European Commission - Daily News Daily News 01 / 06 / 2026 Brussels, 1 June 2026 Stronger EU-wide rules to fight corruption take effect More harmonised anti-corruption rules took effect across the EU yesterday under the new Directive on combating corruption . The Directive introduces modern rules to better prevent, detect and sanction corruption across the EU, helping protect public trust, democratic institutions and...
European Commission - Daily News Daily News 01 / 06 / 2026 Brussels, 1 June 2026 Stronger EU-wide rules to fight corruption take effect More harmonised anti-corruption rules took effect across the EU yesterday under the new Directive on combating corruption . The Directive introduces modern rules to better prevent, detect and sanction corruption across the EU, helping protect public trust, democratic institutions and the rule of law, while supporting competitiveness across the Union. The new rules establish a more consistent EU-wide framework by harmonising the definition of corruption offences across Member States – including bribery, misappropriation, trading in influence, unlawful exercise of public functions, obstruction of justice and corruption-related enrichment. The Directive also sets minimum rules on criminal penalties for both individuals and companies. To ensure that justice is served, the new rules introduce minimum rules on limitation periods to ensure sufficient time to investigate and prosecute corruption offences effectively. Member States must also guarantee that law enforcement and prosecutors have adequate investigative tools at their disposal and strengthen preventive measures, including through dedicated national anti-corruption strategies. Henna Virkkunen , Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, said: "Corruption undermines our democracies and the security of our societies. These new rules are a vital part of our commitment to upholding the rule of law. Together with our upcoming EU Anti-Corruption Strategy, they send a clear message: this Commission will take decisive action against those who betray public trust." Michael McGrath , Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, said: " Corruption is not a victimless crime. It drains public resources, distorts fair competition, and erodes citizens' trust in democratic institutions. With these new rules, we are strengthening our ability to prevent corruption, pursue those responsible more effectively, and ensure a more consistent approach across the EU. This is about protecting the integrity of our democracies and ensuring that public power is always exercised in the public interest." The fight against corruption is a key priority of the Commission, as underlined in the Political Guidelines for 2024-2029 , and a central element of the EU's broader efforts to protect democracy and uphold the rule of law. The Directive forms part of a broader anti-corruption agenda, alongside the EU Anti-Corruption Strategy, for which a public consultation and a call for evidence are open until 6 July. (For more information: Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Cristina Torres Castillo — Tel.: + 32 2 299 06 79) AI Act enforcement gets independent expert support The European Commission has appointed a Scientific Panel and an Advisory Forum to support enforcement of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act. The two bodies will advise the Commission's AI Office and national authorities on applying rules, with members serving two-year terms. The Scientific Panel brings together 60 world-leading independent experts with experience in frontier AI, engineering, technical auditing, industry and societal impact. It will focus on general-purpose AI (GPAI) models and systems, systemic risks, model classification, evaluation methodologies and cross- border market surveillance. The Advisory Forum will provide independent technical expertise and advice on a broad range of issues related to the AI Act, including standardisation and implementation challenges. Its members come from academia, civil society and industry, including small and medium-sized enterprises and startups. Their selection also aims to reflect gender and geographical balance, as well as a well- calibrated expertise, including specialists in AI literacy, GPAI and different sectors covered by the AI Act. Key European Union agencies will have a permanent role in the forum, including the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights and the EU Agency for Cybersecurity, ENISA, as well as standardisation bodies. (For more information: Thomas Regnier — Tel. + 32 2 299 10 99; Nika Blazevic — Tel. + 32 2 299 27 17) Commission accelerates transition away from animal testing in chemical safety assessments Today, the European Commission presented a roadmap towards phasing out animal testing for chemical safety assessments, setting out concrete actions to accelerate the development, validation and