EU Enlargement & Neighbourhood
The EU prioritises development and stability in the wider region and neighbourhood, working in close partnership with its neighbours to the East and South and supporting the reforms required by countries that want to become EU members.
During the past weeks, the first COVID-19 vaccines delivered through COVAX have arrived to Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia. The European Union has been key to making support through COVAX possible, and it remains committed to supporting the region through the pandemic and beyond.
Despite the fact that Roma constitute Europe’s largest ethnic minority with approximately 6 million Roma living in the EU, their status and rights are still overlooked by many in the public debate. Subsequently, Roma are still subject to discrimination and social exclusion. On the occasion of the International Roma Day on 8 April, we are looking at the EU and the Council of Europe’s respective actions to support and empower Roma people across Europe, giving them the opportunity to realise their full potential and engage fully in political, social, economic and cultural life.
The Council of Europe Istanbul Convention on Action against violence against women and domestic violence recently celebrated its decennium anniversary. Shortly thereafter, Turkey announced on 20 March 2021 it would withdraw from the Istanbul Convention. On 29 March, the EU Delegation to the Council of Europe invited five panellists to talk about the impact that the Convention had in their respective countries and policy fields. The event was entitled “Listen to Her: Taking Actions to End Violence Against Women”, and attracted considerable interest.
Together we celebrate the amazing courage and commitment of those amongst us who made a contribution for the greater good! The EU Delegation in Strasbourg and its partners are launching an open call for photos and testimonials to illustrate the stories of individuals who faced the crisis and set an example of solidarity in such difficult times. Join forces with us and send us your proposal by the 31st of May 2021! The selected photos will be featured in a virtual exhibition and in a dedicated photobook and postcards collection.
On 29 March (15:00-16:00 CET) join us for an online event on the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence - better known as the “Istanbul Convention”.
01/12/2019 - HR/VP Josep Borrell presents himself and his agenda at the occasion of taking office as the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission.