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Training Seminar: EU Decision-Making Masterclass

Online training seminar

EU Decision-Making Masterclass

5 February 2026,
9:30 am to 12:30 pm CET
Brussels

Understanding how decisions are made at European Union level is essential for public affairs professionals who need to anticipate policy developments, engage effectively with institutions, and advise their organisations with confidence. This training seminar provides a practical overview of how the EU decision-making process works in practice, and how public affairs teams can engage at different stages of the policy cycle.

The session will focus on the interaction between the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the EU, and on how political priorities are translated into legislation. Drawing on concrete examples and practical experience, participants will explore how and when to intervene, how to adapt advocacy strategies as files evolve, and how to navigate an increasingly complex policy environment in Brussels.

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In this program, participants will discuss:

  • how the EU institutions work together throughout the legislative process

  • key stages of EU lawmaking and where engagement can be most effective

  • the role of political dynamics, national positions, and negotiations in shaping outcomes

  • delegated and implementing acts and their relevance for public affairs work

  • practical tools and approaches to monitor policy developments and anticipate next steps

Who should attend:

This training seminar is designed for public affairs professionals working on EU policy who wish to strengthen or refresh their understanding of EU decision-making, and to improve the effectiveness and timing of their engagement.

Aaron McLoughlin
Partner
FleishmannHillard
Inês Reis Basto
Senior Advisor (Europe),
International Practice
Public Affairs Council
Fernando Frois Fidalgo
Political Assistant
General and Institutional Policy at the
Council of the European Union

9:30–10:10 | Institutional and procedural overview

Introductory session

  • Composition and roles of the EU institutions in the decision-making process

  • How the European Parliament fits into the legislative cycle and interinstitutional dynamics

  • Key procedural steps and formal interactions across the policy cycle; Primary vs. secondary legislation

 

10:10–10:20 | Break

 

10:20–11:20 | 2. The European Commission perspective

Public affairs timing and engagement in practice

  • How proposals are prepared within the Commission and where decisions are shaped

  • Identifying windows of opportunity for engagement during preparation and adoption

  • Lessons learned on timing, evidence, and effective interaction with the Commission

 

11:20–11:30 | Break

 

11:30–12:30 | 3. The Council of the European Union perspective

Decision-making from the Member States level

  • How the Council works in practice and how Member States positions are coordinated

  • The role of working groups, COREPER, and political guidance in shaping outcomes

  • Practical insights on interinstitutional negotiations and Council dynamics

Register

PAC Members: €295 + VAT if applicable
Others: €495 + VAT if applicable

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Questions

Amanda Crafford
Programs & Member Relations Officer, International Practice
+32 476.639.503 | [email protected]

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