NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – EU-UK relations on energy and climate – 07-03-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Much of the relationship between the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) is set out in the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), which came fully into force in May 2021. The depth and complexity of relations between the EU and the UK following the latter’s withdrawal on 31 January 2020 vary depending on the policy area concerned. For example, the TCA devotes many more articles to energy relations than to climate relations. This is due to a variety of reasons, but can often be partially explained by the depth of previous relationships, as well as physical infrastructure already in place (such as electricity and gas interconnectors between the UK and EU Member States). In the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the UK and the EU have increased their coordination, particularly on energy. At the same time, both the EU and UK are moving ahead on energy and climate issues at different paces. Concerns therefore exist that differing regulatory approaches might result in discrepancies that could hamper trade between the EU and the UK. The TCA provisions on energy cooperation will expire on 30 June 2026, unless the UK and EU jointly decide to renew them. In that context, experts have proposed several areas where the parties could renew and deepen their cooperation. This updates an EPRS briefing first published in June 2023.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the need for EU support towards a just transition and reconstruction in Syria – B10-0155/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Sebastiaan Stöteler, Pierre‑Romain Thionnet, Matthieu Valet
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    B10‑0155/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the need for EU support towards a just transition and reconstruction in Syria

    (2025/2569(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Syria,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the Syrian civil war, which started in March 2011, lasted for almost 14 years, caused almost 1 million deaths and displaced around 7 million Syrians;

    B. whereas Ahmed al-Sharaa and the organisation Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized power on 8 December 2024 by overthrowing the Assad regime;

    C. whereas around 1 million Syrian refugees have received asylum in European countries; whereas many more are residing illegally in Europe;

    D. whereas over the past 13 years, the EU and its Member States have mobilised more than EUR 33.3 billion in humanitarian, development, economic and stabilisation assistance to tackle the Syrian crisis;

    E. whereas the EU imposed sanctions on Syria during the civil war; whereas on 24 February 2025 the EU decided to suspend restrictive measures on key economic sectors in view of the improved situation in Syria; whereas the EU aims to facilitate engagement with Syria, its people and its businesses in the key areas of energy and transport, as well as to facilitate financial and banking transactions associated with these sectors and those needed for humanitarian and reconstruction purposes;

    1. Notes that the fall of the Assad regime on 8 December 2024, brought about by Ahmed al-Sharaa and HTS, marked the end of hostilities in the Syrian civil war; underlines that the security situation in Syria has shown significant improvements;

    2. Recalls that the Syrian civil war caused a mass exodus of Syrians to neighbouring countries and to Europe; emphasises that the massive arrival of migrants from Syria systematically destabilised the host countries because it overwhelmed their social services, dramatically increased crime rates, led to a sharp rise in antisemitism, and fuelled terrorist attacks;

    3. Emphasises the need to actively encourage and facilitate the return of Syrian migrants and refugees residing in Europe, underlining that Syria’s reconstruction requires human capital;

    4. Calls for the EU and its Member States to prioritise the allocation of existing financial aid dedicated to the Syrian crisis to structured return programmes and reintegration initiatives, while ensuring that such support does not benefit the remnants of the Assad regime or any terrorist groups within Syria or abroad;

    5. Calls on the new Syrian Government to respect the rights of all Syrians, including those belonging to religious and ethnic minorities; urges the new Syrian Government to take measures to reassure and protect Christians and other religious and ethnic minorities throughout the country, which suffered particularly severe persecution during the civil war;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the UN Security Council and the new Government of Syria.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – German version of Russia Today back on X despite EU sanctions – P-000391/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    German edition of Russia’s leading propaganda outlet, Russia Today (RT), had re-established its presence on X as a part of a broader pro-Kremlin strategy to interfere with Europe’s democratic processes. As of now, the RT Germany account on X has been suspended[1].

    Since 1st March 2022, the EU has imposed restrictive measures on RT Germany for its role in systematically spreading disinformation justifying and in support of the Russian aggression against Ukraine.

    Its broadcasting license has been suspended and it is prohibited for operators in the EU to broadcast, enable or facilitate the broadcasting of any content by RT Germany by any means[2].

    It is the responsibility of national competent authorities to implement these measures and ensure that any breach is investigated. The Commission closely monitors compliance.

    On 18 December 2023, the Commission opened formal proceedings[3] to assess whether X may have breached the Digital Services Act (DSA)[4] including in relation to the dissemination of illegal content in the EU and the effectiveness of measures taken to combat information manipulation on the platform.

    On 12 July 2024, the platform was informed of the Commission’s preliminary view that it is in breach of the DSA[5]. On 17 January 2025, the Commission addressed further technical investigatory measures to X[6], including a request for access to certain of X’s commercial Application Programming Interfaces, technical interfaces to its content that allow direct fact-finding on content moderation and virality of accounts.

    These steps will allow the Commission services to take all relevant facts into account in the complex assessment under the DSA of systemic risks and their mitigation by X.

