Press release - Commission tries to secure Parliament’s support to tackle a difficult year ahead

The 2021 work programme has to help Europe move beyond the fragility created by the crisis and seize the opportunity to prepare for a green, digital and more resilient future for everyone, said Vice-President Šefčovič. He then listed the main points of the 2021 EC work programme, which was put together by Commissioners and EP committee chairs. To strengthen democracy and fundamental rights in the EU and “ensure that everyone has a say”, Šefčovič also insisted that the Conference on the Future of Europe should start as soon as possible.

All but one of the political group speakers welcomed the Commission’s plans for action, in particular on better health coordination, economic recovery and resilience. They called for social justice to accompany Europe’s digitalisation and green transition. For its plans to come to fruition, the Commission needs to fight alongside Parliament for a solid long-term budget (MFF) now, some insisted.

The Commission’s 2021 work programme is the result of close cooperation with the European Parliament, member states and EU consultative bodies. Public discussions began with the State of the European Union plenary debate with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 16 September. The Commission will now start discussions with the Parliament and Council to establish a list of joint priorities on which co-legislators agree to take swift action.