Source: European Commission
European Commission Press release Brussels, 04 Jul 2025 The European Commission has adopted a set of measures to simplify the application of EU Taxonomy. This will reduce the administrative burden for EU companies, thus enhancing EU competitiveness while preserving core climate and environmental goals.
Source: European Parliament
Serious and persistent threats at the Eastern EU border may entail the weaponisation of migration which poses a challenge for national security of the concerned Member States, but also the security of the EU as a whole.
This is what the Commission stressed in the communication on the weaponisation of migration which recalled the legal context in which any exceptional measure to tackle this threat can be taken by Member States, including as arising from case-law[1].
The situation also calls for a resolute EU response which should be comprehensive, addressing both a potential threat of conventional military aggression and hybrid campaigns.
The White Paper for European Defence — Readiness 2030[2] acknowledges the importance of defending all EU borders, in particular the Eastern border. The project related to an Eastern Border Shield has been considered a noteworthy exercise by a number of Member States to confront the growing challenges in the region.
The Security Action for Europe Regulation[3], the European Defence Industry Programme[4] (subject to its negotiation by the co-legislators), and dual-use EU instruments (such as the Border Management Visa Policy Instrument) could provide the basis for additional efforts in support of Member States. The Commission has engaged in dialogue with Member States to explore possible options.
Source: European Parliament
Lysine is an amino acid which can be included as an active substance in feed additives. 26 lysine-based feed additives are currently authorised to be placed on the EU market, all of them in the category of ‘nutritional additives’, and the functional group of ‘amino acids, their salts and analogues’. The purpose of these additives is to satisfy the nutritional needs of animals, thereby contributing to keeping animals in good health.
The Commission is aware of the concerns regarding a reliable supply of lysine to the EU market and its importance as an essential amino acid to complement the diets of farmed animals.
Security of supply for such agricultural inputs is part of a wider reflection whereby, as clearly highlighted by the Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food[1], the EU develops an assertive policy response in favour of our strategic autonomy and food sovereignty. Ensuring the survival of the sole remaining Union producer of lysine serves those objectives.
In the EU interest analysis of the anti-dumping investigation you refer to, the Commission has provisionally concluded that the imposition of anti-dumping measures is unlikely to seriously affect the quantitative supply of lysine to EU users. The Commission has reasonable grounds to ascertain itself that no shortage of supply will occur in the future.
The Commission has also provisionally concluded that it would result in an increase in the production cost of animal feed well below 1% and prices of animal livestock products will therefore hardly be affected by measures.
Finally, the imposition of anti-dumping duties is likely to lower the production cost of lysine in the EU, as it is expected to result in increased sales and, thus, production volumes and less fixed costs per unit.
Source: European Parliament
1. Regulation (EU) 2024/1679[1] of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network, the TEN-T Regulation, was only adopted last year. It sets, amongst others, deadlines for the completion of networks and for the replacement of national, non-interoperable, rail safety systems (‘class B’ systems), with an EU standard system, notably the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS).
The regulation contains mechanisms to steer its level of implementation, including through national plans and programmes, the annual status report and the work plans drawn up by the European Coordinators as well as a review clause per 31 December 2033.
2. The Commission, supported by the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA), works continuously to harmonise administrative and technical requirements for railways in the EU. Recent initiatives include the proposal to renew the rules on capacity allocation, which is currently being negotiated with the European Parliament and the Council. Upcoming initiatives include proposals on the revision of the Train Drivers Directive[2] and a new legislative initiative on ticketing.
3. Together with Member States and ERA, the Commission works to identify and to remove identified barriers. Tools to identify these barriers include the so-called ‘log-book
Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission is not aware of an inadequate functioning of the checks in road transport in Greece. In line with Article 2(3) of Directive 2006/22/EC[1], Member States are required to carry out a minimum number of checks at the roadside and at the premises of road transport undertakings to verify compliance of drivers and operators with the EU social rules in the road transport sector. The 32nd report from the Commission on the implementation of the social legislation relating to road transport[2] based, as regards Greece, on the Greek national report, shows that Greece complied with the minimum level of checks in the period 2021-2022. Member States must submit to the Commission, by 30 September 2025, their national report covering the period 2023-2024.
2. The Commission may decide to take any appropriate action, including infringement proceedings, against Greece in case of failure to comply with the minimum control requirements set out in Article 2(3) of Directive 2006/22/EC.
