Estonia Presidency BriefingJuly - December 2017

DeHavilland EU

Welcome

Last updated 27 June 2017

On 1 July Estonia will take over the Presidency of the Council of the EU from Malta.

This means that, over the next six months, the Baltic nation will chair the meetings of the Council, mediate between the Council and Parliament, and help steer the direction

of EU policy.

This briefing gives an overview of what legislation can be expected during the Presidency, the key figures, main events, as well as detailing the politics of Estonia and the country’s agenda. On the following page, two Estonian MEPs introduce the Presidency and give

us their take on what it should focus on.

Kaja Kallas MEPEesti Reformierakond - ALDE

“In July, Estonia is taking over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Our Presidency was supposed to start in January 2018, but due to the Brexit vote we had to take over six months earlier than originally planned. Despite of this, it seems to me that our officials are quite well prepared and we are looking forward to it.

As Estonia is a digital country, the priorities of our Presidency are very much related to that topic. Luckily, many of the important legislative proposals in the digital sphere will reach trilogues during our Presidency and, of course, our wish is to find agreements on them. We hope to show the rest of Europe that digital transformation is a good and progressive thing, where a lot of benefits lie for our people and our companies. Given that we see many fears related to technology among policymakers, we also hope to take some of them down by showing how things work.

We all know that the European Union is based on free movement of people, goods, services and capital, but in the digital age one thing is missing from this list: the free movement of data. Free movement of data is essential for the Digital Single Market to function. However, we see more and more Member States trying to restrict it by introducing data localisation requirements. Estonia wants to put the discussions on free movement of data on the table.

In addition to the legislative work, there are many e-governance tools that we want to introduce in the European Union, even if it would be only for the period of our Presidency. For example, Estonia hopes that all parties (representatives from the Parliament, the Council and the Commission) could digitally sign the outcome of the trilogues of legislative files.

We hope that Estonia could lead Europe by example and make the whole continent a frontrunner of the digital age!

Marju Lauristin MEPSotsiaaldemokraatlik Erakond - S&D

“Starting from July 2017, Estonia will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first time. A first-time Presidency is of course always a challenge, but at the same time an opportunity for a small country to show its strengths in bringing the Union together. Small countries are known for their ability to react in a rapid manner in the pursuit of a common tone, as their administrative structures are lighter than in bigger countries. I believe Estonia will do its utmost to forward the Union’s common interest, as it is clearly ours and each of the Member States' interest, and ever more so in the current turbulent international climate.

I think it is of crucial importance that Digital Union is stressed in the priorities of the Estonian Presidency. In securing a well-functioning Single Market, concluding many of the digital files is absolutely key. The respect of the right to privacy has to always be the cross-cutting principle in this field. And in making our digital economy run, it’s the people and their skills that are decisive. Digital skills have gained importance for our citizens, and they should be ensured the opportunity to get training in these skills throughout their lives. Estonia is already widely known for its strength in digital public services, but I believe we have much to learn in the domain of digital industries from other Member States.

As a Baltic state, it is also our duty to keep strengthening the EU’s focus on the Eastern Partnership. With the experience in the history of our country, we have a comprehensive understanding of the situation in the neighbourhood.

For Estonia, the test of the Presidency will be in pushing forward a capable and democratic European Union in these sometimes difficult times. Our task is to gain citizens’ trust, and to focus on solving the problems they face in their everyday lives.

The PresidencyUnderstand what it means and Estonia’s priorities

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The PeopleMeet the ministers who will chair the Council meetings

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The PoliticsPlace the EU’s challenges in the Estonian political context

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The PolicyGet the insights into key policies

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The EventsStay connected with the key dates for the next 6 months

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The TrioSee who takes over from the Estonian Presidency

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The PresidencyUnderstand what it means and

Estonia’s priorities

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What is a Presidency?Each of the 28 Member States takes it in turn to hold the Presidency of the Council of the EU, changing every six months but acting within Trios of countries. This is the first EU Presidency held by Estonia which joined the Union in 2004. The Council is co-legislator with the European Parliament, but has exclusive competence over sensitive areas, such as tax policy. The Council meets in ten configurations, divided by policy area, which the national ministers of the Presidency chair. For instance, the Environment Council meetings are attended by national Environment Ministers and chaired by the Environment Minister of the rotating Presidency, in this case, of Estonia.

The Presidency mediates between the Member States, and is responsible for drawing up compromise texts. When agreement is reached, the Presidency will represent the

Council at ‘trilogue’ meetings with the Parliament and Commission. The informal agreements, which often represent the breakthrough on a legislative proposal, depend on the negotiating skills of the Presidency, and are often used to measure a country’s success in the role.

