As Europe continues to navigate rapid geopolitical challenges, evolving technology, energy, and climate objectives, and an increasingly interconnected global market, the role of European standardisation is more crucial than ever. The European Committee for Standardization (CEN), and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC), look forward to supporting the Cyprus Presidency in advancing a strong, competitive, and resilient Single Market underpinned by high-quality European standards.
Synergies in upcoming ambitions
The Presidency’s programme highlights key strategic areas that align with the European Standardisation System: simplification and burden reduction, defence, trade, as well as climate and security.
Standards offer a common language for emerging technologies, driving innovation and serving as a valuable resource for simplification. It is essential for the competitiveness of Europe to have technology neutral standards that underpin competition rather than vendor lock in specific technologies. Such standards are produced in the European standardisation organizations CEN and CENELEC, through the strength of their Members in 34 countries of the Single Market.
A clear example of this advantage being practically applied is in energy security – one of the EU’s most pressing challenges. Standards support Europe’s energy transition by helping integrate renewable energy sources and optimise their use, ensure grid interoperability, and maintain a security of supply.
But interoperability is not limited to the energy sector. Defence can also greatly benefit from the enhancement of its dual-use catalogue of standards. Doing so offers the opportunity to grow in areas of manufacturing, joint procurement, as well as the connection between defence and industry leaders.
The Cyprus Presidency comes at a pivotal moment for the development of the European Standardisation System as it evolves with its green and digital transition. With SMART standards and Online Standards Development becoming the norm in European Standardisation, the extent and agility of standards development is in a state of rapid evolution.
It is our hope that the Cyprus Presidency will consider to leverage the power of European Standardisation as it looks towards fostering innovation and the strength of Europe’s industrial leadership.
CEN and CENELEC are committed to contributing expertise and collaborative strength throughout the Presidency, working closely with EU institutions, national delegations, industry, societal stakeholders, and the wider standardisation community.
Looking ahead
CEN, CENELEC, and their National Members in 34 European countries are looking forward to collaborating with the Cyprus Presidency to achieve Europe’s strategic priorities. A particularly important file during this semester will be the revision of the Standardisation Regulation, which gives the opportunity to shape the future of the European Standardisation System.
CEN and CENELEC are committed to deepening their dialogue with EU institutions and all relevant stakeholders on how the European Standardisation System can continue to adapt to fast-evolving technological and policy needs.
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