Briefings

Women in STEM in the EU – How to close the gender gap

Research shows that the under-representation of women in STEM (science, technology, engineering
and mathematics) has many causes, including: unwelcoming work environments in STEM jobs, family
caring responsibilities, and social norms that discourage girls from pursuing these fields. Tackling these
issues requires a combined approach including challenging rigid gender stereotypes, using gender-
sensitive teaching methods in schools, encouraging girls to choose STEM careers, and removing barriers to employment.

March 8, 2026
0 comment
Read More >>

Women in the age of AI-enabled disinformation

Innovative digital tools often promise to make public debates more inclusive, also for women. In practice, recent AI-enabled technology – including deepfake tools – appears to facilitate an increasingly hostile information environment for women – with repercussions for their democratic participation both online and offline.

March 5, 2026
0 comment
Read More >>

Women in politics in the EU: State of play in 2026

Achieving equal representation of women in politics is an objective pursued by the European Union as a matter of justice, equality and democracy. Gender equality in general remains an important issue for voters and political parties. While support for further progress remains strong, forces that want to slow it down have also gathered some momentum.

March 4, 2026
0 comment
Read More >>

Food contact materials in the EU: State of play

Scientific evidence shows that migration of food contact materials into food is widespread and can pose health risks, particularly when substances are carcinogenic, toxic to reproduction or endocrine disrupting. A 2022 Commission evaluation found the current legal framework only partially effective, with gaps in enforcement, control of non-intentionally added substances and harmonisation. The European Parliament has pushed for stronger rules, contributing to recent EU-wide bans on bisphenol A and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in food packaging. Citizens and stakeholders broadly support a comprehensive revision establishing clearer standards, harmonised testing and stronger consumer protection.

March 3, 2026
0 comment
Read More >>

Russia under Vladimir Putin: His 26-year rule in facts and figures

Vladimir (Vladimirovich) Putin has ruled the Russian Federation since the 31 December 1999, inheriting a country in economic, political and social disarray. Out of Putin’s 26-year ruling, Russia has been at war, overtly or covertly, for 21 years. . The transformation of Russia over these 26 years has been fundamental. A series of indicators can help measuring its economic evolution, surge of military expenses, trade shift to China, as well as its demographic decline, worsening of various freedom and governance rankings, and growing inequality. Putin, now 73 years old, can remain in power until 2036, in line with the constitutional reforms introduced in 2020.

February 19, 2026
0 comment
Read More >>

Digital Omnibus on AI [EU Legislation in Progress]

The European Commission published on 19 November 2025 a proposal for a Digital Omnibus on AI to address specific implementation challenges and lighten regulatory burden identified following the entry into force of the Artificial Intelligence Act. As part of a broader digital package, the proposal has sparked a debate about the appropriate balance between simplification and ensuring fundamental rights.

February 12, 2026
0 comment
Read More >>