The Presidency is crucial for EU policy making, but the administrative burden is significant, in particular for smaller Member States. The advantages for the country holding the Presidency are therefore not obvious, particularly as it must be politically neutral. The Presidency acts as an honest broker, and the country cannot be seen as pushing its own agenda too hard. Therefore, the Trio of countries have an 18 month programme to follow with overarching aims that must be completed by the time the final country has finished holding the Presidency.

Estonia takes over from Malta, and is the first country in the new trio of countries to lead the Council. The UK was originially scheduled to take over from Malta, but gave up the role following its decision to withdraw from the EU. Along with the Bulgaria and Austria, the Estonian Presidency will progress the overarching aims of increasing jobs, growth and competitiveness, empowering citizens, advancing the energy union and climate policy, bettering freedom, security and justice, and enhancing the EU as a global actor. However, these aims are not exhaustive. New developments and challenges may need to be addressed as they appear.

Council Strategic Agenda

• Jobs, growth & competitiveness• Empowering & protecting all citizens• Energy union & future-oriented climate policy• Freedom, security, & justice• The EU as a strong, global actor

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What are the priorities?It has been stressed that the overarching aim of the Estonian Presidency is to ensure that the EU remains united and influential, with the preservation of the common values of prosperity, security, peace, and stability in Europe being central.

The most important task for the Estonian Presidency is to maintain Europe's unity and to ensure that nobody feels rejected or

excluded. - Jüri Ratas, Estonian Prime Minister

Although many of the themes of the Estonian Presidency will originate from the preceding Maltese one, it has been made clear that the programme of the Estonian Presidency will focus on four core priorities: an open and innovative European economy; a safe and secure Europe; a digital Europe with the free flow of data; and an inclusive and sustainable Europe. Mr Ratas has said that these priorities were inspired by the recent Bratislava Summit and Rome Declaration.

An open and innovative European economy

The Presidency will focus on protecting and promoting the EU’s four freedoms, developing a business environment and advancing trade negotiations, creating new funding opportunities for companies and ensuring a stable banking

sector, creating a well-functioning electricity market and empowering consumers, and preventing tax evasion and ensuring fair competition.

A safe and secure Europe

The Presidency will concentrate its efforts on strengthening the fight against terrorism and organised crime, improving internal security and protecting the EU’s external borders, tackling the migration crisis and reforming the Common European Asylum System, supporting and strengthening relations with Eastern partnership countries, and increasing defence expenditure, developing European defence cooperation and the EU-NATO partnership.

A digital Europe and the free flow of data

The Presidency will seek to develop cross-border e-commerce and e-services, ensure the provision of modern and secure electronic communications, create a favourable environment for new innovative services, and advance cross-border digital public services.

An inclusive and sustainable Europe

The Presidency will focus on modernising rules which promote labour mobility and the free movement of persons, ensure equal opportunities in the labour market and support social inclusion, and secure a more sustainable environment.

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The PoliticsPlace the EU’s challenges

in the Estonian political context

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Estonia has arguably been the biggest success story from Eastern Europe over the last two decades. It joined the EU as part of the A8 round of enlargement in 2004 and has developed itself into a highly successful digital economy.

The country has been organised in its preparations for its Presidency, saying on their website that:

“rather than being a one-off effort, the work done and investments made should bring long-term benefits to our country. The experience of former presidencies has shown that organising the presidency significantly increases the country’s capacity to have a say and assert its interests and objectives in Europe and elsewhere.

Current Prime Minister Jüri Ratas came to power when his predecessor Taavi Roivas lost a confidence vote in Parliament, following a loss support from his junior coalition partner. Mr Ratas was able to form his own coalition in November 2016, with the Social Democratic Party and the Pro Patria and Res Publica Union supporting his own Estonian Centre Party. The Centre Party has traditionally been popular with Estonia's large Russian-speaking minority, but has moved towards a more neutral position since taking power.

Security

At the EU's easternmost edge and sharing a border with Russia, Estonia is naturally concerned with its security. The country joined NATO in 2004 at the same time as it became a Member State and successive administrations have tied their security policy to Europe. Under the leadership of Jüri Ratas Estonia continues to lean towards the West, despite his party having historic ties to the Russian-speaking population. Because of the nature of the Estonian economy, cybersecurity is a particular issue.

e-Residency

The country has gained publicity for their innovative e-residency scheme, which is designed to allow entrepreneurs to set up businesses in the Baltic country without visiting. More than 20,000 people from more than 130 countries have registered to become part of the "digital nation" since 2014 when the policy was introduced.

National politics

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EU affairsEstonia takes over the Presidency during a period of reflection for the EU. Brexit negotiations are beginning and the Union is considering its path forward, but confidence in the EU has been boosted by the election of pro-European leaders earlier in the year. Meanwhile, a shift in long-established United States positions has placed global norms in doubt. Europe has much to ponder.

