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What is social justice and how is the UN helping make it a reality?

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What is social justice and how is the UN helping make it a reality?

The United Nations supports the principle in multiple ways, from addressing economic inequality to access to education, healthcare, and the protection of human rights, with the aim of creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Social justice is for everyone, which is why the UN pays attention to the needs of particularly marginalized and vulnerable communities, such as refugees, indigenous peoples and those living with disabilities.

Social justice encompasses a wide range of issues which are highlighted as part of World Day of Social Justice marked annually on 20 February.

Equity, solidarity, human rights

The UN definition of social justice is “an underlying principle for peaceful and prosperous coexistence within and among nations.” This can be interpreted as a world in which societies are based on the principles of equality and solidarity, understand and value human rights, and recognize the dignity of every human being.

The five key principles of social justice are often defined as:

  • the recognition that different people have different needs and circumstances (equity),
  • ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed (access),
  • enabling all individuals to play in role in the political, economic and social life of the communities (participation),
  • protecting the human rights of all individuals (rights) and
  • valuing and respecting differences between people, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation (diversity).

Social justice is a cornerstone of the United Nations’ mission to promote peace, security, and human rights worldwide and is enshrined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, an international blueprint for peace and prosperity.

The Agenda is broken down into 17 ambitious Goals, which are due to be achieved in the next five years. Some progress has been made, particularly on the reduction of extreme poverty, and improved access to essential health services, but overall they are not on track.

However, the Goals have been useful in providing UN Member States with clear, objective targets designed to improve the lives of their citizens.

The Sustainable Development Goals form the bedrock of social justice.

Promoting decent work

One of the primary ways the UN supports social justice is through the promotion of decent work and economic opportunities.

The International Labour Organization (ILO), a specialized UN agency, plays a crucial role in this area. The ILO‘s Decent Work Agenda focuses on creating jobs, guaranteeing rights at work, extending social protection, and promoting social dialogue.

By advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the elimination of forced labour and child labour, the ILO helps ensure that workers worldwide are treated with dignity and respect.

A banana grower harvests his crop in Manicaland, Zimbabwe.

A banana grower harvests his crop in Manicaland, Zimbabwe.

The promotion of decent work is one of the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda: Goal 8 (SDG 8) calls for the promotion of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all.

Advancing gender equality

Gender equality is another critical aspect of social justice that the UN actively promotes. It is a fundamental human right and is critical to a healthy society.

UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, works to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve gender equality, through initiatives such as the HeForShe campaign and the Spotlight Initiative.

A community activist in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique provides information on preventing child marriage and gender-based violence.

A community activist in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique provides information on preventing child marriage and gender-based violence.

SDG 5 calls for the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls: UN-backed commitments have seen declines in some problem areas, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), but many women and girls continue to face barriers to their economic and social empowerment.

Ensuring access to education

Despite some recent progress in the percentage of students attaining a basic education, an estimated 300 million children and young people will still lack basic numeracy and literacy skills by 2030.

Students in Chhattisgarh, India, attend a robotics class.

Students in Chhattisgarh, India, attend a robotics class.

Education is a powerful tool for reducing inequalities, reaching gender equality and achieving social justice, and the UN is committed to reaching SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The UN also supports educational and training programmes aim to build tolerance, understanding, and resilience among young people, helping them become advocates for social justice.

Protecting human rights

The protection of human rights is at the heart of the UN’s mission, and one of its greatest accomplishments is the drafting and adoption of the groundbreaking Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which paved the way for a comprehensive body of human rights law.

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) works to promote and protect the human rights of all people, monitoring and reporting human rights violations, providing technical assistance to governments, and supporting the work of human rights defenders.

The work of the OHCHR is crucial in ensuring that individuals can live free from discrimination, violence, and oppression.

The SDGs focus on eliminating poverty and providing people with opportunities to prosper.

The SDGs focus on eliminating poverty and providing people with opportunities to prosper.

  • Since 2008 World Day of Social Justice has been celebrated annually on 20 February, following a declaration by the General Assembly.
  • The Day was created as a reminder of the need to build a fairer and more equitable world, and to combat unemployment, social exclusion and poverty.
  • This year’s theme is “Strengthening a just transition for a sustainable future,” acknowledging the need to ensure that the move towards low-carbon economies benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
  • The International Labour Organization (ILO) is marking the occasion with a series of events held in major cities around the world.

