Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
Why is the European Union one of the world’s biggest trade powers? With 27 countries working together as one single market, the EU has trade agreements with around 80 partners worldwide − more than any other economy. These agreements cut tariffs, remove trade barriers, lower prices, and make sure that imported products meet European safety standards. With 450 million consumers and over 33 million European jobs tied to trade, EU trade policy matters for exporters, businesses and shoppers alike.
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
How will we pay in the future? And can the EU build a payment system of its own? Introducing the digital euro: a new digital form of cash issued and guaranteed by the European Central Bank (ECB) that lets you pay online, in shops or offline. The digital euro does not replace cash but offers European citizens a new form of payment, one which is both safe and private. Developed with the ECB in Frankfurt and set for a 2027 pilot ahead of a possible 2029 rollout, this video breaks down what the digital euro is, how the digital euro wallet works, and what it means for payment independence, privacy, and Europe’s digital payment sovereignty.
00:00 Intro
00:39 What is the digital euro?
02:23 How will the digital euro work?
03:25 EU sovereignty
03:44 Digital euro & privacy
03:54 Is the digital euro a cryptocurrency?
04:16 How far along is the digital euro in its development?
04:52 Why does this matter to you?
05:15 Outro
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We are the YouTube channel of the European Council and the Council of the EU
The European Council is the highest political body of the European Union, bringing together the heads of state or government of all EU member states, along with its President and the President of the European Commission. It sets the EU’s political agenda, addressing major challenges and defining strategic priorities, such as those outlined in the Strategic Agenda 2024–2029, which focuses on a free and democratic Europe, a strong and secure Europe, and a prosperous and competitive Europe. The European Council also plays a crucial role in crisis management, from responding to Russia’s war in Ukraine to tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. Decisions are typically made by consensus, and its meetings, often called ‘European summits’, take place at least four times a year in Brussels, Belgium.
The Council of the European Union (often referred to as the Council) is where the daily legislative and policy work of the EU happens. Comprising ministers from each EU member state, it negotiates and adopts laws, usually in partnership with the European Parliament, across 10 policy areas, from foreign affairs to energy. Meetings are held regularly in Brussels and Luxembourg. Unlike the European Council, the Council operates under a rotating six-month presidency, held by each member state in turn, ensuring that every EU country, regardless of size, has an equal voice in shaping European policies.
Find out more here: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
Six billion parcels enter the EU every year and on paper, you’re the one responsible for their customs duties and safety checks. The EU is overhauling its outdated customs system, making online platforms the ‘importer of record’ and merging 27 national customs authorities into one. Here’s how the EU’s customs reform will change how you shop online.
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
🇪🇺 Another week, another journey across Europe
President António Costa continued his visits to EU leaders, exchanging views on shared priorities and strengthening cooperation.
📍Warsaw 🇵🇱
📍Berlin 🇩🇪
📍Valletta 🇲🇹
📍Madrid 🇪🇸
📍Lisbon 🇵🇹
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
🇪🇺 President António Costa continued his meetings with EU leaders, discussing shared priorities and strengthening cooperation.
The second week took President Costa to:
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
Within the EU borders barely exist. You can cross from France to Germany or Vienna to Budapest without ever needing to use your passport. But step outside the Schengen area, and entry involves a screening process that begins long before you reach Europe. This video breaks down how the Schengen visa works, who needs one, and how new systems like EES and ETIAS are changing how travellers enter Europe.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:46 Schengen
01:23 Visas, Entry/Exit System & ETIAS
02:27 Schengen Visa
04:06 Why does this matter?
05:11 Outro
________________________________________
We are the YouTube channel of the European Council and the Council of the EU
The European Council is the highest political body of the European Union, bringing together the heads of state or government of all EU member states, along with its President and the President of the European Commission. It sets the EU’s political agenda, addressing major challenges and defining strategic priorities, such as those outlined in the Strategic Agenda 2024–2029, which focuses on a free and democratic Europe, a strong and secure Europe, and a prosperous and competitive Europe. The European Council also plays a crucial role in crisis management, from responding to Russia’s war in Ukraine to tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. Decisions are typically made by consensus, and its meetings, often called ‘European summits’, take place at least four times a year in Brussels, Belgium.
The Council of the European Union (often referred to as the Council) is where the daily legislative and policy work of the EU happens. Comprising ministers from each EU member state, it negotiates and adopts laws, usually in partnership with the European Parliament, across 10 policy areas, from foreign affairs to energy. Meetings are held regularly in Brussels and Luxembourg. Unlike the European Council, the Council operates under a rotating six-month presidency, held by each member state in turn, ensuring that every EU country, regardless of size, has an equal voice in shaping European policies.
Find out more here: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
Flight cancelled or delayed by more than 3 hours? EU air passenger rights entitle you to compensation, up to €250 for short routes, €400 for medium-haul, and €600 for long-haul flights. Airlines also owe you meals, refreshments and hotel accommodation if you’re stuck overnight. Travel delay compensations apply to journeys by train and coach, too. Know your passenger rights!
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
Travelling in Europe this summer? Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you access to state healthcare in all 27 EU countries, plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK, at the same price as locals pay. It’s free and takes minutes to apply for through your national health insurance provider.
Source: Council of the European Union (video statements)
Bought something online and changed your mind? EU consumer protection law gives you 14 days to return the item for a full refund, no reason needed. And on top of that, every product, bought online or in-store, comes with a minimum 2-year guarantee. Know your consumer rights before your next purchase.
