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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Measures and sanctions against Türkiye – E-002361/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and has called on Türkiye to fully respect international law, to de-escalate tensions in the interest of regional stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, and to promote good neighbourly relations in a sustainable way[1].

    As highlighted by the European Council on several occasions, the EU remains fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations (UN) framework, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions[2] and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis.

    Most lately, in April 2024, the European Council reiterated the particular importance the EU attributes to the resumption of and progress in the Cyprus settlement talks in further enhancing EU-Türkiye cooperation[3].

    From a legal and institutional point of view, decisions regarding restrictive measures against any third state rest solely with the Council of the EU, by the unanimity of Member States.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/57442/2022-06-2324-euco-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [2] https://www.securitycouncilreport.org/un_documents_type/security-council-resolutions/?ctype=Cyprus&cbtype=cyprus
    • [3] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The continued imprisonment of a European advocate for human rights in Bahrain – E-002932/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has consistently and actively raised the case of Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, alongside other human rights defenders in Bahrain to demand their unconditional release.

    In May 2021, the former EU Special Representative for Human Rights addressed a letter to the Foreign Affairs Minister of Bahrain, urging the release of Mr Al-Khawaja and other political prisoners on humanitarian grounds.

    The EU has raised Mr Al-Khawaja’s and other cases in its annual EU-Bahrain Human Rights Dialogues, including the eighth dialogue held in Manama on 8 December 2024. The discussions covered critical issues such as freedom of expression and association, the rule of law, fair trial rights, and the death penalty.

    The EU welcomed the pardons of more than 2 500 prisoners in Bahrain in 2024. The EU encouraged Bahrain to further align its policies with international human rights law, particularly in the areas of the rule of law and civil and political rights with particular focus on freedom of expression, assembly and association.

    The EU remains committed to continued high-level engagement on this matter. The EU Special Representative for Human Rights has expressed interest in visiting Bahrain, referencing an invitation extended to his predecessor.

    The EU will continue to call for the release of Mr Al-Khawaja and other human rights defenders in Bahrain through available diplomatic channels.

    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Position of the Vice-President/High Representative on Madagascar’s interference regarding the Scattered Islands of the Indian Ocean – E-002354/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Scattered Islands are part of the French Southern and Antarctic Territories, which are themselves associated with the EU through the status of Overseas Countries and Territories.

    The status of the Scattered Islands is being discussed between the French and Malagasy governments in the framework of a Joint Commission. This being a bilateral issue between a particular Member State and a third country, the EU has no competence to intervene.

    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Political and humanitarian situation in Mozambique – E-002782/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Peace Facility (EPF) is a EUR 17 billion instrument to assist partners worldwide in military and defence matters. Although it is the successor instrument of the African Peace Facility, the EPF’s geographic scope was never limited to the African continent.

    Excluding aid to Ukraine, 80% of the value of all EPF assistance measures benefit African partners. Mozambique is one of the largest EPF beneficiaries, with EUR 89 million allocated to non-lethal equipment and training of its armed forces through the EU Training Mission in Mozambique.

    On 1 September 2024, the mission was renamed EU Military Assistance Mission Mozambique and got an additional allocation of EUR 14.1 million.

    In addition, the EPF is supporting the deployment of the Rwanda Defence Force to Mozambique with EUR 40 million and has supported the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique with another EUR 15 million.

    The EPF is a needs-based and beneficiary-driven instrument. Priorities are proposed by the High Representative on an annual basis and agreed by Member States.

    The equipment to be provided to a given beneficiary corresponds to operational needs and is defined in close cooperation with the end-user units. EPF support to Ukraine is now financed through a dedicated EUR 5 billion Ukraine Assistance Fund and through extraordinary revenues stemming from immobilised Russian assets (windfall profits).

    As noted above, the EPF is a global instrument and support to Ukraine does not come at the expense of African, or other partners. The standards laid out in the EPF Council Decision[1] apply equally to all EPF beneficiaries.

