Poland to Assume EU Council Presidency in 2025: Priorities Announced
16/12/2024
On January 1, 2025, Poland will assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, spearheading initiatives to enhance cooperation, inclusivity, and innovation across the EU. With a clear focus on education, youth, skills, and gender equality, Poland aims to address some of Europe’s most pressing challenges while fostering resilience and growth.
Education and Training: Building Inclusive Systems
Poland’s presidency will emphasize creating resilient and inclusive education systems, ensuring high-quality lifelong learning opportunities for all citizens. Key initiatives include:
- Strengthening cooperation among EU countries to develop robust education and training systems.
- Leading high-level discussions on the future of EU education programmes beyond 2027, based on evaluations of Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps.
- Advancing the higher education package, focusing on the introduction of a joint European diploma and enhancing vocational excellence to address workforce needs.
Youth Engagement: Empowering the Next Generation
Supporting and empowering Europe’s youth will be a central focus of Poland’s presidency. Actions include:
- Initiating measures to help young artists launch their professional careers.
- Strengthening European identity among young people, rooted in the values enshrined in the EU Treaties.
- Introducing a Council resolution to improve governance and establish a comprehensive communication strategy for the European Youth Dialogue.
Labour Market and Skills: Addressing Shortages and Promoting Social Dialogue
Poland will address labour market challenges by focusing on skills development, workforce activation, and social dialogue. Key priorities include:
- Tackling labour and skills shortages by promoting requalification and engaging inactive populations.
- Supporting the 2025 review of the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan, with a focus on employment growth, skill enhancement, and poverty reduction.
- Advancing social dialogue by continuing work on the European Works Councils Directive and initiating discussions on a New Pact for European Social Dialogue.
Gender Equality: Ensuring Equity in the Digital Age
Recognizing the importance of equality in a modern society, Poland’s presidency will focus on advancing gender equality in the digital era. Initiatives will aim to ensure that technological advancements lead to equitable opportunities for all, irrespective of gender.
Read more about the presidency’s plans and priorities as the term begins.
