On January 1, 2021, Portugal took over from Germany the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the next six months. 

The priorities of the current Portuguese Presidency are derived from the motto for the presidency, ‘Time to deliver: a fair, green and digital recovery’:

  • To promote Europe’s recovery, leveraged by the climate and digital transitions;
  • To implement the Social Pillar of the European Union as a key element for ensuring a fair and inclusive climate and digital transition;
  • To strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy keeping it open to the world.

A key focus area is the promotion and strengthening of the European social model, by facilitating discussions on the recovery from the crisis and to face the climate and digital transitions, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Further discussion will revolve around the European Pillar of Social Rights, which will lead to the organisation of Porto Social Summit in May, and a debate on empowering citizens for the digital challenge and on the future of work. Special attention will be given to gender equality and policies for combating discrimination, poverty and social exclusion.

More information on the Portuguese Presidency – 2021portugal.eu