Question for written answer E-000406/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Tom Vandendriessche (PfE)
It was recently announced that the team monitoring compliance with the Digital Services Regulation will literally double from 100 to 200 members of staff. In this context, I would like further information on the financial impact of this doubling in staff numbers.
1.What is the current annual cost of the compliance team?
2.What is the estimated cost once staff numbers have been doubled?
3.How will this additional cost be financed from the Commission’s budget?
Priority question for written answer P-000589/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Sandro Gozi (Renew)
Last week, Euractiv published an article entitled ‘EXCLUSIVE: Spyware firm behind new surveillance of journalists, civil society operates from the EU’[1] on the Paragon scandal involving the systematic surveillance of over a hundred European citizens’ mobile phones and WhatsApp accounts. The article reveals that individuals in various EU Member States, such as Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden, including journalists and civil society organisations critical of national governments, are being spied on by unidentified actors.
1.Is the Commission aware of this breach of fundamental rights and digital privacy of European citizens and has it started to conduct an analysis of who was targeted, why and by whom?
2.What measures will the Commission take in order to respond to and address this breach of European citizens’ rights?
3.Will the Commission follow up on the recommendations of the former European Parliament PEGA Committee[2], take immediate action to ensure full transparency and accountability, and address these spyware threats?
Question for written answer E-000487/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Ondřej Knotek (PfE), Jana Nagyová (PfE)
According to various sources, the Commission is currently working on the draft of a new ecodesign directive 2027. If fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and fireplace inserts have to be connected to the electricity grid, this will eliminate the advantage of independence from other energy sources. In addition, the limit values for soot particle emissions are to be reduced so drastically – from 1 500 milligrams to just 500 milligrams – that stoves will become almost unaffordable for most people, as the costs for technically complex conversions or for new stoves will increase enormously. A large proportion of the population would thus be deprived of being able to have a cosy open fire in their own home.
Is the Commission able to grant EU citizens the freedom and independence to use fireplaces and wood-burning stoves in the future, as is possible today?
Priority question for written answer P-000590/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Isabelle Le Callennec (PPE)
DG ENVI is considering reclassifying the eel to include the species in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. However, although the eel population remains low, it seems to have stabilised over the last few years, in particular thanks to the efforts of fishermen and the fisheries sector to implement Regulation (EC) No 1100/2007 and carry out restocking initiatives. This trend is starting to bear fruit, as confirmed by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea and as observed by practitioners on the ground. Eels have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
Reclassifying the eel under Appendix I would have serious repercussions on the French fisheries sector, including knock-on effects downstream, since it would entail a ban on the marketing of European eels for consumption and thus lead to the closure of certain artisanal fisheries, which nevertheless play a key role in restocking and stock recovery efforts. In addition, a total ban gives rise to concerns about the development of a sizeable black market.
1.In the interests of more transparent governance, does the Commission intend to present this initiative to all stakeholders, keep them informed of progress and continue its work in consultation with the professionals affected by this possible measure?
2.Will it assess the socio-economic consequences of reclassifying the eel in this way?
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast delivered opening remarks at a bipartisan roundtable with family members of hostages being held by Hamas following the horrific October 7th terrorist attacks on Israel.
WATCH HERE
-Remarks as delivered –
Good morning. Thank you for taking the time to be with us today.
I have some formal remarks to give, but I think – given what occurred yesterday with the return of Marc Fogel and what will occur today – I think it puts us all in a little bit more hopeful light. We know that we are in a different time, a different place, and a different commitment on behalf of the United States of America than what we’ve experienced in the past. I think that’s something that gives every single one of us hope. It should give us all hope. It gives me more hope because I do know the commitment of President Trump, and his commitment is that we don’t leave our men behind.
I want to thank you all for being here today. And, formally, I do want to congratulate President Trump for securing the release of Marc Fogel from Russian captivity. As I just stated, President Trump has a commitment of leaving no man behind. It’s important to reflect on that. President Trump is showing that when an Americans are being wrongfully detained abroad, the U.S. government will move Heaven and Earth to get them back. That is a stark difference from what Marc had experienced before that.
We know that we have Americans and our allies being detained abroad by Hamas in Gaza. I welcome you families who have come here to D.C. to share your stories with us.
I think we all know that there was a bit of a blizzard that took place last night here in Washington and there were questions by a number of individuals – shouldn’t we cancel this roundtable? How can we expect people to come in for this with the snow on the ground? And the response to everybody that had a question was simple: How could we say to any one of you that have individuals being detained in unfathomable conditions that we can’t do something simply because of a little white powder on the ground? And I thought it was just a interesting place to really put in to perspective how we take things for granted in our First World situation that we live in each and every day, that are nothing, nothing compared to what your families have had to go through.
I can only imagine the pain that you and your loved ones, who are held hostage, are experiencing. I can’t put myself into that situation and I pray to God I never have to.
Sixteen months after the brutal October 7 massacre, Hamas still holds dozens of innocent people hostage in Gaza, including six Americans.
We remember each one of them, and we will not rest until they are all safely brought home and Hamas is eradicated.
Today, we will have the opportunity to hear from the family members of six hostages being held by Hamas.
We have Ronen Neutra with us – Orna Neutra, Ilana Gritzewsky, Moshe Lavi, Daniel Lifshitz, Gal Dalal, and Ilay David. Thank you all for being with us today. And you will all have the opportunity to introduce yourselves more thoroughly.