3. The European Labour Authority can help the Greek authorities by further promoting the exchange of experience, best practices and information, and by involving them in concerted checks and joint training initiatives .
Source: European Parliament
Under the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP)[1], the ‘Tourism Development’[2] and ‘Upgrade Interventions for Regional Ports’[3] measures support significant port investments aiming to extend the tourism season in Greece beyond the summer months and promote alternative forms of tourism, contributing to economic resilience, sustainable growth and social and territorial cohesion. These investment measures provide funding for infrastructures and interventions in regional ports, tourist ports and marinas.
The EU Cohesion Policy also supports investments in port infrastructure to enhance access to coastal and island regions and strengthen local economies.
In Greece, around EUR 228 million has been allocated through national and regional programmes to improve port facilities, aiming to boost connectivity, foster economic development in island areas, and stimulate tourism growth.
In particular, funding programmes support sustainable maritime tourism such as a call for Green Transition Projects under the Interreg NEXT MED to tackle climate challenges across the Mediterranean region[4].
Under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), regional flagship projects[5] have been supported to strengthen the competitiveness of coastal tourism as well as to promote sustainable transport and ports in the Mediterranean.
The Transition Pathway for Tourism and EU Agenda for Tourism 2030 emphasises the need to transition to a sustainable development model that includes island and coastal economies, considering that 45% of nights spent in the EU are in coastal destinations.
Source: European Parliament
Under the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP)[1], the ‘Tourism Development’[2] and ‘Upgrade Interventions for Regional Ports’[3] measures support significant port investments aiming to extend the tourism season in Greece beyond the summer months and promote alternative forms of tourism, contributing to economic resilience, sustainable growth and social and territorial cohesion. These investment measures provide funding for infrastructures and interventions in regional ports, tourist ports and marinas.
The EU Cohesion Policy also supports investments in port infrastructure to enhance access to coastal and island regions and strengthen local economies.
In Greece, around EUR 228 million has been allocated through national and regional programmes to improve port facilities, aiming to boost connectivity, foster economic development in island areas, and stimulate tourism growth.
In particular, funding programmes support sustainable maritime tourism such as a call for Green Transition Projects under the Interreg NEXT MED to tackle climate challenges across the Mediterranean region[4].
Under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), regional flagship projects[5] have been supported to strengthen the competitiveness of coastal tourism as well as to promote sustainable transport and ports in the Mediterranean.
The Transition Pathway for Tourism and EU Agenda for Tourism 2030 emphasises the need to transition to a sustainable development model that includes island and coastal economies, considering that 45% of nights spent in the EU are in coastal destinations.
Source: European Parliament
Vaccination programmes and services are a competence of national authorities. The Commission supports Member States in increasing and maintaining high vaccination coverage rates and in a lifelong approach to vaccination. It is a theme of #UnitedInProtection[1], the Commission’s campaign promoting safe and effective vaccines’ benefits.
Immunosenescence is a scientific challenge. In general, a clear understanding of the protective human immune response to infection is key to selecting and designing the right vaccine antigens.
New or more specifically targeted formulations may be needed to improve response to existing vaccines in different population groups such as the elderly that may mount a suboptimal immune response to vaccination.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) regularly generates estimates of vaccine effectiveness for key vaccination programmes, such as seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines[2], with specific attention towards older groups.
The ECDC also regularly provides summaries of scientific data available on the performance of newer vaccines[3] which may help to address some of the challenges related to immunosenescence.
This scientific evidence, together with existing complementary research in the field, can help to inform on where gaps exist, including areas where research and development for newer and more effective vaccines targeting specific population group needs is key.
The ECDC also regularly publishes overviews on the performance of national immunisation groups, such as for seasonal influenza vaccination in older age groups[4].
Such overviews include public health considerations on how Member States and stakeholders can strengthen the implementation of existing programmes.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002584/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE)
The Commission’s proposed restriction, under the regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH), on the use of calcium cyanamide as a fertiliser threatens to seriously jeopardise European strategic autonomy. While the restriction targets agricultural use, it threatens the economic viability of the only European producer, Alzchem Trostberg GmbH, which also supplies calcium cyanamide for nitroguanidine, a critical energetic material used in artillery shells, tank and naval ammunition, insensitive munitions and rocket propellants.
