At a time of increased geopolitical tensions, the EU has continued to successfully tackle the issues that concern Europeans most in 2023, whilst remaining on track to deliver on the political priorities. That is according to the new edition of the EU General Report, which was published today.
The report looks at how we have responded to emerging and existing global challenges, with our ongoing, steadfast support for Ukraine being the highlight. We have provided over €88 billion in financial, humanitarian and military assistance, offered protection to over 4 million people fleeing from Ukraine to the EU and are ready to open accession negotiations.
It also looks to the Middle East and how we have responded to the drastic deterioration in the humanitarian situation of Palestinians, quadrupling humanitarian aid to over €100 million in the last year.
At home, the report emphasises the work done in staying the course on key EU priorities
- continuing our economic recovery from the pandemic
- boosting competitiveness and manufacturing capacity for the technologies and products required to meet our ambitious climate targets
- putting in place the legal framework to cut emissions by 55 % by 2030 (a key milestone on the path to climate neutrality)
- making progress in ending the EU’s reliance on Russian fossil fuels, thanks to the REPowerEU Plan, and in reforming the design of the EU’s electricity market, to protect consumers against price shocks
- working on a first comprehensive law on Artificial Intelligence as part of Europe’s digital transition
- strengthening social dialogue and progressing on new rules to improve working conditions of people working through digital market platforms
- reaching an important milestone in overhauling our migration system.
The report is available in all official languages of the EU as a fully illustrated book and an online version which is available below.
Find more information
The EU in 2023: General Report on the Activities of the European Union
- Publication date
- 13 March 2024
- Author
- Directorate-General for Communication
Related news
The European Commission’s Blue Book Traineeship Programme, established in 1960, allows around 1,000 people from all over the EU and beyond to gain 5 months of hands-on experience in EU policymaking and administration twice a year.
On 9 May, we celebrate Europe Day. It marks the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, in which French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed the creation of a European Coal and Steel Community. This proposal marked the first step towards European integration.
In a year where the world became more volatile and fragmented, the European Union assumed more responsibility for its own security and stepped up efforts to boost its defence and preparedness. It continued to deliver for citizens and businesses.
The European Commission and the High Representative have set out a Pact for the Mediterranean that will step up cooperation and economic connection across the Mediterranean Sea.