From ambition to delivery – An urgent call for action in 2026

The changing world dramatically increases the urgency to act

Since the beginning of the new legislative cycle, the situation for European companies has changed dramatically. Geopolitical tensions are growing, and security threats are rising, while economic headwinds become stronger – adding to the competitive pressure on European businesses of all sizes. In today’s evolving environment, determined and future-oriented action by policy makers is more urgent than ever to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and security as a foundation of prosperity and resilience.

Companies on the ground need to feel the changes

European businesses acknowledge the new commitment of European policy makers to boost competitiveness and to reduce regulatory burden. However, companies on the ground do not yet feel relief. The high energy cost gap compared to major competitors remains a key issue. High levels of complex legislation continue to stifle investment and innovation. Barriers in our Single Market still hamper the growth and cross-border operations of companies of all sizes, and in particular of SMEs. In the meantime, international relations continue to deteriorate, the technology race intensifies, and labour market challenges continue to increase.

To put the European economy back on track, unity and a rapid substantive change of course are needed. The Letta and Draghi reports set out the right direction of travel. Now, we count on policy makers in the European institutions and in the Member States, to join forces and swiftly turn ambitions into tangible results. Europe’s economic success is everyone’s business and the precondition for strengthening Europe’s position in the world. This is why BusinessEurope calls for swift delivery across five areas where companies urgently need to see improvements in 2026.

Please read our key pillars on the 'Ambition to Delivery' dedicated page.