If agricultural demand collapses, calcium cyanamide production may become unsustainable or cease entirely. This would dismantle the only European supply chain for nitroguanidine and force reliance on imports from China, India, Japan or other countries, many of which pose serious geostrategic risks, undermining the EU’s defence capabilities and industrial sovereignty.
In the light of this:
Submitted: 26.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
1. Information on EU budget funding awarded to specific recipients, such as European media outlets, is publicly available through the centralised Financial Transparency System (FTS) web page[1]. This tool provides detailed information at individual project level, allowing to conduct searches across multiple dimensions.
2. Grants for news media are provided on the basis of open calls. The applying entities are free to propose the activities to be implemented based on the objectives and expected deliverables set out in the calls. Such calls include provisions to make sure that beneficiaries apply journalistic and ethical standards, while operating with full editorial independence.
3. Free and fair elections are at the core of democracy. The conduct and the organisations of elections are the competence and responsibility of the Member States, in accordance with their national constitutional rules and legislation, subject to EU law and their international obligations. All EU grants must be implemented by beneficiaries in full respect of applicable EU and national law. Hence, applicants have to comply with electoral rules in the given Member State.
Direct EU funding falls outside the scope of the EU State aid rules. Moreover, direct EU funding is governed by rigorous rules designed to prevent distortions of competition and there is no evidence of a breach of the EU’s competition rules.
Source: European Parliament
Freedom of expression and information is a pillar of democracy and protected under the EU Charter.1 The Digital Services Act (DSA)[1] helps create a safer digital space where the fundamental rights of users are protected online. The DSA defines the responsibilities of online platforms and specifically helps to ensure freedom of expression online.
Under the DSA the Commission monitors the compliance of all designated Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Very Large Search Engines (VLOSEs) including TikTok.[2]
In order to address harmful and potentially illegal content under the DSA, the providers of online platforms, including social media platforms need to put in place an easy-to-use reporting tool for users to notify them about the presence of illegal content on the platform.
In addition, competent authorities in each Member State may order providers to take action against certain items of illegal content and provide them with specific information.
As VLOP, TikTok has to comply with additional obligations. Namely, the diligent assessment and effective mitigation of the systemic risks, including in relation to the freedom of expression and the removal of illegal content. Mitigation measures can include the automatic detection of harmful content.
Digital Services Coordinators (DSC) are the competent authorities to monitor compliance with the DSA in each Member State. They also gather complaints from individual cases like the one you mentioned and assesses the need for further action.
In Italy, the communications Regulatory Authority (AGCOM) is the designated DSC. Users also have the right to go through out-of-court dispute settlement bodies in case of disagreement with the platform’s actions.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission considers that the current Roaming Regulation[1] adequately ensures end-users’ protection from inadvertent roaming.
According to Articles 13(5) and 14(6) of the Roaming Regulation, roaming providers are obliged to take all reasonable steps to protect their customers from paying roaming charges due to inadvertently accessed roaming services while situated in their home Member State.
This includes informing customers on how to effectively avoid inadvertent roaming in border regions. Equally, according to Article 4(2) of the Roaming Regulation, roaming providers should ensure that, w hen roaming within the EU, roaming customers are able to use the retail services to which they subscribe and benefit from the same level of quality of service as at home .
National regulatory authorities and, where applicable, other competent authorities are expected to be alert to situations of inadvertent roaming in the border regions. They should monitor and collect information on inadvertent roaming and take appropriate measures where necessary.
Moreover, roaming providers are, pursuant to Article 14(4) of the Roaming Regulation, obliged to grant to their customers at least the default financial or volume limits in value of EUR 50 and 100[2] for regulated data roaming services that the customers consume, including outside the EU, when technically possible.
In light of the above, the Commission considers that the current Roaming Regulation’s framework provides adequate protection for end-users against inadvertent roaming.
More efforts though could be taken at national level to implement, monitor, and enforce the existing Roaming Regulation’s framework, for the benefit of end-users.
Source: European Parliament
Sport plays a powerful role in promoting peace, respect, and understanding within societies. By teaching us to follow rules, respect opponents, and reject violence, it contributes meaningfully to human rights and peaceful coexistence. As the world’s foremost sporting event, the Olympic Games symbolise these values and have the unique ability to bring people together across borders and differences.