The future of Europe

In March, as EU leaders celebrated the Union’s 60th anniversary in Rome, a White Paper from the Commission mapped several paths for Europe. From "carrying on", to "nothing but the Single Market", to "doing much more together", the EU27 are reflecting on the future of European integration amidst discontent with globalisation, rising populism, and disruptive new technologies.

Hope of turning such reflection into concrete reform has come from Emmanuel Macron’s victory in the French presidential election. The centrist outsider campaigned on an unashamedly pro-European platform, proposing deeper integration, for example through a common fiscal policy. Over the next months, attention will focus on President Macron’s relationship with German Chancellor Angela Merkel (who faces her own election in September), to see if the Franco-

German engine can again drive European integration.

Brexit

With Article 50 already triggered, the Estonian Presidency almost exactly coincides with the beginning of formal Brexit negotiations. The EU27 presented a united front when adopting its negotiating stance earlier in the year. First and foremost, the bloc wants a deal on the rights of nationals living either side of the Channel. Then comes settling the UK’s financial obligations. The EU's position has dashed British hopes for a quick turnaround on a free trade deal, requiring agreement on these exit terms before hashing out the UK’s future relationship with the bloc.

An uncertain world

The EU faces uncertainty abroad. President Trump has spoken of an ‘America First’ policy, wavered in his commitment to NATO, and withdrawn the US from the Paris climate deal. Unable to depend on its transatlantic ties, the EU is exploring new international economic alliances. The bloc is also considering its security, with a European defence fund now in the works. Estonia will have to discern between new friends and old to enhance the EU as a global actor.

The PeopleMeet the ministers

who will chair the Council meetings

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Jüri RatasPrime Minister

Jüri Ratas became the 17th Prime Minister of Estonia in November 2016. He is also Leader of the Centre Party, a position he attained just 18 days before his party's election victory.

He began his political career in 2002 – just after joining the Centre Party – when he entered local politics, serving as Economic Adviser to the Tallinn City Office. Between 2003 and 2005 he was Deputy Mayor of Tallinn, going on to become Mayor until 2007. As Mayor he was instrumental in initiating the European Green Capital programme.

Mr Ratas was elected to Tallinn City Council in 2005, 2009, and again in 2013. He also held the position of Vice-President during the 11th, 12th, and 13th Estonian Riigikogu.

He began working life as an Analyst at the Building Research Institute and then moved on to become a Market Researcher at ANR Amer Nielsen Eesti OÜ. Between 1999 and 2002, he was Chairman of the Board at car service company Värvilised OÜ. He was also a Sales Representative for insurance company Sampo Eesti Kindlustus in 1999 and 2000.

After graduating from Tallinn University of Technology in Business Management, Mr Ratas went on to study for a Master’s degree in Economic Sciences at the University of Technology. He also holds a Law degree from the University of Tartu.

In his personal life he has a keen interest in basketball, which he has sought to develop in Estonia, and has previously served as both President and Head of Youth Basketball of the Estonian Basketball Association.

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Sven Mikser is a Social Democratic Party politician who was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2016. He previously served as Minister of Defence between 2002-03, and again between 2014-15. He was a Member of the Estonian Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly for more than a decade, and held the position of Vice-President of the Assembly between 2008-10. He has also been a Member and Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and Chair of the National Defence Committee.

Mr Mikser entered the Riigikogu in 1999 representing the Centre Party, but left them in 2005 to join the Social Democrats. He went on to lead the party from 2010 until 2015. Before his life in politics he studied English and Literature at the University of Tartu, where he went on to work as an assistant.

Marri Maasikas is the Deputy Minister for EU Affairs, and has had a long career of involvement with the European Union. Prior to taking this role he was the Permanent Representative of Estonia to the EU for five years. He has also worked for the European Commission's Bureau of European Policy Advisers, and he worked in the office of Olli Rehn when he was the European Commissioner for Enlargement.

From 2001 to 2005 he was the Estonian Ambassador to Finland, before occupying the position of Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for three years. Before this he was Head of the Foreign Relations Department in the Estonian Chancellery and Head of Office to then Prime Minister Mart Laar.

Sven MikserMinister of Foreign Affairs

Matti MaasikasDeputy Minister for EU Affairs

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Urve Palo is a Member of the Social Democratic Party and has been Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology since 2016. She has previously held ministerial briefs on Population and Ethnic Affairs, Economic Affairs and Infrastructure, and Entrepreneurship. She resigned from this last position after becoming disenchanted with the governing coalition. She has also been Deputy Chair of the Economics Affairs Committee.

From 2007-09, she was Assistant Mayor of the Viimsi Rural Municipality Government. However, before becoming a politician in 2006, Ms Palo was an accountant and later Head of Export and Head of Advertising for international industrial firm Saint-Gobain Isover AS. She holds an MBA in Economics from the University of Tartu.

