This initiative seeks to ensure full single market freedoms for associations, simplifying their cross-EU activities and promoting their fundamental rights. There are clearly many associations and charities across Europe and they are engaged in a diverse range of activities. These associations have considerable social and economic impact. Current rules for associations differ between Member States. The resulting fragmentation creates obstacles, such as additional registrations, when associations operate across EU borders. This, in turn, causes an significant economic cost for the Single Market overall and, more specifically, ultimately compromises the good functioning of the Single Market for the non-profit sector. Moreover, associations are crucial for spreading fundamental rights and a culture of upholding the rule of law. The obstacles associations face when operating across borders may have a negative impact on their ability to carry out their work, affecting the EU democratic 

If you work in the non-profit sector, your organisation has been affected by restrictions or you otherwise have information about associations operating cross-border, give us your views on the Have your Say Portal! Your input will be taken into account as we further develop this initiative.

This initiative follows up on the European Parliament resolution adopted on 16 February 2022.