The Commission believes that international sporting events, including the Olympic Games, must not be used for political propaganda by regimes engaged in wars of aggression in violation of international law.
At the same time the Commission fully supports the autonomy of the sporting movement and the universal right of individual athletes, to participate in such events and takes note of the decision of the International Olympic Committee to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission underlines that the responsibility for rail safety lies with the Member States and relevant actors, as set out in Article 4 of Directive 2016/798[1]. Neither the Commission nor the European Union Agency for Railways (the Agency) can replace these actors in their roles .
The Commission does assess the compliance of the national measures transposing the Rail Safety Directive[2], whereas the Agency audits its implementation and application by the national safety authorities, which play a pivotal role in ensuring safety of the national rail systems.
On request of the Commission, the Agency may perform complex assessments of the entire rail sector in Member States. To rectify non-compliance, Member States must implement an Action Plan.
In case of deficiencies in the implementation of EU law, the Commission may take the necessary measures, as it was done for Greece by opening an infringement case (INFR(2023)2036 of 16 December 2024[3]).
The Commission considers that the legislative framework concerning rail safety is mature and contains strong control mechanisms. However, it should be improved by EU-wide safety occurrence reporting for early alerts and by measures enhancing the risk-based monitoring capabilities of the Agency.
In the Commission’s view, the 2024 trans-European transport network (TEN-T) Regulation[4] introduced a solid framework to ensure the development of an efficient, digital and resilient rail network in the European Union.
Source: European Parliament
1. No official complaint to the Commission has been registered, however the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) has been subject to standardisation inspections by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) monitoring the application by the competent authorities of the Member States of Regulation (EU) 2018/1139[1] and of its delegated and implementing rules, and to report to the Commission about the results. No particular findings have been raised regarding the air collision avoidance system.
2. The latest standardisation inspection of HCAA as the authority responsible for the safety oversight of Air Traffic Management/Air Navigation Services has been performed at the end of 2023 The implementation of the subsequent Corrective Action Plan by HCAA is progressing.
3. The Commission has opened infringement cases INFR(2024)2237[2] and INFR(2024)2014[3] regarding the established shortcomings. Finally, as a result of lack of implementation of the requirements related to data link services, the Commission has opened infringement case INFR(2020)2050[4]. The Commission is closely following up on implementation of the related rules.
Source: European Parliament
All sectors, including waterborne activities, need to contribute to the EU climate neutrality goal by 2050.
The Commission announced in the European Ocean Pact[1] that it will propose measures to decarbonise and modernise the fisheries fleet, supported by the Energy Transition Partnership for the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
In addition, it recalled the importance of the recent extension of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) to maritime and the implementation of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation[2] to accelerate the decarbonisation of the EU maritime transport sector.
Furthermore, the Commission is launching a study on greenhouse gas emission reduction costs and pathways for EU fisheries to achieve net zero by 2050[3].
The ETS2 — which will be fully operational from 2027 onwards — will cover and address the CO2 emissions from fuel combustion in buildings, road transport and industry not covered by the existing EU ETS.
While emissions from waterborne activities are not included in its scope, Member States can decide, on a voluntary basis, to opt-in additional emissions. Some Member States, including Austria, Finland, the Netherlands and Sweden, have already decided to include, within the scope of ETS2, emissions from some smaller vessels, inland navigation and/or fishing.
In addition, the Commission will examine, no later than end of 2026, the feasibility and economic, environmental and social impacts of including ships below 5 000 gross tonnage within the scope of the ETS Directive[4].
The Commission will notably build its analysis on its recent report[5] looking at the potential inclusion of small ships, including fishing vessels, in the scope of the EU regulation for the Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) of maritime emissions.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission undertakes regular annual eProcurement workshops with Member States, to understand their current eProcurement services and monitor their operational effectiveness.
This proactive stance aims to ensure, as much as possible, the integrity and security of eProcurement systems across the EU. It also aims to maintain trust and transparency in public procurement processes and foster an environment where public procurement is conducted in a fair, efficient, and secure manner.
So far, throughout the duration of these workshops, no instances have been reported or discussed wherein buyers or suppliers have manipulated eProcurement services with the intention of altering bids. This suggests a high level of integrity within the existing eProcurement systems employed by Member States.
More specifically, regarding the incident in Sicily, the Commission has been in contact with Italian authorities and at this stage understands that potential irregularities appear not to result from the manipulation of the eProcurement service itself.