Toomas TõnisteMinister of Finance

Toomas Tõniste is a Member of the Pro Patria and Res Publica Union and has been Minister of Finance since June 2017. He was a Member of the Riigikogu between 2007 and 2015, during which time he served as Chairman of the Economic Affairs Committee. In the past, he has been both a Member and Chairman of the Pro Partia Group on Tallinn City Council. He has also been the Chairman of Viimsi Rural Municipality Council.

Mr Tõniste has been a Member of both the OÜ Breting Board and AS LTT Board since the 1990s, and Chairman of OÜ Laste Maailm’s Board since 2005. He has also been a Member of the State Forest Management Centre’s Supervisory Board and, until recently, was Chairman of railway company EVR Cargo’s Supervisory Board. He graduated from Tallinn University in Physical Education and he is regarded as an accomplished sailor, having competed in four consecutive Summer Olympics.

Urve PaloMinister for Entrepreneurship and

Information Technology

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Urmas Reinsalu is a Member of the Pro Patria and Res Publica Union and has been Minister for Justice since 2015. He led his party between 2012-15, having worked as the Union's Political Secretary from 2001-02. He was also Minister for Defence from 2012 until 2014 and has served on the Social and Constitutional Committee. Early in his career he was Director of the Office of the President of Estonia under Lennart Meri.

He holds a Law degree from the University of Tartu, and worked as a public law specialist in the Ministry for Justice upon graduation. From 2002 he taught at the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences for a year. He is a Member of the National Defence League, the Central Union of Estonian Property Owners, and the Estonian Lawyers Union. He speaks English, German, Russian, and Finnish fluently.

Andres AnveltMinister of the Interior

A member of the Social Democratic Party, Andres Anvelt was appointed Estonia's Minister of the Interior in 2016. Prior to this he was Minister of Justice. He has been Chairman of the parliamentary Anti-Corruption Select Committee, the Investigation Committee, and the Legal Affairs Committee. From 2009-11 and again in 2013 he sat on Tallinn City Council.

He began his career in the police force, going on to become Director of the Central Criminal Police. He later had spells as Director of the Police and Border Guard College. Between 2007 and 2011 he was a Security Advisor of the Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces.

After attending Tallinn Militia Special Secondary School, Mr Anvelt went on to receive a degree in Law from the University of Tartu. He later studied for a Master’s degree at Tallinn University of Technology and the FBI Academy in the US.

Urmas ReinsaluMinister of Justice

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Tarmo Tamm is Estonia’s Minister of Rural Affairs and a Member of the Estonian Centre Party. Mr Tamm was a Member of the Riigikogu between 2014-15 and 2015-16 – as a Vice-Chairman of the Finance Committee during the former and a Vice-Chairman of the Constitutional Committee in the latter. He has also been Chairman of the Centre Party’s parliamentary group.

Before this, he was a Member of the Põlva Rural Municipality between 1991-99 and a Member of the Põlva City Council between 1999-2013. He has served as a Mayor of both Põlva and Põlva Municipality in the past and, in addition to these, he has also worked as a Workshop Manager. Finally, he graduated in the field of mechanisation from the Technical School of the Tihemetsa State Farm and as an Agrarian Economist from the Estonian University of Life Sciences.

Jevgeni OssinovskiMinister for Health and Labour

Jevgeni Ossinovski is Estonia’s Minister of Health and Labour – a post he has held before between 2015-16. He has been the Chairman of the Social Democratic Party since May 2015. He was a Member of the Riigikogu between 2011-15, during which time he was a Member of the Cultural Affairs Committee, European Union Affairs Committee and Foreign Affairs Committee. His other previous ministerial experience was as the Minister of Education and Research between 2014-15. As Minister of Health and Labour, he has pursued efforts to reduce alcohol consumption in Estonia and bring about stricter rules on advertising and drinks promotions.

Aside from this, he worked as a freelancer and he has a degree from the University of Tartu in Philosophy, and Master’s degrees in Philosophy and Politology from the University of Warwick and the London School of Economics and Political Science respectively.

Tarmo TammMinister of Rural Affairs

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Kadri Simson is Estonia’s Minister of Economic Affairs and Infrastructure. She is a Member of the Estonian Centre Party and was a Member of the Riigikogu between 2007-16. During these years, she was the Chairman of the Estonian Centre Party faction between 2009-16 and the Deputy Chairman of the National Defence Committee between 2007-09. She was also Secretary-General of the Estonian Centre Party between 2003-07.

Aside from these, she has also served on both Pärnu City Council and Tallinn City Council, worked as a Research Assistant at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and at the University of Tartu, and been an Adviser to both the Mayor of Tallinn and Tallinn City Council. She graduated from the University of Tartu with a degree in History and she has a Master’s degree in Political Science from University College London.