Congress and the world must hear from each of you because there are individuals in Washington and across the globe who will deny, and they will whitewash, and they will simply ignore what has taken place. It’s up to us to make sure that does not take place.
They will make excuses for the terrorists who raped and slaughtered 1,200 innocent Israelis and Americans on October 7th. They will make excuses for the animals who continue to hold Americans hostages in Gaza right now as we speak.
There is no path to ending this conflict without the release of hostages. The purpose of our meeting today is to keep their freedom at the top of the agenda. We need to bring them home now.
Montpelier, Vt – Governor Phil Scott today announced Commissioner Craig Bolio will be leaving his role leading the Department of Taxes at the end of the week and has named Bill Shouldice as the new commissioner of the Department of Taxes.
Bolio joined the Tax Department in 2011 and was appointed commissioner in 2019. During his time at the Department of Taxes, Bolio prioritized improving accessibility and outcomes for Vermonters when interfacing with the Department.
“Craig has been an effective leader at the Department of Taxes and a valuable member of my team,” said Governor Phil Scott. “As commissioner, he has helped us navigate through many challenges we’ve faced as a state. I’m appreciative of his service to the Tax Department and wish him well.”
“My 14 years with the Vermont Department of Taxes has been an immensely rewarding and fulfilling experience. I’ve had the luxury of being able to serve in a number of different roles at Tax, and it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the last five as Commissioner,” said Commissioner Bolio. “I thank Governor Scott for his trust in me and our Department to help Vermonters navigate the frequently complicated, sometimes scary, but ultimately necessary world of taxes. I know the team at Tax will continue to thrive as they move forward.”
Bill Shouldice IV, a lifelong Vermonter, will serve as the next commissioner of the Department of Taxes. Shouldice most recently served as President and CEO of The Vermont Teddy Bear Company. Prior to that, Shouldice served as the president and CEO of The Vermont Country Store. He also served as secretary of the Agency of Commerce and Community Development under Governor Howard Dean. Shouldice’s first job was working at his mother’s business, The Country Store, which was located for many years on Main Street in Montpelier before closing its doors in the early 2000s.
“Bill has a strong background in leadership both in the private sector and in government as well,” said Governor Phil Scott. “I believe his experience will be an asset to the Tax Department as we continue our efforts to make Vermont more affordable.”
“It is an honor to serve the great state of Vermont. I am fortunate to take over a department that has been well run by dedicated employees. That allows me, my team and the rest of Governor Scott’s cabinet to focus on what matters most to Vermonters: a stable and predictable state that is affordable for this and future generations,” said Shouldice.
Shouldice earned his Bachelor of Science in political science from Merrimack College. He also attended the John F. Kennedy School of Government for Senior Executives in State and Local Government at Harvard University. His appointment is effective February 18, 2025.
CHICAGO, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clearcover, a next-generation insurance company, announces the launch of Clearcover Inter-Insurance Exchange (CIX), a reciprocal exchange designed to extend the company’s reach into the non-standard auto market.
CIX represents a groundbreaking step in Clearcover’s strategy to enhance profitability, drive growth, and redefine the auto insurance experience. Initially launching in Illinois, the exchange is set to scale its operations to additional markets in the near future.
“Launching CIX marks a turning point as we continue to redefine auto insurance,” said Clearcover CEO and Co-founder Kyle Nakatsuji. “By broadening our market focus and harnessing our tech-driven platform, we’re empowering more customers and agents while delivering unmatched efficiency and competitive pricing.”
The company recently began expanding its appetite to provide insurance solutions to a broader range of customers in Texas through Clearcover General Agency (CGA). Together, these initiatives highlight Clearcover’s drive to create flexible, customer-centric offerings that align with evolving market needs.
Key Benefits Include:
1. Expanded Reach
Agents can serve a broader range of customers, including those with inconsistent insurance histories, foreign licenses, or fewer than three years of driving experience.
2. Maximized Earnings
Competitive commission structures enable agents to grow their sales pipelines by connecting more drivers to affordable and personalized insurance solutions.
3. Advanced Technology
AI-powered tools are designed to empower customers with seamless self-service capabilities and streamline agent workflows.
Delivering Value Through Subscriber Participation
CIX is structured as a reciprocal exchange, providing enhanced value to its policyholders, known as ‘subscribers.’ As a reciprocal exchange, subscribers participate in forming and owning part of CIX, which in turn may keep premiums lower as member contributions accrue and offset operating expenses.
A Strategic Path to Sustainable Growth
With the launch of CIX and the Texas-based MGA, Clearcover unlocks new revenue streams while strengthening its commitment to innovation in a competitive and evolving industry.
For more information about Clearcover, visit Clearcover.com.
About Clearcover Clearcover is a next-generation insurance company that provides customers with market-leading technology solutions needed to confidently make smart decisions at every step. Clearcover challenges the status quo with hassle-free products and services that redefine what it means to put the customer first, delivering affordable car insurance with one of the industry’s fastest claims experiences. Founded in 2016 by Kyle Nakatsuji and Derek Brigham, Clearcover includes: Clearcover Insurance Company, Clearcover Insurance Agency and Clearcover General Agency. In 2025, Clearcover began operating a reciprocal exchange, Clearcover Inter-Insurance Exchange (“CIX”). Ranked on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Privately Held Companies list and the Deloitte Technology Fast 500™ list, Clearcover has raised more than $560 million in funding to date. The company was featured on Insurance Business America’s 2024 Top Insurance Employers list, CNBC’s 2024 World’s Top Insurtech Companies and Forbes’ 2025 America’s Best Insurance Companies. For more information, visit Clearcover.com.
