NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Conflicts of interest and political interference by Elon Musk – E-002653/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Digital Services Act (DSA)[1] aims to contribute to a safe, predictable and trusted online environment that facilitates innovation and in which fundamental rights are protected.

    Under the DSA, very large search engines (VLOSEs) and very large online platforms (VLOPs) with more than 45 million users in the EU, such as X, are subject to specific due diligence obligations, as given their size, they pose particular risks for the protection of fundamental rights, the dissemination of illegal content, civic discourse and electoral processes and societal harms online. The Commission is in charge of supervising and enforcing these obligations.

    The actions taken under the DSA are aimed at ensuring that the systems, including algorithmic ones, of VLOSEs and VLOPs are not misused. Their providers must fulfil their responsibilities to identify and mitigate the risks related to such systems in the EU.

    On 18 December 2023, the Commission opened an investigation into X’s compliance with the DSA[2]. This investigation covers, among other things, X’s compliance with the DSA in relation to the dissemination of illegal content and the effectiveness of the measures taken to combat platform and information manipulation. At this stage, the Commission cannot comment on ongoing investigations.

    Finally, the Commission is continuously monitoring security matters related to social media platforms and has issued internal guidance regarding the use of such applications on the devices used for professional purposes. The Commission does not encourage the use of non-corporate tools for professional exchanges on such devices.

    • [1] 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).
    • [2] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-opens-formal-proceedings-against-x-under-digital-services-act
    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Striking a balance between the freedom of journalists and the protection of the personal rights of those reported on by journalists – P-003017/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Media freedom and pluralism are principles recognised by Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the Charter)[1], which the Commission promotes and protects across all Member States.

    At the same time, EU law also defines criminal offences of incitement to hatred or violence based on certain protected characteristics, considered as illegal hate speech[2]. I t is the competence of national authorities to investigate and prosecute such offences.

    Article 48(1) of the Charter provides that everyone who has been charged shall be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law. However, according to its Article 51(1), the provisions of the Charter are addressed to the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the EU and to the Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    It is for the Member State to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international obligations.

    It is not for the Commission to comment on individual and ongoing cases within the national jurisdiction of a Member State.

    The Commission reaffirms its commitment to a comprehensive and evidence-based approach in preparing the Rule of Law Reports, based on a well-established methodology.

    Media sources are assessed as part of a broad evidence base, which includes input from Member States and other stakeholders, ensuring a balanced and robust analysis of the situation. The Commission does not privilege any single source but recognises the value of media contributions as one of many.

    • [1] Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union [2012] OJ C 326/391.
    • [2] Council Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA of 28 November 2008 on combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law, OJ L 328/55, 6.12.2008.
    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Marketing authorisation for an RNA-based vaccine with self-strengthening mRNA – P-000048/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission shall adopt its decision on Kostaive based on the scientific evaluation of the quality, safety, and efficacy of the vaccine by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

    On 12 December 2024 the CHMP concluded that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh any potential risks and recommended granting marketing authorisation for the prevention of COVID-19 in adults[1].

    The EMA was aware of concerns expressed by some academics in Japan during its assessment. Research into self-amplifying mRNA vaccines has been ongoing for over two decades. Notably, the self-amplifying mRNA technology, like other mRNA vaccines, does not interfere with a person’s genetic code.

    The CHMP identified no major safety concerns, and data indicate that Kostaive’s safety profile is comparable to that of existing mRNA vaccines.

    The most common side effects observed in clinical trials were mild, including pain and tenderness at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle and joint pain, chills, dizziness, and fever. Patients involved in the studies with Kostaive have been followed for at least one year.

    Kostaive’s safety will be closely monitored by EMA and national authorities in the EU to ensure any possible risks are detected and mitigated as early as possible[2]. The assessment report as well as the risk management plan for the vaccine, will be published on EMA’s website.

    In the framework of marketing authorisation of medicines, the Commission relies on the scientific advice provided by the EMA’s scientific committees.

    Concerns and developments from other jurisdictions in relation to medicines are noted but do not alter the EU’s commitment to upholding its rigorous safety, efficacy, and quality standards.

    • [1] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/kostaive
    • [2] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-medicines/safety-covid-19-vaccines

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Review and possible revocation of the authorisation for mRNA vaccines in view of new findings – P-002990/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is in contact with Member States and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to ensure the continuous quality, safety and efficacy of medicines, including COVID-19 vaccines.

    EMA continuously monitors safety signals and investigates whether there is a causal link between specific batches and reported adverse events. EMA has no evidence so far suggesting that some batches of Comirnaty caused more (or more serious) side effects than other batches[1].

    The quality of every batch is checked by Official Medicines Control Laboratories in Member States and only those complying with the approved quality specifications can be released in the EU.

    Regulators request and collect batch numbers for vaccines to allow them to establish patterns and determine whether suspected side effects are linked to a specific batch.

