European citizenship is a legal status that is automatically granted to citizens of European Union (EU) member states. It is in addition to national citizenship and does not replace it, providing a number of additional rights and opportunities.

One of the main benefits of European citizenship is the freedom of movement and residence in all EU member states. This means that European citizens can live, work, study and travel freely within the EU without the need for visas or special permits. In addition, European citizens have the right to vote and be elected in European and municipal elections in the country in which they reside, regardless of their original nationality.

European citizenship also offers a number of legal protections, such as the right to petition the European Parliament and the right to turn to the European Ombudsman in case of disputes or problems with EU institutions. It also provides access to various EU funding and scholarship programs, as well as cultural and professional exchange initiatives, such as the Erasmus+ program.

European Citizenship:

Wikipedia provides a comprehensive overview of European Union citizenship, discussing its historical development, rights, and legal protections​​.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Union_citizenship 

The European Commission's official page on EU citizenship offers detailed information on the rights and responsibilities of EU citizens, and various EU initiatives related to citizenship​​.

https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/eu-citizenship-and-democracy/eu-citizenship_en 

European citizenship offers various training opportunities aimed at both young people and adults, contributing to the personal and professional development of European citizens.

Initial Vocational Education and Training (IVET): This type of training mainly takes place in educational environments or work contexts, such as training centers and businesses. About 50% of European youth between 15 and 19 years old follow an IVET course at the upper secondary education level. However, there are significant geographical differences in participation rates within the EU.

Continuing Vocational Education and Training: After initial education or entry into the workforce, continuing VET aims to refine existing knowledge and acquire new skills. This training is primarily work-based and focuses on ongoing personal and professional development.

The European Union, through European cooperation in vocational education and training (initiated with the Copenhagen process in 2002), aims to ensure that at least 60% of IVET graduates can benefit from a work experience by 2025.

The Europe Direct Center, with the European Citizenship Education Project, aims to promote active citizenship in educational systems. Interventions in schools aim to educate young people on European issues, bring them closer to the European integration process, and allow local realities to play an active role in the process of building Europe. The meetings, held by young university trainers, offer a general framework on the history of European integration, institutions, community policies, and opportunities for study and work in the EU.

Moreover, the European Union supports education and training by promoting multilingualism, encouraging the mobility of students, trainees, teachers, and youth, and facilitating the exchange of information and experiences. The EU's objectives in this area include promoting lifelong learning and mobility, improving the quality and effectiveness of education and training, promoting equity, social cohesion, and active citizenship, and supporting creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Through the Erasmus+ program, the EU supports individuals and organizations in the field of education, training, and youth, offering funding and resources for study, training, internships abroad, partnerships for innovation, knowledge exchange, and policy reform. The European Solidarity Corps also offers opportunities for young people to engage in volunteering or work activities for local communities in Europe.

These initiatives demonstrate the European Union's commitment to offering educational and training opportunities that are accessible, high-quality, and promote social cohesion.

Training Opportunities for Adults:

The European Commission's page on youth employment support outlines various vocational training and education initiatives, although it mainly targets youth, some insights might be relevant for adults​​.
https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/economy-works-people/youth-employment-support_en 

Deutschland.de offers insights into vocational training opportunities in EU countries, including information on dual vocational education and training, ideal for understanding training landscapes in the EU​​.
https://www.deutschland.de/en/topic/knowledge/vocational-training-abroad-chance-europe 

The European Union's official page on education and training support details how the EU supports Member States in providing education and training, which includes adult education and vocational training​​.

https://european-union.europa.eu/priorities-and-actions/actions-topic/education-training-and-youth_en

Summary questions:

What is the European Union's goal regarding the work experience of IVET graduates by 2025?

How does the European Citizenship Education Project of the Europe Direct Center contribute to the training of young people?

European citizenship opens up numerous job opportunities, particularly in the digital and remote work sector, as well as through programs like Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs.

Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs: This program offers the opportunity to work with an experienced entrepreneur in another EU country. It is aimed at those wishing to start their own business, as well as those who have had a business for less than three years. There are no age limits, and activities can be in any sector. The program also includes financial assistance to cover travel and living expenses.

