Commission State of the Union 2026: what the Commission promised
The European Commission's annual State of the Union address set out its priorities for the year ahead. Here's what was promised and how ambitious the agenda really is.
Commission 
Competitiveness Europe’s productivity gap with the US: causes and fixes
European workers produce less per hour than their American counterparts, and the gap has widened. Here's what's behind it and what the EU plans to do.
Defence Can the EU build a common defence force? The debate explained
The idea of a European army has been debated for decades. Here's where the discussion stands now, what's been agreed and what obstacles remain.
Climate The EU Green Deal explained: deadlines, targets and who pays
The EU Green Deal sets ambitious climate targets with tight deadlines. Here's a clear breakdown of what the legislation requires, when, and who foots the bill.
EU-China Europe’s trade ties with China: dependency and risk
Europe depends on China for critical goods while viewing Beijing as a systemic rival. Here's how the EU is navigating the complex relationship.
Health & Wellbeing Europe’s mental health crisis among young people
Rates of anxiety, depression and loneliness among young Europeans have risen sharply. Here's what's driving the mental health crisis and how countries are responding.
Politics Which EU countries are closing the gender pay gap?
Progress on closing the gender pay gap varies significantly across EU member states. Here's which countries are making the most headway and which are falling behind.
Editorial Why Europe needs a real foreign policy, not 27 of them
The EU's fractured approach to foreign policy has repeatedly undermined European influence. Here's the case for giving the bloc a single, coherent voice.
Eastern Europe Romania and Bulgaria inside Schengen: what changed
Romania and Bulgaria joined the Schengen Area after years of waiting. Here's what full membership means for travellers, businesses and the countries themselves.