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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Risk management tools under the CAP – E-002797/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002797/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Grapini (S&D)

    The risk management tools under the CAP should offer an effective response to crises in order to protect European farmers, without discriminating or differentiating among them.

    Does the Commission not consider that the provisions of Recital 21 and Article 41a(5) of the proposal for a regulation (COM (2025) 236 final) allowing Member States the possibility of national co-financing of up to 200 % (in the form of state aid) in the event of climate disasters could lead to disparities between regions? This could happen owing to the differing potentials of the Member States, which are at different stages of development, and the provision risks undermining the level playing field in the single market.

    Rather than making provision for national co-financing, the financing of the crisis reserve at EU-level could be bolstered, and this used equitably for farmers wherever they are farming.

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Risk management tools under the CAP – E-002797/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002797/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Grapini (S&D)

    The risk management tools under the CAP should offer an effective response to crises in order to protect European farmers, without discriminating or differentiating among them.

    Does the Commission not consider that the provisions of Recital 21 and Article 41a(5) of the proposal for a regulation (COM (2025) 236 final) allowing Member States the possibility of national co-financing of up to 200 % (in the form of state aid) in the event of climate disasters could lead to disparities between regions? This could happen owing to the differing potentials of the Member States, which are at different stages of development, and the provision risks undermining the level playing field in the single market.

    Rather than making provision for national co-financing, the financing of the crisis reserve at EU-level could be bolstered, and this used equitably for farmers wherever they are farming.

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Risk management tools under the CAP – E-002797/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002797/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Grapini (S&D)

    The risk management tools under the CAP should offer an effective response to crises in order to protect European farmers, without discriminating or differentiating among them.

    Does the Commission not consider that the provisions of Recital 21 and Article 41a(5) of the proposal for a regulation (COM (2025) 236 final) allowing Member States the possibility of national co-financing of up to 200 % (in the form of state aid) in the event of climate disasters could lead to disparities between regions? This could happen owing to the differing potentials of the Member States, which are at different stages of development, and the provision risks undermining the level playing field in the single market.

    Rather than making provision for national co-financing, the financing of the crisis reserve at EU-level could be bolstered, and this used equitably for farmers wherever they are farming.

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Presentation of the CAP after 2027 by Commissioner Hansen – Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

    Source: European Parliament

    Christophe Hansen, European Commissioner for Agriculture © European Union, 2024

    At its meeting on 16 July, the College of Commissioners is likely to adopt the post-2027 multiannual financial framework package, including the first set of sectoral proposals. Commissioner Hansen will present the proposal on the common agricultural policy after 2027 which is supposed to be part of the package in the afternoon of the same day in ComAGRI and answer questions from MEPs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Presentation of the CAP after 2027 by Commissioner Hansen – Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

    Source: European Parliament

    Christophe Hansen, European Commissioner for Agriculture © European Union, 2024

    At its meeting on 16 July, the College of Commissioners is likely to adopt the post-2027 multiannual financial framework package, including the first set of sectoral proposals. Commissioner Hansen will present the proposal on the common agricultural policy after 2027 which is supposed to be part of the package in the afternoon of the same day in ComAGRI and answer questions from MEPs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Definition and declaration of an international health emergency – E-001491/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. A ‘health emergency’ definition is not included in EU legislation. However, Article 3(1) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371[1] defines a serious cross-border threat to health. Internationally, a public health emergency of international concern is set in the International Health Regulations[2].

    2. The EU can recognise a public health emergency on its own. The procedure for the recognition is set in Article 23 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371[3], which foresees a consultation with relevant agencies and bodies[4]. The recognition has a form of an implementing act, requiring a favourable opinion of the Member States. The Commission does not have to consult the World Health Organisation (WHO) before the recognition, but should nonetheless inform the WHO about its intention to adopt such decision.

    3. The substantial conditions for the recognition stem from Articles 2(1) and 3(1) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371. In particular, the cross-border nature of a health threat and the need for EU-level coordination must be identified.

