Taking on the challenge Presentation of Swedish Presidency priorities 1 July–31 December 2009

”The European Union is facing a crucial period. Together we must deal with the economic crises and unemployment, but also unite the world to tackle climate change. The Swedish Presidency is ready to take on the challenge.” Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt

Vision for Europe second half of 2009 Strong and effective – common responsibility to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow Open, responsive and results-oriented Presidency

Institutional issues European Parliament The Commission The Lisbon Treaty

Two main challenges Economy and employment – the EU should emerge from the economic crises in a stronger position Climate change – the EU will continue to take responsibility for the climate threat

Other important challenges Stockholm Programme –Safeguarding security and the rights of the individuals Baltic Sea Strategy –A cleaner marine environment and a more competitive region EU, its neighbourhood and the world –Strengthen the EU’s role as a global actor –Continued enlargement process

Economic crisis Follow up agreed measures, preparedness to take new initiatives Strengthened supervisory framework for financial markets in Europe Prepare EU positions in view of G20 meetings Priority to action regarding measures on the labour market: limit unemployment, reduce exclusion, return people to work Long term challenges; focused strategy for long- term growth and employment (i.e. successor to the Lisbon Strategy)

Climate agreement International climate agreement in Copenhagen Remaining critical problems Continued EU unity Development of EU policy and EU positions

Stockholm Programme Adopt a new strategic work program within the Justice and Home Affairs area Citizen’s Europe Guarantee the rights of the individual Asylum and migration policy

EU Baltic Sea Strategy Develop EU’s macro regional cooperation through adopting a Baltic Sea Strategy Tackle marine environmental challenges, improve growth potential and joint measures to counteract cross boarder crime Link EU initiatives, policy instruments and resources to benefit the Baltic Sea Region

EU, its neighbourhood and the world Preparedness for the unexpected Effective and coherent external policy Continued enlargement process Relations with neighbouring countries Strengthened cooperation and political role in the world Development policy Trade policy Summits with third countries EU’s crises management capabilities

”Our ambition is to achieve results on a wide range of issues with the whole of Europe’s best interests in mind. We will do this via an open and efficient Presidency that focuses on the citizens” EU Affairs Minister Cecilia Malmström

Presidency Website For further information on the Swedish Presidency – please visit our website: se2009.eu