It’s hard to remember a time the United States seemed as tense and divided as it does today. That should serve as a stark reminder of just how important it is to monitor the health of our own nation.
Today, our new report card on Australia’s progress will be launched in Canberra. It assesses progress on 80 economic, social and environmental targets and models a range of policy shifts that could boost progress.
We find that progress on more than half of these targets has either stagnated or is going backwards. And growing inequalities threaten the wellbeing of many Australians.
Our report comes on the heels of America’s own State of the Nation report, which puts the US near the bottom of global rankings on inequality, violence, trust and polarisation.
The situation in Australia is not yet as dire. However, our results signal a need to start thinking long-term and take bold action on inequality to avoid a similar fate.
Not an A+ student overall
Our report draws on the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to select a broad and balanced set of 80 economic, social and environmental indicators.
Each of our indicators can be grouped under one of these 17 goals and includes a 2030 target. We use this target to evaluate progress and allocate “traffic lights” that tell us about the direction in which the country is moving.
We also benchmark Australia against peer nations from the OECD, including the US.
The overall outlook for Australia is mixed. We aren’t completely on track to meet any of the 17 SDGs. And on some indicators, Australia is actually going backwards, away from the target.
Many areas of concern centre on increasing inequality. These include:
a 30% decline in the share of wealth held by the bottom 40% of Australians since 2004
almost 20% of Australians living in financial stress
over 40% of lower-income renter households living in housing stress
There are also some broader economic concerns. Australia’s level of investment in innovation is nearly 40% below OECD averages. Economic complexity – which measures the sophistication and diversity of what our economy produces – has fallen behind Honduras, Armenia and Uganda.
And there’s been a rapid decline in education outcomes for students from lower socio-economic groups.
Shining in some areas
On the other hand, Australia is on track and actually leading our peers in life expectancy, road fatalities, tertiary education, water efficiency and government debt.
We’re also above average on closing gender gaps in both income and political representation. Australia also has very low homicide rates and high feelings of safety and trust compared to our peers.
In some key areas, Australia is actually trending rapidly towards SDG targets.
The gender gap in superannuation, for example, has fallen from 53% in 2014 to 21% in 2021.
The share of renewable electricity in our national energy grid has climbed to 35% and greenhouse gas emissions are steadily falling.
And rates of unemployment, underemployment and youth unemployment have all declined to within or closer to SDG target levels of below 5-6%.
How does the US compare?
America’s State of the Nation report, which tracks progress on a range of similar measures to our report, paints a bleak picture.
There are only four measures where the US performs in the top 20% of high-income countries – economic output, productivity, years of education and long-term unemployment.
Compared to Australia, the US outperforms us on average per-capita income, investments in research and development and knowledge-based capital, economic complexity, household debt and broadband connection speeds.
But despite their apparent economic success, mental health and life satisfaction have deteriorated. Social connections are fraying with increased social isolation, polarisation and eroding trust.
Tragically, suicide rates, fatal overdoses and shootings have increased.
Far worse on some measures
In areas where Australia is also trending backwards, things in the US are often far worse.
Income and wealth inequality, for example, are much higher in the US. The top 1% of Americans hold around 35% of wealth – compared to 24% for the top 1% of Australians.
US welfare payments are almost 90% below the poverty line and the poverty rate is 30% higher than in Australia. Yet US government debt as a share of GDP is almost double that of Australia.
This stark contrast suggests America’s approach to pursuing material prosperity is undermining social wellbeing, with rising inequalities fuelling social tensions and polarisation.
Bold action needed
For the first time, our new report models two future scenarios for Australia, exploring policies that reverse negative trends and accelerate progress towards SDG targets by 2050.
Our modelling shows that with increased policy ambition, Australia can halve poverty and reduce income inequality by a third. We can also boost health, education and productivity, improve biodiversity, and deliver net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
To do it, we’d need to increase public investment by around 7% a year over 10 years in key areas such as education and health, disaster resilience, sustainable food, energy and urban systems and the natural environment.
Our modelling shows that with these measures, Australia could achieve 90% of our Sustainable Development Goal targets by 2050.
Without them, our future prosperity is projected to stagnate and decline by 2050, reaching just 55% progress towards our targets and with GDP around A$300 billion lower than our more ambitious scenario.
There’s a famous aphorism that in the long run, economic productivity is almost everything. The social fissures in the US despite a strong economy would suggest otherwise.
Australia should take note and take action to ensure the long-term sustainable prosperity of our nation.
Cameron Allen receives funding from the Australian Research Council.
John Thwaites is Chair of Monash Sustainable Development Institute and Climateworks Centre which receive funding for research, education and action projects from the Commonwealth and state governments as well as from philanthropy and industry. He is a former Deputy Premier of Victoria (1999 – 2007)
This week the corporate regulator is taking on executives and directors of Star Entertainment in the Federal Court, in a landmark case for Australian corporate governance.
ASIC will allege that despite multiple red flags that should have prompted internal investigation, directors at Star sat on their hands while accepting the considerable perks of the office.