Mailis RepsMinister of Education and Research

Mailis Reps is Estonia’s Minister of Education and Research. She is a Member of the Estonian Centre Party and served in the same Ministerial role between 2002-03 and 2005-07. She was a Member of the Riigikogu between 2003-16 and a Vice-Chairman of both the Estonian Centre Party faction and Cultural Affairs Committee during this time. She has been a Member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

She has been elected to both Tallinn City Council and Tartu City Council. Aside from this she has been a lecturer on European and International Law and on International and Comparative Law, and worked at the European Commission, in other academic institutions, and at ASEED Europe. She has degrees in Social Science and Law, and Master’s degrees in Law and European Public Relations.

Kadri SimsonMinister of Economic Affairs and

Infrastructure

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Kaia Iva is Estonia’s Minister of Social Protection and a member of the Pro Patria and Res Publica Union. She was a Member of the Riigikogu between 2007-15 and has served two terms as a Member of the Council of Türi Rural Municipality. Between 2002-05, she was the Mayor of Türi.

Apart from this direct political experience, she has been the Head of Türi Kindergarten, Head of the Sales Department of Mäo Klaas AS, Head of the Advertising Department at Järva Teataja publishing house and she has worked in insurance and education. She graduated from the Tallinn Pedagogical Institute as a teacher of Mathematics and Physics.

Siim Kiisler is a Member of the Pro Patria and Res Publica Union and has been Estonia’s Minister of the Environment since June 2017. He was a Member of Parliament between 2003-05, 2006-07 and 2014-17, serving as Chairman of the Constitutional Committee in the most recent composition of the Riigikogu. He was also Minister of Regional Affairs between 2008-14 and an Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications between 2007-08.

Prior to this, Mr Kiisler worked as the City District Elder of Tallinn City Centre between 1999-2001 and was Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Glacier Eesti AS. He is a graduate of Tallinn University of Technology.

Siim KiislerMinister of the Environment

Indrek Saar is Estonia’s Minister of Culture and a Member of the Social Democratic Party. He was a Member of the Riigikogu for two terms between 2007-15. Before this, between 2002-07 he was the Deputy Chairman of Rakvere City Council.

Mr Saar worked as the Director of Rakvere Theatre between 1996-2005 and has also held senior positions at the Rakvere Theatre House Foundation and Theatre NO99. He graduated from the Higher Theatre School of the Estonian Academy of Music in acting and has worked in this field in the past.

Kaia IvaMinister of Social Protection

Indrek SaarMinister of Culture

The PolicyGet insights into key policies

Click the Council below to jump to your area

JHA FACGACENV COMPET

EYCS ECOFINTTEAGRIFISH EPSCO

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EU forecast

The Competitiveness Council has a wide-ranging remit to deal with growth and the single market, covering issues from intellectual property to space policy. Two of Estonia's four headline priorities will undoubtedly inform the work done in this area: 'an open and innovative European economy', and 'a digital Europe and the free flow of data'. Estonia is something of an EU poster child for the way that it has developed its own digital economy over the last couple of decades, and the Presidency will be looking to use this experience.A lot of COMPET energy will be taken up by the ongoing Single Market package, including proposals on a services e-card and a single market information tool. This will be complemented over the summer by a new package of measures on goods in the single market, and an initiative on smart specialisation to improve EU innovation.COMPET is also responsible for space policy, although this is not a legislation-heavy field. However, a legislative proposal on government satellite communication is expected before the end of 2017.

Key ongoing proposals

• Regulation and Directive on services e-card

• Regulation on a Single Market Information Tool

• Partnership for research and innovation in the Mediterranean area (PRIMA)

Expected key proposals

• Single Market Strategy: goods package• Proposal on Government Satellite

Communication• Initiative on maximising Europe's

innovation potential through smart specialisation

COMPETCompetitiveness

Kadri Simson

Ministerial chairs

Mailis Reps

Urve Palo

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EU forecast

Ranked 9th in the EU digital economy index, Estonia is no stranger to digital innovation. Coupled with its priorities in the digital area, it is fair to expect for Estonia to push forward with existing initiatives related to intelligent transport systems and infrastructure.The Estonian Presidency has underscored the role that transport plays in the EU as an economic contributor. Yet it also accepts that transport must be more accessible, environmentally friendly, better connected and cheaper to meet tomorrow’s challenges.The Council plans to engage in work that will touch upon land, air and sea transport. In land transport, the focus will be on the road haulage market, related social issues, and driver training. The Presidency will also attempt to jump-start discussions on the recently introduced proposal on road charging. Rail transport related work will focus on passenger rights.For aviation, the focus will primarily be on revision of EASA basic regulation, which proved to be a divisive on a handful of core issues. Work will also start on the recently introduced proposal on safeguarding connectivity and competition in international transport, particularly because of the ongoing air transport agreement negotiations with a number of third countries. The presidency will also be involved in the ongoing work related to the International Agreement on Emissions from Aircraft (CORSIA). In maritime affairs, the Estonian Presidency will move forward with the port reception facilities directive while also attempting to finalise the passenger ship safety package and the Inland Waterways Qualification Directive.