    • [1] Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/509 of 22 March 2021 establishing a European Peace Facility, and repealing Decision (CFSP) 2015/528, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec/2021/509/oj/eng
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The need for Genocide Studies courses in the EU – E-002360/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Fighting impunity, ensuring accountability and supporting transitional justice are priorities of the EU external human rights action, as reflected in the Multiannual Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy for 2020-2024[1], extended until 2027, and the thematic programme for Human Rights and Democracy that includes EUR 50 million for projects promoting fight against impunity[2].

    Among others, the EU supports the civil society Global Initiative Against Impunity, the Office of the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights, the International Criminal Court and the Eurojust European Network for investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes (Genocide Network).

    Within the UN Human Rights Council, the EU and Member States support the adoption of the biennial resolution on the Prevention of Genocide[3].

    In addition, the EU funds in-country projects to promote justice and accountability for core international crimes (including genocide). The EU supports the UN International Residual Mechanism of Criminal Tribunals and the national jurisdictions in the Western Balkans in war crimes investigations and prosecutions connected to the 1990s wars of former Yugoslavia[4].

    The EU supports the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Israel[5], as well as the European Holocaust Research Infrastructure (EHRI) Implementation Phase[6].

    The European External Action Service (EEAS) organises regular human rights training sessions for the EU and Member States diplomats.

    The Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, that receives financial support through the Foreign Policy Instrument, periodically briefs EEAS and Commission staff on at-risk situations of mass atrocity.

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/eu-extends-its-action-plan-human-rights-and-democracy-until-2027_en
    • [2] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/document/download/aa9340d0-7cc3-4f33-bb94-1b7da126e0d2_en?filename=aap-2022-2024-c2022-5452-human-rights-democracy_en.zip
    • [3] Last adopted on 3 April 2024: https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/gen/g24/059/80/pdf/g2405980.pdf
    • [4] There is also an educational programme based on resolved cases by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. The ongoing support of EUR 3 million covers the years 2024-2026.
    • [5] With EUR 20 million adopted between 2023 and 2024.
    • [6] With over EUR 1.4 million from Horizon Europe. A Commission Decision is imminent to set up this infrastructure as a European Research Infrastructure Consortium. This legal form will contribute to the sustainability and recognition of EHRI. See: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101129732

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Baku Climate Conference – E-002524/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Conference of the Parties (COP) Presidency traditionally rotates between regional groups of the United Nations (UN). Regional group members hold consultations to determine which country from their region would be nominated to preside the conference.

    Once agreed, the country selected by the regional group sends through its regional group its nomination formally to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) secretariat.

    Following that process, Azerbaijan was nominated by the Eastern European Group (EEG) during the COP28 as the President of COP29. At its final plenary, the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC endorsed Azerbaijan as President of COP29[1].

    The EU is not a member of any UN regional group. As such, it did not have a role in the decision of the EEG to nominate Azerbaijan as the President of COP29.

    The primary focus of COP29 held in Baku was to address the challenges of climate change. It was recalled in the statements made in September 2023 on Azerbaijan’s military operation in Nagorno-Karabakh[2] and on the displacement of people from Nagorno-Karabakh[3]. The EU is fully committed to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region through dialogue.

    The EU has been actively engaged in facilitating the normalisation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, notably under the President of the European Council’s auspices.

    The EU stands ready to lend its continued support, including through the new EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia and through economic support for peace dividends, in order to establish long-lasting peace to the benefit of all people in the region.

    • [1] https://unfccc.int/documents/637071
    • [2] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/azerbaijan-statement-high-representative-developments-nagorno-karabakh_en
    • [3] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/armenia/azerbaijan-statement-spokesperson-displacement-people-nagorno-karabakh_en
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Environmental research: How dangerous are nanoplastics for babies in the womb?

