Finland’s third EU Presidency period begins on 1 July 2019. The presidency of the Council rotates in an established order among the EU Member States every six months.

Presidency programme

Member States holding the presidency work together closely in groups of three, called trios. The trio sets a ‘trio programme’ for a period of 18 months. Finland is in a trio with Romania and Croatia. The General Affairs Council adopted the Trio  Programme in December 2018.

On 26 June, The Presidency Programme was  published on the Presidency website.

Extract of the Presidency Programme: "The transition to the bioeconomy and circular economy will have a central role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and in improving Europe’s competitiveness. At the same time, it will help in modernising our economy and industry, creating jobs, generating sustainable growth and protecting the environment. We will support effective implementation of the Commission’s updated bioeconomy strategy. As regards the circular economy, the work has so far focused especially on plastics, waste, consumer empowerment and stakeholder engagement. While continuing this work, it is necessary to provide guidance on the next steps, such as extending the measures into new sectors. The move to the circular use of materials is central to cutting greenhouse gas emissions and halting the loss of biodiversity".

Finland’s Presidency Programme: Sustainable Europe – Sustainable Future