Humanoid robotics is becoming a strategic technology for the coming decades. China is pursuing a systemic approach that combines industrial scale-up, government coordination, open innovation platforms and international standard-setting. Humanoid robots are seen not simply as industrial tools, but as future infrastructure for manufacturing, care, logistics and public services. The strategic importance of humanoid robotics lies in the development of complete industrial ecosystems with humanoid robotics becoming a hub for future technologies.

The EU has adopted a forced labour product ban which will apply from 14 December 2027. AK has welcomed its adoption and calls for its effective application.

In mid-July, alongside the expected revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the European Commission presented an action plan to electrify industry, space heating and transport. Both initiatives aim to advance the green transition, reduce Europe’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthen the competitiveness of the European economy.

Humanoid robotics is becoming a strategic technology for the coming decades. China is pursuing a systemic approach that combines industrial scale-up, government coordination, open innovation platforms and international standard-setting. Humanoid robots are seen not simply as industrial tools, but as future infrastructure for manufacturing, care, logistics and public services. The strategic importance of humanoid robotics lies in the development of complete industrial ecosystems with humanoid robotics becoming a hub for future technologies.

The debate on the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework concerns not only how funds are allocated but also how they are financed. Although major investment is needed to address current challenges, cuts to traditional spending areas and higher national contributions face strong resistance. New EU own resources could help resolve this dilemma. A recent study reviews proposals from the Commission and the European Parliament and considers further options, including taxes on financial transactions, kerosene and ultra-high wealth.

Launched in 2011, the European Semester has been continuously developed and is now a multifaceted tool for coordinating EU Member States’ economic, employment, social and environmental policies. Plans are underway to further strengthen it by linking it to the forthcoming Multiannual Financial Framework. Tying country-specific recommendations to payments from the EU budget should be viewed with great scepticism. Overall, strengthening its social dimension and democratic foundations is long overdue.

Negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034 cover not only expenditure but also the issue of financing. Given the high level of investment required to tackle current challenges, the debate on new own resources is being reignited. The study assesses the current proposals from the Commission and the European Parliament, as well as other options, against four criteria: European added value, distributional effects, the capacity to address negative externalities and revenue potential.

At the end of April 2026, the European Commission published its communication, “A Simpler, Clearer and Better Enforced EU Rulebook”, setting out a new plan for how EU legislation should be adopted, applied and enforced in the future. Instead of offering genuine Better Regulation proposals, the Communication prioritises corporate interests and weakens democratic participation mechanisms.

Public services refer to the state’s responsibility to provide fundamental, essential services and infrastructure for everyone. They are essential for social cohesion, social security, participation and quality of life. To mark the tenth International Day of Services of General Interest on 23 June 2026, AK EUROPA organised an evening event on 24 June 2026 dedicated to this topic.