Overview of the main topics and events at the Council of EU and European Council for the coming fortnight.
Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council, 13-14 March 2023
Ministers of employment and social affairs will hold an exchange of views on the employment and social situation in the EU, with a particular focus on the labour market situation of refugees from Ukraine. They will also exchange views on the European Semester 2023 and on a proposed Council decision as regards the ratification of the ILO convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work. Other business points include a presentation of recommendations stemming from the mission to Ukraine of the Commission’s Special Advisor on the reception of Ukrainian refugees.
Ministers of health will hold a policy debate on a draft law on fees and charges payable to the European Medicines Agency and exchange views on the topic of the EU global health strategy which was presented by the Commission on 30 November 2022. The Council will also address the implementation of the medical device regulations.
Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 14 March 2023
The Council will aim to agree conclusions on the economic governance review. It is expected to greenlight Finland’s updated national recovery and resilience plan. Ministers will exchange views on the economic and financial impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, focusing on energy-related financial market aspects. The Council will aim to approve conclusions on the guidelines for the 2024 budget of the EU.
Environment Council, 16 March 2023
EU environment ministers will seek a general approach on a proposal to revise the industrial emissions directive. Ministers will hold a policy debate on a proposal on carbon removal certification. They will exchange views on a proposal on packaging and packaging waste. Ministers will also discuss a proposal on urban wastewater treatment. Over lunch ministers will discuss greening the European Semester.
Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 20 March 2023
Agriculture and fisheries ministers will discuss the recent package of measures put forward by the European Commission to improve the sustainability and resilience of the EU’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. They will also exchange views on the current market situation for agrifood products and recent trade-related developments. Other items on the agenda include agricultural and forestry aspects of the nature restoration act, a report from the European Pigmeat Reflection Group, and the Commission’s communication on A New Deal for Pollinators.
Foreign Affairs Council, 20 March 2023
The Foreign Affairs Council with foreign affairs ministers will exchange views on the Russian aggression against Ukraine, Tunisia and current affairs, and the Foreign Affairs Council with foreign affairs and defence ministers will discuss the implementation of the Strategic Compass and EU support to Ukraine.
General Affairs Council, 21 March 2023
Ministers will focus on preparations for the upcoming European Council, EU-UK relations, the European Semester and the annual rule of law dialogue.
European Council, 23-24 March 2023
EU leaders will meet in Brussels to discuss the following topics: Ukraine, competitiveness – single market – economy, energy and, in light of events, leaders may address other specific foreign policy issues.
Other events
