European Commission 2020 Work Programme: An ambitious roadmap for a Union that strives for more
29 January 2020
The European Commission has adopted its 2020 Work Programme. It sets out the actions the Commission will take in 2020 to turn the Political Guidelines of President von der Leyen into tangible benefits for European citizens, businesses and society.
The driving force behind this first Work Programme is to successfully grasp the opportunities that the twin ecological and digital transitions will bring.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: “This Commission is committed to tackle our generational challenges such as climate change, digitisation and migration. We are committed to deliver on the European Green Deal and to improve chances for European citizens and businesses in the digital transformation. This Work Programme will help building a Union that strives for more.”
On behalf of a European Green Deal and the digital age:
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A European Green Deal: After tabling the first key initiatives in December 2019 and January 2020, the Commission will propose a European climate law to enshrine the 2050 carbon neutrality objective into legislation. A European Climate Pact will bring together all of these efforts, involving regions, local communities, civil society, schools, industry and individuals. The EU will also lead international negotiations ahead of the COP26 in Glasgow. The Commission will present initiatives to tackle the loss of biodiversity and – through a ‘Farm to Fork' Strategy – support farmers in providing high quality, affordable and safe food in a more sustainable way.
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A Europe fit for the digital age: A new European Data Strategy will enable our Union to make the most of the enormous value of non-personal data as an ever-expanding and re-usable asset in the digital economy. This will cover the best possible use of the potential of digital data and the development and uptake of artificial intelligence that respects our European values and fundamental rights. A new Industrial Strategy for Europe will strengthen our industrial and innovation capacities, while the Digital Services Act will reinforce the single market for digital services and help provide smaller businesses with the legal clarity and level playing field they need.
Full press release on European Commission
Full 2020 Work Programme on European Commission
Full Political Guidelines on European Commission
Related press release on BusinessEurope
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