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New EU plan for agriculture and food sector

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New EU plan for agriculture and food sector

A new vision for agriculture and food in the EU has been presented by the European Commission. It outlines the measures the EU will take to build an attractive, competitive, resilient, future-oriented and fair agri-food system in the coming years.

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Future of agriculture – European Commission

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Future of agriculture – European Commission

The vision is built around four main areas. 

An attractive sector

The EU will work to make farming a viable and attractive career for future generations. This means fair incomes, better support, and a stronger food chain. We’ll introduce a Generational Renewal Strategy in 2025 to help young farmers innovate and invest in their businesses.

A competitive and resilient sector

The EU will help our agri-food system to withstand crises and seize opportunities by becoming more diverse, adaptable, and innovative. We’ll prioritise food security, diversify supply chains, and work towards fairer competition. 

A future-proof sector 

Farming will play a key role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. The EU will promote sustainable farming practices that reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and improve soil health. We’ll also develop a voluntary benchmarking system to help farmers measure and improve their performance.

A sector that values food and people

The EU wants to reconnect people with the food they eat and the territories and traditions that define it. We’ll support rural areas, reduce food waste, and address societal concerns like animal welfare. We’ll also hold an annual Food Dialogue to discuss critical issues like food affordability and nutrition.

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Civilians at breaking point in eastern DR Congo warns top aid official, in call to resume talks

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Civilians at breaking point in eastern DR Congo warns top aid official, in call to resume talks

“The rapid and uninterrupted expansion of the conflict, particularly in South Kivu province, continues to inflict a heavy toll on the civilian population,” said UN humanitarian coordinator for DRC, Bruno Lemarquis. “The population can no longer continue to pay such a heavy price for a conflict that continues to spread and now threatens the stability of the entire region.”

The veteran aid official’s appeal came as yet more vulnerable people reportedly fled combat zones amid advancing and heavily armed Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. On Sunday the opposition fighters took control of Bukavu – the second major eastern DRC city to fall, in a matter of weeks.

“It is imperative to put an end to the confrontations” and resume dialogue, Mr. Lemarquis insisted, as he echoed concerns stressed by the UN Secretary-General that the continuing M23 offensive threatens regional stability.

For aid teams who remain committed to helping vulnerable and hard-to-reach communities impacted by the fighting, Mr. Lemarquis signalled that the most urgent priorities include reopening airports for humanitarian flights in Goma – capital of North Kivu and Kavumu in South Kivu, both now controlled by M23.

‘Tense’ situation in Bukavu

The security situation in Bukavu remains tense, according to the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, which also reported that commercial boats have resumed services on Lake Kivu between Bukavu and Goma.

Humanitarian partners have also reported widespread looting in various part of Bukavu over the weekend, including a UN World Food Programme warehouse containing 7,000 tonnes of supplies.

“Several churches and collective centres in Bukavu are reportedly hosting displaced people,” OCHA noted in an update, adding that humanitarian assessment activities resumed on Tuesday “and will continue tomorrow as conditions permit”.

In addition to the urgent need for humanitarian supply flights, the UN aid coordinator urged respect for international law regarding the rights of internally displaced people (IDPs). Just last week, relief agencies expressed concern at a 72-hour ultimatum issued by M23 representatives to IDPs in Goma who were told to go back to their villages.

Any return can only take place on a voluntary basis, under safe, dignified and sustainable conditions, in accordance with international principles,” Mr. Lemarquis explained.

Neutrality at core of mission

The UN aid coordinator also insisted that relief teams’ “sole mission” was to provide vital assistance and protection to the most vulnerable, “wherever they may be…This action is guided by the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity, and independence, without taking sides or engaging in political considerations.”

The DRC emergency is one of the most complex humanitarian crises in the world; it follows decades of clashes between the Congolese armed forces and various non-State armed groups, widespread human rights violations and sexual violence.

Humanitarian needs are staggering and not just in eastern DRC, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, which noted that seven million people within the country are displaced and more than one million have sought asylum beyond the country’s borders.

Most of these refugees are hosted by Angola, Burundi, the Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia. At the same time, the DRC – a country seven times the size of Germany – also hosts more than half a million refugees and asylum-seekers.

This latest crisis in DRC’s east has already uprooted hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people in a matter of weeks. Between 10 and 15,000 people have now crossed into neighbouring Burundi in a matter of days.

“UNHCR urgently calls for increased support to assist refugees and prevent further suffering,” it said in an online appeal. “We also urge an immediate end to hostilities in eastern DRC to prevent more displacement and civilian harm.”

