What is the programme of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union?
From 1 January to 30 June 2022, France holds the presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU). The programme of the French Presidency has been built around three ambitions:
- A more sovereign Europe: by strengthening the Schengen area, protecting European borders, controlling migration and improving the asylum policy, in line with Europe’s values and its international commitments; by building a stronger Europe which is more capable of action in the fields of security and defence; by taking action for the prosperity and stability of its neighbours, particularly through its engagement in the Western Balkans and its renewed relationship with Africa; and by bringing forth solutions to global challenges.
- A new European model for growth: to make Europe a land of production, job creation, innovation and technological excellence; in which economic development is aligned with climate goals; that supports innovation and the growth of European digital players and sets its own rules for the digital world; and that offers high-quality, high skilled and better-paying jobs.
- A humane Europe: that listens to the concerns expressed by its citizens through the Conference on the Future of Europe; that defends the rule of law and upholds its values; that takes pride in its culture, trusts in science and knowledge, and is committed to fighting discrimination and securing a future for the next generation.
These priorities follow on from the achievements of the Slovenian Presidency and are in line with the broader programme of the trio of presidencies co-developed with the upcoming Czech and Swedish presidencies. These priorities are based on the European Commission’s work programme for 2022.
They were developed in close collaboration with the President of the European Council, the European Parliament and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The European Economic and Social Committee, the European Committee of the Regions and social partners were also consulted. Implementation of the programme will take account of developments in the ongoing public health situation.
The Presidency will make every effort to promote multilingualism in the work of the Council and at meetings held in France.