Historically, ASIC has not been willing to go after apparently lax directors and executives and there are questions about its effectiveness as a regulator. Will this time be different?
What is Star accused of?
The case against Star Entertainment, like so many others, boils down to “acting with reasonable care and diligence” in respect of risk management. Did Star’s board and executives sufficiently focus on the well-known risks of money-laundering and criminal association in the operation of its casinos in Sydney and Queensland?
ASIC will seek to show that they did not. It is suing several former directors and executives, including the former chief executive, in a case expected to last six weeks. The defendants deny they breached their duties.
Warnings were ‘ignored’
In the first days of hearings, ASIC told the court the board had been given evidence of money-laundering risks from high-rollers with ties to criminal organisations, but that those warnings were ignored.
The court was told the board and executives were “incurious and complacent” about alleged criminal activity and money-laundering, with wads of cash delivered in a blue Esky and in paper bags to a private gambling room.
If the allegations are proven, it won’t be just the shareholders who have suffered. Anti-money-laundering laws exist because criminals need to clean their ill-gotten gains, or make them appear legitimate. While not alleged in this instance, in general, money-laundering enables crimes such as scams, fraud, child exploitation and drug/sex trafficking. There are many victims throughout society.
The issues at Star were uncovered by journalists in 2021. This was the catalyst for the NSW Independent Casino Commission to set up a review by Adam Bell SC. On August 31 2022, Bell handed down his findings into The Star casino’s suitability to hold a casino licence in NSW in a 946-page report.
Two months later, the NSW commission announced it had suspended Star’s licence indefinitely, fined the casino $100 million, and appointed an independent manager.
Share price tanked
Since 2021, the share price for Star Entertainment Group has collapsed from $3.76 to 13 cents today, wiping billions in market value.
It is true that Star Entertainment has been hurt by factors other than the financial allegations identified by Bell. But the collapse in revenue suggests the casino operator’s business model was inherently reliant on money-laundering. Strip that out, and what remains is a business that will likely not survive without a white knight.
To what extent can the directors be blamed for these failures? Based on the defences used during the Bell inquiry, they may claim they were not involved in the complex, day-to-day management of operations. Executives failed to inform them of risk-management issues. But are these adequate excuses?
For this sort of money, shareholders might reasonably expect some tough questions would be asked, especially given the red flags that came to light. The internal audit team or external independent advisers could have been charged with further investigating issues of concern.
Putting directors on notice
Unfortunately, the scandal at Star Entertainment is not an isolated case of risk-governance failure. A royal commission found the directors of Crown Casino also failed properly to manage the risks of money-laundering.
The financial crime regulator, Austrac, has identified similar failures at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac and Adelaide’s Sky City casino. Turning to cyber risk, it is clear that firms such as Medibank and Latitude Financial have failed to protect sensitive customer data.
While most of the above listed companies have been fined by regulators, the consequences for individual directors have been limited or non-existent. And herein lies the problem – lack of accountability breeds inattention, indolence and recklessness.
Where is the incentive for directors to ask those tough questions of the executive, to rock the boat on a nice cosy board? The reputation of ASIC as an ineffective corporate regulator has not served either shareholders or the Australian public well.
That is why the outcome of this case is so important. A win would put directors on notice that risk governance is a serious matter and they need to do more to earn their substantial fees.
Elizabeth Sheedy is on the advisory board of the Financial Integrity Hub and was previously on the board of the Australian Compliance Institute. In the past she has received research funding from financial institutions that have been accused of money-laundering, and from the Australian Compliance Institute.
The United Nations is set to take part in the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan, showcasing its efforts to tackle global challenges. Opening on 13 April for six months, the Expo will welcome visitors from around the world. Maher Nasser, Commissioner-General of the UN at Expo 2025, shares how this year’s pavilion will spotlight the UN’s role in driving prosperity, advancing equality, and safeguarding the planet.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Ever noticed how the Moon seems HUGE when it’s near the horizon but smaller when it’s overhead? Trick of the eye or something more? Scientists have debated this for 2,000+ years, and we still don’t have a definitive answer! Find out what we do know and learn more about the Moon illusion: https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/moon/the-moon-illusion-why-does-the-moon-look-so-big-sometimes/
Link to download this video: coming soon
Scott Bednar, Pedro Cota, Jessica Wilde
Editor: James Lucas
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is supporting efforts to keep Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans safe and secure.
Pooling various resources, CBP has agents, officers, and aircrew working in collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies to secure the Super Bowl.
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of Valentine’s Day, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) introduced the bipartisan Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor (SALONS) Stories Act to incentivize domestic violence awareness training for cosmetologists and beauty professionals.
Tennessee passed landmark legislation to give beauty professionals these necessary skills, serving as a model for states around the nation.
“Domestic violence is a tragic epidemic in the United States, impacting millions of women every year who often suffer in silence,” said Senator Blackburn. “Given their close relationship with their clients, beauty professionals have the unique opportunity to be a first line of defense against domestic violence by identifying the signs of abuse and helping victims and survivors escape dangerous situations. The SALONS Stories Act would help save the lives of vulnerable and isolated women across the country, and the nation should follow Tennessee’s lead by equipping cosmetologists to recognize and support victims of domestic violence.”