    • [1] https://x.com/RTDE_OFFIZIELL
    • [2] Article 2f(2) of Council Regulation (EU) 2022/350 of 1 March 2022 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_679
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act) (Text with EEA relevance).
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_3761
    • [6] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-addresses-additional-investigatory-measures-x-ongoing-proceedings-under-digital-services
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Research for REGI committee – Exploring Strategies for Using Cohesion Funds to Address Social and Economic Challenges in the EU – 07-03-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The study investigates how Cohesion Policy responds to emerging and existing demographic and socio-economic challenges. Following an overview of the main socio-economic challenges, it provides an assessment of Cohesion Policy strengths and weaknesses in tackling these challenges in the 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 periods. It then considers the policy implications for future Cohesion Policy and the role of the European Parliament. The study is based on a review of the relevant literature and data, stakeholders’ interviews and five regional case studies.

    At a Glance

    External author

    Manuela SAMEK-LODOVICI, Daniela LOI, Monica PATRIZIO, Flavia PESCE, Serena DRUFUCA, Alessandra DELLA VECCHIA, Alessandra CRIPPA, Maria Juliana CHARRY CAMARGO, Julie PELLEGRIN, Louis COLNOT, Daniela LOI, Flavia PESCE, Maria Juliana CHARRY CAMARGO, Tomasz KUPIEC, Ewelina PRZWKOP – WISZNIEWSKA , Tia-Maria LILJEROOS, Maria McPARTLIN & Tommi RANTA

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Research for REGI committee – Exploring Strategies for Using Cohesion Funds to Address Social and Economic Challenges in the EU – 07-03-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The study investigates how Cohesion Policy responds to emerging and existing demographic and socio-economic challenges. Following an overview of the main socio-economic challenges, it provides an assessment of Cohesion Policy strengths and weaknesses in tackling these challenges in the 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 periods. It then considers the policy implications for future Cohesion Policy and the role of the European Parliament. The study is based on a review of the relevant literature and data, stakeholders’ interviews and five regional case studies.

    External author

    Manuela SAMEK-LODOVICI , Daniela LOI , Monica PATRIZIO, Flavia PESCE, Serena DRUFUCA, Alessandra DELLA VECCHIA, Alessandra CRIPPA, Maria Juliana CHARRY CAMARGO, Julie PELLEGRIN, Louis COLNOT, Daniela LOI Flavia PESCE, Maria Juliana CHARRY CAMARGO, Tomasz KUPIEC, Ewelina PRZWKOP – WISZNIEWSKA, Tia-Maria LILJEROOS, Maria McPARTLIN & Tommi RANTA

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Navigating challenges to UK data adequacy – 07-03-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The United Kingdom (UK) adequacy decisions are set to expire on 27 June 2025, unless the European Commission reaffirms that the UK continues to ensure an ‘essentially equivalent’ level of data protection to the EU’s. Critics raised concerns that recent and ongoing UK reforms could jeopardise the renewal of these decisions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Accessibility of household appliances for visually impaired people – E-000884/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000884/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)

    The latest Eurostat figures reveal that 20.3 % of the EU population aged 16 or over report having some degree of visual impairment, including over 2.5 % with severe difficulties. The EU and all Member States have ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which requires them to promote accessibility in all aspects of life.

    Blind and partially sighted people aspire to independent living, and accessible household appliances play a crucial role in their autonomy. However, many appliances – such as stovetops, washing machines, and vacuum cleaners – are becoming less accessible with the growing reliance on touchscreen-operated systems with purely visual controls, lacking tactile or audio feedback, or voice-enabled features.

    Household appliances are not covered by the European Accessibility Act[1]. The operating systems of general-purpose computers and similar digital devices are covered by the act, but not embedded systems with limited user interfaces and functional scope, such as those found in household appliances. The relevant standards of the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) are only recommendations, which manufacturers neglect because there is no legal requirement to make household appliances accessible.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of this gap in legislation?
    • 2.What does the Commission intend to do to ensure that household appliances are accessible for visually impaired users?

    Submitted: 28.2.2025

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2019/882 of 17 April 2019 on the accessibility requirements for products and services, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/882/oj.
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Debunking pre-bunking – E-000875/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000875/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN), Marieke Ehlers (PfE)

    In ‘Europe’s Choice: Political Guidelines for the next European Commission (2024-2029)’, Ms Von der Leyen proposes creating ‘societal resilience and preparedness, through increased digital and media literacy and boosting prevention through pre-bunking’[1].

    • 1.Can the Commission clarify the definition of ‘pre-bunking’ and what it would entail in practice?
    • 2.What is the legal basis for ‘debunking’ disinformation, and what is the legal basis for undertaking actions that are aimed at ‘pre-bunking’ so-called disinformation?
    • 3.Is the Commission seriously comparing alleged disinformation to a ‘mind virus’ that is ‘infectious’ and requires ‘vaccination’[2]?

    Submitted: 27.2.2025

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf, p.23.
    • [2] Speech delivered at the 2024 Copenhagen Democracy Summit, https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2024/05/14/von-der-leyen-pitches-plan-to-shield-eu-from-foreign-interference-if-re-elected and https://x.com/Glenn_Diesen/status/1796036374337843526/video/1.
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Security in every sector

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Teresa Ribera, European Commissioner for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, insisted that Europe should stick to its core values, even at a time when the world seems to be in turmoil. “Our values should guide our external and internal policies,” she said.

