European Commission Work Programme: Building a More Decisive, Simpler, and More Efficient Union

Key Chapter Title List

1. A New Plan for European Sustainable Prosperity and Competitiveness
2. A New Era for European Defence and Security
3. Supporting People, Strengthening Society and the Social Model
4. Preserving Quality of Life: Food Security, Water, and Nature
5. Protecting Democracy and Upholding Values
6. A Global Europe: Exerting Influence and Deepening Partnerships
7. Working Together, Preparing the Union for the Future
8. Annual Programme for Evaluations and Fitness Checks
9. List of Pending Proposals
10. List of Proposals to be Withdrawn
11. List of Legislation to be Repealed

Document Introduction

This report is the annual work programme published by the European Commission on 11 February 2025. Its core vision is to advance the EU towards becoming "a bolder, simpler, and more efficient Union." Against the backdrop of a reshaping global geopolitical landscape, challenges to economic recovery, and the deepening climate crisis, this plan focuses on six strategic directions, constructing a comprehensive action framework covering economy, defence, society, environment, democracy, and global cooperation.

One of the plan's core pillars is European sustainable prosperity and competitiveness. Centered on the three goals of enhancing competitiveness, simplifying regulations, and decarbonisation, it proposes 18 specific initiatives, including the Competitiveness Compass, the Single Market Strategy, and the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act. These cover key areas such as digital transformation, sustainable finance, and SME support, balancing the synergistic use of legislative and non-legislative tools.

In the field of defence and security, the plan responds to the challenges of geopolitical conflicts and diversified security threats. It introduces multiple initiatives such as the White Paper on the Future of European Defence, the EU Preparedness Union Strategy, and the Critical Medicines Act. Simultaneously, it strengthens institutional building for border security, cybersecurity, and combating transnational crime, constructing a multi-layered security protection system.

The social fairness and quality of life section focuses on public concerns. Through measures like the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan, the Skills Alliance, and the 2030 Consumer Agenda, it balances economic development with social inclusion. In the environment and resources domain, with the revision of the Climate Law, the Vision for Agriculture and Food, and the Water Resilience Strategy at its core, it promotes the synergistic development of green transition and food security.

In the dimensions of democratic protection and global cooperation, the plan proposes initiatives such as the European Democratic Shield, the Women's Rights Roadmap, and the Mediterranean Convention. These both strengthen internal consensus on values and expand external strategic partnerships, particularly focusing on cooperation layouts for key regions like the Black Sea area and India.

The report also includes four annexes: Evaluations and Fitness Checks, Pending Proposals, Proposals to be Withdrawn, and Legislation to be Repealed. These provide supporting mechanisms for policy implementation and explanations for historical continuity, offering an authoritative reference for understanding EU policy logic and governance pathways. It holds significant decision-support and analytical value for policymakers, researchers, and relevant institutions.