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Allergies and asthma are widespread diseases that could arise during embryonal development in the womb. A team led by Empa researcher Tina Bürki is investigating the possible causes of this. The focus is on nanoplastic particles, which could lead to the development of a hypersensitive immune system in the child. The project is supported by the Eduard Aeberhardt Foundation and another foundation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police officer injured, Huntly

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A Police officer has been injured in an incident at 8pm last night in Huntly.

    The officer, who was conducting enquiries at an address in Huntly on an unrelated matter, had stepped out of their patrol car when another vehicle drove toward them, colliding with the patrol vehicle and the officer.

    The offending driver fled but was located and arrested.

    The officer was transported to Waikato Hospital, assessed and treated for a moderate injury and discharged. They are expected to make a full recovery and are being provided with support through the process.

    The offender, a 47-year-old man, was taken into custody and is due to appear to Hamilton District Court today facing charges in relation to this incident.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $200M Boost Energy Efficiency at SUNY Old Westbury

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $100.2 million New York State investment for the first major phase of a deep energy retrofit at SUNY Old Westbury. The investment, plus approximately $100 million more for the final phases, will transform the college’s Natural Science Building, which was originally opened in 1985.

    “Once again, people will be looking at New York State as a leader in developing sustainable, green energy solutions that will not only enhance the academic experience for our students and faculty, but also contribute to a healthier environment for all New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “With this state-of-the-art, energy-efficient facility, we are one step closer to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and zero waste across the SUNY system while also providing new opportunities for green workforce development and resilience in the face of climate change.”

    The project is part of SUNY’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plan to achieve net-zero SUNY-wide greenhouse gas emissions and zero waste. Full details about the plan can be found on the SUNY website.

    The plan not only aims to achieve net-zero SUNY-wide greenhouse gas emissions and zero waste in line with Governor Kathy Hochul’s climate goals, but also addresses increasing academic and research opportunities, expands green workforce development, and defines actions related to campus and building operations and capital project development to design for resiliency.

    SUNY Old Westbury Renovation and Deep Energy Retrofit

    The renovated Natural Sciences Building is expected to be 50% more energy efficient and will boast a geothermal system for heating and cooling, as well as energy efficient glazing on the facility’s windows. It will also feature modernized teaching laboratories, a new campus greenhouse, and collaboration spaces for teaching and co-curricular activities. The final future phase is expected to include a green roof.

    The Natural Sciences Building at SUNY Old Westbury has served as the academic home for the Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, and Public Health programs. Biology is the second highest program by enrollment at Old Westbury.

    The project will be constructed in three phases. The first phase, moving forward this week with a groundbreaking with SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. and SUNY Old Westbury President Timothy Sams, focuses on the replacement of outdated laboratory spaces, the relocation of the specialized research equipment and support space, and the creation of surge space. This initial step lays the groundwork for the comprehensive modernization and expansion of the building. The second phase will construct a new addition to the building to house additional space for the departments. The third phase will include the renovation of the balance of interior as well as the exterior rehabilitation of the facility.

    SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “Thanks to the substantial state investment secured by Governor Hochul, this project represents a significant transformation for the Natural Sciences Building, which was built over four decades ago. With 40% of state-owned buildings, SUNY has the ability to help achieve Governor Hochul’s ambitious climate goals through exciting projects like this one. Future generations who come to learn on SUNY Old Westbury’s campus and in the Natural Sciences Building will have a brighter, more sustainable future.”

    SUNY Old Westbury President Timothy E. Sams said, “We are proud that this building, once complete, will exceed the goals SUNY has set for us when it comes to energy and carbon reduction. As our campus mission demands of us, we will focus on environmental sustainability throughout the course of this work and in the years ahead as we create a facility that will prepare students for work in hospitals, laboratories, wind and chip manufacturing, public health, and more that are so vital to their own and New York’s success.”

    State Senator Jack Martins said, “I applaud SUNY Old Westbury and Governor Hochul in prioritizing student education at our SUNY Old Westbury campus. This refurbished facility will provide better opportunities for generations of students and have a significant impact as they pursue careers thereafter.”