    • [1] Article 3(1) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371: ‘serious cross-border threat to health’ means a life-threatening or otherwise serious hazard to health of biological, chemical, environmental or unknown origin, as referred to in Article 2(1), which spreads or entails a significant risk of spreading across the national borders of Member States, and which may necessitate coordination at Union level in order to ensure a high level of human health protection (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L:2022:314:FULL&from=EN).
    • [2] https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/246107/9789241580496-eng.pdf (Article 6 and Annex II of the International Health Regulations).
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32022R2371&qid=1673887469777.
    • [4] The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, or the Advisory Committee on public health emergencies (referred to in Article 24 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371) or any other relevant Union agency or body.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Definition and declaration of an international health emergency – E-001491/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. A ‘health emergency’ definition is not included in EU legislation. However, Article 3(1) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371[1] defines a serious cross-border threat to health. Internationally, a public health emergency of international concern is set in the International Health Regulations[2].

    2. The EU can recognise a public health emergency on its own. The procedure for the recognition is set in Article 23 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371[3], which foresees a consultation with relevant agencies and bodies[4]. The recognition has a form of an implementing act, requiring a favourable opinion of the Member States. The Commission does not have to consult the World Health Organisation (WHO) before the recognition, but should nonetheless inform the WHO about its intention to adopt such decision.

    3. The substantial conditions for the recognition stem from Articles 2(1) and 3(1) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371. In particular, the cross-border nature of a health threat and the need for EU-level coordination must be identified.

    • [1] Article 3(1) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371: ‘serious cross-border threat to health’ means a life-threatening or otherwise serious hazard to health of biological, chemical, environmental or unknown origin, as referred to in Article 2(1), which spreads or entails a significant risk of spreading across the national borders of Member States, and which may necessitate coordination at Union level in order to ensure a high level of human health protection (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L:2022:314:FULL&from=EN).
    • [2] https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/246107/9789241580496-eng.pdf (Article 6 and Annex II of the International Health Regulations).
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32022R2371&qid=1673887469777.
    • [4] The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, or the Advisory Committee on public health emergencies (referred to in Article 24 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2371) or any other relevant Union agency or body.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Revision of Directive 2011/64/EU and growth of the shadow economy – E-002810/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002810/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marlena Maląg (ECR)

    Directive 2011/64/EU established minimum excise duties on manufactured tobacco in the European Union, giving Member States the freedom to set higher rates based on their own circumstances. The Law and Justice Party Government of 2015-2023 made use of this freedom to pursue a policy of moderate excise duty increases, which led to a reduction in the shadow economy and growth in budgetary revenue in Poland. In 2024, Donald Tusk’s new governing coalition decided to significantly increase these rates, which has already led to a growth in the shadow economy, according to market analyses. Similar observations have been made in the Netherlands, which has seen an increase in the consumption of cigarettes without excise duty having been paid.

    In relation to the above:

    • 1.Has the Commission assessed the risk of the shadow economy growing as a result of the possible revision of Directive 2011/64/EU and the increase in minimum rates?
    • 2.Does the Commission have data available on the impact of increases in excise duties on the rate of illegal trade of processed tobacco in Member States?
    • 3.Has the Commission taken into account differences in purchasing power and geographic location of Member States when developing new legislative proposals on tobacco taxation?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Establishing a housing fund and doubling funds – E-001262/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission agrees with the Honourable Member that the housing crisis impacts a large number of European citizens. In response to the housing crisis, the Commission will put forward a European Affordable Housing Plan (‘the EHAP’) in 2026.

    The Commission notes, that in respect of the subsidiarity and proportionality principles, primary responsibility for affordable and social housing is within the remit of Member States, regional and local authorities and the EAHP will respect these principles.

    In addition, the Commission put forward a — mid-term review — legislative proposal to modernise cohesion policy[1] including incentives to encourage Member States and regions to double their investments in affordable housing under the Cohesion policy.

    The relevant legislation on European funds and programmes[2] available for Member States, regions and local authorities for housing contain rules on governance, including allocation mechanism[3], and follow the said principles, in line with the current Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

    Any future budgetary provisions, including the allocation methodology, will be decided by co-legislators at the next MFF negotiations. In addition, the recent communication on NextGenerationEU[4] explicitly recognises the possibility to inject equity to national promotional banks, also for affordable housing.

    The Commission will continue to strengthen its contribution to mitigating the housing crisis, including for youth in its future actions.

    The Commission aims to cut unnecessary red tape and simplify processes[5] in order that available funding can be disbursed as quick as possible. On this matter the Commission works in close cooperation with the managing authorities and other relevant bodies.