uptake of innovative non-animal methods across EU legislation. The roadmap responds in particular to the European Citizens' Initiative ‘ Save Cruelty Free Cosmetics – Commit to a Europe without Animal Testing” and aims to ensure a high level of protection for human and animal health and the environment, while supporting Europe's leadership in safe and sustainable chemicals innovation. The initiative is a key deliverable under the Chemicals Action Plan adopted in July 2025 and supports the implementation of the REACH framework - the EU's chemicals legislation. Structured around three pillars and 22 actions, the roadmap covers 15 areas of legislation, including industrial chemicals, pesticides, biocides, pharmaceuticals, and food and feed additives. Actions include advancing research and innovation, leveraging artificial intelligence and big data, and strengthening cooperation with Member States, EU agencies, stakeholders and international partners to facilitate the transition towards non-animal approaches. More information is available in the press release . (For more information: Siobhan McGarry - Tel.: +32 2 296 47 98; Rüya Perincek - Tel.: +32 2 299 49 03) Eurobarometer highlights perceived obstacles and opportunities for European small and medium companies in recruiting skilled workers outside the EU A new Eurobarometer survey shows that nearly half of European small and medium companies (SMEs) (46%) face difficulties in finding workers with the right skills. Recruitment of non-EU nationals remains limited, according to the survey. One in seven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have attempted hiring workers outside the EU in the past two years. Among those that have recruited non-EU nationals (14% of the sample), 54% described the recruitment process as difficult. The complexity of administrative and immigration procedures is the most frequently cited barrier (31%), followed by difficulty finding suitable candidates (25%) and overcoming the language barriers (24%). Most companies (85% to 90%) directly manage the recruitment workers from outside the EU, according to the survey. There is limited awareness among SMEs of public support for international recruitment. The use of private recruitment agencies is significantly higher for international recruitment. The companies consulted suggest that hiring outside the EU could be improved through financial support (31%), information and guidance (25%), assistance in finding candidates (23%), help with workplace integration (20%), and immigration and relocation support (18%). More information is available in the press release . (For more information: Eva Hrncirova - Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Eirini Zarkadoula -Tel.: +32 2 295 70 65; Fiorella Boigner – Tel.: +32 2 299 37 34) New EU rules harmonising transport emissions calculations take effect Today, the first EU-wide standardised methodology for calculating greenhouse-gas emissions from freight and passenger transport entered into force. The CountEmissionsEU framework establishes a single, science-based methodology aligned with international standard (EN ISO 14083:2023) to ensure accurate, comparable, and reliable emissions data across all transport modes. By providing door-to-door emissions calculations, the new rules empower businesses to benchmark performance, optimise logistics, and support low-carbon procurement. They will also provide consumers, businesses, and public authorities with clearer information to make sustainable choices. The framework applies to EU companies voluntarily disclosing transport emissions, ensuring that all published figures are consistent and verifiable. Next steps include the development of implementing and delegated acts to refine technical details. The Commission will also provide guidance and digital tools to support implementation, particularly for SMEs. The framework's full application is expected by the end of 2030. (For more information: Anna-Kaisa Itkonen - Tel.: +32 2 295 75 01; Anni Juusola - Tel.: +32 2 296 09 86) 2026 winners of the European Union Prize for Literature announced * The European Union Prize for Literature (EUPL) announced Dora Kaprálová, Czechia, with her book ‘Mariborská hypnóza' (Maribor Hypnosis) as its 2026 laureate and gave two special mentions at the Warsaw Book Fair – Hélène Frédérick, France, with ‘Lézardes' (Rivers of White), and Vladimir Vujović, Montenegro, with ‘Slobodni udarci' (Free Kicks). The prize aims to showcase new and emerging writers across Europe and promotes the circulation of European literature across borders. The Grand Prix will receive €10 000 as well as a financial contribution for two translations, while the two special mentions will receive €5000 and a financial contribution for one translation. The Grand Prix and special mentions were selected by an international jury composed of seven literary experts from different parts of the literary