Moreover, as an EU citizen, you have the right to start a business in any EU country or open a branch of an existing company in another member state. Each country has specific requirements, so it is important to inform yourself about the necessary procedures. The "Your Europe" portal provides detailed information on the laws and administrative procedures for each country, as well as information on issues such as VAT, customs, product requirements, and environmental labels.

Opportunities for Digital and Remote Work: European citizenship also offers opportunities in the field of digital and remote work. The European Youth Portal provides information and opportunities for young people and those working in the youth sector, including professional mobility within the EU. The portal includes information on various job opportunities in EU member states and how to make a difference through programs like the European Solidarity Corps.

These job opportunities, both entrepreneurial and digital and remote, represent a significant advantage of European citizenship, offering citizens the opportunity to explore different careers and work models in a broader European context.

Job Opportunities:

The European Commission's page on Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs provides information on this entrepreneurial exchange program, suitable for adults looking to start or grow a business​​.

https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/how-apply/eligibility-who-can-get-funding/funding-opportunities-young-people_en 

The European Youth Portal, despite its name, offers information on various opportunities, including job opportunities in the EU, which might be relevant for adults as well​​.

https://youth.europa.eu/home_en

Erasmus for young entprereneurs

https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/index.php?lan=en

Summary questions:

What are the main features of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program?

How can EU citizens benefit from digital and remote work opportunities?

European citizenship offers significant opportunities in the transport and travel sector, thanks to the right of free movement guaranteed to EU citizens. This right implies that citizens can travel, work, and live in any EU country without the need for visas or special permits. In particular, citizens of countries belonging to the Schengen area enjoy the possibility of moving freely within this area without border controls, although national authorities can carry out police checks in border areas.

The concept of mobility as an integral part of European citizenship is also reflected in the promotion of transnational mobility, contributing to the development of a common European identity based on shared values, history, and culture. An effective policy on transport and mobility is fundamental for the sustainable development of the European economy. Transport not only facilitates access to services and connections between different countries but also affects the quality of life of citizens. On average, a European family spends about 13.2% of its budget on transport-related products and services, highlighting the importance of this sector in daily life.

EU citizens also have specific rights when using modes of transport such as airplanes, trains, buses, or ships for their movements within the EU. These rights include the ability to travel with pets according to specific regulations, limits on the quantities of alcohol, tobacco, or cash that can be transported, and the protection of passenger rights. For travel within the EU, it is advisable to check the necessary documents and any restrictions or limits imposed by each member state.

Finally, European citizenship not only guarantees travel and mobility rights but also implies the responsibility to respect the laws and regulations of the European Union, thus contributing to the construction of a democratic, united, and culturally rich Europe.

Transportation and Travel:

The EU's rights for transport users page is a comprehensive resource detailing the rights of EU citizens when using different modes of transport within the EU

https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/eu-citizenship-and-democracy/eu-citizenship_en 

Summary questions:

What are the specific rights of EU citizens when using modes of transport within the Union?

How does the right of free movement affect the travel, work, and life possibilities of EU citizens?

Citizenship of the European Union offers its citizens a set of significant rights that also concern the opportunities for purchases and imports within the EU. These rights, conferred by the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, include non-discrimination based on nationality, the freedom to move and reside freely within the EU, as well as the right to actively and passively vote in European Parliament and municipal elections.

In the context of purchases and imports, European citizenship implies that citizens can buy goods and services in any EU member state without discrimination based on their nationality or country of residence. This opens up a wide range of possibilities for consumers, allowing them to benefit from a larger market, with a wide variety of products and services available through the Union.

Moreover, within the EU's single market, goods can move freely between member states. This means that EU citizens can import products from other member states without facing additional customs duties or complex procedures. This freedom of movement of goods contributes to creating a more competitive and varied commercial environment, offering European consumers access to a wider range of products, often at more advantageous prices compared to smaller national markets.

However, it is important to note that while EU citizens enjoy these rights of purchase and import within the Union, they may still be subject to specific national regulations and laws, depending on the country they are in or from which they purchase products. These regulations can include aspects related to product safety, health and environmental standards, and other regulatory provisions necessary for the functioning of the internal market.