    • [1] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056 as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review, COM(2025) 123.
    • [2] Most importantly the Recovery and Resilience Plans, the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund, the European Social Fund+ and the InvestEU programme.
    • [3] For Cohesion policy Funds, the methodology on allocation of global resources per Member State is defined by Annex XXVI of Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy.
    • [4] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council NextGenerationEU — The road to 2026, COM/2025/310 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0310).
    • [5] In general, simplification is a key objective of the Commission, as evidenced also by the simplification omnibuses and the mentioned NextGenerationEU communication.
      Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions A Competitiveness Compass for the EU COM/2025/30 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0030&qid=1750151442346).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Establishing a housing fund and doubling funds – E-001262/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission agrees with the Honourable Member that the housing crisis impacts a large number of European citizens. In response to the housing crisis, the Commission will put forward a European Affordable Housing Plan (‘the EHAP’) in 2026.

    The Commission notes, that in respect of the subsidiarity and proportionality principles, primary responsibility for affordable and social housing is within the remit of Member States, regional and local authorities and the EAHP will respect these principles.

    In addition, the Commission put forward a — mid-term review — legislative proposal to modernise cohesion policy[1] including incentives to encourage Member States and regions to double their investments in affordable housing under the Cohesion policy.

    The relevant legislation on European funds and programmes[2] available for Member States, regions and local authorities for housing contain rules on governance, including allocation mechanism[3], and follow the said principles, in line with the current Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

    Any future budgetary provisions, including the allocation methodology, will be decided by co-legislators at the next MFF negotiations. In addition, the recent communication on NextGenerationEU[4] explicitly recognises the possibility to inject equity to national promotional banks, also for affordable housing.

    The Commission will continue to strengthen its contribution to mitigating the housing crisis, including for youth in its future actions.

    The Commission aims to cut unnecessary red tape and simplify processes[5] in order that available funding can be disbursed as quick as possible. On this matter the Commission works in close cooperation with the managing authorities and other relevant bodies.

    • [1] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056 as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review, COM(2025) 123.
    • [2] Most importantly the Recovery and Resilience Plans, the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund, the European Social Fund+ and the InvestEU programme.
    • [3] For Cohesion policy Funds, the methodology on allocation of global resources per Member State is defined by Annex XXVI of Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy.
    • [4] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council NextGenerationEU — The road to 2026, COM/2025/310 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0310).
    • [5] In general, simplification is a key objective of the Commission, as evidenced also by the simplification omnibuses and the mentioned NextGenerationEU communication.
      Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions A Competitiveness Compass for the EU COM/2025/30 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0030&qid=1750151442346).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Imports of sheep and goats from countries with active foot-and-mouth disease – E-001823/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has adopted emergency measures[1] pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/687[3].

    These measures include restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and products from the affected areas. The definition of such restricted areas ensures safe trade from non-restricted areas of the EU, including affected Member States.

    Consignments of live animals from different restricted areas are only authorised if all conditions laid down in Union law are met, including pre-export quarantine and veterinary certification.

    Compliance with these requirements falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned. Member States must record the results of checks performed on animals involved in intra-EU trade in TRACES and their performance can be monitored during Commission audits.

    • [1] Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/672 of 31 March 2025 concerning certain emergency measures relating to outbreaks of foot and mouth disease in Hungary and Slovakia and repealing Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/613 (OJ L, 2025/672, 2.4.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2025/672/oj).
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’) (OJ L 84, 31.3.2016, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/429/oj).
    • [3] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and the Council, as regards rules for the prevention and control of certain listed diseases (OJ L 174, 3.6.2020, p. 64, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/687/oj).
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Imports of sheep and goats from countries with active foot-and-mouth disease – E-001823/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has adopted emergency measures[1] pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/687[3].

    These measures include restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and products from the affected areas. The definition of such restricted areas ensures safe trade from non-restricted areas of the EU, including affected Member States.

    Consignments of live animals from different restricted areas are only authorised if all conditions laid down in Union law are met, including pre-export quarantine and veterinary certification.

    Compliance with these requirements falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned. Member States must record the results of checks performed on animals involved in intra-EU trade in TRACES and their performance can be monitored during Commission audits.