    Assemblymember Charles Lavine said, “This investment right here in my district will transform existing infrastructure to provide SUNY Old Westbury with the latest technology to help increase sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It will also help students, faculty, and researchers meet the demands of modern science education and research. I am so proud of Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to fighting the very real problem of climate change and this institution which is setting the standard for the critical importance of diversity and inclusion in higher education.”

    Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, “As a proud advocate for sustainability and education, I’m thrilled to see this investment in SUNY Old Westbury. This isn’t just about upgrading a building—it’s about creating opportunities. By modernizing the Natural Sciences Building with energy-efficient technology, we’re not only taking real steps toward a greener future, but we’re also equipping students with the skills they need to lead in the growing green economy. New York is once again leading the way, proving that when we invest in education and sustainability, we invest in our future.”

    When all phases are completed, the project will transform the Natural Sciences Building into a state-of-the-art facility, providing students, faculty, and researchers with the resources and space needed to meet the demands of modern science education and research.

    About SUNY Old Westbury
    SUNY Old Westbury is a selective public liberal arts college with 4,700 students studying in more than 40 undergraduate degree opportunities in its liberal arts and professional programs and 16 graduate programs in business, education, liberal studies and mental health counseling. On the University’s 604-acre campus, students are challenged to take ownership of their futures through an environment that demands academic excellence, fosters intercultural understanding, and endeavors to stimulate a passion for learning and a commitment to building a more just and sustainable world. For more information on SUNY Old Westbury, visit the university’s website.

    About The State University of New York

    The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNY’s 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the country’s oldest school of maritime, the state’s only college of optometry, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and one in three New Yorkers with a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit their website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – EU regions bordering Russia: Targeted support – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Owing to their remote nature, all the European Union’s external border regions suffer from geographic, demographic, socio economic and structural handicaps that are detrimental to their development. The situation of the eastern European Union (EU) regions bordering Russia has, however, become even more critical since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and the subsequent war. During its February plenary session Parliament is due to debate this issue following a Commission statement on the matter.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Strategic dependencies: Threats to EU sovereignty in communication infrastructure – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Rising geopolitical tensions and dependencies on digital infrastructure belonging to foreign providers are triggering concerns that the European Union’s technological sovereignty might be under threat. Connectivity infrastructure such as submarine cables, mobile technologies and satellites underpin the digital services used by EU citizens, businesses and governments. Being dependent on foreign providers of such infrastructure calls for a strategic approach to balancing technological efficiency with the public interest and national security.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Proposal for a Regulation on police cooperation to counter migrant smuggling and human trafficking: Targeted substitute impact assessment – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    As part of a package to address migrant smuggling, on 28 November 2023 the European Commission proposed a regulation to strengthen police cooperation and Europol’s role in the fight against migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings (COM(2023) 754). The proposal was not supported by an impact assessment. Following a request by the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), this study presents a targeted substitute impact assessment of the proposed regulation. It provides an analysis of the current legal and political framework, reviews the problem definition and drivers identified by the Commission and assesses the proposed measures. It concludes that, while the proposal seeks to address gaps in inter-agency cooperation and information sharing, it raises concerns about its alignment with existing frameworks, insufficient data protection safeguards, and risks of conflating criminal law with migration control. The study also examines the proportionality of the proposed measures and stresses the need for a more robust evaluation of fundamental rights impacts.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Healthcare in the EU: Addressing urgent labour shortages and ensuring quality jobs – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    During its February plenary session, Parliament is due to debate a Commission statement on the need to address urgent labour shortages and ensure quality jobs in the EU healthcare sector. The EU faces critical shortages in healthcare workers, driven by an ageing population, increasing demand and difficult working conditions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – A competitiveness compass for the EU – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    On 29 January 2025, the Commission presented a ‘competitiveness compass’, an economic framework to guide its work in the coming years. Grounded in the key role of productivity in financing the EU’s competitiveness ambitions, the compass is about simplifying legislation, pooling private and public investment in key technologies and mitigating foreign dependencies in order to unleash EU innovation. To this end, the Commission intends to issue up to 47 legislative and non-legislative proposals by the end of 2026. Members are expected to debate this initiative following a statement by the Commission during the February plenary session.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Boosting vocational education and training in a changing labour market – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Vocational education and training (VET) prepares people for work by developing their specific practical skills as well as transversal competences, for both personal advancement and to meet the needs of the economy. The EU labour market, reflecting industrial and societal developments, in particular the digitalisation of production processes and service provision, faces growing shortages of workers with adapted skills. During the February session, MEPs will debate with the Commission and Council how to adapt VET to the changing labour market.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – EU fisheries agreement with Cabo Verde: Conclusion of a new protocol (2024-2029) – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    During the February plenary session, Parliament is due to vote on giving its consent to the conclusion of a new protocol implementing the EU fisheries agreement with the Republic of Cabo Verde. The protocol allows EU vessels to fish for tuna in Cabo Verdean waters and provides support to the development of Cabo Verde’s fisheries.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – US withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and from the WHO – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    On the first day in office of his second term, US President Donald Trump signed a number of executive orders (EOs), including EOs withdrawing the US from the Paris Agreement on climate change and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Council and the Commission will make statements on the withdrawals during Parliament’s February plenary session.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Wider comprehensive EU Middle East strategy – 05-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    In her political guidelines for 2024 to 2029, the President of the European Commission announced the need for a wider comprehensive EU Middle East strategy. The High Representative/Vice-President of the Commission (HR/VP) is due to give a statement on the issue during Parliament’s February plenary session.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Deterioration of human rights in Cambodia and consequences on the tariff preferences under the EBA scheme – P-000436/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000436/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Majdouline Sbai (Verts/ALE)