In conclusion, European citizenship not only confers political and social rights but also extends these rights to the economic context, facilitating purchases and imports through the European Union's single market, thus contributing to greater economic and social integration among EU citizens.

Purchasing and Importing:

The European Union's official page on internal market, industry, entrepreneurship, and SMEs provides detailed information on the rules and regulations for purchasing and importing goods within the EU, relevant for both individuals and businesses​​.

https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/eu-citizenship-and-democracy/eu-citizenship_en 

Summary questions:

What are the rights of EU citizens regarding purchases and imports within the Union?

How does the free movement of goods within the EU's single market benefit European consumers?

European citizenship offers significant opportunities in the field of sales and export, especially thanks to the prominent position of the European Union in global trade. The EU is the world's leading exporter of manufactured goods and services and represents a significant market for about 80 countries. The EU countries, together, account for about 16% of global imports and exports, highlighting the importance of the bloc in global trade.

For European companies and entrepreneurs, this means simplified access to a vast international market, facilitated by various EU trade agreements and a regulatory environment that promotes the free movement of goods and services. Businesses can export their products to other EU countries and the world with simplified procedures, benefiting from reduced customs duties and fewer trade barriers. In addition, the EU provides support services for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) wishing to expand into foreign markets.

A useful site for companies wishing to explore export opportunities is Export.gov.it, which provides useful information on how to prepare for export, identify target markets, plan entry into new markets, promote and digitalize their business, negotiate commercial contracts, and manage risk and liquidity. The site also offers personalized advice to help businesses grow and take advantage of export opportunities.

Moreover, the EU provides tools and resources to facilitate import and export activities, including the EU's tariff classification database (TARIC), which helps businesses navigate EU commercial and agricultural regulations.

In conclusion, European citizenship opens the door to a wide range of export opportunities, thanks to the EU's privileged position in global trade and the numerous tools and resources available to businesses to facilitate their international commercial activities.

Sales and Export:

Market Opportunities in the EU: Trade.gov - EU Market Opportunities

https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/eu-market-opportunities 

Export Guide for EU Market: Access2Markets - Guide for Export of Goods

https://trade.ec.europa.eu/access-to-markets/en/home 

Summary questions:

What advantages does the EU offer to European companies and entrepreneurs in the field of export?

How can a European company use the site Export.gov.it for its export activities?

The European Union is actively committed to promoting energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies as part of its strategy to combat climate change and reduce energy dependence. These efforts fall within the framework of the European Green Deal and the RepowerEU plan, which aim to reduce Europe's dependence on fossil fuel imports and promote a more sustainable and affordable energy system.

Among the main initiatives, the EU has set new energy efficiency targets, which foresee a collective reduction in the European Union's energy consumption of at least 11.7% by 2030, compared to the 2020 projections. Member states are required to save an average of 1.5% of energy per year, with an expected increase to 1.9% by the end of 2030. These targets will be achieved through measures adopted at the local, regional, and national levels, covering various sectors such as public administration, buildings, businesses, and data centers.

A particular focus is placed on the building sector, which is responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU. The proposed regulations by the European Commission aim to improve the energy performance of buildings, with the goal of making them more energy-efficient and less dependent on fossil fuels. This will include improved insulation and heating systems, as well as the promotion of solar technologies for new buildings, when technically and economically feasible.

The EU also promotes the transition to low carbon emissions, with the goal of creating a sustainable energy sector that stimulates growth, innovation, and employment. In this context, the European Energy Union plays an important role, ensuring greater consistency across all sectors to achieve sustainability energy goals.

Finally, the EU offers various funding opportunities and credit schemes to help businesses and regions effectively implement energy projects. These measures not only benefit the planet but also offer economic benefits and to consumers, improving the quality of life, offering a wider choice, and strengthening consumer rights.

Energy and Energy Conservation:

The European Green Deal: European Commission - The European Green Deal

https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en 

RepowerEU Plan: European Commission - REPowerEU: Joint European Action for more affordable, secure and sustainable energy

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_22_1511 

Summary questions:

What are the main goals of the EU regarding energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies?

How is the building sector involved in the EU's energy strategy?

The environmental policy of the European Union aims to create a greener and more sustainable Europe, directly benefiting EU citizens with high environmental standards. The EU and national governments have established precise targets up to 2020 and a vision up to 2050, supported by research programs, regulations, and specific funding. These targets include protecting and improving the EU's natural capital, transitioning to a low CO2 emission economy, efficient in resource use, and protecting citizens from environmental risks to health and well-being.

The EU's environmental liability directive implements the "polluter pays" principle, obliging operators conducting environmentally risky professional activities to take preventive measures and, if damage occurs, to undertake remediation measures at their own expense. The scope of the directive has been expanded to include various sectors, such as waste management from extraction and the safety of offshore operations in the hydrocarbon sector.

Moreover, the EU's environmental policy has made significant progress in integrating environmental issues into other sectors, such as energy policy. The European Green Deal, launched in December 2019, aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent. The EU's climate legislation, adopted in 2021, commits the EU to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

Environment:

EU Environmental Policies: European Commission - Environment

https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en 

EU's Environmental Liability Directive: European Commission - Environmental Liability Directive

https://environment.ec.europa.eu/news/guidelines-environmental-liability-directive-2021-03-25_en 

Summary questions:

What is the objective of the EU's environmental liability directive?

How does the European Green Deal contribute to the EU's environmental policy?

European citizenship opens doors to numerous partnership opportunities in both the business sector and non-commercial areas. Among these, cooperation partnerships supported by the Erasmus+ program stand out. These partnerships are transnational projects aimed at developing and sharing innovations, as well as promoting collaboration, mutual learning, and the exchange of experiences in fields such as higher education, vocational training, school education, adult education, youth, and sports.

Cooperation partnerships offer a wide range of public, private, and 

non-governmental organizations the opportunity to conduct various activities. These partnerships are aimed at improving the quality of work of the involved organizations, developing the capacity to work transnationally and intersectorally, and responding to common needs in the fields of education, training, youth, and sports.

In addition, there are small-scale partnerships, intended to broaden access for small-scale operators and hard-to-reach individuals. These partnerships aim to attract new participants, support the inclusion of groups with fewer opportunities, and promote active European citizenship at the local level.

Regarding European citizenship itself, the associated rights are not limited to the national context but extend to the scope of other EU member states and internationally. Among the main rights are the freedom of movement and residence in other member states, the right to vote and stand in municipal and European elections, and diplomatic and consular protection in non-European countries. In addition, EU citizens have the right to petition the European Parliament, to approach the European Ombudsman, and to write to institutions and some community bodies in one of the EU's official languages.

These opportunities offer European citizens a broad platform for establishing relationships and collaborations at various levels, thus contributing to the development of a more united and integrated Europe.

Partnerships for business and non-business

https://een.ec.europa.eu/ 

Summary questions:

What are the characteristics of the cooperation partnerships supported by the Erasmus+ program?

How does European citizenship extend the rights of citizens beyond the national context?

European citizenship offers various funding opportunities for different projects and activities, through programs supported by the European Union. These programs are aimed at a wide range of sectors and are accessible to various types of organizations, public and private, and also to individual citizens.

One of the main tools through which the EU provides funding is the Erasmus+ program. This program is not limited to education and training but also includes cooperation partnerships. These partnerships are transnational projects aimed at developing and sharing innovations and promoting collaboration, mutual learning, and the exchange of experiences in various sectors such as higher education, vocational training, school education, adult education, youth, and sports.

Moreover, the European Commission provides information regarding the rights of EU citizens to free movement, funding, and support. This includes various opportunities and funding programs for initiatives that promote European citizenship and its values.

The "Your Europe" website provides detailed information on how to access EU funding. It offers an overview of the available funding programs, the types of businesses and sectors eligible, and the various types of funding, such as loans, microfinancing, guarantees, and risk capital funded by the European Union.

European citizenship, funds and funding opportunities.

https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home 

Summary questions:

What are the main characteristics of the Erasmus+ program in relation to project funding?

How does the "Your Europe" site help in finding information on EU funding?