    • [1] Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/672 of 31 March 2025 concerning certain emergency measures relating to outbreaks of foot and mouth disease in Hungary and Slovakia and repealing Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/613 (OJ L, 2025/672, 2.4.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2025/672/oj).
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’) (OJ L 84, 31.3.2016, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/429/oj).
    • [3] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and the Council, as regards rules for the prevention and control of certain listed diseases (OJ L 174, 3.6.2020, p. 64, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/687/oj).
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Information on the first-ever European-wide enquiry on the impact of social media on the well-being of young people – E-001411/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. As outlined in the mission letter to the Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, the Commission will carry out an EU-wide inquiry on the broader impacts of social media and related excessive screentime on wellbeing and mental health, especially of children and young people. This initiative may include the collection of relevant data and consultations with key stakeholders. The scope, methodology and timeline of the inquiry are being developed.

    This inquiry will build on enforcement actions currently under way in the context of the Digital Services Act[1], where the Commission is investigating mental health risks on social media platforms including TikTok[2] and Meta[3].

    2. The Commission is also preparing an action plan to tackle cyberbullying. It would aim to develop a shared definition of cyberbullying; map national best practices to scale them up at EU level; foster cooperation with industry and civil society; and encourage a culture of seeking support and reporting cyberbullying.

    The Commission services responsible for the inquiry and the action plan are working closely to ensure that the inquiry builds on and reinforces the existing work on mental health and social media, and that it aligns with the upcoming Digital Fairness Act.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2065/oj/eng.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_926.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_2664.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Consequences of the war in Sudan in North Africa – E-001636/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As a key humanitarian and development aid donor, the Commission is acutely aware that conflicts — particularly the war in Sudan — have generated significant protection needs for displaced populations, many of whom have fled to neighbouring countries, notably Egypt and Libya.

    The North Africa region remains a destination and transit point for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, including unaccompanied children.

    As a result of their fragile legal status, displaced people are exposed to insecurity, threats, harassment, sexual and gender-based violence, and forced recruitment.

    The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) receives EU funding across the whole North Africa region, with a primary focus on protection and refugee status determination.

    However, the agency faces alarming levels of underfunding in the region. In 2024, the United States alone accounted for approximately 38% of its funding in the region, with contributions reaching as high as 47% in the case of Egypt.

    The Commission remains strongly committed to supporting UNHCR in North Africa to ensure the continued delivery of critical life-saving assistance, such as food and water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as to strengthen the protection and resilience of vulnerable people.

    This includes efforts to enhance access to basic education and health services. The Commission will continue to support people in need in Egypt and Libya, working through UNHCR and other mandated United Nations agencies.

    In parallel, the Commission will also support the reinforcement of national asylum systems by providing technical assistance, capacity-building, and targeted training to local stakeholders.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Consequences of the war in Sudan in North Africa – E-001636/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As a key humanitarian and development aid donor, the Commission is acutely aware that conflicts — particularly the war in Sudan — have generated significant protection needs for displaced populations, many of whom have fled to neighbouring countries, notably Egypt and Libya.

    The North Africa region remains a destination and transit point for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, including unaccompanied children.

    As a result of their fragile legal status, displaced people are exposed to insecurity, threats, harassment, sexual and gender-based violence, and forced recruitment.

    The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) receives EU funding across the whole North Africa region, with a primary focus on protection and refugee status determination.

    However, the agency faces alarming levels of underfunding in the region. In 2024, the United States alone accounted for approximately 38% of its funding in the region, with contributions reaching as high as 47% in the case of Egypt.

    The Commission remains strongly committed to supporting UNHCR in North Africa to ensure the continued delivery of critical life-saving assistance, such as food and water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as to strengthen the protection and resilience of vulnerable people.

    This includes efforts to enhance access to basic education and health services. The Commission will continue to support people in need in Egypt and Libya, working through UNHCR and other mandated United Nations agencies.

    In parallel, the Commission will also support the reinforcement of national asylum systems by providing technical assistance, capacity-building, and targeted training to local stakeholders.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Lack of transparency on allegedly manipulated EMA vaccine documents and implications for public trust and foreign interference – E-001401/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission would like to stress that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) cyberattack in 2020 was successfully contained without affecting the evaluation and approval of COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics.

    The EMA swiftly launched a full investigation, in close cooperation with the Dutch police, the Cybersecurity Service for the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies (CERT-EU) and Europol, the EU agency for law enforcement cooperation. The law enforcement investigation did not confirm the identities of the suspects involved in this criminal attack.

