This annual report covers key EU activities during 2006, with seven chapters covering the following topics: i) the general policy framework, including governance and better regulation, the communication strategy, the European Constitution and the future of Europe; ii) prosperity issues, including the economic and social situation, sustainable development, education and employment, transport and energy sectors; iii) solidarity issues, including economic and social cohesion, regional dimensions, the environment, agriculture and rural development, culture, youth and active citizenship; iv) security and freedom, including the implementation of the Hague programme, counter-terrorism and drugs, border management and immigration, food safety, consumer protection and energy security; v) Europe as a global partner, including the enlargement process, international trade, development policy and humanitarian aid, and a common foreign and security policy; vi) the role and activities of EU institutions and other agencies; and vii) budgetary and financial issues.

Looking back at the year in Europe, this publication provides an overview of the main legislative activities and key achievements which marked the European Union's activities over the last twelve months. The four key topics at the heart of the Report are the four strategic objectives set by the Commission in its work programme when it took office: "prosperity," "solidarity," "security" and "strengthening the Unions role as a global player."