The 2024 European Parliament elections saw a general shift to the political right. At the same time, the results point to both fragmentation and continuity. In this early assessment, political scientists Simon Hix (EUI), Göran von Sydow and Valentin Kreilinger (SIEPS) analyse the outcome of the elections and consider the consequences for the politics and policies of the EU. (2024:16epa)

What is Germany’s view on enlargement? In this European Policy Analysis, Theresia Töglhofer (German Council on Foreign Relations) describes the evolution of Berlin’s policy on the future shape of the EU. Consolidation was once seen as a prerequisite, now the geopolitical context means that the enlargement of a (reformed) Union is considered vital. (2024:13epa)

The increase in border checks within the Schengen zone, since 2015, has prompted a recent EU strategy to ‘save Schengen’. But according to expert on EU law Steve Peers, the ongoing changes are unlikely to restore a fundamentally border-free travel area. (2024:12epa)

Once regarded as legally and politically impossible, the Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages is now a reality. Leading labour market economist Dominique Anxo assesses whether the landmark legislation is likely to achieve its aims. (2024:2)

The European Parliament elections in June take place in a fragmented political landscape. Political scientists Simon Hix and Abdul Noury consider the expected election results, which point to unstable majorities and a challenge when it comes to build a majority for the election of the Commission President. (2024:10epa)

The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is a cornerstone of the EU’s trade and climate policy. Alexandra Buylova and Naghmeh Nasiritousi present the tool, consider its potential global impacts, and discuss how the EU can minimize unwanted side effects. (2024:9epa)

On taking office in 2019, Ursula von der Leyen declared that she would lead a ‘geopolitical’ Commission. In this analysis, political scientist Calle Håkansson shows that this ambition had a larger impact than many expected. Developments since also point to a continued active and strategic role for the European Commission. (2024:7epa)

The European elections in June 2024 mark the starting point for a new cycle in EU politics. In this European Policy Analysis, political scientist Valentin Kreilinger (SIEPS) explores the renewal of key institutions and the formation of a new EU leadership for the next five years, a period that looks set to be marked by economic challenges, enlargement and internal reforms. (2024:6epa)

How can the EU better support the ‘greening’ of supply chains? One way, writes Mats Engström, is by building stronger partnerships with the low- and middle-income countries where the factories, farms, and green raw materials are often located. (2024:5epa)

A proposal to regulate the use of health data in the EU – to create a ‘European Health Data Space’ – is currently being negotiated. David Fåhraeus, Jane Reichel and Santa Slokenberga explain the proposal and consider the implications for those affected: patients, medical practitioners, private firms and public administrations. (2024:2epa)