Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU ( July to December 2024 ): Make Europe Great again !

Functions of the Presidency of the Council of the EU

The Presidency of the Council of the EU is held by an EU member state on a rotating basis for a period of six months. During this term, the presidency is responsible for organizing and leading meetings of the Council, setting its agenda, and facilitating dialogue both at Council meetings and with other EU institutions like the European Commission and the European Parliament 1 2 . The presidency plays a crucial role in ensuring the continuity of the EU’s work, managing the legislative process, and representing the Council in relations with other EU institutions and international bodies.

  • The Hungarian Presidency’s Roadmap

For its term from July to December 2024, the Hungarian Presidency has outlined a comprehensive roadmap focusing on several thematic areas, that RED works on:

  • Agriculture: Under the Hungarian Presidency, the goal for agriculture is to increase the competitiveness of the EU’s agricultural sector while ensuring sustainability and resilience. Emphasis will be put on innovation in farming practices, sustainable resource management, and strengthening rural development 3 4 .
  • Culture: In the field of culture, the presidency aims to promote cultural heritage and creativity. Initiatives will focus on safeguarding and enhancing Europe’s diverse cultural heritage, supporting creative industries, and fostering cultural exchange among member states 5 .
  • Youth: The focus on youth will entail policies to empower young people and ensure their active participation in the democratic process. The presidency plans to address youth unemployment, education, and training, emphasizing digital skills and green jobs 3 4 .
  • Employment strategies: will aim at boosting job creation and improving labor market conditions. This includes tackling unemployment through skills development, promoting gender equality in the workplace, and ensuring social inclusion 3 4 .
  • Heritage: Heritage preservation will centre on protecting and promoting the EU’s rich and varied cultural heritage. Efforts will be made to enhance historical sites and museums, ensuring they are accessible to all citizens and future generations 5 .

Major European Policies

  • Common Agricultural Policy (CAP): will be a key area of focus, with efforts directed toward modernising European agriculture. Emphasis will be on making the agricultural sector greener, more competitive, and better able to support rural communities 3 .
  • European Green Deal: The presidency will push the European Green Deal forward, aiming to transition the EU to a sustainable economy. Key initiatives will include reducing carbon emissions, fostering renewable energy, and promoting circular economy practices 3.
  • Cohesion Policy: Efforts regarding Cohesion Policy will focus on reducing disparities between regions. The presidency will ensure that all regions benefit from economic growth and job creation, focusing on less developed areas 3 .
  • Rural Pact: will aim to strengthen rural areas, ensuring they are vibrant and sustainable. This includes supporting rural economies, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for rural populations 3 .

  • Agenda of Meetings and Events from July 8 to September 8

From July 8 to September 8, 2024, the Hungarian Presidency has scheduled several key meetings and events. I found 13 events related to our thematics ⇒ Print – 2024 Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU (Europa.eu) These are the 3 more important:

The Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU promises to be an active period focused on several strategic priorities aimed at fostering growth, sustainability, and cohesion within the EU.

Detailed upcoming events – Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU

9-10 October, Budapest: Informal Meeting of Employment and Social Policy Ministers
10-11 October, Luxembourg: Justice and Home Affairs Council
14 October, Luxembourg: Environment Council
17-18 October, Budapest: Informal Meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (Trade configuration)
21-22 October, Luxembourg: Agriculture and Fisheries Council
18 November, Brussels: Agriculture and Fisheries Council
25 November, Brussels: Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council (Education and Youth)
28-29 November, Brussels: Competitiveness Council (Internal Market and Industry, Research and Space)
2-3 December, Brussels: Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council
9-10 December, Brussels: Agriculture and Fisheries Council
12-13 December, Brussels: Justice and Home Affairs Council
16 December, Brussels: Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy)
17 December, Brussels: Environment Council

This detailed list highlights the main ministerial meetings, councils and conferences scheduled for October to December 2024 under the Hungarian Presidency. These events will play a crucial role in shaping EU policy and decision-making in a variety of areas.
Among these events, the following are of particular importance:
The informal meeting of employment and social policy ministers (9-10 October), which will address crucial issues relating to the labour market and social inclusion. The Environment Council (14 October and 17 December), which is likely to address issues relating to climate change and sustainability.
The 7th Ministerial Conference of the Budapest Process (11-12 November), which will focus on migration and security issues. The Competitiveness Council (28-29 November), which will discuss strategies to strengthen the EU economy and stimulate innovation. The numerous meetings of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, which will deal with the EU’s agricultural and fisheries policies, which are crucial for many Member States.