EU

EU environment ministers approved new climate targets for 2040 and postponed the ETS2 system by one year. Andrej Babiš criticized the agreement as a failure of the Czech government, warning of higher costs, while experts argue the impact on households remains largely unchanged. Analyst Filip Křenek notes that catastrophic price scenarios are unlikely and that rejecting ETS2 could leave Czechia facing heavy EU penalties and the loss of billions from the Social Climate Fund. Commented for eXtra.cz by Filip Křenek, analyst at the EUROPEUM Institute.

The transatlantic relationship is entering a pivotal moment. With the United States turning inward, global rivalries intensifying, and trust across the Atlantic under strain, Europe faces growing pressure to rethink its approach to security, energy, and technology. This paper explores where transatlantic cooperation continues to thrive, where it is weakening, and how Europe can translate strategic ambition into tangible action—before the next crisis tests the resilience of the alliance. An insightful read for anyone engaged in global policy and transatlantic affairs.

EU environment ministers agreed to postpone the introduction of the ETS2 emissions trading system to 2028. While some states frame this as a victory, experts warn the delay will cause confusion and slow down essential green-transition investments. The Czech Republic also risks EU penalties or losing access to the Social Climate Fund if it refuses to implement ETS2 fully. Commented by Rebeka Hengalová, Research Fellow at the EUROPEUM Institute.

The EUROPEUM Institute invites you to a panel discussion focusing on Ukraine’s reform efforts on its path toward EU membership, the experiences the Czech Republic can share from its own accession process, and how Ukraine’s potential accession could impact the European Union itself.

The Project centres around the fast development of platform work in the Western Balkans and the EU. This new phenomenon has witnessed fast growth since the pandemic, particularly with digital platforms like “Upwork”.

The Dutch parliamentary election ended with a narrow victory for the liberal D66 over Geert Wilders’ anti-immigration PVV. While D66 gained significant ground, PVV lost seats and mainstream parties continue to rule out cooperation with Wilders. Coalition talks are expected to be difficult and lengthy, but the next government is likely to maintain the Netherlands’ traditionally pro-EU and pro-NATO stance. The article was commented on by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office at EUROPEUM.

More than twenty years ago, we said “yes” to the European Union — and since then, we’ve been balancing between sovereignty and cooperation, between Brussels and Prague. What have we gained, and what have we had to let go of? Is it possible to remain an independent state while being an active member of the European team?

The European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework has sparked lively discussions among EU governments and in the European Parliament. With close to €2 trillion at stake, the key question is how the EU can finance its priorities, repay pandemic-era debt, and support countries such as Poland and Czechia — all while avoiding new political rifts. EUROPEUM analyst Filip Křenek takes a closer look at the issue here.

EU leaders postponed a decision on the reparations loan for Ukraine until the December summit, as Slovak PM Robert Fico’s stance may complicate negotiations. While a new sanctions package against Russia was approved, discussions on funding remain unresolved. Commented by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

Negotiations on the EU's multiannual budget for 2028-2034 are in full swing. How are Czechia and Poland responding to the proposal? Experts say that both countries appreciate the simplified structure and greater flexibility of the budget, but at the same time express concerns about the system of national plans.

The interview discusses criticism of Prime Minister Robert Fico’s negotiation tactics regarding EU sanctions and summit conclusions, arguing that his last-minute blocking approach undermines Slovakia’s standing in the EU. The text also explains the importance of European Council conclusions and how Fico’s strategy is viewed in Brussels. Commented by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

A key summit of EU leaders kicks off in Brussels today. Slovakia is represented by Prime Minister Robert Fico, who will also temporarily convey the position of Hungary’s Viktor Orbán. On the eve of the summit, Fico met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented for ta3.