2012 has started and Denmark has taken over the Presidency of the European Union for the next six months.
The EU Presidency has mainly two tasks; to plan and chair the meetings in the Council of Europe and represent the Council towards the other EU Institutions (mainly EU Commission and the European Parliament. This work is done closely with the Permanent President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton.
Holding the Presidency gives some extra chance to influence the EU Agenda and the four priorities set by Denmark are the following:
- A responsible Europe – sustainable growth and job creation requires sustainable public finances and necessary structural reforms.
- A dynamic Europe - return of growth and higher employment in short and long term – the importance of a sustainable Single market.
- A green Europe – enhance the transition to a green economy and focus on sustainability
- A safe Europe – cooperation to ensure the security of European citizens and to solve cross border issues.
Green, dynamic, responsible, it sounds promising right, but let’s see in June what they have achieved.
And I think I’m not alone to feel worried for the implications of creating a safer Europe…
You can follow the Presidency activities at http://eu2012.dk/en
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