    The EMA remains vigilant and has subsequently further strengthened its defensive cybersecurity capabilities to be better prepared for cyberattacks.

    The EMA has also published a wealth of information about the evaluation of COVID-19 vaccines, including the clinical data submitted for assessment and the detailed assessment reports. The cyberattack did not impact the integrity of the data that were assessed by the EMA.

    The Commission and the EMA would like to stress the importance of consulting reliable information sources and refer the public to the documents published on the EMA website.

    The EMA will continue releasing documents to the public in line with its legal obligations and its transparency policy.

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Foreign investment in private education and its impact on public education in the European Union – E-002794/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002794/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikos Pappas (The Left)

    Education is a fundamental public good, with the EU committed – through Regulation (EU) 2021/817 – to promoting quality and equality. It is crucial that recent developments in private education do not undermine these objectives.

    In recent years, there has been an increasing infiltration of foreign investment capital into private education in Member States such as Greece, Italy, Cyprus and the Netherlands. International investment groups are acquiring educational institutions, which raises questions about the impact on public education, equal access and social cohesion. In some cases, inequalities are increasing and there is a risk of ‘two-tier education’.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission assess the increasing presence of foreign investment capital in private education in the Member States and the possible impact on public education?
    • 2.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to ensure that the infiltration of foreign capital does not lead to inequalities in access to and quality of education provided?
    • 3.How does the Commission intend to support Member States in strengthening and upgrading public education so that it remains competitive and attractive for students and their families?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Are EU funds being used to promote a progressive ideological agenda? – E-002791/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002791/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Markus Buchheit (ESN)

    Numerous EU funding programmes, including Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and the Cohesion Fund, now systematically include ideological criteria related to ‘diversity,’ ‘gender equality,’ ‘LGBTIQ+ inclusion’, or ‘climate justice.’

    These conditions often appear in grant application guidelines, project evaluations, and reporting obligations. While the stated aim is to promote equality and sustainability, in practice they risk discriminating against institutions and applicants who do not adhere to a specific ideological worldview.

    Public funds should serve the general interest of all EU citizens, not act as instruments for social re-engineering.

    • 1.Can the Commission explain why political and ideological concepts such as ‘gender mainstreaming,’ ‘intersectionality,’ or ‘climate justice’ are increasingly used as evaluation criteria in EU-funded programmes?
    • 2.What safeguards exist to ensure that EU citizens, institutions, or associations that do not endorse progressive ideologies are not excluded from funding opportunities?
    • 3.How does the Commission justify the use of taxpayers’ money to promote specific ideological agendas instead of maintaining strict political and ideological neutrality in public funding?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Illegal trafficking of pesticides – E-001736/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU Agri-Food Fraud Network (FFN)[1] works with law enforcement through the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT), guided by the EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment Report.

    EMPACT connects Member States, EU bodies, and international partners to combat serious organised crime. For illegal pesticides, the FFN co-leads with Europol the Operational Action Plan ‘Environmental Crime’ and supports Europol’s Operation SILVER AXE, targeting intellectual property rights protected non-compliant products.

    Participants share related information via the Secure Information Exchange Network Application (SIENA), for secure exchange. The FFN contributes by data sharing, statistical analysis, and trend evaluation.

    The Commission audits Member States to assess controls on marketing and use of plant protection products, including detecting fraud.

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) actively detects dangerous goods, as pesticides, and works closely with customs authorities to support cross- border investigations. OLAF has coordinated a joint customs operation on dangerous substances, including pesticides, in the context of the Asia-Europe Meeting[2].

    Moreover, OLAF provided support and specialised intelligence for operations leading to the interception of a significant consignments of illegal pesticides in Bulgaria and Romania[3][4].

    The Commission works with partner countries at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development fighting illegal trade in pesticides and remains committed mitigating negative impacts of illegal pesticides on environment, thus ensuring the protection of European consumers .

