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What is the Presidency

Every six months a different member state of the European Union holds the Presidency and presides over the work of the Council of the European Union. During this time the state holding the Presidency plays host to the majority of the Union's events and plays a key role in the activities of the European Union. It is responsible for organising EU meetings, setting the Union's political agenda and ensuring its development, integration and security.
On July 1, 2011 Poland will take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Polish preparations for the Presidency

On July 1, 2011, Poland will take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Preparations for this prestigious task are in full swing to ensure that we carry out the tasks entrusted to us. The first steps have already been taken: on July 15, 2008 the Council of Ministers appointed a Government Plenipotentiary for the Preparation of Administrative Agencies and Poland's Presidency of the Council of the EU. On January 13, 2009 the programme of preparations for the Presidency was adopted as a result of the work by the Plenipotentiary and his team, with the involvement of other ministries and offices.

The Presidency in the Media

184 days – the length of time Poland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union
4416 hours – for conducting negotiations and resolving problems
264 ,960 minutes - for strengthening the global position of the EU under the Polish Presidency

 

However, we must be well prepared before July 1, 2011. You can find some essential information on this challenging process here...

Why is the Presidency an opportunity and a challenge for Poland?

Minister
Minister Dowgielewicz,
Government Plenipotentiary
for the Preparation of Administrative Agencies
and Poland's Presidency
of the Council of the European Union

 

Dear Sirs,

 

On July 1, 2011 Poland will take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
This is not only a challenge which requires strategic planning and intensive political and organizational activity on a national and European level, but also a big chance for Poland in shaping the EU.
The Presidency provides an opportunity to have a real influence on the decisions taken in the EU. We will have a chance to promote the priorities of Polish policy within the EU, to stress significant areas, and to present our ideas and initiatives. The Presidency is mainly a continuation of earlier EU activities and an assurance of its coherent functioning, and it guarantees a voice in important world matters. I am sure that Poland will make good use of this time. Taking a thorough approach to the task of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union will help to increase confidence in our country as an important EU member. A successful Presidency is the best promotion of Poland and an opportunity to create a positive image of Poland in the world.

The Presidency is also a challenge. The essence of Council work is establishing laws and making decisions crucial to 500 million citizens. It demands excellent substantive preparation of officials and experts, who prepare the ground for political decisions. Taking advantage of the experience of Member States which have held the Presidency or are preparing for this task, we will concentrate the organization of preparations for the Presidency in 3 areas: political, organizational and the promotion of Poland. Our main tasks will be to define the priorities which match the strategic objectives of Polish policy, develop the European decision-making process, manage human resources, and promote of our country’s culture, economy and tourism.

Poland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in two and a half  years’ time. I believe that we will make full use of our preparation time.

 

Mikołaj Dowgielewicz