    In 2020, the Commission decided to withdraw part of Cambodia’s tariff preferences under the EU’s Everything but Arms (EBA) trade scheme, due to the deterioration of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law in the country.

    Since then, the situation has deteriorated further, notably when it comes to trade unions, as illustrated by Parliament’s resolution adopted on 28 November 2024[1]. It calls for the EU to send a clear message that improving human rights and safeguarding civil society freedoms are preconditions for economic cooperation, trade and investment.

    • 1.Will the Commission send without delay an observation mission to Cambodia to evaluate, on the ground, the various human rights abuses that have been reported by various civil society organisations?
    • 2.In light of its findings, will the Commission assess changes to tariff preferences (under the EBA scheme) based on the non-cooperation of the Cambodian Government in remedying and preventing human rights violations?
    • 3.What concrete measures is the Commission taking to exert pressure on the Cambodian Government, notably on the release of political prisoners? What concrete measures will the Commission take to increase support and provide protection for human rights defenders, civil society representatives and persecuted opposition members?

    Supporters[2]

    Submitted: 31.1.2025

    • [1] European Parliament resolution of 28 November 2024 on the shrinking space for civil society in Cambodia, in particular the case of the labour rights organisation CENTRAL (2024/2952(RSP)), https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2024-0053_EN.html.
    • [2] This question is supported by Members other than the author: Catarina Vieira (Verts/ALE), Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE)
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Scope for participation by civil society – E-000306/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000306/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Hanna Gedin (The Left), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left)

    In institutions such as the EU, it is very important that civil society should have a voice – not least because the issues that civil society organisations campaign on will create a better future for us today and in times to come. Civil society is not driven by short-term economic demands; rather, it fights for people’s health, the climate, nature and our shared future. Scope for civil society participation is also a requirement under the Aarhus Convention.

    • 1.How does the Commission view the fact that non-profit organisations are now severely restricted in their contacts with MEPs and members of other EU institutions by DG Budget’s ‘Guidance on funding for activities related to the development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of Union legislation and policy’ (ref. Ares(2024)3320196)?
    • 2.Can the Commission explain the background to the above guidance note produced by DG Budget, and has it conducted a risk analysis as regards its implementation?
    • 3.How will the Commission narrow the gap in scope for lobbying between large concerns and civil society?

