What is the Presidency of the Council of the European Union and why does it matter?

Ireland’s EU Presidency gives the country a real opportunity to help shape the Europen Union's work and priorities.

During a six-month term, Ireland will chair meetings between EU member states, help build agreements on new laws and policies, and keep progress moving on issues that affect citizens and businesses across Europe. The Presidency does not make decisions alone, but it plays a central role in maintaining momentum and finding common ground. 
 
For Ireland, the Presidency comes at a time when the EU is focused on strengthening competitiveness, supporting economic growth, improving security and keeping pace with rapid technological change. It also gives Ireland the opportunity to influence discussions on regulatory simplification, sustainability, digital transformation and taxation. As an open, export-driven economy, Ireland benefits from a strong and effective European Union. The Presidency gives Ireland a platform to support shared European interests while keeping important issues for Irish businesses and communities firmly in the wider EU conversation. 

184
days
Ireland leads the Presidency for a six-month term, chairing meetings and helping move EU work forward.
27
member states
Ireland brings together all 27 EU member states to build agreement on laws, policies and shared priorities.
450
million people
The Presidency helps shape discussions that affect more than 450 million citizens and businesses across the EU.

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