    “Translating our values means people have sustainable and inclusive growth, which is essential for maintaining a healthy environment, job security, social peace and preserving the resilience of our society.”

    The social peace and resilience of which Ribera spoke were at the heart of a series of panels on housing, in which all participants acknowledged a crisis in Europe now. EIB President Calviño announced a new action plan that includes €10 billion in investment in the sector over the next two years.

    EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen described the challenges facing Europe as interrelated, with high energy prices, climate change, and the threat posed by Russia. “Competitiveness, decarbonization, fighting climate change and becoming independent of Russian fossil fuels is at the core of everything we do right now,” he said.

    Jørgensen said that rents in Europe had risen by as much as a quarter over the last 15 years and house prices by a half. One in ten Europeans are spending 40% or more of their disposable income on housing. “But behind these numbers are people, young people forced to put off starting a family, vulnerable people threatened with homelessness, students who cannot take up university places, workers who cannot accept job offers, rural communities facing depopulation, cities unable to retain teachers, nurses or police officers, because they cannot afford to live where they work,” he said. “These people and their stories provide living proof of the housing crisis and the impact it has on Europe.”

    The European Commission has established a housing task force to deliver an affordable housing plan early next year. The European Investment Bank’s launch of a pan-European investment platform for housing was central to the Commission’s plans, he said.

    Others are already moving against the housing crisis.

    Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni described new regulations to cap rents and, by 2028, to eliminate licences to rent apartments to tourists.

    Croatia’s state secretary at the Ministry for Regional Development and EU Funds, Zrinka Raguž, laid out the country’s action plan for affordable housing, which includes an end to real estate tax for those aged less than 45, who also pay only 50% of the value-added tax on the property. Other measures include “activating” vacant properties, more affordable housing, easier planning rules, and more student dorms. Croatia’s plan will cost €2 billion before 2030 and will be funded from the national budget, EU loans, and the rent to be paid on the affordable housing.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Easing of sanctions against Syria on behalf of the civilian population

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research

    On 7 March, the Federal Council lifted certain sanctions against Syria. In doing so, it is following the decision of the EU, which has suspended various sanctions in view of the change of government in Syria. The decision comes into effect at 6pm on 7 March.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Greenland: Caught in the Arctic geopolitical contest – 07-03-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Greenland is a self-governing Arctic island within the Kingdom of Denmark, which strives for economic self-sufficiency and future independence. This representative democracy of 56 542 inhabitants will elect 31 members to Greenland’s Parliament on 11 March 2025. These parliamentary elections are taking place against the fraught background of rising geopolitical tensions. In the context of a heating – literally and figuratively – Arctic, Greenland is a focus of geopolitical competition and growing confrontation between major powers – the United States (US), Russia and China. The island has high strategic importance, due to its proximity to the emerging Arctic shipping routes, its strategic location in relation to security and defence activities, and its vast untapped natural resources, including mineral reserves. According to its foreign policy strategy, Greenland is open to enhanced cooperation and dialogue with partners, including the US. Indeed, the US has been an important ally of Greenland and security guarantor since 1951. Relations have strengthened and widened during the last two decades, with cooperation now encompassing not only security, but also environment, science, health, technology, trade, tourism, education, and culture. However, US President Donald Trump’s rhetoric on acquiring Greenland has shocked Greenlanders, Danes and Europeans alike. Upon the island’s withdrawal from the European Economic Community (EEC, now European Union) in 1985, Greenland became an Overseas Country and Territory, associated through Denmark. The main areas of cooperation between the European Union (EU) and Greenland are fisheries, education, and, lately, green growth. The EU has recently stepped up its engagement with Greenland by opening an office in Nuuk in March 2024 and signing a Memorandum of Understanding for a strategic partnership to develop sustainable raw materials value chains in November 2023. The European Parliament engages with its counterparts from Greenland through meetings with the Nordic Council and West Nordic Council. In October 2021, the European Parliament called for the EU to establish an enhanced political dialogue on bilateral cooperation with Greenland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission President von der Leyen after three years of war in Ukraine – a proven troublemaker and failed dealmaker – E-000882/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000882/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Petra Steger (PfE)

    For three years now, Commission President von der Leyen has strikingly demonstrated that she does not want to end the bloodshed in Ukraine, while, within a few weeks, US President Trump has restarted the peace engine that, in the EU, seems to have completely fallen apart. Instead, Brussels is constantly lusting after arms and war. At present, as a result of these developments, Europe is not playing an active role in the peace negotiations, which are taking place not on neutral ground, in Austria or Ireland, but, rather, in Saudi Arabia. Even though a great deal of damage has already been done and valuable opportunities have been thrown away, it is essential that the EU now immediately change tack and reposition itself as the driving force behind a diplomatic solution.

