ACCA met with MEP Michalis Hadjipantela in Brussels to discuss how the accounting profession helps drive the EU’s competitiveness agenda — supporting SMEs through the green and digital transitions. The discussion also focused on the growing impact of AI, underscoring the need for EU-level support to upskill small and medium-sized practices (SMPs) and SMEs, and to invest in strengthening the talent pipeline for the profession. With AI and new technologies transforming business, the need to attract, develop, and retain talent has never been greater. ACCA will continue working closely with the European Parliament to ensure the profession thrives—championing trust, transparency, and sustainable growth across Europe.

ACCA recently held a bilateral meeting with the European Commission team to discuss the rollout of the new EU Financial Literacy Strategy, launched in September. The discussion focused on how the profession can support the strategy’s implementation and strengthen financial capability across Europe. As part of our wider engagement across Europe and globally, ACCA has also contributed to national initiatives such as the Ireland for Finance Strategy 2026–2030 consultation. Through programmes like our Cert X Foundation-level qualification in schools and outreach to EU Presidencies, ACCA continues to champion financial literacy as a driver of education, inclusion, and long-term resilience.

The Omnibus proposal faces a challenging passage through the European Parliament, with political groups struggling to reach agreement. Following the rejection of the JURI (Legal Affairs) Committee’s mandate on 22 October, a crucial plenary vote on 13 November will determine whether trilogue negotiations between Parliament, the Commission and the Council can begin before year-end. ACCA remains closely engaged on developments around the Omnibus Package — follow the latest updates and insights in our regularly updated Q&A on the EU Omnibus I Package.

ACCA’s new report, “Understanding Responsible Investment”, lays out an eight‑step framework to put sustainability at the head of investment decisions—covering ESG integration, regulation, risk, and impact. This roadmap aligns with the European Commission’s Savings and Investments Union (SIU), designed to mobilize household savings into sustainable growth and stronger capital markets. For policymakers, clarifying regulations, requiring independent assurance, and aiming for long-term sustainability reporting assurance ensures Europe’s savings are resilient and future-ready investments.

The European Commission’s 2026 agenda will shape Europe’s policy on skills, innovation, and digital transformation. Key initiatives include the Skills Portability Initiative, digital and AI regulations under the Omnibus Package, and the 28th Regime for Innovative Companies — for which ACCA recently submitted a call for evidence response. ACCA is actively engaging with EU policymakers on these areas, ensuring members’ voices help shape policies that support innovation, professional development, and sustainable growth across Europe.

ACCA held a series of bilateral meetings with EU officials in Brussels, covering a wide range of policies affecting the accountancy profession. Discussions included positioning the profession under the upcoming Cyprus and Ireland Council Presidencies in 2026, the role of finance professionals in upskilling and adapting to AI, and measures to enhance talent mobility across Europe. ACCA also engaged with the European Commission on supporting Ukraine through international standards. These meetings reaffirm ACCA’s ongoing commitment to SMEs, professional development, and a stronger, more competitive Single Market.

ACCA, a member of the European Federation of Accountants and Auditors for SMEs (EFAA), will host the EFAA International Conference in Dublin on 21 May 2026. The event provides a unique opportunity for ACCA Ireland to meet and engage with other European professional accounting organisations, while addressing key EU policies affecting SMPs and SMEs. This flagship conference will bring together SMPs, SMEs, experts, and stakeholders to explore major challenges, share insights, and uncover new opportunities. Agenda and registration details will be shared soon.

ACCA, a member of SMEUnited, is supporting the call for EU policies that are proportionate, practical, and tailored to the reality of micro and small businesses. SMEs are the backbone of Europe’s economy: out of 26.17 million companies in the EU, only 44,358 are large enterprises—while 26.13 million are SMEs, providing 65% of all jobs and generating 54% of added value. By committing to the Think Small First Charter, ACCA pledges to:

• Design practical and realistic SME policies.
• Assess impacts on SMEs from the start of the legislative process.
• Embed SME-friendly provisions and implementation guidance.

Sign the charter and help shape legislation that is made for small and medium practices across the EU.