industry. Glenn Micallef , Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, said: “ Congratulations to Dora Kaprálová, Hélène Frédérick and Vladimir Vujović! Your work embodies the richness of European creativity, culture, and unity. With this prize, we celebrate great storytelling in Europe and beyond. More than that, we forge connections that transcend languages, borders and cultures. We remain committed to continuing to champion literary brilliance. Through Creative Europe, guided by the Culture Compass for Europe – today, and in the years to come. ” The Prize celebrates outstanding new literary talents from the 41 countries participating in the Creative Europe programme . For the 2026 edition , emerging authors from 14 countries were shortlisted by their country in February this year. Since 2009, 216 authors have taken part in the European Union Prize for Literature. More information on this year's winners can be found online . (For more information: Eva Hrncirova - Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Eirini Zarkadoula - Tel.: +32 2 295 70 65) STATEMENTS Statement by Commissioner Várhelyi ahead of the World No Tobacco Day Ahead of World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, Olivér Várhelyi issued the following statement: “It is fitting that 31 May marks both the last day of the European Week Against Cancer and World No Tobacco Day. Both Europe's Beating Cancer Plan and the Safe Hearts Plan emphasise the importance of tobacco control as a key component of disease prevention efforts, fighting cancer across Europe and safeguarding the health of EU citizens. Our objective is clear: a tobacco and nicotine-free generation by 2040. This year will be key for EU tobacco control policy and the health of generations to come. Our evaluation report , published in April, sent a very clear message: EU rules on tobacco control have contributed to a significant decline in smoking and tobacco-related deaths across the EU. This is real progress. But while traditional smoking is decreasing, new tobacco and nicotine products are increasingly reaching a new generation. Adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 29 are particularly exposed. More than half of nicotine pouch users are under 40, one in five consumers of tobacco and nicotine products aged 15 to 19 years started by regularly using e-cigarettes, and nearly one in ten young people aged 15 to 24 has already used heated tobacco products. Although these products may appear modern, trendy, or less harmful, the reality is clear: they pose a genuine risk of addiction to nicotine. Young people are particularly exposed to these new trends and are facing serious health risks. If our rules do not keep pace with a rapidly changing market, Europe risks the creation of a new generation exposed to a new form of nicotine addiction. […] The revision of EU tobacco control rules is vital to reach a tobacco and nicotine-free generation by 2040. We are strongly committed to turn this ambition into reality and create a healthier Europe for all.” The full statement is available online. (For more information: Eva Hrnčířová – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73) ANNOUNCEMENTS Commissioner Dombrovskis visits Prague to discuss competitiveness, simplification and Europe's economic outlook Valdis Dombrovskis , Commissioner for Economy and Productivity; Implementation and Simplification, is in Prague today for meetings with Czech President Petr Pavel and Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, as well as with business representatives and stakeholders, to discuss Europe's economic outlook, competitiveness and regulatory simplification. In the morning, Commissioner Dombrovskis met President Pavel. Discussions focused on Europe's competitiveness agenda, notably simplification efforts aimed at reducing administrative burdens. They also discussed financial and economic support to Ukraine, and agreed that by supporting Ukraine, we are strengthening Europe's security. The Commissioner also participated in the “reVision of Czechia” (reVize Česka) conference organised by the “Second Economic Transformation” (2ET) business association , where he took part in a fireside chat on how the European Union is addressing the challenges of an accelerating world in an unstable geopolitical environment. In addition, Commissioner Dombrovskis is visiting a Recovery and Resilience Facility -supported project on novel radiation tolerant microelectronic technology under the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) . He will also hold a roundtable discussion with business associations and CEOs on the state of play of the EU simplification agenda, competitiveness challenges linked to global trade tensions and energy developments, as well as opportunities for Europe and Czechia in the areas of business and innovation. In the afternoon, discussions with Prime Minister Babiš are expected to focus on