“Victims of domestic violence often don’t know where to turn or who to talk to, but they do often continue going to their salons—which puts beauty professionals in a unique position of potentially being among the first people who can recognize signs of abuse,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to join Senator Blackburn in reintroducing our bipartisan bill, which builds on Illinois’s 2017 law, to help more beauty professionals access free domestic violence awareness training that can give them the tools and knowledge they need to help victims effectively. How they handle these critical moments could be life-saving.”
“No state, no community, and no family is immune to the horrors of domestic violence. In Maine, domestic violence has historically been involved in approximately half of annual homicides. That’s unacceptable,” said Senator Collins. “Ending domestic violence requires an all hands on deck approach, and the SALONS Act would equip cosmetologists with the tools they need to join the fight. It’s a bipartisan, commonsense idea that has the potential to save lives.”
“With nearly 20 percent of Hawaii’s residents having experienced domestic violence, it’s critical we do more to prevent this violence and support survivors,” said Senator Hirono. “By expanding opportunities for beauty professionals to participate in domestic violence awareness training, the SALON Stories Act would create another avenue survivors can turn to for help and support. I’m glad to join my colleagues in introducing this lifesaving legislation.”
“Domestic violence often goes underreported because victims are unable to confide in others and the signs of mistreatment can be difficult to identify,” said Senator Boozman. “Cosmetologists, who routinely build trust and close familiarity with their clients, can help break down those barriers. Encouraging states to adopt programs that help them recognize signs of domestic violence can bring victims one step closer to the resources and support needed to escape dangerous, abusive situations.”
“We must do everything we can to prevent human trafficking. That includes thinking outside the box so we can reach the people who need help the most,” said Senator Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation is another step in the fight to end trafficking by increasing the number of beauty professionals who are trained to identify and intervene in domestic violence.”
“Too often, victims of domestic violence are discouraged from seeking the help they need because they don’t know who to turn to or confide in,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our bipartisan bill would equip community members like beauty professionals—who have close, personal relationships with many of their clients—with the tools to recognize signs of domestic violence and intervene to ensure survivors get the help they need.”
BACKGROUND
One in four women will be a victim of domestic violence in her lifetime.
In the United States, three women are killed each day by an intimate partner.
To support state initiatives at the federal level, the SALONS Stories Act would provide grants to states that have in place laws requiring cosmetologists to undergo free and easily accessible domestic violence awareness training.
This legislation would also preserve states’ autonomy in setting their cosmetology standards while incentivizing lifesaving legislation.
View the bill text here.
ENDORSEMENTS
The Professional Beauty Association, National Network to End Domestic Violence, National Domestic Violence Hotline, Shear Haven, YWCA USA, and YWCA Nashville have endorsed this legislation.
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
“Nashville is a cultural Mecca: from music to food to sports, Tennessee’s capital has it all.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to express their support for Nashville’s bid to expand the WNBA and host a franchise in Tennessee. The team would be named the “Tennessee Summitt” in honor of the late Lady Vols women’s basketball coach Pat Summitt.
As a Top Global Travel Destination, Nashville Would Be an Ideal Choice for WNBA Franchise
“We write to you in support of Nashville’s bid to expand the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and host a franchise in our great state. Nashville is a cultural Mecca: from music to food to sports, Tennessee’s capital has it all. People want to visit Nashville—evidenced by the record 16.4 million visitors in 2023… In fact, Nashville has been named a top global travel destination by major travel outlets for more than a decade, in part because of the state of Tennessee’s investment in our unique culture and industries. The investment in our sports teams is evident, and Tennessee’s sports fans are unmatched. Tennessee’s fanbases extend across cities—everyone roots for the Predators, the Titans, Nashville Soccer Club, and the Memphis Grizzlies. In the good times and the bad, that support would be extended to the Tennessee Summitt.”
Nashville’s Infrastructure is Well-Equipped to Host the Tennessee Summitt
“Additionally, Nashville undoubtedly has the infrastructure to host a WNBA franchise. The Tennessee Summitt would play in Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, home of the Predators. This facility has won multiple awards for its superior programming, effective marketing, and incredible experience, including the Pollstar Arena of the Year Award, the International Entertainment Buyers Association Venue of the Year Award, the Academy of Country Music Arena of the Year Award, and the Country Music Association Touring Award. Not only will Bridgestone be open to the Tennessee Summitt, but the investors supporting the bid have committed to building a state-of-the art practice facility in Nashville. As long-term advocates for opportunities and equal facilities for female athletes, we are confident that the Tennessee Summitt will be well served in Nashville.”
WNBA Team Would Serve as Beacon of Opportunity for Tennessee Women
“Some of the strongest women in history have called Tennessee home—from suffragist Anne Dallas Dudley to artist and philanthropist Dolly Parton to athletes like Wilma Rudolph and Pat Summitt. A WNBA team in Tennessee—which would become only the second franchise in the Southeast—would serve as a beacon of opportunity for women and girls in the state and across the South. We are grateful for the legacy of Pat Summitt and to individuals like Bill and Chrissy Haslam, Candace Parker, Peyton Manning, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, and others who have brought this forward. We urge you to award the bid for the Tennessee Summitt, and we stand ready to provide you with any additional information or support you may need as you consider this proposal.”
The Constitution of Ukraine, as well as related legislation, provides for the right to freedom of religion and belief, as stipulated in the European Convention on Human Rights[1] and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union[2].
The Commission has taken note of Ukrainian Parliament’s adoption on 20 August 2024 of the law of Ukraine ‘On the protection of the constitutional order in the field of activities of religious organisations’, which prohibits the activities of religious organisations affiliated with the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine, on the grounds of national security and prevention of foreign interference from Russia.