    The Paul-Ehrlich-Institut (PEI) reports suspected side effects with Comirnaty, but it does not confirm these as side effects, nor does it link them to specific batches.

    Most side effects of Comirnaty are mild. These are not batch specific and are clearly listed in the product information with the respective frequency.

    A conditional marketing authorisation was granted by the Commission to Comirnaty in December 2020, based on EMA’s rigorous scientific evaluation, weighing up the benefits and risks.

    The conditional marketing authorisation was converted into a standard marketing authorisation on 10 October 2022. After authorisation in 2020, EMA has been continuously monitoring suspected side effects and evaluating any new information that emerges[2]. This evaluation is conducted by EMA’s expert committees, and action is taken, if necessary.

    Comirnaty continues to fulfil the necessary requirements for authorisation in the EU.

    • [1] Vaccine safety (Comirnaty): https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-medicines/covid-19-vaccines-key-facts
    • [2] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/comirnaty#authorisation-details
    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – H4 expressway works in Slovenia: ensuring smooth flows to protect logistics and territory – E-003052/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Maintenance works and structural works are needed in particular to ensure sufficient road safety levels on the road infrastructure. Those works can have an impact on traffic which requires the imposition of road traffic restrictions.

    Road safety may be considered an overriding reason of public interest that can justify the restriction of free movement as set out in Articles 34 and 35 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

    The Commission does not have any information at this stage indicating that road traffic restrictions related to Slovenia’s H4 expressway are manifestly discriminatory or inappropriate to the purpose of ensuring the necessary road safety level.

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Slovakia receives €240 million EIB loan to co-finance green and digital projects supported by the EU

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB provides €240 million loan to Slovakia to advance green and digital projects
    • Slovak government will use EIB long-term financing as national contribution mandatory for EU-financed development projects
    • Credit is first part of €800 million EIB facility approved to strengthen environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness of Slovakia

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is providing a €240 million loan to Slovakia for co-funding of EU-supported green and digital projects across the country. The credit is the first part of an €800 million EIB loan approved to Slovakia for national contributions mandatory for European Union-supported project which bring billions of euros to member states annually.

    “We are increasing the country’s ability to tap EU grants, enabling Slovak citizens and businesses to benefit from accelerated economic growth and social development,” said EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris. “Our financing will strengthen cohesion and improve public services, the business environment and living standards in Slovakia.”

    Slovakia will use EIB funding for projects designed to improve research and innovation, digitization of economy, growth and competitiveness of SMEs, work skills for smart specialization, transition and digital connectivity, energy efficiency and renewable energy, climate change adaptation, sustainable water, circular economy and nature protection and biodiversity.

    In addition to helping green Slovakia’s economy, such projects will enhance the country’s living standards and strengthen its competitiveness on global markets.

     “This EIB loan will enable us to support projects that drive digital innovation, expand renewable energy, and enhance climate resilience. Our partnership with the EIB ensures that Slovakia remains at the forefront of the EU’s sustainability goals while fostering job creation and economic resilience in our regions. We are dedicated to using these funds wisely to build a smarter, cleaner, and more competitive economy,” said the Slovak Minister of Finance Ladislav Kamenický.

     EIB annual results in Slovakia for 2024

    In 2024, the EIB Group increased its financing in Slovakia by 21% to €355 million. Key initiatives last year included €50 million to support eco-friendly water and wastewater management in Bratislava and €65 million to help Slovak small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Caps drive job creation, enhance competitiveness and advance climate action goals.

    “Our 2024 results are good news for Slovakia and the EU,” said EIB Vice- President Kakouris. “We financed projects of vital importance for a sustainable, green and prosperous future for Slovakia. Our commitment to Slovakia remains strong and, as the country pursues its development goals, it can continue to rely on the EIB for support.”

    EIB advisory activities in the country last year included addressing affordable-housing challenges in Bratislava. Expanding affordable housing across the EU is one of eight operational priorities for the EIB.

     Background information

     European Investment Bank: 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 Climate Agreement, as pledged in our 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. 

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers

    Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Planned revision of the EU Return Directive – 20-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    According to Directive 2008/115/EC (the Return Directive, RD), third-country nationals (TCNs) staying illegally on the territory of a Member State should, as a general rule, be issued a return decision obliging them to leave the EU. However, available data suggest that among those who receive such a decision, only about a quarter actually leave the EU (see Figure 1). Data on irregular migration, as well as returns statistics, should be used carefully, as they are often incomplete, inconsistent and insufficient. For example, statistics on return decisions may contain duplicates, whereas data on certain voluntary returns are not collected systematically. In 2018, the European Commission proposed a targeted revision of the RD aimed at updating the rules and streamlining procedures across Member States. As progress on the proposal stalled, the Commission sought to improve return rates through enhanced operational cooperation (e.g. an operational strategy on returns and a recommendation on mutual recognition of return decisions). The pact on migration and asylum, adopted in May 2024, introduced several changes on return. These include a new return border procedure applicable to TCNs rejected in the asylum border application, and the obligation for Member States to issue a common or joint decision for the rejection of an asylum claim and return. In her political guidelines for 2024-2029, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced her intention to develop a new common approach on returns, which would include a new legislative proposal on return. The European Parliament has reiterated the need to improve the effectiveness of the EU’s return policy, highlighting also the need to reconcile the sustainability of returns and respect for fundamental rights.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Exchange of views on the Strategic report of the Critical Medicines Alliance – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    On 3 March, Members of the SANT Committee will hold an exchange of views with the representatives of two working groups who focused on work of the Strategic Report.