The Commission remains committed to pursuing further contacts with Italian authorities should investigatory procedures later uncover evidence of a security breach or malfunction within the eProcurement service used in Sicily.
Source: European Parliament
The serious and persistent nature of the hybrid threats at the Eastern EU border with Russia and Belarus pose new challenges for the whole EU.
It calls also for a strengthened EU response, in full respect of EU and international law, which should be comprehensive, both addressing the threat of potential conventional military aggression and ongoing hybrid activities, including campaigns for weaponising migration and challenging the entire Schengen zone.
The White Paper on the European Defence Readiness 2030[1] acknowledges that the defence of all EU land, air and maritime borders is important, in particular as regards the EU Eastern border. The Eastern Border Shield project is a noteworthy exercise by a number of Member States to confront the growing challenges in that region.
The Commission would consider potential financial support for defence upon Member States request under the future European Defence Industry Programme[2], the Commission has engaged with Member States undertaking national efforts in strengthening EU external borders to explore possible options and the scope of potential support.
The Commission also supports Member States in ensuring strong European integrated border management and effective protection of the EU external borders through the Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI)[3]. Activities related to the automated border surveillance systems are a substantial part of Poland’s 2021-2027 BMVI programme.
The EUR 220.5 million allocated to the programme includes funding made available in December 2024 for ‘Enhancing border surveillance capabilities for countries bordering Russia and Belarus’ (currently being added to the programme) and will be increased by EUR 23 million from the mid-term review.
Source: EuroStat – European Statistics
European Commission Press release Brussels, 04 Jul 2025 Today, the European Commission announced that six pioneering electric vehicle (EV) battery cell manufacturing projects will receive a total of €852 million in grants from the Innovation Fund, using revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002613/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Nicolás González Casares (S&D), Elena Nevado del Campo (PPE), Romana Jerković (S&D), Liesbet Sommen (PPE), Leire Pajín (S&D), Nikos Papandreou (S&D), Tomislav Sokol (PPE)
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death in the European Union, accounting for more than 1 in every 3 deaths and causing almost 5 000 deaths every day. CVDs take many forms. One of them is cardiomyopathy, which refers to a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle and are usually caused by inherited pathogenic genetic mutations. However, cardiomyopathy has received little policy attention.
Collectively, the various forms of cardiomyopathy affect around 1 in 330 people in Europe, and they can occur in patients of all ages. The prevalence of cardiomyopathy is rising, yet underdiagnosis, misdiagnosis and late diagnosis remain widespread. Cardiomyopathy can significantly impair patients’ quality of life and psychological well-being. It also generates significant healthcare costs per patient, primarily because of the hospitalisations required to treat cardiomyopathy-related complications, but also because of heart transplants.
In light of the above:
Submitted: 28.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002605/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Cristina Maestre (S&D), Leire Pajín (S&D), Sandra Gómez López (S&D)
According to Eurobarometer, the vast majority of people in the EU would like to know where their food comes from. For rice, the current labelling rules make it easier for some traders to deliberately confuse consumers about the quality and origin of the product.
One example of this is a well-known distributor of short-grain rice that sells the product with labels bearing images that evoke Valencian rice-growing traditions and displays its address in Valencia but not the origin of the product. The traceability study carried out by the Government of the Autonomous Community of Valencia found that it was rice imported from third countries.
The voluntary nature of the indication of origin on rice labelling allows for a whole range of misleading practices for consumers and causes serious harm to the EU rice sector. European rice growers are calling for greater distinction to be drawn between their product and lower-quality imports from South-East Asia.
Given the difficult situation this sector is going through:
What is the reason for keeping the voluntary nature of origin labelling for rice, when it is already mandatory for many other agricultural products?
Submitted: 27.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002579/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Kostas Papadakis (NI)
The introduction of the SAFE Regulation is evidence of the EU’s deeper involvement in dangerous war planning and a shift to the ‘war economy’, in the context of competition with Russia, China and the US. The regulation envisages the participation of ‘like-minded third countries’, such as Türkiye – a country which challenges the borders and sovereign rights of Member States such as Greece, while occupying 37 % of the territory of Cyprus without recognising it.