    • 1.Why has the Commission allowed the US to lead the peace process while the EU, as an immediate neighbour, is completely ignoring its responsibility for a diplomatic solution?
    • 2.How long does the Commission plan to continue Ukraine’s EU-taxpayer-funded military build-up?
    • 3.Does the Commission back the setting up of an EU army or the deployment of EU soldiers in Ukraine despite the fact that that could drag the EU into a military conflict and jeopardise Member States’ sovereignty?

    Submitted: 28.2.2025

    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Risk weights in Italian healthcare bodies – E-000877/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000877/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Borchia (PfE)

    In its answer to question E-002729/2024[1] on risk weights in the Italian healthcare sector, the Commission acknowledged that Member States do indeed have divergent approaches on this matter, thereby recognising the absence of a level playing field. In addition, Regulation (EU) 2024/1623 (which came into force on 1 January 2025) did nothing to remedy these disparities, seeing as it does not specifically provide for the same prudential treatment for claims on healthcare bodies with an original maturity of less than 90 days on the one hand, and for claims on central governments on the other.

    As reported by Bloomberg[2], the governors of the Spanish, German, Italian and French central banks recently sent a letter to the Commission calling for simpler banking rules that could ensure a level playing field with other major jurisdictions outside of the EU.

    In the light of this reasonable request:

    • 1.Does the Commission not think that encouraging the creation of a level playing field should primarily be an EU responsibility?
    • 2.Does it not therefore agree that it is not enough to set up a database to promote transparency in Member State approaches, and that more effective solutions need to be taken into consideration?

    Submitted: 27.2.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002729_IT.html.
    • [2] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-18/top-european-central-bankers-push-for-simpler-rules-for-lenders.
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Request for information concerning the potential MLR review and withdrawal of pest control products designed to protect fruit plants from brown marmorated stink bugs – E-000878/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000878/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Borchia (PfE)

    Because fruit crops in many Member States are coming under increased attack from brown marmorated stink bugs (Halyomorpha halys), controlling these pests is paramount to protecting crops and ensuring that the EU agricultural sector remains competitive. The products that are used to combat stink bug infestations are essential for protecting fruit crops, particularly in the areas hardest hit by these parasites.

    However, pursuant to the EU’s directives on food safety and the protection of human health and the environment, some of these pest control products could be subject to maximum residue limit (MLR) reviews, while others could be withdrawn altogether. While maximum residue limits are key to ensuring food safety, they might undermine the effectiveness of anti-stink bug treatments.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission considering introducing new or alternative active substances or technologies that it thinks can safeguard production?
    • 2.Has an assessment been carried out of the economic impact of the above directives on the European agricultural sector and, in particular, the fruit growers who need effective pest control products to combat stink bugs?

    Submitted: 27.2.2025

    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Security and functionality of the deforestation tracking database under Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 – E-000754/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000754/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE)

    I would like to draw the Commission’s attention to a serious issue concerning the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation. The database designed to fulfil the obligations under that Regulation has been found to have serious technical shortcomings which may hinder its effective use. Moreover, the data repository is reportedly located outside the European Union.

    This situation raises serious concerns about the security and protection of sensitive data concerning European operators. The location of the data repository outside the EU’s jurisdiction may pose a risk of unauthorised access to and possible misuse of information.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the dysfunctionality of this database and of the fact that data are being stored outside the EU?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider this situation to represent a security risk for European operators?
    • 3.What measures does the Commission intend to take to ensure that the database is operational and that data are stored in accordance with European data protection standards?

    Submitted: 19.2.2025

    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – US Attorney General Pam Bondi’s plans regarding student visas – E-002916/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Entities implementing EU funds must comply with EU restrictive measures[1]. In June 2024, the European Council reiterated its strongest condemnation of the brutal terrorist attacks conducted by Hamas and other terrorist groups against Israel on 7 October 2023[2]. Hamas is listed on the EU terrorist list[3].

    In January 2024, the EU established a framework for restrictive measures against those who support, facilitate or enable violent actions by Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad[4], and has since designated 12 individuals and three entities.

    The latest recast[5] of the EU Financial Regulation approved in September 2024 includes a new exclusion ground under the early detection and exclusion system for entities, as well as individuals that engage in activities contrary to EU values where such misconduct has an impact on the entity’s integrity that risks to negatively affect its performance of a legal commitment.

    As regards student visas, Member States are responsible for the issuance of visas and residence permits for students from third countries, and for carrying out the necessary security checks on those arriving in the EU in accordance with Directive (EU) 2016/801[6].

    Article 7 of the directive determines that third-country nationals who are considered to pose a threat to public policy, public security or public health shall not be admitted. Posing a threat to public security is also listed in Article 21 as a ground for withdrawal or non-renewal of an authorisation of residence.

    • [1] Article 215, Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT:en:PDF
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/qa3lblga/euco-conclusions-27062024-en.pdf
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02001E0931-20240221
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02024D0385-20240119
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj/eng
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2016/801/oj/eng
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – How to tackle inflationary dynamics in food markets – E-000005/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is well aware of the cost-of-living crisis and is actively enforcing competition rules in the food sector, focusing on practices that can inflate prices.

    It has addressed parallel trade restrictions for many products (biscuits, chocolate, coffee and beer) in the internal market[1], imposing fines on the undertakings.