The right to freedom of religion and belief is an integral part of the fundamental rights chapter in Ukraine’s accession process. In the Enlargement report issued on 30 October 2024[3], the Commission assessed that in general Ukrainian authorities protect this freedom, and that incidents of hate speech and intimidation based on religion are rare. No infringements of religious rights were reported in government-controlled territories of Ukraine.
The Commission will continue closely monitoring the application of the right to freedom of religion and belief in Ukraine and report on this as appropriate.
In view of increased irregular arrivals via the Western Balkan route, the Commission presented an EU Action Plan[1] in December 2022.
This Plan allowed to increase engagement with the region on the main challenges: border management, readmission and returns, fighting migrant smuggling, visa policy alignment, asylum and reception capacities.
The implementation of the Plan brought significant results and contributed to a 79% decrease in irregular border crossings from the Western Balkan so far in 2024.
Between 2021-2024, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) III[2] has financed bilateral and regional actions for over EUR 350 million to strengthen Western Balkan partners’ migration and border management capacities.
These actions include regional programmes focusing on border security, combatting migrant smuggling and human trafficking, supporting migration management systems and training partners to carry out returns to countries of origin.
Negotiations of a Status Agreement with Bosnia and Herzegovina have been finalised in September 2024. Once it enters into force, it will enable deployments of the standing corps by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina .
The services offered by Galileo[1], Copernicus[2], and in the future by the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS2)[3] are crucial to the competitiveness of the EU and its Member States and to delivering on EU priorities including security and defence.
Guaranteed funding is essential to maintain, upgrade, and reinforce the EU’s space assets. The Commission has started to develop, within the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework , new funding mechanisms for space: through the CASSINI initiative[4] promoting the leverage of private capital for the growth and scale up of start-ups and small and medium enterprises; or, in the case of IRIS2, through a public-private partnership in the form of a concession agreement with industry[5]. In the next multiannual financial framework, new funding approaches may be considered.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is a trusted partner for EU space initiatives and already assigned by the Commission with important tasks notably, for the implementation of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service[6], Copernicus and IRIS2.
The Commission will assess the future role of ESA and other actors, considering the increased needs of the space sector in the evolving geopolitical landscape. The Commission — ESA integrated team for the IRIS2 implementation is a useful blueprint.
The upcoming EU Space Law aims to establish a single market for space, ensuring resilience, safety, and sustainability in space activities.
This new set of rules for the EU and global players accessing the single market will provide clarity for the industry and it will boost the European space industry’s competitiveness and position the EU as a global standards-setter in innovative markets.
The Commission is aware of Mr Can Atalay’s case as attested by the Country Enlargement Report published in October 2024[1]. As stated in the report, although the principle of separation of powers and judicial independence is enshrined in the Türkiye’s Constitution and other legislative provisions, politicisation nevertheless increased.
In many instances, as in Mr Atalay’s case, lower courts ignored or delayed the implementation of the Constitutional Court’s rulings. According to the report, the Turkish Constitutional Court ruled that the right to vote and be elected and the right to personal security and liberty of Mr Atalay had been violated.
Since Mr Atalay’s arrest in April 2022, the Commission has been monitoring the developments of his case. The EU Delegation to Ankara is following up on the imprisonment conditions of Mr Atalay through its contacts with his colleagues, lawyers, and other stakeholders. However, it has not been possible to visit him in prison.
As stated in the Joint Communication on EU-Türkiye relations of November 2023, dialogue on the rule of law and fundamental rights and freedoms remains an integral part of the EU-Türkiye relationship[2]. The Commission will continue monitoring the situation of fundamental rights and the rule of law in Türkiye.
The fight against organised crime is a shared challenge and priority for the EU and Mexico. The EU closely follows the Mexican government’s new security strategy,
As indicated in the reply to your Question E -002382/2024 from 31 October 2024, the EU remains committed to cooperating with and supporting Mexico to address security and drug trafficking, notably through the programme of the EU with Latin America and the Caribbean against Transnational Organised Crime EL PACCTO[1] and the Cooperation Program between Latin America, the Caribbean and the EU on drug policy COPOLAD[2].
The EU makes use of the appropriate tools to ensure a sound management of EU funds at all stages of the project management cycle, notably through monitoring and evaluation.
Reinforcing EU-Mexico cooperation in the fight against firearms trafficking is also a shared priority. The EU seeks to improve international cooperation of law enforcement services.
The EU has been encouraging Mexico to increase its involvement in the operational actions of the European Multiplatform against criminal threats (EMPACT) firearms and of the network of Police Specialized in Arms Trafficking (red ARCO), which is part of the EU programme El PACCTO.
Regarding allegations that a percentage of firearms seized in Mexico is originating from EU Member States, the Commission underlines that it has no access to the operations of exportation, as it is a national competence. EU law governing the export of firearms for civilian use[3] has safeguards to ensure legal transactions.
The EU recently adopted a recast Regulation that introduces, inter alia, more safeguards such as the issue of a user statement regarding the final use, the need for a proof of receipt and the possibility to carry out post-shipment checks.
To address illicit trafficking of raw materials the EU is stepping up efforts to promote the sustainable and responsible sourcing, production, and processing.
