The 2026 work programme outlines how the European Commission intends to respond to current and future pressures that affect Europe’s security, democracy, economy and industry. Under the title Europe’s Independence Moment, it builds on the Political Guidelines, Mission Letters and the ideas set out in the 2025 State of the European Union address. The programme focuses on strengthening competitiveness, leading in clean and digital innovation, reinforcing Europe’s social model and ensuring collective security.

The Commission places simplification and implementation at the centre of its work for 2026. Cutting red tape for people, business and administrations remains a priority, supported by the first overview report on simplification, implementation and enforcement. This report highlights progress made so far, including initiatives expected to deliver significant annual cost savings. Next year’s actions include further simplification proposals across key sectors such as automotive, environment, taxation, food and feed safety, medical devices and energy product legislation. Implementation dialogues and reality checks will continue to help identify areas where rules can be made easier for citizens and businesses.

Key deliverables of the programme cover sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, defence and security, Europe’s social model, quality of life, democracy and the rule of law, and global engagement. Initiatives range from strengthening Europe’s industrial base and critical raw materials resilience, to advancing the Pact on Migration and Asylum, to supporting farmers, addressing affordability issues and reinforcing media freedom. The EU will also stand firmly with Ukraine and remain engaged globally through partnerships and humanitarian support.

The programme underlines the need for ambitious resources, echoing the Commission’s call for swift agreement on the proposed Multiannual Financial Framework of almost €2 trillion. It also reaffirms the role of the annual work programme in informing the public and co-legislators of the Commission’s commitments, including new initiatives, simplification proposals and reviews of existing legislation.