    Submitted: 23.1.2025

    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – BUDG-ECON – Recovery and Resilience Facility implementation scrutiny – 10.02.25 – Committee on Budgets

    Source: European Parliament

    On 10 February 2025, Members from the Committee on Budgets and the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will hold the first Recovery and Resilience Dialogue (RRD) since the entry into office of the new European Commission with Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President of the Commission for Cohesion and Reforms and Valdis Dombrovskis, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification.

    During this 17th RRD meeting, the Commissioners will update the Members on the latest state of implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). Members will be interested to hear about Member States’ progress towards achieving agreed milestones and targets, disbursed amounts, including partial payments, latest payment requests, and pending challenges, such as delayed requests.

    The Recovery and Resilience Dialogue is organised under Article 26 of the Regulation establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Facility.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The European fertiliser industry in purgatory – E-000396/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000396/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    Fertiliser prices in the EU have increased significantly since the start of 2025[1] due to the rise in gas prices, the weakening of the euro and global market dynamics. Farmers are paying more and more for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilisers, owing to rising urea prices, both in Europe and worldwide.

    On top of this, SKW Piesteritz, the largest producer of ammonia and urea in Germany[2], has cut production and temporarily shut down one factory due to increased production costs, strict environmental regulations and cheap imports of Russian fertilisers.

    The company’s directors point to a lack of action and ineffectual policy for the protection of the European market, and have stressed the need to reduce energy costs and taxes in order to maintain competitiveness. The crisis is affecting agriculture and logistics, resulting in shortages of transportation products such as AdBlue.

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to ensure the availability of the fertilisers vital to food security at affordable prices and in sufficient quantities to support European agriculture?
    • 2.What steps will the Commission take to end dependency on Russian fertilisers and boost European fertiliser production?
    • 3.When will a much-needed EU fertiliser strategy be published, as often called for by the European Parliament?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    • [1] https://agrointel.ro/315520/piata-ingrasamintelor-la-inceput-de-2025-se-scumpesc-fertilizantii-cu-azot-fosfor-si-potasiu
    • [2] https://agrointel.ro/315771/un-mare-producator-de-ingrasaminte-din-europa-isi-reduce-productia-din-cauza-costurilor-ridicate
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Spread of foot-and-mouth disease in the EU – E-000395/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000395/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE), Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    In Germany, the first case of foot-and-mouth disease in four decades has been detected on a farm near Berlin[1], triggering swift action: the slaughter of infected animals; transport bans; and the suspension of exports. Trading partners such as the UK and South Korea have imposed restrictions, banning the import of cattle, pigs and sheep from Germany[2], which theatens to undermine an agricultural sector with exports worth EUR 5 billion in 2024.

    • 1.What urgent concrete measures will the European Commission adopt to support Member States in preventing the spread of this disease, while ensuring continuity of trade and protecting the European agriculture sector?
    • 2.How does the Commission plan to support farmers affected by the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, both in terms of compensating for financial losses and of preventing similar crises in the future?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    • [1] https://www.politico.eu/article/germany-farmer-fear-massive-hit-foot-and-mouth-outbreak/
    • [2] https://www.politico.eu/article/uk-bans-german-livestock-imports-after-foot-and-mouth-outbreak/
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ban on the use of hijabs in schools – E-000332/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000332/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Silvia Sardone (PfE)

    Following an appeal by the families of three Muslim students from Flanders, the European Court of Human Rights ruled in May 2024 that the wearing of visible religious symbols at school, such as the hijab, can be banned. The same court also ruled in 2023 that, as part of a policy of neutrality, the use of symbols such as the hijab can be banned in public places. All too often we see girls in hijabs at schools in Europe, having been forced by their fathers to wear them, even though they have obviously not been through puberty yet. If, as they say, wearing a headscarf is a free and conscious choice, it is clear that it cannot be made by a child at nursery or primary school. Unfortunately, the hijab is increasingly often being used as an instrument to oppress and subjugate women.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to pursue proposals to ban the use of hijabs or conspicuous religious symbols in schools?
    • 2.Has the Commission proceeded with legislative and communication measures to limit the imposition of the Islamic headscarf and to defend the rights of Muslim women?
    • 3.Why does it use the hijab in some official communications?