The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are a tool in this regard, in line with the objectives of the EU’s renewed Great Lakes Strategy[1].
The MoU signed with Rwanda[2] is a further step and echoes the one the EU signed with the Democratic Republic of Congo[3] in October 2023.
The MoU with Rwanda places particular emphasis on increased traceability and transparency, to fight against illegal trafficking of minerals. Rwanda’s adhesion to the Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI)[4] shall be an essential element for the implementation of other MoU components. In the framework of the MoU, the Commission is ready to support Rwanda’s accession to the EITI.
The EU also complements the bilateral engagement with Rwanda on critical raw materials with its ongoing support to the Regional Certification Mechanism of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region.
The EU is taking measures to ensure full application of the Due Diligence Directive[5] and to support compliance with the obligations under the Conflict Minerals Regulation[6].
As an example, the EU is financing since 2018 the European Partnership for Responsible Minerals[7], a multi-stakeholder partnership and accompanying measure to the Conflict Minerals Regulation.
Responsible sourcing and alignment on environmental, social and governance standards constitute one of the five pillars along which all MoUs are structured.
[5] Directive (EU) 2024/1760 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on corporate sustainability due diligence and amending Directive (EU) 2019/1937 and Regulation (EU) 2023/2859, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1760/oj/eng
[6] Regulation (EU) 2017/821 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2017 laying down supply chain due diligence obligations for Union importers of tin, tantalum and tungsten, their ores, and gold originating from conflict-affected and high-risk areas, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/821/oj/eng
The EU has taken significant steps to address Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea, leading to the oppression of Crimeans and turning the peninsula into a base for Russia’s war of aggression launched in February 2022. The EU will never recognise this annexation, which violates international law.
The policy of non-recognition includes diplomatic pressure, sanctions, and restrictions since 2014, as well as non-recognition of any Russian passport issued in Crimea.
Since July 2022, the EU has imposed sanctions on 45 individuals and two entities responsible for the illegal deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainians, and 16 individuals and five entities for the ‘re-education’ and militarisation of Ukrainian children.
These sanctions aim to pressure Russia to cease its violations and hold perpetrators accountable. Additionally, the EU has supported efforts at the United Nations and other platforms to document and condemn Russia’s actions.
The High Representative/Vice-President will continue to reinforce these measures and to propose new listings related to human rights violations.
The EU will continue engaging with civil society and human rights advocates to monitor and hold regular dialogues on Crimea and other occupied territories.
The EU keeps pressing for stronger international action to ensure Russia is held accountable. The EU will work on further diplomatic, legal, and humanitarian initiatives to protect Ukrainians and preserve their identity.
The EU disposes of a number of trade defence instruments, such as anti-dumping or anti-subsidy duties, in order to protect European production against international trade distortions. Any EU industry may contact the complaints office of Directorate-General for Trade for advice[1].
Increase of the EU customs duties for a product may not be the more appropriate policy tool to address such concerns in the short term, especially since the maximum bound rates authorised for the EU under its commitments to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) for children’s pushchair correspond to the applied most favored nation rates.
Under the General Product Safety Regulation[2], applicable as of 13 December 2024, manufacturers have to indicate their name and their postal and electronic address on the product that they wish to place on the EU market.
Importers and distributors, where it is relevant, need to verify that this labelling obligation has been complied with by the manufacturer before making products available on the EU market.
This will allow consumers to identify the origin of the manufacturer and give market surveillance authorities the manufacturer’s contact details in case they have product safety issues or questions.
On 17 May 2023, the Commission proposed a comprehensive Customs Reform package[3] to strengthen EU customs’ capacity to monitor goods.
This includes the creation of a new EU Customs Authority and an EU Customs Data Hub, which will centralise data to improve targeting of unsafe products.
The reform also eliminates customs duty exemptions for goods valued up to EUR 150 and designates platforms and sellers registered for the Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) as ‘deemed importers’, making them responsible for compliance.
[2] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act) that entered into application on 17 February 2024; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/EN/legal-content/summary/digital-services-act.html
[3] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Union Customs Code and the European Union Customs Authority, and repealing Regulation (EU) No 952/2013; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/952/oj/eng
The reform of the Stability and Growth Pact that entered into force in spring 2024 put in place a balanced framework that accommodates spending on common priorities of the EU while maintaining sound and sustainable public finances in Member States.
Member States are free to decide the composition of their budget and how to implement the required fiscal adjustment. In addition, Regulation 2024/1263[1] explicitly indicates that social and economic resilience is a common priority in the EU.
As a result, an increase in healthcare investment may be put forward in Member States’ medium-term fiscal-structural plans within a package of investments and reforms that underpin a more gradual fiscal adjustment, up to seven years instead of four years.
The general escape clause is a provision to deal with extraordinary circumstances. Article 25 of Regulation 2024/1263 specifies that it can be activated by the Council in the event of a severe economic downturn in the euro area or the EU as a whole.
It allows Member States to deviate (initially for a period of one year with the possibility to extend annually) from their net expenditure path as set by the Council, provided that it does not endanger fiscal sustainability over the medium term.
Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is inscribed in the Algerian Constitution and constitutes a key element of EU-Algeria relations, as enshrined in the Association Agreement[1] and reinforced in the Partnership Priorities[2].
Human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of religion or belief, are addressed during the regular EU-Algeria political, security and human rights dialogue.