Key ongoing proposals

• Mobility Package• Revision of EASA Basic Regulation• Passenger Ship Safety Package

Expected key proposals

• Rail Passenger Rights• Port Reception Facilities• Revisions of the Cars and Vans Regulations• Review of the Clean and Energy-Efficient Road

Transport Vehicles Directive

TTETransport

Ministerial chair

Kadri Simson

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EU forecast

The Estonian Presidency will focus on the importance of a digitally united Europe and the free movement of data. It announced that every Council formation will focus on digital questions, and in total nearly 50 legislative negotiations will elaborate various aspects of building a digital Europe, alongside around 50 events addressing these questions.Estonia recognises the importance of free movement of data for the completion of the Digital Single Market. A joint informal meeting of ministers of telecommunications and competitiveness will be held on 17 and 18 July in Tallinn, at which among others emerging issues such as data access and reuse for non-personal data will be discussed. In terms of legislative proposals, the Estonian Presidency will first of all prioritise work on the proposed Electronic Communications Code and the BEREC Regulation, so as to make swift progress. It points out that "ensuring a successful roll-out of next generation communication networks is a fundamental challenge for Europe in the coming decade". Secondly, Estonia aims to conclude negotiations on the proposed cross-border parcel delivery regulation. It is furthermore planning to hold a ministerial meeting and produce a declaration on e-government in October. Thirdly, as the Estonian Presidency finds that "keeping Europe safe and secure requires building trust and security in the digital domain", it refers to the proposed Regulation on Privacy and Electronic Communications (ePrivacy) as being an important complement to EU telecoms and data protection rules. The Presidency will present a progress report that contains major advances. Finally, regarding cybersecurity, Estonia announces that the Telecoms Council will begin discussion on the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) mandate and measures on cyber security standards, certification and labelling.

Key ongoing proposals

• Recast European Electronic Communications Code

• Regulation on Privacy and Electronic Communications (ePrivacy)

• Regulation cross-border parcel delivery

Expected key proposals

• Legislative initiative on the cross-border free flow of non-personal data

• Review of EU Cybersecurity Strategy and the mandate of ENISA

• Measures on cybersecurity standards, certification and labelling

TTETelecommunications

Ministerial chair

Urve Palo

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EU forecast

The Estonian Presidency is committed to ensuring the quality, balance and efficacy of energy legislation in the following areas: electricity market design and renewable energy, on which the Presidency will strive for agreement among Member States, at least on the core issues; governance of the Energy Union, on which the Presidency will similarly seek an agreement among Member States; and energy efficiency, on which trilogues could start pending the availability of the European Parliament.Furthermore, Estonia will propose a public-private partnership declaration on digitising the energy sector, in line with its horizontal digital priority.Finally, on energy infrastructure, Estonia will start discussions on the mandate for Nord Stream 2 negotiations and open discussions on the future financing framework for trans-European networks of energy.An informal Council in September, a formal Council in December, as well as a tentative additional formal meeting in October will support the progress on these different initiatives.

Key ongoing proposals

• Governance Regulation• Electricity market design legislation• Energy Efficiency and Energy

Performance of Buildings Directives• Renewable Energy Directive

Expected key proposals

• Amended list of Projects of Common Interest

TTEEnergy

Ministerial chair

Kadri Simson

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EU forecast

As regards to its agricultural priorities, the Estonian Presidency will continue work on the EU’s efforts to synchronise the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), especially since the outcome of the consultation on the future of CAP will be published during Estonia’s term. Discussions of CAP’s future will focus on how to better prepare farmers for the risks associated with the market and production.The Presidency will also focus on the sustainability and competitiveness of the agricultural sector. “Aid has helped to solve the problems created in the sector by crises, but we need tools that help us prevent them and respond to them faster,” said Minister of Rural Affairs Tarmo Tamm. To this end, the Presidency will host a high level conference – ‘Soils for Sustainable Food Production and Ecosystem Services’ - in Tallinn in early October which will explore the sustainability and protection of soils from the viewpoint of agriculture. In terms of livestock, the Estonian Presidency will try to make progress with the new Veterinary Medicine and Medicated Feed Regulations as a means of combatting antimicrobial resistance.

Key ongoing proposals

• Omnibus Regulation• Regulation on Veterinary Medicinal

Products • Production and Labelling of Organic

Products

Expected key proposals

• None

AGRIFISHAgriculture & Fisheries

Tarmo Tamm

Ministerial chair

Siim Kiisler

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EU forecastThe Estonian Presidency takes over the ECOFIN chair just a few weeks after the publication of the Capital Markets Union (CMU) mid-term review by the Commission. The half-way point of the EU's flagship financial services project gives a chance for reflection, and perhaps a strategic reset, in light of the imminent departure of the bloc's largest capital market.