    Submitted: 26.1.2025

    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring a level playing field for European businesses by tackling imports of counterfeit goods – E-000400/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000400/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE)

    In 2023, 152 million counterfeit items were seized at the EU’s external borders and in the internal market[1], with an estimated value of EUR 3.4 billion. They range from widely-used consumer goods, such as machinery, chemicals, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, to items of high commercial value. Many are of low quality and pose a significant threat to health and safety, while creating conditions of unfair competition for European producers, as their importers do not adhere to the applicable legislative framework. According to the European Commission itself, the practice of shipping packaging material separately from the actual unbranded item and assembling them within the EU has been observed, in an attempt to avoid detection by the competent authorities.

    In light of the above,

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to tackle these imports of counterfeit goods while ensuring a level playing field for European businesses?
    • 2.What have been the outcomes of implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the sale of counterfeit goods on the internet and how does the Commission intend to enforce existing legislation on the protection of intellectual property rights?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    • [1] European Commission-EUIPO, EU enforcement of intellectual property rights: results at the EU border and in the EU internal market 2023
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Development of transport infrastructure in Syria – E-000307/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000307/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN)

    1. What is the Commission’s assessment of Türkiye’s plans regarding the construction of the transport infrastructure in Syria[1], in particular as regards their compatibility with international law and EU foreign policy objectives?

    2. What support for Syria is the Commission itself planning?

    3. What support has the Commission already provided to Syria?

    Submitted: 23.1.2025

    • [1] https://de.euronews.com/2025/01/12/wie-die-turkei-mit-besseren-bahn-und-strassenverbindungen-syrien-stabilisieren-will
    Last updated: 5 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of Mercosur on Romanian agriculture and new EUR 1 billion fund – E-000398/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000398/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE), Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    The EU-Mercosur Agreement, signed on 6 December 2024, is still to be approved by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament and ratified by all the Member States. However, the agreement could become operational as from 2026, two years prior to the entry into force of the EU’s future multiannual budgetary framework (MFF) for 2028-2034.

    At the INTA Committee meeting of 16 January 2025, the Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič, revealed that a new fund worth EUR 1 billion was to be established for farmers affected by the Mercosur Agreement.

    • 1.How will the Commission create this new fund under the current MFF without transferring money from existing funds and programmes?
    • 2.The Commissioner also stated there will potentially be small decreases in prices and in production, both of which were estimated at between 0.5 and 2 %. These estimates for Europe as a whole provide no information on what may be a disproportionate impact between different regions or Member States. What impact does the Commission expect Mercosur will have on the Romanian agricultural sector and the competitiveness of Romanian farmers?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Conformity of teaching contracts in Italy with the NRRP and EU law – E-002309/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission approved Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) under Regulation (EU) 2021/24[1], which establishes milestones and targets detailed in the annex to the Council Implementing Decision[2]. The Commission works closely with the Italian authorities to ensure smooth implementation and compliance to NRRP requirements.

    The NRRP does not directly finance teachers’ recruitment costs, but supports a reform (Mission 4, Component 1, Reform 2.1) to improve recruitment and qualification processes, aiming to increase professional standards. The reform targets the recruitment of at least 70 000 new teachers covered by the reform through permanent contracts by 2026.

    The reform introduced a structured qualification pathway and transitional measures to allow teachers with temporary contracts to participate in recruitment competitions and complete the qualification process during the ‘probationary period’.