The EU financial assistance to Algeria does not entail direct transfer of funds to Algerian public authorities. The EU finances projects implemented in the country by international organisations, European public bodies and development agencies, private companies and civil society organisations.
The EU financial assistance is framed by programming documents[3] and all projects are subject to monitoring missions during their implementation and to audits ensuring that funds are used to the agreed purpose and according to the agreed procedures.
EU funding is subject to specific rules and regulations, in respect of sound financial management, which ensure oversight and accountability.
Particular attention is given to the respect of fundamental values, human rights, democracy and rule of law. Assistance can be suspended in the event of the degradation of fundamental values.
The Commission conducts regular monitoring and evaluation of funded programs to assess their impact, effectiveness and compliance with EU values and principles.
The Commission involves civil society organisations (CSOs) in the design, implementation and monitoring of EU-funded programmes and projects since CSOs play a crucial role in promoting democratic values and transparency.
The EU has also established solid mechanisms, such as continuous follow-ups, audits and verifications, to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of EU funds.
As a key multilateral actor, the EU is committed to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals[1], which include reducing poverty and inequality worldwide, including in non-EU regions.
Furthermore, the EU has established partnerships with countries in its Southern Neighbourhood to advance joint priorities, such as peace, stability, economic prosperity, upholding democratic values and human rights, notably working together with Member States through the Team Europe initiative and with special focus on gender issues (Gender Action Plan III[2]).
By acting together, recognising the growing interdependence, the EU also aims at turning common challenges into opportunities. By investing in these regions, the EU promotes its own economic interests for instance by increasing trade and creating opportunities for European businesses, while ensuring mutual benefits for partner countries.
The European Parliamentary Week (EPW) 2025, co-organised by the European Parliament, the Polish Seijm and the Polish Senate, will take place on 17 and 18 February 2025 at the European Parliament in Brussels. The event brings together parliamentarians from the EU, candidate and observer countries to discuss economic, budgetary and social matters. As part of the event, the EMPL committee is organising two interparliamentary committee meetings in the afternoon of the 17 February (16.20-19.20 CET).
The first session will be on AI and the labour market with a focus on changing working conditions with the participation of Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu and the second session will be on the role of social and employment policies in the EU’s reviewed economic governance.
On the second day, two plenary sessions will cover “The Improvement of EU’s competitiveness through the single market, innovation policy, better regulation and quality jobs” with Mario Draghi as key speaker and the lessons learned from “The first national plans under the revised Economic Governance Framework”.
The Commission acknowledges quantum computing’s enormous potential to transform and grow many industrial sectors, including Europe’s clean tech industry. The Quantum Technologies Flagship’s Strategic Research and Industry Agenda for 2030[1] highlights many use cases relevant to clean tech.
To further harness quantum’s great potential and building on the Quantum Declaration[2] signed by 26 Member States, the Commission is preparing a comprehensive quantum strategy aiming to consolidate EU and national initiatives and boost European competitiveness in this strategic field, including measures to increase public and private funding, facilitate the transformation of excellent EU research into marketable devices and applications, build pan-European quantum infrastructures such as advanced pilot lines (supported by, e.g., the Chips[3] and EuroHPC[4] Joint Undertakings), and promote quantum centres of excellence.
It will prioritise skills development, working with universities and research institutes to foster European quantum talent and building on the initiatives in quantum funded by the Digital Europe Programme[5].
The new strategy will help Europe maintain a highly competitive position in both quantum technologies and clean tech, as well as many other fields.
Moreover, European universities alliances can play a key role in developing skills and knowledge for a quantum economy through joint programmes, partnerships and coordinated investments in infrastructure, equipment and human resources.
The Commission is not in a position to comment on political appointments in Member States.
Protecting media freedom and pluralism is a priority for the Commission, which has taken measures to curb the abusive use of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) through a directive[1] and a recommendation[2], enhanced the safety of journalists through a recommendation[3] and adopted the European Media Freedom Act[4].
Most provisions of the European Media Freedom Act shall apply from 8 August 2025, with the aim amongst other to protect journalists against interference.
Ensuring a swift and effective implementation of the Act will be a priority for the Commission in the coming months, as it will be the ensuring a correct implementation of the anti-SLAPP Directive.
The Commission will also continue monitoring Member States’ actions to put in practice the recommendation on the protection, safety and empowerment of journalists and the recommendation on protecting journalists and human rights defenders who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings and will use this information in future reports on the Rule of Law[5].
The availability of appropriately equipped and easily accessible rape crisis or sexual violence referral centres is a key element of the specialist support that victims of sexual violence will be entitled to under the recently adopted Directive (EU) 2024/1385[1].
In line with the standards of the Istanbul Convention[2], the directive requires that these centres exist in sufficient number and be adequately spread over the territory of each Member State.
The Commission will closely monitor compliance with these requirements in the context of the transposition of the Istanbul Convention and of the directive, for which implementation workshops will start in 2025.
Spain has allocated Next Generation EU funds for the construction of these centres. In particular, the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) for Spain[3], under Component 22, Investment 4, includes a target with number 327 related to the creation of 52 24-hour comprehensive care services for victims of sexual violence. The satisfactory fulfilment of this target of the plan will be assessed in the context of the 7th payment claim of the RRP.
The Commission remains committed to monitoring the effective use of EU funds allocated under the RRP and to ensuring full compliance with the newly adopted EU legislation on combating violence against women and domestic violence.