The Energy Charter Treaty is an international agreement that offers protection of foreign investments in the energy sector. One of its key features is that it allows companies and foreign investors to sue states under a system of international arbitration. Read more "Explainer: How the Energy Charter Treaty works"
Despite regulations that exist on paper and potential conflicts of interest, top EU officials have gone on to work for lobby groups after serving their terms in office. This practice is not just disreputable, but also damaging to democracy. Read more "Revolving doors — The dirty downside of lobby politics in Brussels"
In January 2021, Portugal took over the Presidency of the Council of the EU from Germany. Prime Minister António Costa is no stranger to the world of European diplomacy, but the six months ahead pose a difficult challenge: uniting a divided Europe. Read more "Putting the puzzle together: Portugal’s Council presidency"