Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union

From 1 January to 30 June 2026, Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the second time. Beyond its broader political and institutional priorities, the programme of the Cyprus Presidency also addresses aspects of private international law.

Operating under the motto “An Autonomous Union. Open to the World”, the Cyprus Presidency unfolds against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical uncertainty and complex global challenges. In this context, autonomy is presented as a key step in the Union’s evolving integration process, enabling the EU to act independently when necessary while remaining open to cooperation with external partners. This approach is consistent with the Joint Declaration on EU legislative priorities for 2026, signed by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission, which reflects the shared institutional commitment to advancing key legislative files.

In the field of judicial cooperation in civil matters, the Cyprus Presidency aims to conclude negotiations on the Proposal for a Regulation on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition of decisions and acceptance of authentic instruments in matters of parenthood, including the creation of a European Certificate of Parenthood. The Cyprus Presidency aims also to reach a general approach on the Proposal for a Regulation on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition, enforcement of measures and cooperation in matters relating to the protection of adults.

The Cyprus Presidency takes place within the framework of the trio formed together with Poland and Denmark, which have adopted a joint 18-month programme covering the period from 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2026. The trio’s shared priorities – a strong and secure Europe, a prosperous and competitive Europe, and a free and democratic Europe – provide the broader political context within which Cyprus will pursue its agenda.