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EU: 2016 Dutch Presidency

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For the first six months of 2016, the Netherlands shall hold the Presidency of the European Union. As EU Presidency holder, Dutch guiding principles are a Union that focuses on the essentials, a Union that focuses on growth and jobs through innovation, and a Union that connects with civil society. The Netherlands will be focusing on four priority areas:

  • Migration & international security
  • Europe as an innovator & job creator
  • Sound finances and a robust euro zone
  • Forward-looking climate & energy policy

The Netherlands wants the European Union to focus on what matters to Europe’s citizens and businesses. The priorities are prosperity, freedom and security. It does not want the EU to deal with issues that the member states can organize perfectly well themselves. Examples include health care, education, pensions and taxation.

Innovation, growth and jobs come first. To that end, Europe needs smarter rules – simplified rules that apply to all member states. That will reduce bureaucracy and costs for citizens, companies and public authorities alike. It is important for citizens and civil society organisations to feel connected to Europe, and they will if they see the EU achieving results that matter. And if they can follow how the EU works.

Source: EU 2016 NL

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