    • [1] https://food.ec.europa.eu/safety/agri-food-fraud/eu-food-fraud-network_en.
    • [2] https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu/media-corner/news/operation-noxia-olaf-leads-operation-against-dangerous-substances-2023-10-16_en.
    • [3] https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu/media-corner/news/11-tonnes-pesticides-seized-thanks-olaf-and-bulgarian-authorities-2023-03-31_en.
    • [4] https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu/media-corner/news/romanian-authorities-seize-1000-litres-counterfeit-pesticides-valued-over-eu600-000-thanks-olafs-2024-10-03_en.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Resumption of Frontex–Europol data-sharing in the interests of security and combating crime and irregular immigration – P-001768/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under Article 68(5) of Regulation 2019/1896[1], the transfer of personal data between the two EU Agencies requires a working arrangement.

    The negotiations of the working arrangement are ongoing and taking place directly between the two Agencies. The Commission has no competence established in the legislation to take any steps to resume data transfers.

    The Commission does not take part in the negotiation of the working arrangement. However, under Art. 68(2) of Regulation 2019/1896, Frontex is required to submit the agreed text to the Commission to receive a prior approval decision, once the negotiations have been finalised between the two Agencies.

    The Commission regularly encourages the Agencies to swiftly conclude the negotiations.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 November 2019 on the European Border and Coast Guard and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1052/2013 and (EU) 2016/1624, OJ L 295, 14/11/2019, p. 1.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need for immediate EU response to the humiliating end of the diplomatic mission to Libya on 8 July 2025 – E-002804/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002804/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left), Nikolas Farantouris (The Left), Elena Kountoura (The Left), Nikos Pappas (The Left)

    Yesterday’s humiliating end to the diplomatic mission to Libya led by Commissioner Brunner and involving ministers from three EU Member States constitutes diplomatic humiliation and an international downgrading of the EU’s prestige, with potentially serious implications for EU foreign policy. The focus is on the extremely sensitive area of ​​refugees/migration, in which EU-Libya relations remain tense and troubled due to the operations of actors such as the so-called ‘Libyan Coast Guard’. In addition, the European mission was characterised by Benghazi as ‘unwanted’, while its presence was considered a ‘blatant violation’,[1] in an extremely provocative move to instrumentalise the refugee/migration issue.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.To what does the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy attribute the disastrous failure of the mission?
    • 2.Is the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy considering readjusting the EU’s stance and the subsequent measures it will put in place, such as changing the funding and aid regime for Libya?
    • 3.What specific actions has the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy taken to protect against the possibility that first country Member States will be further burdened by the refugee/migration issue, as a result of the diplomatic actions of the EU leadership, as well as the humanitarian crisis that may arise from the entrapment of refugees and migrants in these Member States as a result of the new Migration Pact?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.ertnews.gr/eidiseis/ellada/politiki/emploki-me-xaftar-sti-veggazi-anepithymiti-i-eyropaiki-antiprosopeia/
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Limited impact of Global Gateway on the African continent – E-001679/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Global Gateway strategy[1] is delivering with impact in Africa based on the shared objective of sustainable prosperity for both continents.

    The report to the EU-African Union Ministerial of 21 May 2025[2] shows tangible and consequential progress in all the 11 priority areas of the Africa-Europe Investment Package announced at the 2022 Summit[3] and aligned with African Union’s Agenda 2063[4]. The very high participation on both sides at the Ministerial meeting testifies of the vitality and importance of the partnership.

    With the Global Gateway, the EU has shifted to a partnership-based model, moving beyond donor-recipient ties to foster economic and social development and creating sustainable job in the partner countries.

    While other international actors might promote different development models, Global Gateway aims to create links, not dependency but rather contribute to the development of the partner countries.

    It is the EU’s value-based offer for financially sustainable and quality projects implemented in a Team Europe approach[5]. In a challenging international context, the EU stands out as a reliable and trusted partner.

    In 2022, the EU’s Foreign Direct Investment stock in Africa was EUR 309 billion (compared to EUR 41 billion for China). Scaling up Global Gateway is a clear mandate of the Commissioner for International Partnerships.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/stronger-europe-world/global-gateway_en.
    • [2] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/publications-library/preliminary-monitoring-report-considered-au-eu-ministerial-follow-committee_en.
    • [3] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/global-gateway/initiatives-sub-saharan-africa/eu-africa-global-gateway-investment-package_en.
    • [4] https://au.int/en/agenda2063/overview.
    • [5] Including Member States, European Investment Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, European Financial Institutions, Member States’ agencies and the private sector.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Mandatory identity verification online and protection of users’ privacy and personal data – E-002732/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002732/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kosma Złotowski (ECR)

    Mandatory user identity and age verification online is a matter of legitimate public interest given how universally accessible the internet is and the dangers that come with this widespread availability. Actions that the Commission is taking on this issue are being reported on in the media, especially in relation to the implementation of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the use of the European Digital Identity Wallet for age and identity verification.