    It is investigating cartels in the salmon market[2] and possible anticompetitive agreements in food delivery markets[3], and alleged abusive practices in the energy drinks sector[4].

    The Commission has also investigated retailers to verify that retail alliances are such that they enable retailers to reduce prices for consumers while maintaining competition between them[5].

    In parallel, the Commission launched a fact-finding exercise with the Member States in the Single Market Enforcement Taskforce, to map the occurrence of restrictions that prevent retailers from sourcing freely within the internal market (territorial supply constraints[6])[7]. The findings may suggest that additional measures are needed to tackle price raising practices.

    The Commission acknowledges calls for a new horizontal competition tool at EU level. The question is whether there are areas that a new competition tool could usefully address, which the current EU tools cannot.

    In 2023, two new competition-related instruments entered into force: the Digital Markets Act[8] and the Foreign Subsidies Regulation[9]. As mentioned above, the Commission is currently enforcing the existing toolkit vigorously: it is carefully monitoring the food sector.

    • [1] https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/cases/AT.40632 regarding Mondelez), and https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/cases/AT.40134 (regarding AB InBev).
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_405
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_3908
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_1802
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/mex_23_3847
    • [6] Territorial supply constraints were addressed in the so-called Letta report, p. 113-114, https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/ny3j24sm/much-more-than-a-market-report-by-enrico-letta.pdf.
    • [7] https://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/smet/index_en.htm
    • [8] See https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_22_6423. Regulation (EU) 2022/1925 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 September 2022 on contestable and fair markets in the digital sector and amending Directives (EU) 2019/1937 and (EU) 2020/1828, OJ L 265, 12.10.2022, p. 1-66.
    • [9] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_129. Regulation (EU) 2022/2560 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on foreign subsidies distorting the internal market, OJ L 330, 23.12.2022.
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Definition of ‘AI system’: simple statistical techniques and alignment with international standards – E-002564/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Artificial Intelligence Act (the AI Act)[1] defines an AI system in its Article 3(1). This definition is already aligned to the definition of ‘AI system’ included in the 2024 revised Recommendation of the Council on Artificial Intelligence of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)[2].

    In line with Article 96 (1)(f) AI Act, the Commission developed guidelines on the application of the definition of ‘AI system’ used in the AI Act[3].

    These guidelines explain that neither Article 3(1) AI Act, nor Recital 12 AI Act which clarifies that provision, explicitly excludes statistical methods from the scope of the definition of ‘AI system’.

    Recital 12 clarifies that ‘the definition should be based on key characteristics of AI systems that distinguish it from simpler traditional software systems or programming approaches and should not cover systems that are based on the rules defined solely by natural persons to automatically execute operations’.

    Recital 12 further states that ‘[a] key characteristic of AI systems is their capability to infer. The capacity of an AI system to infer transcends basic data processing by enabling learning, reasoning or modelling’.

    In the guidelines, systems for improving mathematical optimisation, basic data processing systems, systems based on classical heuristics and simple prediction systems, are considered outside the scope of the AI system definition.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence and amending Regulations (EC) No 300/2008, (EU) No 167/2013, (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1139 and (EU) 2019/2144 and Directives 2014/90/EU, (EU) 2016/797 and (EU) 2020/1828.
    • [2] OECD, Recommendation of the Council on Artificial Intelligence, OECD/LEGAL/0449.
    • [3] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/commission-publishes-guidelines-ai-system-definition-facilitate-first-ai-acts-rules-application
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Low contribution of the green agenda and the fight against fuel poverty through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) – E-002436/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Forty-seven million people in Europe did not have the possibility of adequately heating their homes last winter. It is unacceptable and the Commissioner for Energy and Housing states in his hearing that this needs to be addressed.

    The existing EU legislative framework addresses the need to alleviate energy poverty. The Commission will strongly support its implementation.

    The recently adopted Energy Efficiency Directive EU/2023/1791[1], for example, provides for the first time a definition of energy poverty and links it with measures to be implemented at national level to empower and protect all EU citizens.

    The Social Climate Fund has been established to ensure a socially fair transition and address the social impacts of the new emissions trading system for buildings and road transport (ETS2) on vulnerable groups, especially those in energy or transport poverty.

    Together with a mandatory minimum 25% contribution of the Member States, the Fund will mobilise at least EUR 86.7 billion over the 2026-2032 period.

    People must always remain at the heart of EU ambitions, in her Political Guidelines 2024-2029[2] and mission letters, the President of the Commission confirms that ensuring a just transition remains a priority.

    The Commissioner for Energy and Housing has been tasked to develop a Citizens Energy Package to increase citizen participation in the energy transition and strengthen the social dimension of the Energy Union and to propose further measures to address energy poverty[3].

    The Commission has put forward an Action Plan for Affordable Energy Prices, as part of the Clean Industrial Deal, to help bring down prices for households and business, helping combating energy poverty.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2023/1791/oj
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/35154547-48c1-4671-8d34-13e098859a57_en?filename=mission-letter-jorgensen.pdf
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inefficient bidding zones within the EU electricity market – E-002897/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Transmission System Operators are currently working on a pan-European Bidding Zone Review and the report is expected early in 2025.

