Making Europe stronger together
European Commission's work programme for 2022 throws up few surprises.
IF – 10/2021
The European Commission presented its
annual work programme 2022 on 19 October 2021. The European
Commission's work programme contains 42 new policy initiatives on all six of President von der
Leyen's policy guidelines, building on her 2021 State of the Union address. It
also reflects the lessons learned from the crisis caused by the pandemic.
The six objectives in detail:
1. A European Green Deal
The Commission still wants to make Europe
the world's first zero carbon continent by 2050. The Commission will propose a
legal framework for the certification of CO2 removal for the "Fit for 55
package", presented in 2021 as part of the European Green Deal.
2. A Europe fit for the digital age
The pandemic was like a catalyst for
digitisation. The Commission is increasingly focusing on the digital
transformation of the EU by 2030. The single market is the key to Europe's innovation.
A European chip law will be adopted to open up new markets for European
technologies. In addition, the Commission will propose a European cyber defence
legal act to establish common cyber security standards. Measures to promote
digital literacy in schools and universities will also be strengthened.
3. An economy that works for people
For the Commission, the European Pillar of
Social Rights action plan is very important as a guide to quality jobs, fair
working conditions and a better work-life balance. A proposal to improve the
protection of workers from asbestos-related risks at work is announced.
4. A stronger Europe in the world
The Commission continues to reinforce the
EU's unique global leadership role. Over the next year, the Commission will present
a new global gateway strategy to build connectivity partnerships around the
world to boost trade and investment.
5. Promoting our European way of life
The Commission has designated 2022 as the
European Year of Youth and launched a new initiative, ALMA (Aim, Learn, Master,
Achieve), to help disadvantaged young Europeans, who cannot get into any kind
of employment, education or training to gain work experience abroad with the
necessary social support. The aim is to integrate these people in education, vocational
training or quality employment.
6. A new push for European democracy
The Conference on the Future of Europe is
in full swing and aims to shape European democracy through its European
Citizens' Forums. An initiative on brain drain, mitigation of the challenges
associated with population decline and identification of potential solutions
will also be presented.
A review of the general pharmaceutical
legislation and a revision of the regulations for orphan drugs and paediatric
medicines are expected by the end of 2022. An initiative will comprehensively
address care, from childcare to geriatric long-term care, as well as a review
of the European Council recommendations on early cancer detection.