CEN and CENELEC warmly welcome the European Commission’s publication of the Annual Union Work Programme 2026 for European Standardization (AUWP 2026), which sets out five key priorities and 43 actions in support of EU policies for competitiveness. This document identifies the strategic direction for European standardization and aligns with the objectives of the Competitiveness Compass.
A responsive and accessible European Standardization System helps EU industry in key technology markets, and supports closing the innovation gap, reaching decarbonization goals, and strengthening the Single Market.
The AUWP 2026 sets out five priorities:
- Artificial Intelligence and the transition to a data economy
- Quantum Technologies
- A competitive and sustainable European construction market
- EU security and resilience
- The green transition and the eco-design of sustainable products
The document also emphasizes the role of standards in supporting EU policies that ensure competitive products and services, while ensuring high levels of safety, security, health, social and environmental considerations. Standards are also essential for research and innovation by demonstrating proof of concept in key strategic technologies.
By setting out priority areas aligned with Europe’s ever-evolving standardization landscape, the European Commission uses the programme to improve market access for European businesses and provides key insights into the current needs of industry.
The AUWP 2026 reflects ongoing dialogue between the European Commission, CEN, CENELEC, and a wide range of stakeholders. This collaboration ensures the development of practical, relevant, and responsive standards to address challenges in global markets.
CEN and CENELEC are actively contributing to these priorities. As highlighted in the CEN and CENELEC Work Programme 2026, CEN-CLC/JTC 21 on ‘Artificial Intelligence’ works to ensure AI technologies are safe, transparent, and trustworthy. In parallel, CEN-CLC/JTC 22 on ‘Quantum Technologies’ is developing standards which are crucial to accelerate the adoption of this emerging technology and ensure interoperability, safety, and performance.
As the second-largest industrial ecosystem in Europe, the construction sector is a cornerstone of Europe’s economy. CEN and CENELEC support the sector by developing harmonized European standards to meet the requirements of the Construction Products Regulation. In 2026, standardization priorities focus on Structural Eurocodes and sustainability in construction.
Defence and security remain major challenges where standardization can play an important role, especially in a digital world. CEN and CENELEC are developing standards for cybersecurity, the security of cyber-physical and Internet-of-Things systems, the protection of critical infrastructures, and the safeguarding of privacy and fundamental rights, including efforts to counter disinformation.
The green transition is one of the pillars of CEN and CENELEC’s Strategy 2030, and sustainability is a horizontal topic of the Work Programme that underpins efforts to address present and future challenges. All CEN and CENELEC technical bodies are required to systematically integrate environmental and climate change adaptation considerations when drafting or revising standards. CEN and CENELEC also convene the Coordination Group on Ecodesign (CEN-CLC/COG Ecodesign), which aims to align all sectors, share experiences, and identify synergies.
In a dynamic global landscape, CEN and CENELEC remain committed to supporting the Single Market’s digital and green transitions, strengthening resilience and competitiveness in line with the European Commission’s priorities. Together with our Members and Partners, we will continue to work towards a European Standardization System that is effective, inclusive, and future-oriented, benefiting Europe’s economy, industry, and citizens.