    Once the report is finalised, it will be sent to all Member States who must take a decision within 6 months on how to address the congestion identified in line with Article 14(7) of the Electricity Regulation (EU) 2019/943[1].

    The Commission is following this process closely and will work with the Member States to ensure that the Electricity Regulation is well-implemented.

    The Commission’s role in deciding on a bidding zone reconfiguration is determined by a precise set of circumstances as set out in Article 14(8) of the Electricity Regulation.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/943/oj/eng
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Withdrawal of energy companies from offshore wind projects – E-002909/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While it is not for the Commission to comment on the commercial decisions of companies to invest or abstain from investing in individual projects, closely monitoring the offshore wind sector is a priority to achieve energy objectives.

    The offshore wind investment market is mature and competitive. Nevertheless, the offshore wind industry has recently rising costs driven by inflation, higher interest rates, and supply chain bottlenecks, creating financial pressure for developers.

    In response, the Commission launched the European Wind Power Package[1] in October 2023 to accelerate permitting, improve access to finance, strengthen grid infrastructure, and scale up supply chains.

    These efforts are yielding results: over 20 GW of offshore wind is now installed in EU waters, with many new auctions and projects ahead. Economic conditions are also easing, with declining inflation and interest rates.

    The Commission continues to work with Member States and stakeholders to accelerate deployment. To limit public funding risks, a key focus is efficient planning and fair cost and benefit sharing solutions for offshore grids investments, typically financed via network tariffs.

    In June 2024, the Commission published guidance on collaborative investment frameworks for offshore projects[2], supporting tailored mechanisms and dedicated regional approaches.

    Further discussions and engagement with Member States are ongoing. In 2025, the Commissioner for Energy and Housing will present the Clean Energy Investment Plan.

    On 18 December 2024, Member States reaffirmed offshore wind’s role in EU’s energy security and transition, updating regional goals to 88 GW by 2030 and 360 GW by 2050, providing visibility and support to the sector.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_5185
    • [2] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/publications/guidance-collaborative-investment-frameworks-offshore-energy-projects_en

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Reciprocal fees for offshore wind farms – E-000065/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU legislative framework on energy is designed to let consumers and communities benefit from the clean energy transition and to directly participate in the market, including by producing and sharing their own renewable energy.

    Article 15d (2) of the revised Renewable Energy Directive[1], with transposition deadline on 21 May 2025, requires Member States to promote public acceptance of renewable energy projects by means of direct and indirect participation of local communities in those projects. This also applies to offshore projects.

    There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution in this area. Therefore, the Commission will continue promoting the exchange of best practices among the Member States, including via the regional high-level groups[2].

    Furthermore, Member States may apply for technical assistance under the Technical Support Instrument to receive support in designing suitable mechanisms for the participation of local communities in renewable energy projects, including offshore wind farms.

    The President of the Commission tasked the Commissioner for Energy and Housing to develop a Citizens Energy Package to increase citizens’ participation in the energy transition.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2023/2413 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 October 2023 amending Directive (EU) 2018/2001, Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 and Directive 98/70/EC as regards the promotion of energy from renewable sources, and repealing Council Directive (EU) 2015/652 (OJ L, 2023/24, 31.10.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2023/2413/oj).
    • [2] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/infrastructure/high-level-groups_en
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Transparency, priorities and financial risks of the ‘Scaling up renewables in Africa’ campaign – E-002617/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission applies strict rules for the management of all projects, according to the rules and procedures applicable to external instruments as set in the Financial Regulation[1]. These provisions help to ensure full transparency and appropriate use of public funds.

    Working in a Team Europe[2] approach the EU ensures strong coordination and tangible impact on the ground. A key Team Europe Initiative on sustainable energy under the EU Global Gateway strategy[3] is the Africa-EU Green Energy Initiative[4] (AEGEI).

    The campaign showcases AEGEI investments jointly identified by the African partners and the EU. Ownership, transparency and accountability are at the core of the EU and African partners cooperation.

    Improving access to affordable and reliable energy is a cornerstone of the EU’s partnership with African countries. AEGEI aims to establish 50GW of additional renewable energy generation capacity, including with solar and wind power. In addition, it strives to bring electricity access to at least 100 million people by 2030.

    The objective of the campaign is to leverage further commitments in renewable energy access, renewable power generation, grids and storage. Increasing access to affordable and reliable energy and green hydrogen industrialization are complementary goals. Both can create sustainable prosperity, jobs, and services for people.

    The Commission thoroughly reviews the macroeconomic outlook of partner countries to safeguard EU taxpayers against inflationary and financial risks.

    The Commission supports capacity building investments that contribute to creating a self-sustaining economy. Local communities are actively engaged in the projects to ensure that investments meet their needs and lead to sustainable development.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/eu-financial-regulation_en
    • [2] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/team-europe-initiatives_en
    • [3] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/global-gateway_en
    • [4] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/global-gateway/africa-europe-green-energy_en
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – AI and where the EU is lagging behind – E-002609/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act[1] aims at ensuring trustworthy and human-centric AI while fostering innovation and AI uptake in the EU. The Commission is also taking additional non-legislative measures to stimulate innovation and AI uptake.