    There is a growing need for effective yet sustainable solutions that align with the principles of proportionality and subsidiarity that would limit minors’ access to adult-only material and content while also guaranteeing user privacy.

    • 1.Going beyond declaratory assurances, what legal and technical mechanisms ensure that personal data obtained for the purposes of identity or age verification is processed for this purpose only and is then immediately deleted, with further tracking of a user’s activity after verification being effectively impossible?
    • 2.To what extent do the provisions of the DSA and the General Data Protection Regulation address current challenges related to protecting minors online and how would they potentially impact mandatory identity and age verification?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Authorisation of givinostat for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy – E-002800/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002800/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michael McNamara (Renew)

    Givinostat, sold under the brand name Duvyzat, is a medication used to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients aged six and older. It is not currently authorised in the EU.

    On 25 April 2025, the European Medicine Agency’s Committee for Human Medicinal Products (CHMP) recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation in the EU for Duvyzat (givinostat) as a treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients from the age of six who are able to walk.

    As per that statement, the CHMP opinion has been sent to the Commission for consideration.

    However, the EMA has so far not granted marketing authorisation for the use of givinostat in any cases.

    • 1.What steps have been taken in relation to authorisation of this drug so that families across the EU can avail of it?
    • 2.Will the Commission grant marketing authorisation for givinostat?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Arrest of pro-life advocates in Brussels during peaceful demonstration – E-002428/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002428/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Miriam Lexmann (PPE), Ruggero Razza (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Margarita de la Pisa Carrión (PfE), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR), Daniele Polato (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR), Marion Maréchal (ECR), Marco Squarta (ECR), Nicolas Bay (ECR), Laurence Trochu (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR), Stephen Nikola Bartulica (ECR), Francesco Ventola (ECR), Mariusz Kamiński (ECR)

    On 4 June 2025, two pro-life advocates – Lois McLatchie Miller and Chris Elston – were arrested by Belgian police while peacefully demonstrating their convictions on the use of puberty blockers for children and raising awareness about the dangers of these. They were holding signs with messages saying ‘Children are never born in the wrong body’ and ‘Children cannot consent to puberty blockers’, without using offensive language or engaging in violent conduct.

    When surrounded by an aggressive crowd, they called the police. They were taken to the police station, searched and released after several hours without any formal charges. They were also informed that their signs had been destroyed.

    This incident, incompatible with Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and occurring in the heart of the EU, raises serious concerns about freedom of thought and expression, especially regarding opinions on ethically sensitive issues.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the events described above?
    • 2.Does it consider the arrest of individuals peacefully expressing non-violent opinions to be compatible with Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU?
    • 3.Does it intend to request clarification from the Belgian authorities in order to safeguard the freedom of expression guaranteed by the aforementioned international instruments?

    Submitted: 17.6.2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU support for students’ mental health and living conditions – E-002783/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002783/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Victor Negrescu (S&D)

    According to the study ‘Living Situations of Higher Ed Students’ (2023), conducted on 1 670 students from 22 university cities in Romania, students’ mental health and housing problems have increased alarmingly.

    78.4 % of students reported an increase in stress and anxiety, while 9.8 % said they had contemplated suicide in the past year. Around one third had difficulties paying their rent and for utility services, while 37.3 % lived in heavily built-up areas. Around a half had been mentally affected by rising energy costs and many had to cope with verbal abuse, online bullying and harassment.

    These problems directly affect the the quality of life, access to education and chances of social integration of young Europeans. These concerns need to be urgently reflected in EU policies and in the dialogue with Member States.

    Given these circumstances:

    • 1.What measures does the Commission have for supporting the creation of integrated programmes combining affordable housing and mental health services that can meet students’ needs?
    • 2.How will these priorities be reflected in future EU recommendations and funding programmes dedicated to youth and higher education?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU support for students’ mental health and living conditions – E-002783/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002783/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Victor Negrescu (S&D)

    According to the study ‘Living Situations of Higher Ed Students’ (2023), conducted on 1 670 students from 22 university cities in Romania, students’ mental health and housing problems have increased alarmingly.

