France took over the presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 January to 30 June 2022.
According to the official press release, the three main ambitions of the French Presidency are:
• A more sovereign Europe: by strengthening the Schengen area, protecting its borders, controlling migration and improving the asylum policy, which is more capable of action in the fields of security and defence by taking measures for the prosperity and stability of its neighbours, particularly through its engagement in the Western Balkans and its renewed relationship with Africa and by finding solutions to global challenges.
• A new European model for growth: by improving the production, innovation and technological excellence; in which economic development is aligned with climate goals; by setting its own rules for the digital world; and by offering high-quality, high‑skilled and better-paying jobs.
• A humane Europe: that does not ignore the concerns expressed by its citizens through the Conference on the Future of Europe; that defends the rule of law and upholds its values; that takes pride in its culture, trusts in science and knowledge and is committed to fighting discrimination and securing a future for the next generation.
These priorities were developed in close collaboration with the Presidency of the European Council, the European Parliament and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, The European Economic and Social Committee, the European Committee of the Regions as well as by the consultation with the social partners.
For more information on the objectives and programme of the Presidency of the Council of the EU, see the page published on the European Council website.