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Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

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Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

At the 1st plenary session 2025 of the European Committee of the Regions, the President of the European Council, António Costa, emphasized the crucial role of local and regional governments in shaping the future of Europe and its citizens. He called for a united effort to strengthen Europe’s defence, security, and competitiveness, highlighting the importance of multi-level governance to tackle the current challenges that Europe is facing.

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Be young and Muslim in Brussels – between traditions and modernity

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Yo, you who sail between tradition And modernity In Brussels, you’re not alone in this urban jungle. We know that it’s not always easy to be young and Muslim, with expectations that weigh and the gaze of others, but check that: your culture and your faith are strengths, not weaknesses. In this article, we will explore how you can smell your vibe between the past and the future, while keeping your head high and the heart burning with the desire to shine.

The Hood Life: Growing Up Muslim in Bxl

Yo, growing up in Brussels as a young Muslim is an explosive mixture of cultures and vibes. You love your inheritance while juggling the expectations of the modern world. It’s not always simple between looks and judgments, but you remain solid, because in the neighborhood, faith and identity, that’s what makes you move forward.

Repin ‘the Faith in The Streets

In the streets, you wear your faith like a coat of arms, you understood? Whether through fashion, graffiti or music, you show the world you are. You’re proud of your culture And you let it know. It’s your identity, and you defend your place with style and determination.

Family Ties and Old School Values

When you look at your family, it’s clear that values ​​of yesteryear are still there. Respect, unity and love, that’s what motivates you. Even if you drag with your friends, you know that your family is still in your heart.

The family is the base of your life, bro. Old values Remind you where you come from and guide you in your choices. Even in this world that changes quickly, you’re there to protect your roots. Whether around a traditional dish or a prayer together, you know that these moments strengthen and bring you closer. Never forget where you come from is what makes you unique in the daily Hustle.

Flexible identity culture

In this urban jungle that is Brussels, your culture is an explosive mixture. You are there, juggling between Muslim traditions and the Belgian lifestyle, creating a unique vibe that only you can wear. Every day, you sail between the inheritance of your ancestors and modern trends, and that’s what makes you special. The flexibility of your identity is 🔑 to stay in the game, while honoring your story.

Arab swag mixture and Belgian vibes

Imagine yourself in the streets, your flow kiffant Between the last rap sound and the scent of a good couscous. You thrown looks that talk about who you are: streetwear who slams, but with an Arab touch. It is a mixture that turns the heads and shows that you really know how represent.

Code change between worlds

When you cause with your friends, you go from Arabic to French as a pro. This Switching code Allows you to navigate easily through different cultures. It is a lifestyle where you can be fully Muslim and also love your life in Brussels, without ever losing your true self.

THE Switching code is child’s play for you. Whenever you speak with your family, Arabic flows naturally, but as soon as you try to approach the Belgians, you adapt your flow to stay in the blow. You are like a chameleon, changing colors according to those around you. This allows you to connect with people on different levels, while keeping your authenticity intact. This mixture of languages ​​and cultures makes you uniqueand that’s the strength of your youth in Brussels.

Squad Goals and Social Life

Yo, you’re in your team vibe, right? In Brussels, it is like an explosive mixture between tradition And modernity. You chest with your friends on the street, but you also remain connected to your roots. It’s the balancebrother, between evenings and family moments, are you? You have to know how to juggle between fun and respect, because in this game, each choice counts.

Hanging with the Fam vs. City Life

When you drag with your family, it’s all a big, big respect. But when you go out in town, it’s the free Service: You do what you want. On the one hand, you have the values ​​of the family and on the other, the freedom of urban life. This duality must be navigated in your daily life. It is above all a question of priorities.

Dating and Relationship Drama

Relations is a real roller coaster, guy. You have the pressure of your family on one side, and on the other, the desire to explore in the jungle of apps and evenings. It’s not easy to follow the rules while trying to love it, but you have to stay authentic And know what you want.

Heart stories are often complicated When you are young and Muslim in Brussels. You want to go out with someone serious, but at the same time, the expectations of your family weigh heavily. You can come across situations dramaticlike canceled appointments or your parents’ speeches that remind you of traditions. You have to navigate this game with caution : Make the right choice, remains faithful to yourself, and above all, do not rush. Patience is a virtueeven in love, are you?

Modern Day Hustle

Yo, you know what it is, to live in Brussels is not a long quiet river. Muslim youth must juggle between TAF, studies and traditions. You’re in the game, looking for your way while remaining true. You have no choice, you have to adapt, innovate, and do the Hustle on a daily basis. The real question is how to make your culture shine while sailing in this modern urban vibe.

