Portugal has taken over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU for the first half of 2021, under the motto ‘Time to deliver: a fair, green and digital recovery’. In addition, the country has set out its three overarching priorities during its mandate, including:
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To promote a recovery leveraged by the climate and digital transitions
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To implement the European Pillar of Social Rights of the European Union as a distinctive element for ensuring a fair and inclusive climate and digital transition
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To strengthen Europe's autonomy whilst remaining open to the world, taking a leading role in climate action and promoting a digital transformation in the service of people.
The country has outlined that as part of its efforts to strengthen the European social model, a two-day Social Summit will be held on 7 & 8 May, in an effort to give momentum to realising the European Pillar of Social Rights across all Member States. In addition, the Presidency has stated its intention to support the creation of a European Health Union, to strengthen the capacity to respond to public health crises, as well as building capacity to produce and distribute safe vaccines, in Europe and beyond. More information on the programme and events of the Presidency can be found at: www.2021Portugal.eu
