Council of the European Union

Agenda Item 1: Establishing an EU Customs Data Hub and an EU Customs Authority

Agenda Item 2: Proposal for a Directive on Adapting Non-Contractual Civil Liability Rules to Artificial Intelligence

​

Under-Secretary-General: Ata Yağız Topaloğlu

Academic Assistants: Dila Demircan, Alperen Arifoğlu

​

​​

 Introduction to the Council of the European Union

​

     The Council of the European Union, or commonly referred to as the Council in EU documentation, is the principal institution representing the governments and ministries of the member states. It plays a pivotal role in the EU’s decision-making process by negotiating, amending and adopting the European legislation based on the proposals from the European Commission. Through the ordinary legislative procedure, also known as the co-decision procedure, the Council collaborates closely with the European Parliament to ensure democratic legitimacy and effective governance. Its primary responsibilities include coordinating member states’ policies to reduce fragmentation, shaping the EU’s foreign and security policy, and negotiating agreements with external states or international institutions. Together with the European Parliament, and the European Commission, the Council, thus, forms the cornerstone of the policy formulation and the decision-making in the European Union.

 

The Agenda Items

​

1. Establishing an EU Customs Data Hub and an EU Customs Authority

Customs procedures form a critical foundation of the European Single Market, directly affecting trade efficiency, security, and revenue collection. Despite the establishment of the EU Customs Union and common tariffs, the existing customs framework faces significant challenges, including fragmented governance, overly complex administrative procedures, and vulnerability to fraud. The rapid growth of e-commerce further intensifies these issues, highlighting the need for a streamlined, unified digital solution. To address these concerns, the European Parliament and the Council are considering establishing an EU Customs Data Hub and a unified EU Customs Authority. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, simplify administrative processes, strengthen control against illegal trade practices, and safeguard the EU’s financial interests, thereby reinforcing the integrity and efficiency of the Customs Union.

​

2. Proposal for a Directive on Adapting Non-Contractual Civil Liability Rules to Artificial Intelligence

As artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly integrates into daily life, its potential for innovation is accompanied by complex legal challenges, particularly concerning accountability and liability. Traditional legal frameworks often fail to address the nuances of AI-related incidents due to issues such as opaque system operations, distributed responsibilities, and the evolving nature of technology itself. To ensure legal certainty, safeguard fundamental rights, and protect consumers, the EU has introduced a proposal for an AI Liability Directive. This directive aims to adapt non-contractual civil liability rules specifically to AI systems, addressing key concerns such as establishing clear standards of proof, delineating responsibilities among stakeholders, and balancing innovation with robust consumer protection. The European Parliament and the Council will collaborate closely to finalize and adopt this directive, ensuring Europe maintains its position at the forefront of responsible and secure AI deployment