On 5 July 2023, the European Commission published a proposal for a Regulation introducing new rules for plants produced using new genomic techniques (NGT). The Commission divides NGT plants into two categories with different requirements. Category 1 includes plants that could be produced by conventional breeding. They are exempt from the requirements of current GMO legislation. This means no risk assessment for human health and the environment, no labelling for consumers as a genetically modified organism and no traceability of genetic engineering along the value chain.

In July, the EU Commission published a package of measures to ensure a more sustainable use of plants and soil and to strengthen the resilience of food systems. From the EU Commission's point of view, a key component is changes in the use of New Genomic Techniques (NGTs). NGTs should function more specifically, more precisely and more quickly than conventional methods and also improve the climate resilience of plants. A new AK EUROPA Position Paper shows the pitfalls of this proposal.

Water is a vital resource. However, it is becoming increasingly scarce due to the climate crisis. Not only humans and nature, but also sectors such as agriculture, energy and the textile industry need large quantities. To find solutions to the major challenges we face, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is calling for a Blue Deal for the EU. Modelled on the EU Green Deal, the intention is to create a European strategy to ensure good management of the "blue gold" for people, the economy and our planet.

The Brussels Office of the Austrian Federal Chamber of Labour (AK EUROPA) and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Civil Service and Sport (BMKÖS) invite you to the joint film screening of the movie "FOR THE MANY - The Vienna Chamber of Labour".

18 September 2023 marks the eighth anniversary of the diesel scandal, one of the biggest environmental scandals of recent decades. Despite the far-reaching consequences, even after eight years, "Dieselgate" has not been fully dealt with, neither in all Member States nor in the institutions of the European Union. As a recent study by the Chamber of Labour shows, Austria is even more affected than originally assumed. Where does the processing of the scandal stand after eight years in the EU and the Member States?

In March 2023, as part of the new action plan for the circular economy, the European Commission has proposed a directive to strengthen consumers' rights and options with regard to low-cost and simple repairs. Although this push is welcomed, the Commission’s proposal fails to address some aspects adequately that would be essential to speak of a real right to repair for consumers.

Influencer marketing is growing rapidly in social media and is used in a wide variety of areas such as fashion, fitness, food or travel. Due to the great response and the potential to set trends, this type of marketing has become a sought-after form of advertising. Brands are increasingly using it to promote their products and services and get their messages across to a large audience. But what impact does this type of advertising have on consumers, and where would EU-wide regulation need to intervene?

Together with the ECB, the EU Commission has long been discussing the introduction of a digital euro to complement coins and banknotes. On 28 June 2023, it finally published a first legislative proposal. The thrust of the central bank digital currency is now also clear: it is about free access to an alternative means of payment - for private individuals. The EU Commission is not only hoping for more financial inclusion; consumers should also benefit from the security and anonymity of the digital euro.

With very high saving rates, around 17% of the assets of private EU households were held in form of financial securities (shares, bonds, etc.). By comparison, this share is 43 % in the USA. With a package to protect and empower retail investors, the EU-Commission wants to contribute to increasing consumer interest in the EU capital markets. On 24 May, the long announced proposal was presented. At the centre of the public debate is a commission ban for financial advisors, or rather its hesitant implementation.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems has already penetrated many areas of life in recent years. Due to the current rapid spread of ChatGPT, awareness of AI and the need for regulating AI systems has recently risen sharply. Besides positive expectations towards innovation, AI systems also raise concerns, especially with regard to the safety and protection of the fundamental rights of workers and consumers. On 14 June 2023, the EU Parliament will vote on how the future EU law on Artificial Intelligence should be designed.