the economic and fiscal situation in Czechia, including defence spending , the European Semester , the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility , preparations for the next Multiannual Financial Framework and National and Regional Partnership Plans, as well as regulatory simplification. Czech Industry and Trade Minister Karel Havlíček and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Alena Schillerová are also expected to participate in the meeting. (For more information: Balazs Ujvari - Tel.: +32 2 295 45 78; Francisca Marçal Santos – Tel.: +32 2 299 72 36) Commissioner McGrath visits Hungary to discuss rule of law with new government Tomorrow, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath , will travel to Budapest to discuss the preparation of the 2026 rule of law report with members of the new Hungarian government. Commissioner McGrath will also engage with members of Hungary's National Assembly, to discuss the rule of law situation in Hungary and the reforms needed to address longstanding issues, as documented in the Commission's annual Rule of Law report. The visit presents an opportunity to support Hungary on advancing in practice with key rule of law reforms, building on Friday's meeting between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar. Commissioner McGrath will meet with the Hungarian Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and chair of the Committee on Legislation, Richárd Rák, as well as with the committee chairs on Judicial and Constitutional Affairs, István Hantosi; on Foreign Affairs, Márton Hajdu; and on EU affairs, Éva Ildikó Sopov. He will also meet with the Deputy Prime Minister/Minister heading the Prime Minister's Office, Bálint Ruff; the Minister of Justice, Márta Görög; and the Minister for Social Relations and Culture in charge of media, Zoltán Tarr. Discussions will focus on the legislative reform agenda, including measures to strengthen the rule of law, further protect fundamental rights, and safeguard media freedom. The mission serves as an opportunity to continue the constructive dialogue with the new Hungarian government, building in particular on Friday's meeting. The new government has committed to strengthen the rule of law and adopt the necessary measures. Furthermore, on 29 May, Hungary officially notified the Commission of its intention to join the European Public Prosecutor's Office. This is an important step to further strengthen the protection of the EU's financial interests, highlighting the crucial role of the EPPO in combating fraud and corruption affecting the Union budget. (For more information: Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Cristina Torres Castillo — Tel.: + 32 2 299 06 79) Commissioner Hansen visits Sweden to advance sustainable fertiliser and bioeconomy solutions Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen , is visiting Sweden today and tomorrow to explore biorefinery technologies, biofuels production, livestock farming, and the importance of bioeconomy and forestry in Sweden. This visit reinforces the Commission's commitment to sustainable forestry and farming. Today, the Commissioner will visit a biorefinery and a sawmill in the South-East of the country. At the Lantmännen Biorefineries in Norrköping he will see firsthand the production of biofuels, both crop- based and advanced, protein feed and biogas. In Holmen's Braviken Sawmill, Commissioner Hansen will focus on the growing European bioeconomy and the need for active and sustainable forest management. Tomorrow, the Commissioner will visit an arable farm that combines crop production and beef cattle farming. During the high-level lunch with Swedish Minister for Rural Affairs Peter Kullgren he will address the Commission's proposal for the future Common Agricultural Policy, simplification efforts, the Bioeconomy strategy, and the recently presented Fertiliser Action Plan . In the afternoon, the Commissioner will participate in the 10 th Forest Europe Ministerial Conference , where he will deliver a keynote speech and sign the Ministerial Declaration ‘FOREST EUROPE – Sustainable Forests for Resilient Societies' on behalf of the European Union. Forest Europe brings together 45 signatories to develop common approaches for the protection and sustainable management of forests. The Conference offers an opportunity to share national perspectives and showcase experiences in advancing sustainable forest management. (For more information: Louise Bogey – Tel.: +32 2 296 97 76; Kateřina Horáková - Tel.: +32 2 299 93 10) Tentative agendas for forthcoming Commission meetings Note that these items can be subject to changes. Upcoming events of the European Commission Eurostat press releases Calendar items of the President and Commissioners Individual calendars of the President and Commissioners * Updated at 12:27 CEST, on 01/06/2026. MEX/26/1216
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