    The Commission is preparing the Apply AI strategy to boost industrial and public sector uses of AI: a public consultation will be launched soon.

    The Commission is funding AI research and development under Horizon Europe[2] complemented by the AI for Science initiative[3].

    To support business deployment of AI, the Commission is building on two existing initiatives of the Digital Europe Programme (DEP)[4]: European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs)[5] and Testing Experimentation Facilities (TEFs)[6].

    Over 150 EDIHs have delivered over 20 000 services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to support their digitalisation and use of AI.

    TEFs in four sectors ( healthcare, manufacturing, smart cities and agri-food) help SMEs test AI. DEP also funds the euroLLM project[7] to develop an open-source Large Language Model that covers all official EU languages.

    At the Action Summit in Paris, the Commission launched InvestAI[8], an initiative to mobilise EUR 200 billion for investment in AI, including a European fund of EUR 20 billion for AI gigafactories. This large AI infrastructure is needed for open development of AI models and to make Europe an AI continent.

    AI Regulatory Sandboxes will allow developers test AI in controlled conditions, facilitating compliance with the AI Act. The EU-funded ‘AI on Demand Platform’[9] connects innovators with AI tools and expertise.

    The Commission is internationally promoting the EU’s approach to trustworthy AI. This includes collaboration with institutions including standardisation bodies (e.g. CEN-CENELEC).

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng
    • [2] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/download/9224c3b4-f529-4b48-b21b-879c442002a2_en?filename=ec_rtd_he-investing-to-shape-our-future.pdf
    • [3] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/research-area/industrial-research-and-innovation/artificial-intelligence-ai-science_en
    • [4] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/activities/digital-programme
    • [5] https://european-digital-innovation-hubs.ec.europa.eu/edih-catalogue
    • [6] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/activities/testing-and-experimentation-facilities
    • [7] https://interoperable-europe.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/eurollm-pioneering-european-open-source-ai
    • [8] https://digital-skills-jobs.europa.eu/en/latest/news/commission-launches-new-investai-initiative-mobilise-eu200-billion-investment-ai
    • [9] https://www.ai4europe.eu
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Veto on bottom trawling in 87 fishing areas in the Atlantic and consequences for Galicia – E-000205/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1614[1] establishes the list of areas where vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs) occur or are likely to occur, which corresponds to 87 polygons in the European waters of the North-East Atlantic.

    Pursuant to the Deep-sea Access Regulation (EU) 2016/2336[2], the areas listed in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1614 are closed to fishing below 400 metres depth using all bottom gears, which includes bottom trawls, dredges, bottom-set gill nets, bottom-set longlines, pots and traps.

    Since 2023, t he Commission has engaged in a review process with the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF), including an analysis of the socioeconomic impacts of the VMEs closures.

    In 2023, preliminary results showed that the closures represent less than 10% of the Gross Value Added for the fleet segments concerned.

    The Commission has requested STECF to pursue the analysis at individual vessel level to have a better perception at regional and local level.

    STECF is expected to deliver its final advice by March 2025 which will include a specific feedback from stakeholders via the Advisory Councils.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2022/1614/oj
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/2336/oj
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Violations of Greek and European territorial waters by Turkish fishing vessels and illegal overfishing – E-000175/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission actively collaborates with all Mediterranean partners, including Türkiye, to combat Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing within the framework of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean, its 2030 Strategy[1] and its Regional Plan of Action to Combat IUU[2]. These initiatives foster alignment with international and EU standards, including the IUU Regulation[3]. As part of the EU accession process, the Commission assists candidate countries in complying with EU regulations and policies. This includes adherence to the Common Fisheries Policy and IUU-related rules.

    2. Member States, however, remain primarily responsible for safeguarding their waters under the IUU Regulation. Within their jurisdictions, they can intensify risk-based checks, impose sanctions and enforce measures to combat illegal activities. Simultaneously, the Commission promotes cooperation among national authorities to strengthen control and ensure a level playing field for European fishers.

    3. The European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) is in charge of coordination and cooperation between national control and inspection activities so that the rules of the CFP are respected and applied effectively[4]. EFCA further supports capacity building in sea control and inspection, notably through the deployment of its patrol vessel, ‘Ocean Sentinel’, whose Mediterranean mission now covers parts of the Eastern Mediterranean, Ionian Sea, Adriatic Sea, Strait of Sicily and Western Mediterranean.

    With respect to the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), the prevention of IUU fishing falls outside the Agency’s mandate as established by the regulation (EU) 2019/1896[5] on the European Border and Coast Guard.