In view of this, can the Commission say:
Submitted: 26.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002602/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)
In the EU, the management of waste from the extractive industries is governed by legislation based on the Extractive Waste Directive, under which Member States must ensure that extractive waste is managed without endangering human health and without using methods which could harm the environment, in particular water, air, soil, fauna and flora – also after mining has ceased[1].
In Finland, hazardous waste from mines is often dealt with inadequately and the long-term effects of mining waste are not properly assessed. For example, Terrafame’s mine has produced huge areas of waste rock, which pose a risk of major accidents[2] – hazardous substances could leach into watercourses when it rains on the masses of waste rock[3].
Extractive waste can be hazardous for the environment over hundreds of years. Although the masses of waste rock at Terrafame’s mine are set to be covered in summer 2025, the plans for the safe treatment of mining waste once mining activities have ceased are inadequate, and in this respect are in breach of the EU’s Extractive Waste Directive.
In addition, mines are increasingly being established in areas with fewer mineral deposits, meaning that mining generates more waste rock and waste in general and may not even be economically viable. This problem is a relevant one because the expansion of Terrafame’s mine has been selected as a strategic project under the Critical Raw Materials Act[4].
How will the Commission ensure that the Member States comply with the Extractive Waste Directive, especially after mining activities have ceased?
Submitted: 27.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
The Committee on Regional Development will have a presentation of the ECA Special Report 16/2025 on EU funding to tackle forest fires – more preventative measures, but insufficient evidence of results and their long-term sustainability by Nikolaos Milionis at its meeting on Tuesday 15 July 2025.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002607/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Raffaele Topo (S&D), Alessandra Moretti (S&D), Elisabetta Gualmini (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Pina Picierno (S&D), Pierfrancesco Maran (S&D), Stefano Bonaccini (S&D), Antonio Decaro (S&D), Giuseppe Lupo (S&D), Romana Jerković (S&D), Estelle Ceulemans (S&D), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Kateřina Konečná (NI), Branislav Ondruš (NI), Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI), Flavio Tosi (PPE), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Aurelijus Veryga (ECR)
In a report published in 2016[1], the Commission defined arduous work as follows:
‘Occupations involving the exposure of the worker over a period of time to one or several factors leading to professional situations susceptible to leave long-lasting and irreversible effects on his/her health; these factors are related to physical constraints, psychosocial risks, an aggressive physical environment, working organisation and working rhythms, including shift work’.
According to a recent study conducted by the European Federation of Salaried Doctors (FEMS), the working conditions of doctors meet all of these criteria, particularly in the more demanding medical specialisations. Furthermore, the current shortage of doctors has further deteriorated their working conditions, increasing the physical and psychological demands of their profession[2].
In light of the above:
Submitted: 27.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
On 17 July, a hearing will be held on Generative AI and Democracy. The rise of generative AI technologies has significantly expanded the capabilities of malicious actors to manipulate public opinion, create disinformation and disrupt democratic processes.
With the ability of creating highly believable deep fakes and synthetic media, this new technology makes it easier to distort reality and to massively scale up traditional FIMI techniques (foreign information manipulation and interference) into more complex methods of interference, and this in a very easy and cost effective way. By examining this intersection of generative AI, FIMI and political manipulation, the objective of this hearing is to outline a clear understanding of the challenges ahead in this area, and, more importantly, the potential way forward in concrete steps that the EU and the tech community can take to protect democracy from unclear and still evolving digital threats.
Source: European Parliament
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising many sectors of the economy, including the energy sector. The exponential growth of data centres around the world and in Europe is driving up electricity demand, raising questions about its impact on existing infrastructure and on sustainability. At the same time, AI can help transform energy systems by boosting energy efficiency, facilitating the integration of renewables and optimising electricity networks. According to the International Energy Agency, data centres currently account for only 1.5 % of global electricity consumption, but their electricity demand is expected to more than double by 2030. In the EU, data centres account for around 3 % of total electricity demand, but this varies between countries and is over 20 % in Ireland. AI-focused data centres tend to cluster in geographical locations, contributing to pressure on local grids and involving trade-offs with climate goals, land use and energy affordability. A ChatGPT query uses 10 times more electricity than a traditional Google search, although that depends on the complexity of the question and the format used (text vs. multimedia). A large data centre is estimated to consume as much electricity annually as 100 000 households. Data centres use energy not only to train and run AI models but also to cool servers and maintain equipment. Renewables and natural gas are the main energy sources used to power data centres globally, although nuclear (and, in the future, small modular reactors) is also on the rise. The EU’s 2020 digital strategy called for data centres to become climate neutral by 2030. The 2023 EU Energy Efficiency Directive requires data centres to report on their energy consumption, water usage and use of renewable energy, and a 2024 EU scheme for rating the sustainability of data centres requires them to report on key performance indicators on energy and sustainability. Upcoming EU initiatives aim to balance ambitions on competitiveness and concerns over decarbonisation. The Cloud and AI Development Act, expected in the coming months, will aim to triple EU data centre capacity in the next 5-7 years, while the ‘strategic roadmap for digitalisation and AI for the energy sector’ and the ‘data centre energy efficiency package’, planned for early 2026, will address the energy impacts.