    78.4 % of students reported an increase in stress and anxiety, while 9.8 % said they had contemplated suicide in the past year. Around one third had difficulties paying their rent and for utility services, while 37.3 % lived in heavily built-up areas. Around a half had been mentally affected by rising energy costs and many had to cope with verbal abuse, online bullying and harassment.

    These problems directly affect the the quality of life, access to education and chances of social integration of young Europeans. These concerns need to be urgently reflected in EU policies and in the dialogue with Member States.

    Given these circumstances:

    • 1.What measures does the Commission have for supporting the creation of integrated programmes combining affordable housing and mental health services that can meet students’ needs?
    • 2.How will these priorities be reflected in future EU recommendations and funding programmes dedicated to youth and higher education?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Greece’s compliance with the horizontal enabling condition on the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU – E-002785/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002785/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Erik Marquardt (Verts/ALE)

    In the light of the Commission’s reply to Written Question E-772/2025[1], namely that ‘Greece, as all Member States, must demonstrate HEC compliance’, how does the Commission currently evaluate the effectiveness of the specific Greek mechanisms and their compliance with the horizontal enabling condition (HEC) on the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, regarding:

    • 1.prosecution services, given the serious doubts recently expressed by the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) as to the effectiveness of criminal investigations into the ‘systematic practice’ of pushbacks?
    • 2.the National Transparency Authority’s independence and methodology, in the light of recent concerns voiced by the ECtHR, and the Ombudsman, in the light of government interference regarding the Pylos shipwreck, including ministerial statements questioning its competence?
    • 3.whether the Commission has put in place guidelines for assessing Charter HEC compliance and criteria to determine circumstances in which it will withhold or suspend EU funds in the event of non-compliance?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-000772-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Boosting EU humanitarian diplomacy to safeguard international humanitarian law and humanitarian space – E-002782/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002782/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Leire Pajín (S&D)

    The mission letter of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to Commissioner Hadja Lahbib spoke of the need to ‘boost humanitarian diplomacy efforts’. Given the rising attacks on international humanitarian law (IHL) and the widespread challenges in securing humanitarian access in conflict-affected settings, which often remain overlooked, there is a clear need to strengthen EU humanitarian diplomacy.

    Given the foregoing:

    • 1.What new, concrete steps is the Commission taking or planning to take to enhance efforts in humanitarian diplomacy along with the EU Member States and international partners?
    • 2.Will humanitarian diplomacy be integrated into its actions aimed at mainstreaming the principle of ‘preparedness by design’ within the work of the EU delegations, common security and defence policy missions and operations, and EU Special Representatives? If so, how?
    • 3.What initiatives is the EU pursuing to address gaps in monitoring IHL violations, including through improved data collection and evidence-based advocacy, and does the Commission plan to establish a dedicated mechanism to systematically monitor and report on humanitarian access challenges in conflict-affected settings that would inform the humanitarian diplomacy efforts of the EU, its Member States and its international partners?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lack of sound calculations of the costs and risks of introducing the digital euro – E-002443/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002443/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Auke Zijlstra (PfE)

    At the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee meeting on 27 March 2025, Claudia Buch, Chair of the ECB’s Supervisory Board, argued that banks could make profits as a result of the introduction of the digital euro. This contradicts the industry’s own calculations[1].

    When I asked Claudia Buch in writing to back up her claims with a calculation of expected profits, she replied that ‘it is not possible to exactly assess the impact of the digital euro in quantitative terms’ and that profits depend, among other things, on ‘business model, size, and existing IT architecture’[2]. I conclude from this that Ms Buch’s claims are devoid of facts and unsubstantiated.

    Does the Commission agree that:

    • 1.it is worrying that the ECB, unlike the banking sector, has not calculated the costs and risks of introducing the digital euro for European banks?
    • 2.Ms Buch’s letter implies that the introduction of the digital euro is a greater risk for smaller banks, as it is significantly more expensive for these banks to adapt their IT architecture than for the big banks?

    Submitted: 17.6.2025

    • [1] Questions for written answer Z-000008/2025 and Z-000009/2025 to the Chair of the ECB Supervisory Board.
    • [2] Answer by the Chair of the ECB Supervisory Board to questions QZ-008 and QZ-009 of 19 May 2025.
    Last updated: 14 July 2025

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