As is usual at the end of a Presidency, Malta oversaw a flurry of trilogue agreements, including on venture capital funds and securitisation. Estonia will take forward work on central clearing counterparty (CCP) recovery and resolution, two proposals revising the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR), and (likely) a proposed framework on a Pan-European European Personal Pension product, or PEPP.

The CMU proposals are set to continue with legislation to strengthen the powers of ESMA – potentially turning it into a genuine European capital markets supervisor. The Commission is also planning communications on corporate bond markets, and removing barriers to post-trade market infrastructure, while work will continue on FinTech and sustainable finance – two of the key focuses of the CMU.

For the banking sector, the focus is on the package of measures proposed last year on risk reduction, where work is going on in parallel to the European Deposit Insurance Scheme, the controversial 'third pillar' of the Banking Union.

Finally in the field of taxation, a number of proposals on the EU's VAT system are expected under the Estonian Presidency, which a focus on SMEs and cross-border trade.

Key ongoing proposals

• Revisions of European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR)

• Risk Reduction package for banking sector

• Recovery and resolution of CCPs

Expected key proposals

• Review of the prudential treatment of investment firms

• Conflict of laws rules for third party effects of transactions in securities and claims

• Strengthening ESMA's supervisory powers

ECOFINEconomic & Financial Affairs

Toomas Tõniste

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EU forecast

Climate Change and the Circular Economy are again high on the agenda of the new rotating Presidency.Together with its trio partners Bulgaria and Austria, Estonia will highlight eco-innovation with the aim to revive the issue at EU level and mainstream it into EU policies for the post-2020 period. To this end, it will hold multiple events throughout October and adopt Council conclusions on the matter in December.The Estonian Presidency also aims to move forward the trilogue discussions on the circular economy legislative proposals with a view to reach an agreement by the end of its Presidency.Climate-wise, Estonia claims that it is “committed to make substantial progress on all climate policy files”. While the EU Member State will “continue negotiations with Parliament on the ETS file”, it is expected to not only start but also conclude trilogue negotiations on the continuation of current limitations of scope for aviation in the Emissions Trading System (ETS) beyond 2016. On the non-ETS dossiers, Estonia hopes to reach a general approach on both Effort Sharing and LULUCF Regulations. In the international arena, Estonia will strive to “uphold multilateralism by fortifying a broad-based international alliance”.

Key ongoing proposals

• EU ETS• Aviation in ETS• ESR/LULUCF• Four legislative proposals on waste

Expected key proposals

• Revised Drinking Water Directive

ENVEnvironment

Siim Kiisler

Ministerial chair

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EU forecast

In the area of health, the incoming Presidency is to focus on two main issues: tackling the unhealthy use of alcohol and promoting digital innovation in health. On the first priority, the unhealthy use of alcohol, the Estonians will endeavour to adopt Council conclusions that promote the capability of Member States to tackle the issue. On the issue of eHealth, the Presidency will work on promoting research and innovation in order to foster citizens’ accessibility to their health data in a secure and efficient manner. The Presidency is also set to work on halting antimicrobial resistance by taking forward negotiations on the Proposal for a Regulation on Veterinary Medicinal Products and holding a high level conference on 23 November. An informal Council is to be held on 20 July, while any conclusions will be adopted during the formal session of December.

Key ongoing proposals

• Regulation on Veterinary Medicinal Products

Expected key proposals

• Health Technology Assessment

EPSCOEmployment, Health, Social Policy & Consumers

Kaia Iva

Ministerial chairs

Jevgeni Ossinovski

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EU forecast

In justice, the Estonian Presidency will promote the principle of better regulation and wider use of electronic solutions. Furthermore, it aims to take forward work on data protection rules applicable to EU institutions, work on EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on violence against women, as well as resuming discussions on EU accession to the European Convention on Human Rights.The Estonian Presidency hopes to start negotiations with the European Parliament on the digital content proposal and to take forward discussions on the online sale of goods proposal. Work will continue at working group level with the recast of the Brussels IIa Regulation and the insolvency law proposal. In the field of criminal law, priorities include the money laundering directive, finalising the modalities for the establishment of European Public Prosecutor’s Office, Eurojust negotiations, the freezing and confiscation of criminal assets, and the upcoming proposal on European Criminal Records Information System.In the area of home affairs, Estonia will continue to work on the reform of the European Common Asylum System, building on the work of previous Presidencies, including on the issue of solidarity. Work will continue to ensure the complementarity of the external and internal aspects of migration. As the Presidency is convinced that use of databases and modern IT-solutions is needed to achieve normal functioning of the Schengen area, the Estonian Presidency will continue the work towards interoperability of different IT systems, focusing on the implementation of the Entry-Exit System and finding a political agreement on the European Travel Information and Authorisation System by the end of this year. Finally, Estonia stresses that "the fight against terrorism will be taken forward", while enhancing the connections between relevant internal and external policies.