Source: European Investment Bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €74 million loan with the government of the Spanish region of Castilla y León (Junta de Castilla y León) to co-finance rural and agricultural and forestry sector investment under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) operational plan for 2023-2027. This is the first tranche of total approved EIB financing of €245 million.
The EIB loan and Junta de Castilla y León co-financing will provide support for projects to modernise farms across the region, as well as for climate change adaptation and natural resource management. They will also make it easier to access financing for forest land planting and recovery projects and agroforestry land conversions. In addition, the loan will back climate change mitigation and adaptation investment in rural areas and the LEADER local development programme.
The agreement highlights the commitment of the European Investment Bank Group (EIB Group) to climate action and environmental sustainability, economic, social and territorial cohesion, and support for agriculture and the bioeconomy, three of the eight priorities set out in the Group’s Strategic Roadmap for 2024-2027. All of the operations will take place within the Castilla y León region.
This co-financing agreement under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development comes in addition to the agreement to support the dual green and digital transition, education and innovation in the region signed by the Junta de Castilla y León and the EIB in June 2024. The 2024 agreement was signed under the 2021-2027 operational plan of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and other EU funds.
Background information
EIB
The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.
The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.
All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Agreement, as pledged in its Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.
In Spain, the EIB Group signed €12.3 billion of new financing for more than 100 high-impact projects in 2024. This financing is contributing to the country’s green and digital transition, economic growth, competitiveness and improved services for residents.
High-quality, up-to-date photos of the organisation’s headquarters for media use are available here.
Source: European Investment Bank
Today at the European Investment Bank (EIB Global)’s Headquarters in Luxembourg, EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot and Montenegro’s Minister of Finance Novica Vukovic signed a Host Country Agreement between the EIB and Montenegro. This milestone reaffirms EIB Global’s commitment to supporting Montenegro on its path towards convergence with the EU, while paving the way for an EIB Representative to be based in the country for closer collaboration in the future.
In the presence of Montenegro’s Minister of Education Andjela Jaksic-Stojanovic and UNOPS Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for Delivery and Partnerships Kirstine Damkjaer, EIB Global signed a €20.3 million for the Montenegrin education sector. These funds comprise of an €18 million loan to the Montenegrin government and a grant to the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for €2.3 million for technical assistance ensuring that the funds are used a strategically and impactfully.
The loan will go towards the renovation and digitalisation of pre-primary, primary and secondary schools in Montenegro, as well as to energy-efficiency improvements and the installation of new equipment for vocational training. Provided under the EIB’s Economic Resilience Initiative, the grant will be used by UNOPS to deliver technical support to the Montenegrin Ministry of Education in assessing existing school infrastructure and preparing key investment projects, while ensuring a strategic and impactful deployment of funds
“The Host Country Agreement signed today formalises the strong EIB support to Montenegro and marks a new chapter in our longstanding cooperation. This, alongside today’s new financing for Montenegro’s education sector, is set to bolster the country’s economic resilience. By creating a cutting-edge learning environment, we will deliver immediate and lasting benefits for students and teachers across Montenegro, while fostering youth employability and economic sustainability in response to evolving market demands.,” EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot said.
“Today’s signing of the loan agreement to improve education infrastructure, along with a Host Country Agreement establishing the EIB’s presence in Montenegro, strongly reaffirms the strategic partnership and mutual trust we have built over the years. These investments are not just about renovating schools – they are about investing in people, in knowledge, and in Montenegro’s future. The EIB’s physical presence in our country will further strengthen cooperation and ensure more effective implementation of development projects that serve our citizens and accelerate our path toward EU integration.”, said Finance Minister Novica Vuković.