    • [1]  https://www.fao.org/gfcm/publications/brochures/gfcm2030strategy/en/#:~:text=The%20GFCM%202030%20Strategy%20for%20sustainable%20fisheries%20and,to%20deliver%20on%20national%2C%20regional%20and%20global%20commitments
    • [2]  https://www.fao.org/gfcm/activities/compliance/decisions/rpoa-iuu/en/#:~:text=The%20RPOA-IUU%20provides%20guidance%20to%20Contracting%20and%20Cooperating,while%20harmonising%20measures%20in%20place%20across%20the%20region
    • [3]  https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1005/oj/eng
    • [4]  This includes organising joint control and inspection activities, developing risk management strategies, providing training and technical assistance.
    • [5]  https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/1896/oj/eng
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Design and construction of the bridge over the Strait of Messina: cost and division into lots – E-002400/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under Article 72 of Directive 2014/24/EU[1], as consistently interpreted by the Court of Justice of the European Union, contracts and framework agreements may be modified during their term without a new procurement procedure provided that the conditions laid down in that provision are met.

    The Commission services are currently assessing the compatibility with that provision of the planned modifications to the project, including those laid down under Law No 120 of 8 August 2024 referred to in the written question by the Honourable Members.

    As a preliminary remark, however, it should be noted that, with respect to the modifications allowed under Articles 72(1)(b),(c) and the quantitative limitation referred to therein, where several successive modifications are made, that limitation applies to the value of each modification and that, according to Article 72(3), the updated price should be the reference value when the contract includes an indexation clause.

    As for the alleged breach of Article 46 of Directive 2014/24/EU, the provision of Article 2(1)1.2 of the law referred to by the Honourable Members does not appear to refer to the award of the contract by separate lots but rather to its approval in different stages.

    It is the responsibility of the authorities and expert bodies in Italy to judge the technical feasibility of the project taking into account the regional environmental conditions.

    From the road safety perspective, Directive 2008/96/EC[2] indicates that the impact of the seismic activity should be assessed when roads falling in its scope are designed.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32014L0024
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02008L0096-20191216&qid=1738600658785
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Lack of a group project on health and the Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare’s absence from the group on the preparedness union – E-000146/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission coordinates internally on all policy and initiatives. With respect to key cross-cutting initiatives, the President of the Commission has decided to set up project groups. She may decide to renew them or set other project groups.

    2. The composition of the project group on Preparedness Union reflects the approach in addressing the policy challenge at hand — developing a more integrated, anticipatory and proactive crisis management mode at EU level. Other Members of the College may participate in relevant meetings of the group and contribute to its work.

    3. The Political Guidelines for 2024-2029[1] and the mission letter of Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare[2] set out the priorities on health policy. These include work to complete the European Health Union, by further diversifying supply chains, improving access to the most advanced treatments, boosting the competitiveness, resilience and security of health systems and working on strategic inventories. The Commission is working on a Proposal for a Critical Medicines Act to address shortages of medicines and reduce dependencies relating to critical medicines and ingredients, as well as to ensure the security of supply of medicines. The Commission will also step up work on preventive health, in particular for mental health, including at work, and cardiovascular diseases. On all these aspects, it will ensure internal coordination by relying on the processes that are best suited to each situation.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/about/organisation/college-commissioners/oliver-varhelyi_en
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Future of fishing quotas and access to UK waters after June 2026 – P-000518/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While quota shares of jointly managed stocks are stable from this year onwards, as established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement[1] (TCA) reciprocal access to waters is in principle subject to annual consultations after July 2026.

    Any such annual consultations must be conducted in good faith and with the objective to ensure a mutually satisfactory balance between the interests of both Parties and should normally result in access being provided at a level reasonably commensurate with each Party’s share of the total allowable catches (TACs).

    The EU and the United Kingdom have a mutual interest in cooperating in fisheries, working closely within the Specialised Committee on Fisheries and having successfully agreed on annual basis on TACs for jointly managed stocks since 2021.

    Though access adds a further element to this, in the event of a withdrawal or suspension of access by one Party after July 2026, the relevant provisions of the TCA would apply.

    Either Party may take compensatory measures commensurate to the economic and societal impact of the change in the level and conditions of access to waters. Such measures may include suspending access to waters and the preferential tariff treatment granted to fisheries products under the TCA.

    The Fisheries Heading is an important element of the balanced commitments under the TCA. In the mission letter of the Commissioner responsible for fisheries and oceans[2], the President of the Commission highlights the importance of fairness and a level playing field for EU operators, while stressing the need to work towards securing stable and predictable access to waters.

    The Commission is fully committed to defending the EU interests, to ensure long-term stability beyond July 2026.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2021.149.01.0010.01.ENG&toc=OJ%3AL%3A2021%3A149%3ATOC
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/document/028ce7d5-e328-4416-8f0d-35c8884acaa8_en
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) – E-002972/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU Space Programme[1] implements space activities in fields such as earth observation, satellite navigation and space situational awareness. It is implemented in close cooperation with the Member States, the EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA), the European Space Agency and many other stakeholders.

    Regulation (EU) 2021/696[2], which sets up the EU Space Programme for 2021-2027 and establishes EUSPA, lays down the components and objectives of that programme. Gathering knowledge or documentation about unidentified anomalous phenomena is however not one of these objectives.

    The Commission does not hold any information that would correspond to the topic of unidentified anomalous phenomena.

    • [1] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-space/eu-space-programme_en
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32021R0696
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

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