European Commission 2022 Work Programme: Making Europe Stronger Together

On 19 October 2021, the European Commission adopted its 2022 Work Programme, aiming for a greener, fairer, more digital, and resilient post-COVID-19 Europe. The programme consists of four annexes: new policy and legislative initiatives, simplification of existing laws, pending priority legislative files, and withdrawals of pending proposals. Among the new initiatives, a key proposal under Annex I addresses the recognition of parenthood across Member States to ensure children's rights are protected in cross-border situations. Additionally, the Commission aims to strengthen judicial cooperation for protecting vulnerable adults in cross-border scenarios, though no specific legislative actions are planned for 2022. The initiatives also align with President von der Leyen's six headline ambitions, impacting various legal fields, including private international law. The Commission will discuss a Joint Declaration on legislative priorities with the Parliament and Council to ensure swift action.