The new accords bring total EIB Global support for education in Montenegro to €55 million since 2019, including an EU grant for €11 million provided under the Western Balkans Investment Framework. One result of previous financing in this area is the opening of Vladimir Nazor primary school in Podgorica
“The project entitled “Enhancing the Montenegrin Education System,” implemented by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance and the European Investment Bank, is already producing tangible results. We are building new schools, renovating existing facilities, modernizing vocational schools, and investing in advanced equipment and infrastructure. This represents the most comprehensive investment in education infrastructure in the history of our country. My special thanks go to the EIB and UNOPS for their continued trust, support, and commitment to our shared vision for the future of education in Montenegro,” said Education Minister Andjela Jakšić-Stojanović.
UNOPS has years of experience working with the Montenegrin government to advance a range of areas including education.
“This agreement marks a milestone in UNOPS’ partnership with the EIB and the Government of Montenegro. UNOPS is proud to play a role in driving a transformative shift in Montenegro’s education system to ensure that appropriate infrastructure addresses the needs of people and becomes the enabler of key reforms in the country,” said Kirstine Damkjaer, UNOPS Deputy Executive Director for Delivery and Partnerships Kirstine Damkjaer.
“With this new investment, the European Union is helping Montenegro improve everyday conditions of pupils and teachers across the country. Renovated classrooms, energy-efficient buildings, and modern equipment are not only vital for quality education — they also support long-term economic development and social cohesion. This is a strategic investment in Montenegro’s future, and a clear sign of our continued partnership on the path to EU membership.”, said EU Ambassador to Montenegro Johan Sattler.
Background information
About the EIB and EIB Global
The EIB is the long-term financing institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. The EIB supports projects in four priority areas: infrastructure, innovation, climate and environment, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through its offices around the world.
About the EIB in Montenegro
The EU bank has been an active partner of Montenegro, providing almost €1.1 billion in loans to the country, mostly in support of SMEs, education and transport infrastructure. For more information on EIB projects in Montenegro, visit https://www.eib.org/en/projects/regions/enlargement/the-western-balkans/montenegro/index.htm.
About the Economic Resilience Initiative (ERI)
The Economic Resilience Initiative, which backs the grant awareded, was established by the EIB in 2016 to channel donors’ resources to impactful projects in the Southern Neighbourhood and Western Balkans to help meet the challenges posed by forced displacement and migration. ERI has measurable economic, social and environmental outcomes that contribute to sustainable development goals relating to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation and infrastructure, and sustainable cities and communities.
About UNOPS
UNOPS offers practical solutions across peace and security, humanitarian and development operations. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners, such as the European Union, its Member States and financial institutions like the European Investment Bank, to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement across the world.
Source: European Parliament
pursuant to Rule 149 of the Rules of Procedure
Tomasz Froelich, Gerolf Annemans, Anja Arndt, Paolo Borchia, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Irmhild Boßdorf, Stine Bosse, Markus Buchheit, Virginie Joron, Alexander Jungbluth, Jacek Ozdoba, Friedrich Pürner, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Alexander Sell, Isabella Tovaglieri
B10‑0309/2025
Motion for a European Parliament resolution on underinvestment in endometriosis research
The European Parliament,
– having regard to Rule 149 of its Rules of Procedure,
A. whereas endometriosis is associated with a range of often debilitating symptoms;
B. whereas endometriosis carries the risk of infertility and therefore has a negative impact on demography;
C. whereas endometriosis affects around 14 million women in Europe;
D. whereas endometriosis has a substantial economic impact, with direct healthcare costs, indirect costs related to lost productivity at work, and the financial burden of infertility treatments;
E. whereas the cost of endometriosis-related sick leave in the EU is estimated at EUR 30 billion annually;
F. whereas at EU level only 27 out of a total of 145 983 projects funded (0.02 %) were related to endometriosis[1];
1. Is of the opinion that funding dedicated to endometriosis at EU level is completely inadequate and not in proportion to the considerable health and social burden attributable to this disorder;
2. Calls on the Commission to give a much higher priority to endometriosis in health funding in order to promote women’s health and fertility;
3. Encourages the Member States to raise awareness of endometriosis and to invest in innovative research initiatives.