Denmark to lead EU Council with focus on security, competitiveness and green transition
From 1 July to 31 December 2025, Denmark will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Under the headline 'A strong Europe in a changing world,' the Danish Presidency will focus on strengthening the EU’s ability to respond to global challenges by prioritising security, competitiveness, and the green transition.
The Danish Presidency takes place during a time of growing geopolitical instability, increased strategic competition, and ongoing efforts to support Ukraine. At the same time, the EU is preparing for long-term decisions related to its budget, enlargement, and climate targets.
Cohesion Policy and the Post-2027 Framework
The Danish Presidency will cover the initial phases of the negotiations on the proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which according to its programme 'will be key to securing a competitive EU that is ready to deliver on future challenges'. As part of this, the Presidency indicates that it will 'work to advance negotiations on a more modern and effective European cohesion policy for the period after 2027.'
Key principles for the future cohesion policy
Denmark emphasizes several key principles for future cohesion policy for the period after 2027:
- Effective and results-oriented, ensuring measurable impact
- Aligned with common European priorities to support the Union’s strategic goals
- Closely linked to reforms under the European Semester, promoting consistency with EU economic governance
- Fully compliant with the rule of law, reinforcing democratic standards and accountability
The Danish Presidency will guide the EU Council’s work through a wide-ranging agenda, from green and digital transformation to security and enlargement. For those involved in cohesion policy and Interreg, the coming six months provide opportunities to contribute to policy discussions, and promote the role of regional cooperation in building a stronger and more balanced Union.