However, they need to make efforts to ensure full implementation of their national recovery and resilience plans and absorption of RRF resources, since the deadline to meet investment and reform objectives is 31 August 2026. Meanwhile, the military escalation in the Middle East is weighing on growth prospects and higher energy prices are adding new pressure on inflation. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

European Council President António Costa declared 2026 'the year of European competitiveness', emphasising the significance that the European Council places on the topic. Given the current geopolitical context, Costa put substantial efforts into maintaining the EU leaders' focus on this agenda point. Despite predictions that competitiveness would be sidelined, the European Council followed up on the discussions at the informal competitiveness retreat at Alden Biesen on 12 February, launching a 'One Europe, One Market' agenda to be implemented in the next two years. Two other crucial points were on the table. First, the enactment of the €90 billion loan to Ukraine, on which EU leaders did not convince Hungary to lift its veto on a required implementation law. This time around, leaders did not shy away from speaking bluntly, calling Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's behaviour 'disloyal', or even 'a betrayal'. For the sixth time in a row, a separate text was adopted on Ukraine, with the firm support of 25 EU leaders. The second central point was the escalating situation in the Middle East, on which EU leaders displayed unity in condemning Iran's indiscriminate military strikes against countries in the region and in rejecting US President Donald Trump's demands – and threats regarding the future of NATO – to help unblock the Strait of Hormuz. The European Council also discussed – albeit briefly – security and defence, migration, European democratic resilience, the protection of children online, the EU's eastern border regions and the situation at the Dniester river. Back-to-back with the European Council, EU leaders met for a Euro summit in inclusive format to discuss the euro-area economy in light of the war in the Middle East. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Organic production in the EU is governed by Regulation (EU) 2018/848. Following the Court of Justice's judgment of 4 October 2024 in Case C 240/23 Herbaria Kräuterparadies II, which stated that imported products recognised under equivalence arrangements cannot use the EU organic logo, the Commission has proposed adjustments to improve clarity for consumers and prevent trade disruptions. The proposal would revise the labelling rules for imports from equivalent third countries, allowing the EU organic logo to be used only when additional EU requirements are met. It would also simplify requirements for cleaning and disinfection products, raise the thresholds for exempting small sellers of unpacked organic products, ease the conditions for groups of operators, and extend equivalence recognitions to trade partners to prevent trade disruption. Further changes would address quail production rules, withdrawal periods for veterinary medicines, outdoor access for poultry and limits on poultry house size. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

The inclusion of a rebalancing mechanism into EU preferential trade agreements is a comparatively recent development. So far, only two such mechanisms have been introduced. A first rebalancing mechanism was incorporated into the EU–United Kingdom (UK) Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). It is designed to allow either party to take unilateral rebalancing measures (e.g. suspension of preferential tariffs) if, after the UK's withdrawal from the EU, 'significant divergences' from the principle of 'a level playing field for open and fair competition and sustainable development' were to emerge that have 'material impacts' on bilateral trade or investment. The mechanism does not apply to all provisions of the TCA. The TCA's mechanism has to date remained untested. A second rebalancing mechanism was introduced into the EU–Mercosur Partnership Agreement (EMPA) and the EU–Mercosur interim trade agreement (iTA). The mechanism applies to the trade pillar contained in both the EMPA and the iTA and is modelled on the World Trade Organization's rarely used non-violation complaint mechanism. Similar mechanisms exist in a number of regional preferential trade agreements, to most of which the United States is a party. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

The March II plenary session of the European Parliament focused on major geopolitical and economic issues. Members held debates on statements from the Council and the Commission, on energy security and affordability, the conclusions of the European Council meeting of 19 March 2026, and the human rights situation in Iran. The Parliament also addressed the European Citizens' Initiative calling for a ban on conversion practices in the European Union, as well as holding debates on legislative proposals for deposit protection and early intervention measures in the banking sector and to implement the European Union–United States trade deal. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Ce document s’intègre dans une série d’études qui, avec une perspective de droit comparé, visent à faire une présentation de la liberté de pensée, de conscience et de religion dans différents ordres juridiques. Après avoir expliqué le droit positif et la jurisprudence d’application, le contenu, les limites et la possible évolution de cette liberté sont examinés. La présente étude a pour objet le cas de l’Union européenne. Cette liberté est garantie par l’article 10 de la Charte des droits fondamentaux de l’Union européenne et par nombreuses dispositions de droit primaire. Avant le Traité d’Amsterdam de 1997 et la directive 2000/78/CE du 27 novembre 2000, il n’y a eu que peu d’arrêts de la CJUE pertinents pour la liberté de pensée, de conscience et de religion, mais ils sont importants : l’arrêt Van Duyn c. Home Office, lié à la libre circulation des travailleurs et l’arrêt Vivien Prais, concernant l'égalité des chances des candidats de toutes les religions devant l'accès aux institutions de l’Union européenne. Par la suite, la jurisprudence s’est développée avec nombre d’arrêts concernent l’interprétation et l’application de la directive 2000/78/CE, et un nombre plus réduit concernant d’autres actes de droit dérivé, en particulier en ce qui concerne la liberté de religion. La jurisprudence précise notamment les limitations pouvant être apportées au port visible de signes politiques, philosophiques ou religieux et en particulier du foulard islamique, ainsi que la limite des discriminations sur l’emploi dues à l’appartenance religieuse ou à l’attitude de bonne foi ou de loyauté envers une éthique et les situations justifiant le droit d’asile ou la protection subsidiaire pour des ressortissants de pays tiers immigrant dans des États membres. La protection de cette liberté peut être considérée dans l’ensemble comme effective mais il ne faut pas oublier qu’elle ne s’applique que dans le champ des compétences de l’Union. Il y a cependant place pour des améliorations, notamment pour faire face aux défis présents et futurs. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

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). Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP