Story perspectives

EU Invests €4.75M in Space to Boost Autonomy

1/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 27, 2026, the European Commission and the European Parliament awarded five space-launch projects €950,000 each.
The awards aim to boost Europe’s strategic autonomy and competitiveness in space.
The European Central Bank pursues a digital euro with potential issuance by 2029.
The EU aims for digital sovereignty to reduce reliance on non-European services.
Germany backs a two-speed EU to improve decision-making and resilience, focusing on raw materials and defense.

History

Historical Context

The European Union's space policy, initiated in 2007, aims to enhance strategic autonomy and competitiveness in space. In 2021, the EU allocated €1 billion to projects like satellite technology and launched the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA). With over 230,000 jobs in the sector, these investments reflect a commitment to innovation and resilience amid global challenges, particularly in security and resource management.

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Story summary

On January 27, 2026, the European Commission and the European Parliament awarded five space-launch projects €950,000 each.
The awards aim to boost Europe’s strategic autonomy and competitiveness in space.
The European Central Bank pursues a digital euro with potential issuance by 2029.
The EU aims for digital sovereignty to reduce reliance on non-European services.
Germany backs a two-speed EU to improve decision-making and resilience, focusing on raw materials and defense.

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