Key ongoing proposals • Digital Contracts Directives • Recast Brussels IIa Regulation• Amendment 4th anti-money laundering Directive• Blue Card Directive • ETIAS Regulation

Expected key proposals

• ECRIS proposal • Review eu-LISA mandate

JHAJustice & Home Affairs

Urmas Reinsalu

Ministerial chairs

Andres Anvelt

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EU forecast

The General Affairs Council is a clearing house for a variety of miscellaneous topics not dealt with by other Councils, and does not really have a legislative role. It does however prepare for European Council summits, work on cohesion policy, and has a part in budget discussions along with the ECOFIN Council.

Currently it can be expected to discuss the future institutional set-up of the EU, in light of the 2016 British referendum, while Commission papers on improving the democratic scrutiny of EU processes will also be on the agenda.

Enlargement also falls within the remit of the GAC, but any movement here is currently on hold.

Key ongoing proposals

• None

Expected key proposals

• Proposal on Improving the 'Comitology' Procedure

GACGeneral Affairs

Sven Mikser

Ministerial chairs

Matti Maasikas

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EU forecast

During this globally turbulent time, the Presidency will have to contend with the demanding task of dealing with the refugee crisis. To this end, the Estonians are expected to focus on reforming the Common European Asylum System and continuing the work of previous institutions to this end.Another topic to be addressed by the Presidency is the relations of the EU with its neighbouring countries. More concretely, the Presidency is to focus on supporting and strengthening relations with Eastern Partnership countries. On the defence aspect, increase in defence expenditure, developing European defence cooperation, as well as strengthening the EU-NATO partnership will also be in focus.

Key ongoing proposals • Proposal on illicit trade of cultural goods• Mid-term review of the implementation

of the European Agenda on Migration• Towards a new partnership between the

EU and the African, Caribbean & Pacific countries after 2020

Expected key proposals • Reform of the Common European

Asylum System• Reform Trade Defence Instruments Urve Palo

FACForeign Affairs

High Representative Federica Mogherini

Ministerial chairs

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EU forecast

On education, the Estonian Presidency will focus on the New Skills Agenda, modernisation of higher education, and the graduate tracking initiative proposed at the end of May. Regarding youth policy, in the coming six months Estonia aims to progress on youth work files and to follow up on the structured dialogue. The Presidency will furthermore work on the European Solidarity Corps initiative, which offers volunteering, traineeships, job placements and the opportunity to set up individual solidarity projects or to volunteer as a group, and for which a budget and legal base were proposed by the Commission in May. In terms of culture, the key legislative proposal Estonia aims to follow up on is the review of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive - trilogue discussions between the co-legislators commence under the Estonian Presidency. Additionally, the Presidency will work on access to culture and cultural heritage. On sport, Estonia will prioritise the structured dialogue on sport, the role of coaches, and preparation of the EU position for the next World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) meeting.

Key ongoing proposals

• Revision Audiovisual Media Services Directive

• European Solidarity Corps Regulation

Expected key proposals

• EU position for WADA meeting

EYCSEducation, Youth, Culture & Sport

Mailis Reps

Ministerial chairs

Indrek Saar

The EventsStay connected with the key dates

for the next 6 months

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Council calendarClick on the DeHavilland EU 2017 Council Calendar on the next page to view our Live Document. For the most up to date version, bookmark the

URL. DeHavilland EU will be updating this calendar throughout the year. Find the key below.

The Council is a single institution, but it meets in 10 configurations, determined by policy area. Although there is no hierarchy, the General

Affairs Council has a special coordination role and is responsible for institutional, administrative and horizontal matters. Any of the Council’s

10 configurations can adopt an act that falls under the remit of another configuration.

AGRIFISH Agriculture & Fisheries FAC Foreign AffairsCOMPET Competitiveness GAC General AffairsECOFIN Economic & Financial Affairs JHA Justice & Home AffairsENV Environment TTE Transport, Telecoms & EnergyEPSCO Employment, Health, Social & Consumers EYCS Education, Youth, Culture & Sport

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Click on the image below for

DeHavilland EU’s Live Estonian Council Calendar

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Member States holding the presidency work together closely in ‘Trios’, lasting 18 months with overarching aims set by the European Council. Estonia is the first country in the

8th Presidency Trio, joined by Bulgaria (January-June 2018) and Austria (July-December 2018). The United Kingdom was due to hold the Presidency after Malta but, following the

UK’s decision to leave the European Union, Estonia will take their place.

The Trio

Estonia: July-December 2017

Bulgaria: January-June 2018

Austria: July-December 2018

Romania: January-June 2019

Finland: July-December 2019

Croatia: January-June 2020

Germany: July-December 2020

DeHavilland EU

© DeHavilland EU Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

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