The following pages concerning the German Council Presidency programme provide detailed insight into the issues that Germany intends to drive forward during its Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2020 - working together for Europe’s recovery.

Background information is provided on programme topics such as the answer to the COVID-19 pandemic, an ambitious climate and environmental protection policy, the EU's digital sovereignty and instruments for a strong EU in the world. You will also find out more about current topics such as the negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the future relationship between the EU and the United Kingdom.

We are placing particular importance on overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic in the long-term. However, our tasks go far beyond efforts to deal with the crisis. Together, we must focus our attention on the major transformation processes of our time, such as climate change, the digital transformation and the evolving world of work.

The guiding principles of Germany’s Council Presidency are an innovative, sustainable and equitable Europe. A competitive Europe which stands for social cohesion, security and shared values. A strong and capable Europe in the world.

The central topics of Germany's Presidency of the Council of the EU