Education and Career Moves

In this urban jungle, education is the key, my friend. The opportunities are there, but you have to seize them. You have to focus on your studies, but not that, you also have to build your network. Be attentive to the internships and projects that can open doors to you. The more you move forward, the more you are your course, and the less the prejudices reach you.

Breaking Stereotypes In The Game

Listen, you know what it is said: prejudices are like barriers. But you can break them! Whether you are in the world of sport, music or even business, show the world that you are not just a label. Take the MIC, move the lines and break these stereotypes. You are an actor of change, and you have to prove it in your own way.

Theme Details
Education Build a solid future
Culture Value your roots
Opportunities Internships and networks
Hustle Persistence in life
Prejudice Crush them with success

Breaking stereotypes is not just a slogan, it’s a lifestyle! You’re not here to stick to people’s expectations. Each step you take, you show that you are proud of who you are. Whether in the field, in a project or in MIC, you represent your culture while rejecting borders. People like to see change, and you know how to make the difference. Perceiving the Struggle, but also the Victory, that’s How You Roll.

  • Break prejudices is essential
  • Present your culture proudly
  • Build bridges instead of walls
  • Show your value worldwide
  • Inspire the next generation with your actions
Positive elements Negative elements
Culture sensitivity Persistent prejudices
Solid networks of friends Discrimination in certain sectors
Multiple opportunities Lack of support
Innovation and creativity Access barriers
Collective strength Cultural stigma

You listen to, the challenges of being young and Muslim in Brussels are serious. Stereotypes, they have a hard life, but it’s up to you to change. By breaking these barriers, you don’t just inspire your crew, but also those who look at you from afar. You are their voice, their light, and it’s not nothing. Perceiving the Struggle, are you ready to show the world your true value?

Faith in the digital age

Yo, in this digital world, your faith Take a new turn, you see? Young people like you sail between traditions and new vibes, seeking to keep their spirituality while accepting the change. Twitter, Instagram, is that where you can share your thoughts and show what Muslim means in this modern world, did you capture?

Social networks and religious expression

On networks, you have the freedom to express your belief without filter. Whether you do religious content or talk about your culture, these platforms are the scene where you can shine. But be careful, not everyone is there with good intentions, so remains vigilant.

Muslim communities online

When you go to other young people in Muslim communities onlineyou discover a vibe that mixes tradition And modernity. It’s a place where you can share your experiences, ask questions and learn new things, knowing that you are part of a world family. Respect and listen to the opinions of others, because that’s it, the spirit of the Ummah!

These communities Online, it’s more than a simple cat, it’s a real space where young digital mosques are formed. You can share videos, ask questions about the faithand even find solutions to challenges you meet. You’re not alone in this game, guy. It is a powerful way to learn and rise together, so do not hesitate to dive and join the movement!

Keeping it real

Yo, being young and Muslim in Brussels is not always easy, you see? Like, you are between strict religious rules and the city’s urban vibe. You have to be careful not to lose your balance, but you also have the freedom to express yourself. You just have to stay true, authentic, and find your way in this mixture of traditions and modernity.

Balancing Religious Rules with City Life

In the urban jungle, you learn to juggle the religious rules and the reality of city life. You don’t want to feel away, but you also want your beliefs. It is a real challenge to respect your values ​​while having the pleasures of urban life.

Finding Your Own Lane

Every day, you write your own chapter. Finding your own path is not just a matter of fashion or buzz, it’s really Define what it means to be Muslim in this still evolving world. The key is the trust and authenticity; Be proud of who you are.

In fact, looking for your own path, you learn to combine the Best of both worldsby developing a unique style that speaks to you. Whether by choosing your clothes With care, listening to music that represents you, or by creating links with people who share your values, you are building your identity. Remind yourself: the real strength is to be yourselfin a world that seeks to put you in boxes.

Conclusion

Yo, you’re there, young and Muslim in Brussels, juggling between your roots and the modern flow that surrounds you. It’s not always easy, but you have the strength to mix traditions and contemporary vibes. So don’t let go, stay proud of your identity, your choices, and build your own path. Listen to your heart, make your culture shine while having the diversity that surrounds you. Together, we give the clichés and we show the world that authenticity is the real swag.