    This contributes to reducing the excessive use of consecutive fixed-term contracts in the school system, improving working conditions and guaranteeing more stable employment conditions.

    Under EU law (Directive 1999/70/EC[3]), Member States are required to take effective steps to prevent the abuse of successive fixed-term contracts.

    The EU Court of Justice held that there is no general obligation on Member States to automatically convert fixed-term contracts to permanent ones, but it is for the Member States to lay down the conditions for their conversions.

    Nevertheless, where abuse has taken place, effective guarantees for the protection of workers must be provided for. In that regard, Italy amended its rules on financial compensation for misuse of fixed-term employment contracts, with law of 14/11/2024, n. 166[4].

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/241 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 February 2021 establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility.
    • [2] Annex to the COUNCIL IMPLEMENTING DECISION amending the Implementing Decision of 13 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Italy eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/IT/TXT/PDF/?uri=CONSIL:ST_9399_2024_ADD_1&qid=1717059380496
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1999/70/oj/eng
    • [4] G.U. 14/11/2024, n. 267.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Former Commissioner Thierry Breton’s new lobbying activities for Bank of America – E-000358/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000358/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pascale Piera (PfE), Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Mathilde Androuët (PfE), Catherine Griset (PfE), Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Christophe Bay (PfE), Séverine Werbrouck (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Malika Sorel (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE), Julien Sanchez (PfE), Elisabeth Dieringer (PfE), Tomáš Kubín (PfE), Barbara Bonte (PfE), Anna Bryłka (PfE), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE), Ton Diepeveen (PfE), Jorge Martín Frías (PfE), Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE), Ondřej Knotek (PfE), Tomasz Froelich (ESN), Markus Buchheit (ESN), Hans Neuhoff (ESN), Erik Kaliňák (NI), Katarína Roth Neveďalová (NI), Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI), Kateřina Konečná (NI), Nicolas Bay (ECR), Fernand Kartheiser (ECR)

    On 15 January 2025, the Commission gave the green light for Thierry Breton’s new role lobbying for the Global Advisory Board of Bank of America[1].

    However, according to Articles 245 and 339 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, as a former European Commissioner, he is bound by ‘the duty to behave with integrity and discretion’ and to ‘not disclose information’ covered by the obligation of professional secrecy, including post term of office.

    The Commission’s Ethical Committee rightly pointed out in its opinion that there is nevertheless ‘a link between former Commissioner Breton’s portfolio responsibilities and the scope of the notified activity’, given the size of his portfolio.

    • 1.How does the Commission justify the obvious contradiction between, on the one hand, its decision to authorise Breton taking up this role for a foreign entity and, on the other hand, him being prohibited from using any information acquired during his term of office, when that mandate is precisely why he was asked to join the advisory board?
    • 2.Will it at long last review the composition of the Ethical Committee, whose members are ‘appointed by the Commission, on a proposal from the President’ (Article 12(4) of the Code of Conduct), with a view to making it properly independent?

    Submitted: 27.1.2025

    • [1] Commission Decision C(2025)9000 final

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Unacceptable statements by Skopjan Prime Minister in the US – E-000305/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000305/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Kefalogiannis (PPE)

    In his recent statements in New Jersey in the United States, the Prime Minister of the government in Skopje referred to an unresolved and ongoing ‘Macedonian’ issue. These statements raise legitimate concerns in Greece, as they seem to violate the spirit and letter of international agreements that are a prerequisite for the government in Skopje’s EU path and support irredentist declarations and claims on neighbouring countries.

    Given that adherence to international treaties is essential for the government in Skopje to further progress in its EU accession process, can the Commission say:

    • 1.How does it assess the Prime Minister’s statements and their impact on good neighbourly relations and regional stability?
    • 2.What measures does it intend to take to ensure that the government in Skopje fully respects its obligations and avoids statements and actions that can negatively impact cooperation with EU Member States and stability in the Balkans?

    Submitted: 23.1.2025

    Last updated: 5 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –