Document represents Ursula von der Leyen's political guidelines for the next European Commission 2024-2029. In the introduction, it stresses that the recent European elections have confirmed the diversity and unity of the European a union that is home to almost 500 million people with diverse cultures and perspectives. Von der Leyen points to a period of uncertainty and anxiety for Europeans who have real concerns about the cost of living, housing, business, migration, security and wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. At the same time, they express concern about the slowness and burdensomeness of the EU.

It stresses that these expectations and concerns need to be addressed and to maintain a democratic center in Europe. He warns of polarization and the rise of extremism if the center fails to address the challenges. He points to a period of profound change in society, security, climate and economy, which can lead to instability and a sense of loss. Europe faces a clear choice: either face an uncertain world alone or unite around its values. Von der Leyen is convinced that The biggest challenges can only be solved by working togetherHe believes that Only a united Europe can face generational challenges and mentions achievements from the last five years, such as vaccine provision, green and digital transformation initiatives, and support for Ukraine.

It stresses that it is time for Europe to move forward collectively again, a shared responsibility of all Europeans and those who strive for a European future. It defines a vision of the Union that should be faster, simpler, more focused, more unified and more supportive of people and societies. Suggests a file focused and collective goals by 2030 and beyond in the areas of: defence and security, sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, democracy and social justice, global leadership and fulfilling Europe's responsibilities. The Political Guidelines represent a blueprint for European strength and unity, drawing on consultations and shared ideas with democratic forces in the European Parliament and the European Council's strategic agenda for 2024-2029. It underlines that the next five years will determine Europe's place in the world for the next five decades.

A new plan for sustainable prosperity and competitiveness for Europe:

Von der Leyen stresses that Europe has always been a continent of industry, entrepreneurship and innovation, and points to the advantages of a unique social market economy. However, she identifies structural brakes on competitiveness, such as unfair competition, high energy prices, lack of skills and capital. It draws attention to risks of dependencies and disrupted supply chainsIt stresses that Europe cannot afford to fall behind in the global race for climate neutrality and the development of key technologies. It proposes new European prosperity plan focused on making it easier to do business and deepening the Single Market, building a Green Industrial Deal, strengthening research and innovation, boosting productivity through digital technologies, massively investing in sustainable competitiveness and addressing skills and labour shortages.

The key to competitiveness is deepening the single market in sectors such as services, energy, defence, finance, electronic communications and digital. It proposes a new approach to competition policy to support the growth of companies in global markets while maintaining a level playing field. Commits to simplification of administrative burden and implementation of legislation. It proposes a new pan-European legal status for innovative companies and introduction a new category of small mid-cap companiesFuture legislation should be simpler and designed with small businesses in mind. Suggests renewal of the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making and introduction annual progress reports from each commissioner.

In the area Green Industrial Agreement Stresses the commitment to the objectives of the European Green Deal and the need decarbonization and industrialization of the economy simultaneously. Suggests A Green Industrial Deal for competitive industries and quality jobs in the first 100 days of the mandate, focused on simplification, investment and ensuring access to cheap, sustainable and secure energy and raw materials. It will propose Act on Accelerating Industrial Decarbonization and measures to reduction in energy prices through support for renewables, joint fuel purchases and the development of the Energy Union. It plans increase investment in clean energy and technology a activate and expand the aggregate demand mechanism also for hydrogen and critical raw materials. It will work on new partnerships in clean energy, trade and investmentIn the area of mobility, it will propose a single digital platform for booking and selling travel ticketsSupports technologically neutral approach to achieve climate neutrality in the automotive industry.

Transition to circular and more resilient economy will be supported the new circular economy law a new package for the chemical industry. It will focus on reducing addictions in key sectors, especially health and pharmaceuticals, through the Critical Medicines Act. Will continue to build European Health Union and will intensify work in the area preventive health a cybersecurity of healthcare systems.

In the area promoting productivity through the spread of digital technologies stresses the need to increase productivity compared to global competitors. It will focus on implementation and enforcement of adopted digital laws, promoting fair competition on e-commerce platforms and investments in breakthrough technologies. He wants Europe to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. Proposes an initiative AI Factories and strategy Apply AI and establishment European AI Research Council. Will support open access to data while maintaining high data protection standards and will propose The European Data Union Strategy.

Stresses the need to place research and innovation at the heart of the European economy. Plans increase research spending and focus on strategic priorities. It wants Europe to seize the potential biotechnology revolution and proposes new European law on biotechnologyIt will focus on creating conditions for successful researchers and strengthening cooperation between research, higher education and businesses.

In the area turbo charging investments will focus on unblocking financing for the green, digital and social transformation. It stresses that this financing also requires completing the Capital Markets Union a attracting private capital. Propose measures to increase risk absorption a review of the regulatory framework. It will deal with fragmentation of financial markets and proposes European Savings and Investment Union. Improves utilization public procurement to support innovation and strategic technologies and propose revision of the public procurement directive. Suggests new European Competitiveness Fund under the new multiannual financial framework for investments in strategic technologies and support for important projects of common European interest (IPCEI).

In the area addressing skills and workforce shortages proposes Skills Union focused on investment, lifelong learning, skills retention and recognition of different types of vocational training. It will focus on improving basic skills and proposes Strategic Plan for STEM EducationThe importance will increase vocational education and training (VET) through European strategies for VET. The funding for skills in the EU budget will be improved and aligned with labour market needs. Work will be done on European diploma and it is proposed Skills Portability Initiative.

A new era for European defence and security:

Von der Leyen reminds us that peace in Europe is not a given, and the Russian aggression in Ukraine has confirmed this. She emphasizes that The best investment in European security is an investment in the security of Ukraine. and promises continued financial, political and military support. It points to the need for Europe to secure its own means of defence and deterrence. All policies will be assessed from a security perspective. It will focus on revival of the European Defence Union. Suggests appointment of a Commissioner for Defence and submit White Paper on the Future of European Defence in the first 100 days of the mandate. The key will be strengthening the EU-NATO partnership. Stresses the need increase investment in defense, better and more collaborative spending of funds. It will get stronger European Defence Fund a European Defence Industrial Programme. It will be created a true single market for defence products and services and they will be supported significant projects of the European Defence Union, such as European air defense shield a cyber defense. Work will be done on motivating private investment in defense and cooperation with the European Investment Bank.

In the area Union preparedness will focus on strengthening cyber defense, securing critical infrastructure and a common approach to prevention and preparedness for new threats such as chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) risks. Work will be done on integrated deterrence strategy and strengthening sanctions.

In the area a safer Europe will focus on combating organised crime through a new European internal security strategy and strengthening EuropolIt will get better. European arrest warrant and consider extending the powers of the European Public Prosecutor's Office. Measures will be taken against drug trafficking a terrorism through new action plans. It will be created a new European critical communication system for public authorities.

In the area stronger common borders will focus on border security and smoothness and strengthening integrated border management. It will get stronger Frontex, the number of European Border and Coast Guard officers will be increased to 30 000. It will be fought against hybrid attack at borders and cooperation with third countries on border security will be strengthened through EU visa policy strategyThe goal is fully functional Schengen area, and therefore Bulgaria and Romania should be fully integrated into Schengen.

In the area migration will focus on implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum. It will be developed European Strategy for Migration and Asylum a a new common approach to returnsStrategic relations with third countries in the area of migration and security will continue to be developed, in particular within the framework of of the new Pact for the Mediterranean. New ways of combating irregular migration will be sought, while respecting international law. Coordination of rescue operations in the Mediterranean and the fight against smuggling will be strengthened. It will be ensured that migrants are not exploited in the labour market. At the same time, legal migration routes based on labor market needs.

Supporting people, strengthening companies and the social model:

Von der Leyen highlights the unique quality of life in Europe and the need to maintain and improve it. She will focus on social justice in the modern economy and implementation of principles European Pillar of Social Rights through new action planThe impacts of digitalisation on the world of work will be addressed, for example by introducing the right to disconnect. It shall be submitted quality jobs roadmap and financing for just transition will be increased. It will be strengthened European social dialogue and will introduce himself a new Pact for European Social Dialogue. It will be developed the first EU anti-poverty strategy and will strengthen Child Guarantee.

It will be addressed urgently. housing crisisA Commissioner responsible for housing will be appointed and submitted the first European affordable housing plan. Cooperation with the European Investment Bank will be pan-European investment platform for affordable and sustainable housingMember States will be allowed to double the planned cohesion policy investments in affordable housing and state aid rules are being revised. Rapid implementation will be key Social Climate FundThe initiative will continue. The New European Bauhaus.

They will be dealt with inequalities a demographic changes. It will focus on increase in labor market participation, especially women and young people, reducing regional disparities and supporting young parents. Regions will remain at the heart of cohesion and growth policy. The specific challenges of islands and outermost regions will be taken into account.

In the area unifying societies and supporting young people will be working on protection of the rights of persons belonging to minoritiesA Commissioner responsible for ensuring intergenerational justiceThe program will be strengthened. Erasmus+, including for training. All Commissioners will organize annual youth dialogues and it will be established The President's Youth Advisory Committee. It will focus on protecting the mental health of children and young people, especially in the online environment, and will be carried out pan-European investigation into the impacts of social mediaMeasures will be taken against unethical techniques of online platforms and cyberbullyingEuropean culture and history will be promoted.

In the area Union of Equality will continue to build equality for all. An Equality Commissioner will be appointed to propose an updated LGBTIQ equality strategy a a new anti-racism strategy after 2025. Strengthening will continue gender equality through a new gender equality strategy after 2025 a women's rights roadmap.

Maintaining quality of life: food security, water and nature:

Von der Leyen stresses the importance food safety and support for European farmers and rural areas. It will commit to continuing the dialogue with farmers and present a vision for agriculture and food in the first 100 days of his mandate. He will always defend EU income policy for farmers and ensure targeted use of the EU budget and the Common Agricultural Policy. Farmers will be allowed to work without excessive bureaucracy and family farms and nature-friendly practices will be supported. The competitiveness of the entire food chain will be supported and farmers' position against unfair trading practices will be strengthened. Fishermen and coastal communities will be similarly supported. A Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans will be appointed and focus will be on European Ocean PactIt will continue in nature protection and biodiversity through motivation and effective implementation of international commitments.

In the area climate change adaptation, preparedness and solidarity will focus on strengthening Union Civil Protection Mechanism and work on the European Civil Protection Mechanism. It will be developed European Climate Change Adaptation Plan and will strengthen Europe's water security through a new European water resilience strategy.

Protecting our democracy, upholding our values:

Von der Leyen stresses that the future of Europe depends on strong democracy and the defense of its values. In the field of protection of democracy will propose a new European shield of democracy to combat foreign manipulation of information and online interference. Situational awareness, media literacy will be strengthened and a European network of fact-checkers. Enforcement of digital rules will be intensified and issues will be addressed deepfakesFreedom of expression will always be respected.

In the area strengthening the rule of law Monitoring and reporting will continue to be improved through rule of law reports. The report will be extended to include the single market dimension and will also include accession countries. It will invest in strengthening the rule of law and will be linked to EU financial support. The infringement procedures and Article 7 will be used effectively. It is important freedom of the media, and therefore will be implemented European Media Freedom Act and support for independent media and journalists will be strengthened.

In the area involving citizens at the center of democracy will continue to follow up on the Conference on the Future of Europe and the Citizens' Panels. Each year, policy areas where recommendations from the Citizens' Panels would be of greatest value will be selected. Cooperation with civil society organisations and local parliamentarians will be strengthened.

Global Europe: Leveraging our strengths and partnerships:

Von der Leyen points to a dangerous world and the need for a more assertive Europe in pursuing its strategic interests. Russia's war against Ukraine is part of a broader attack on Europe and the international order. Supporting Ukraine remains a top priority. The world has entered a period of geostrategic rivalry. There is a need to strengthen cooperation with like-minded partners and the United Kingdom. Close cooperation will be maintained with the High Representative/Vice-President of the Commission.

Enlargement is a geopolitical necessity. It will be a merit-based process. Support for candidate countries through investment and reforms will be strengthened, such as the Western Balkans Growth Plan and the Ukraine Facility. The rule of law and fundamental values will remain the foundation of enlargement. A Commissioner for Enlargement will be appointed.

The extension will be added a more strategic approach to the neighborhood, in particular to the Mediterranean. A Commissioner for the Mediterranean shall be appointed. New Pact for the Mediterranean will strengthen the partnership in this region. Europe will be active in the Middle East and support two-state solution.

In the area new economic foreign policy emphasis will be placed on economic security, trade and investment in partnerships. The priority will be to strengthen competitiveness, protect against leakage of key technologies and address security risks. The approach will be based on "risk reduction, not separation". We will strengthen foreign investment supervision, coordinate export controls, and address risks associated with outbound investment. We will continue to deepen free and fair trade and develop new partnerships in clean energy, trade and investment and cooperation on critical raw materials. Rules-based trade will be promoted, including a reformed and strengthened World Trade Organization. Enforcement of trade agreements and use of trade defence instruments will be intensified. The initiative will be strengthened Global Gateway for investments in infrastructure projects around the world. It will work with countries in the Indo-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

Europe will play a leading role in reforming the international systemIt will focus on a fairer representation of all regions and on addressing development and debt issues. It will take into account the impacts of European legislation on third countries and provide them with more targeted support.

Delivering on shared tasks and preparing the Union for the future:

Von der Leyen stresses the need to focus on implementation, investment and reforms. She will propose new EU budget in 2025which will be more focused, simpler and with greater impactThe emphasis will be on a policy-oriented budget linked to key reforms. It will be necessary to strengthen and modernise the EU budget's revenues through new own resources.

It is necessary ambitious reform agenda to ensure the proper functioning of the enlarged Union and enhance democratic legitimacy. It will be considered change of EU treaties where it will improve the Union. Enlargement will be used as a catalyst for progress. They will be presented policy revisions before enlargement in different sectors. Measures will be proposed to strengthening Europe's capacity to act, including new formats and decision-making processes.

It will be strengthened partnership between the European Commission and the European Parliament. Parliament's right to initiate legislation will continue to be supported. Cooperation through structured dialogues will be improved and the framework agreement between the institutions will be revised. Article 122 TFEU will only be used in exceptional cases. Commissioners will be more present in the relevant committees of the European Parliament. Spring