On 18 October, the European Commission adopted its 2023 work programme. It sets out next year's targeted actions and lists the key legislative proposals that should get priority in the legislative process, according to the institution.

The programme contains various insights for the sports sector. In the foreground, the Commission will propose a non-binding recommendation on piracy of live content offering a toolbox to fight the illegal streaming of live (incl. sports-) events. From a sporting perspective, this announcement of recommendations is unfortunately disappointing. The main objective of sports rights holders, broadcasters and the European Parliament was to create a harmonised and legally binding framework that would effectively tackle piracy of live sports broadcasts. The Commission also undertakes to continue to promote sport and the mental and physical benefits of a healthy lifestyle across society and across generations, building on the HealthyLifestyle4All initiative.

In the framework of the EU Green Deal, the Commission will propose a revision of the food waste and textiles aspects of the EU waste framework Directive; a legislative framework for sustainable food systems; an Initiative on protecting, sustainably managing and restoring EU soils and a Greening corporate fleets Initiative. As regards economy, the Commissions plans to review the functioning of the Multiannual Financial Framework. Furthermore, in the field of “European Democracy”, the Commission will update the anti-corruption legislative framework. Finally, in the context of the “European Way of Life”, a non-legislative comprehensive approach to mental health will be put in place, in addition to the revision of the “Combating child sexual abuse” Directive and a Council Recommendation on updated learning mobility framework.