Overall summary from the European Parliament and the Commission: what was decided in 2024?

Overview of key policy changes approved by the EU Parliament in 2024

In 2024, the European Parliament has approved several transformational policy changes that are expected to have a significant impact on the socio-economic and environmental situation in the European Union. Among the most important decisions was the reform of the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP), which aims to increase the sustainability of public debt while promoting inclusive growth. The updated framework includes gradual fiscal adjustments and a longer deadline for compliance, giving Member States more room for manoeuvre.
This policy complements the EU's broader framework of climate action to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Parliament has also made significant progress in regulating digital markets by adopting the Artificial Intelligence Act, a legislative milestone. This regulation categorises AI applications according to risk level and introduces strict security and transparency requirements for high-risk systems. By ensuring ethical development and use, the EU sets a global benchmark for the management of AI.

Parliament also approves a comprehensive revision of the Common Agricultural Policy, which is in line with the objectives of sustainability and biodiversity. The reforms incentivise environmentally friendly farming practices and include measures to protect biodiversity, reflecting the EU's commitment to green transformation.

On social policy, the expanded framework now provides greater rights for workers in the gig economy, including compulsory employment benefits such as health insurance and paid leave. This move not only promotes fairness in the labour market, but also strengthens social protection for vulnerable groups. Together, these policy changes illustrate the EU's commitment to building a sustainable, fair and equal future for all Member States.

Major decisions announced in 2024

The European Parliament's 2024 agenda also reinforced its commitment to sustainability, with the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive being a significant development. This directive requires companies to mitigate human rights and environmental risks in their supply chains, underlining the EU's focus on ethical business practices. Meanwhile, Parliament has stepped up its Green Deal commitments and surpassed previous climate targets by mandating a 60 % reduction in carbon emissions.

Parliament's digital policy reforms have gone beyond regulation to encourage local innovation. These measures prioritise digital sovereignty while strengthening privacy protection, ensuring the EU's competitiveness in the global digital economy.

Another feature of 2024 was institutional stability. The reappointment of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission ensures continuity in the pursuit of EU priorities, particularly in the areas of sustainability, digital transformation and social inclusion.

Legislative outcomes: how will the European Parliament's decision change Europe?

The legislative achievements in 2024 demonstrate the EU's commitment to a forward-looking agenda. In addition to green initiatives, digital innovation has received significant attention, with stricter data protection rules and the introduction of frameworks to support the development of artificial intelligence. These measures are designed to strengthen digital sovereignty while ensuring citizens' privacy.

Social justice remained a priority, while the expanded frameworks addressed wage gaps and working conditions, including strengthening workers' rights in the gig economy. Moreover, migration reforms have positioned the EU as a model for balancing humanitarian responsibility and practical governance.

Through a series of bold decisions on economic reform, climate policy, digital innovation and social justice, the European Parliament and the European Commission have set a transformative agenda for the EU. These legislative advances not only address immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for sustainable, inclusive and innovative growth in all Member States.

(GH)