Originally published at Almouwatin.com

14 arrested in hit against money laundering gang in Portugal and Spain

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14 arrested in hit against money laundering gang in Portugal and Spain

The action day took place on 21 January 2025 in Spain (Madrid, Málaga, Marbella, Torremolinos, Coín and Ayamonte) and Portugal (Lisbon). All in all, the operation led to:14 arrests9 house searchesSeizure of over EUR 1 million in cash and cryptocurrencies.Suspects mainly operated in Spain, used the Hawala method to move the cash sourced mainly from drugs trafficking, and launder the…

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World News in Brief: $53.2 billion needed for Palestinian recovery, UN condemns UNRWA schools raid, Lebanon-Israel tensions continue

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World News in Brief: $53.2 billion needed for Palestinian recovery, UN condemns UNRWA schools raid, Lebanon-Israel tensions continue

“Palestinians will need joint action to address the immense recovery and reconstruction challenges ahead. A sustainable recovery process must restore hope, dignity, and livelihoods for the two million people in Gaza,” said Muhannad Hadi, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

The assessment estimates that $29.9 billion is required to repair physical infrastructure, while $19.1 billion is needed to address economic and social losses.

Housing remains the most severely affected sector, accounting for the largest share of recovery needs, with $15.2 billion – or 30 percent of the total cost – earmarked for rebuilding homes.

Over the next three years alone, $20 billion will be required to stabilise essential services and lay the foundation for long-term recovery.

Commitment to Gaza’s future 

Mr. Hadi reaffirmed the UN’s continued support, stating: “The UN stands ready to support the Palestinian people both on humanitarian assistance and a future recovery and reconstruction process.”

“Once conditions are in place, temporary shelters will be established, basic services restored, the economy kick-started, and individual and social rehabilitation begun while the longer-term recovery and reconstruction advances,” he added.

A crucial element of Gaza’s recovery will be restoring the administrative authority of the Palestinian Authority (PA) in the Strip.

“The international community must make collective efforts to support a just and lasting peace,” said Mr. Hadi, emphasising that Gaza is an integral part of this effort based on UN resolutions and international law, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.

UN condemns raid on UNRWA schools 

In East Jerusalem, Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), reported that Israeli forces accompanied by local authorities forcibly entered the UNRWA Kalandia Training Centre, ordering its immediate evacuation.

At least 350 students and 30 staff were present at the time. Tear gas and sound bombs were deployed during the incident.

Earlier on Tuesday morning, Israeli police officers, accompanied by municipal staff, also visited several UNRWA schools in East Jerusalem, demanding their closure.

The incidents disrupted the education of approximately 250 students attending three UNRWA schools, alongside the 350 trainees affected at the Kalandia Training Centre.

UN chief condemns violations

UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the breach of the UN’s inviolable premises in occupied East Jerusalem, including the attempt to forcibly enter three UNRWA schools.

“The use of tear gas and sound bombs in educational environments while students are learning is both unnecessary and unacceptable,” said the Secretary-General Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.

“This is a clear violation of Israel’s obligations under international law, including obligations concerning the privileges and immunities of the UN and its personnel,” he added.

Mr. Dujarric emphasised that Israel’s internal legal provisions do not alter its international legal obligations and cannot justify their breach.

Lebanon: Tensions ease along the Blue Line of separation

In northern Lebanon, Tuesday marked the deadline for the Israel Defense Forces’ withdrawal south of the Blue Line, alongside the parallel deployment of Lebanese Armed Forces to positions in southern Lebanon, under the cessation of hostilities agreement reached between Israel and Hezbollah leaders on 26 November 2024.

UN peacekeepers report that Lebanese troops continue their deployment across southern Lebanon with active support from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), while displaced families are gradually returning to their homes.

Lebanese troops continue to dispose of “unauthorised weapons” abandoned during the conflict in UNIFIL’s area of operations, said Mr. Dujarric.

Call for stability

UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro Sáenz, Force Commander of UNIFIL urged both parties to honour ceasefire commitments to ensure communities in southern Lebanon and northern Israel can feel safe again following the weeks of deadly fighting last year.

The UN remains committed to supporting all parties in upholding their obligations, Mr. Dujarric affirmed.

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Council and Parliament agree to reduce food waste and set new rules on waste textile

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Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

The Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on the targeted revision of the waste framework directive.

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EU annual budget 2026: Council sets guidelines for next year's EU budget

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Speech by President António Costa at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions

The Council today approved conclusions setting guidelines for the EU’s annual budget for 2026. The guidelines will provide political guidance to the Commission in preparing the budget for next year.

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