EU Council Sanctions Press Releases

Eurogroup Meeting Remarks on Macroeconomic Developments and Middle East Crisis

Remarks following the Eurogroup meeting on March 9, 2026, addressed macroeconomic developments, the impact of the Middle East crisis on energy markets and inflation, and the need to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy. The meeting also endorsed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026.

Council Calls for Greater Efforts to Combat Child Poverty

The Council of the EU has adopted conclusions calling for increased support to combat child poverty and enhance child well-being. The conclusions emphasize the economic benefits of investing in children and urge member states and the Commission to ensure adequate funding and targeted policies, aiming for five million fewer children at risk of poverty or social exclusion by 2030.

Council Recommendation on Tackling Skills Shortages

The Council of the EU has adopted a recommendation to help member states tackle labour and skills shortages in strategic sectors. This non-binding guidance aims to boost competitiveness and resilience by investing in people's knowledge and skills, addressing challenges in areas like digital technologies, health, and farming.

Macroeconomic Dialogue with Social Partners on AI and Labour Market

The Council of the EU, European Central Bank, European Commission, and Eurogroup met with European social partners on March 9, 2026, to discuss the economic situation and the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the EU labour market. The dialogue focused on safeguarding EU competitiveness and social cohesion amidst geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.

Andrés Ritter Confirmed as European Chief Prosecutor

The Council of the EU has confirmed the appointment of Andrés Ritter as the new European Chief Prosecutor for the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). His term begins on November 1, 2026, succeeding Laura Codruța Kövesi. The EPPO investigates crimes against the financial interests of the EU.

EU Council Meetings: AI, Poverty, Human Capital, and Geopolitics

The EU Council has released a forward look detailing key topics for meetings between March 9-22, 2026. Discussions will cover AI's impact on jobs, poverty reduction, economic and financial affairs, foreign policy including Ukraine and the Middle East, energy, environmental standards, and the next Multiannual Financial Framework.

Social Policy Council Meeting Advisory

The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for the upcoming Social Policy Council meeting on March 9, 2026. The advisory outlines the indicative programme, including discussions on gender equality, anti-racism strategies, child well-being, and the European Semester.

President's Weekly Schedule

The European Council has published the weekly schedule for President António Costa for March 9-11, 2026. The schedule includes a video conference with Middle East leaders, a speech at the Annual Ambassadors Conference, and an official visit to Baku, Azerbaijan.

António Costa Keynote Speech at Hamburg Matthiae Mahl Event

European Council President António Costa delivered a keynote speech at the Matthiae Mahl event in Hamburg on March 6, 2026. The speech touched upon European history, the role of cities, the EU's commitment to democracy and the rule of law, and the current geopolitical situation, including the conflict in the Middle East.

European Council President Costa to Visit Baku

The European Council announced that President Costa will visit Baku on March 11 for high-level meetings with Azerbaijani officials. Discussions will focus on energy cooperation and the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, highlighting Azerbaijan's strategic importance to the EU.