    The Critical Medicines Alliance was launched in April 2024 by the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA), working with the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU.

    The Alliance brings together national authorities, industry, healthcare organisations, civil society representatives, the Commission and EU agencies to identify the best measures to prevent and address shortages of critical medicines.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Negotiations on the Pandemic Accord & amendments to International Health Regulations – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    Public health © Image used under the license of Adobe Stock

    On 3 March, Americo B. Zampetti, Minister Counsellor for Global Health and SPS issues at the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, will present to SANT Members the progress of the negotiations on the Pandemic Accord as well as the proposal for a Council Decision authorising Member States to accept the amendments to the International Health Regulations.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Japan’s Parliament and other political institutions – 20-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Japan is a constitutional monarchy, with a parliamentary system of government based on the separation of powers. The Emperor is the symbol of the state and does not hold political functions, only performing ceremonial duties. Nevertheless, he can play an important diplomatic role. With Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement in 2019, following his father’s abdication, Japan has entered the Reiwa (beautiful harmony) era. The 2001 administrative reform strengthened the Prime Minister’s leadership in the cabinet. The Chief Cabinet Secretary also plays an important relevant role. Ishiba Shigeru, leader of the Liberal Democratic Party, has been the country’s Prime Minister since September 2024. The Supreme Court is at the top of the judicial system. It is not a constitutional court, despite handling appeals arising from actual disputes. The appointment of its Justices is reviewed by the people at the first general election of the Lower House following their appointment. Japan is a unitary state divided into 47 prefectures. A Metropolitan Government administers the capital, Tokyo. Japan’s 1947 Constitution recognises ‘local self-government.’ Local governments carry out many of the national policies and programmes. They have limited autonomy, also because of their dependence on financial resources from the central government. Japan has a bicameral parliament − the Diet. Although the two chambers share legislative powers, the Lower House (House of Representatives) prevails in the legislative process and is empowered to adopt the final decision on the budget and on the approval of international treaties. Changes in the regional geopolitical environment and in the country’s demographic structure have prompted debates on issues such as the revision of the ‘pacifist’ Article 9 of the Constitution and the distribution of seats among electoral constituencies. This is an update of a briefing published in December 2020.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Eurosystem expands initiative to settle DLT-based transactions in central bank money

    Source: European Central Bank

    20 February 2025

    • Eurosystem steps up efforts for innovative market infrastructures
    • Two-track approach: develop solution which is interoperable with existing infrastructures; look into long-term integrated solution

    The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) decided to expand its initiative to settle transactions recorded on distributed ledger technology (DLT) in central bank money. The initiative will follow a two-track approach. First, as soon as feasible, the Eurosystem will develop and implement a safe and efficient platform for such settlements in central bank money through an interoperability link with TARGET Services. A concrete time plan will be announced in due course. Second, the Eurosystem will look into a more integrated, long-term solution for settling DLT-based transactions in central bank money. This will also include international operations, such as foreign exchange settlement.

    The Eurosystem wants to support the use of innovative solutions in its market infrastructures while maintaining the safety and efficiency of TARGET Services. It will continue to further analyse new technologies and engage actively with public and private stakeholders.

    “We are embracing innovation without compromising on safety and stability,” said ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone, who oversees the initiative. “This is an important contribution to enhancing European financial market efficiency through innovation. Our approach will pay due attention to the Eurosystem’s goal of achieving a more harmonised and integrated European financial ecosystem.”

    The initiative will contribute to establishing an integrated European market for digital assets, in line with the Governing Council’s call for promoting a digital capital markets union in its statement of 7 March 2024.

    It will build on the Eurosystem’s exploratory work on new technologies for wholesale central bank money settlement, conducted between May and November 2024. This work gave 64 participants – comprising central banks, financial market participants and DLT platform operators –the opportunity to conduct over 50 trials and experiments. Trials included actual settlement in central bank money, while experiments were tests with mock settlement.

    For media queries, please contact Nicos Keranis, tel.: +49 172 757 7237.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Czechia’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play – 20-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), Czechia’s national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP) had an initial value of €7 036 million in grants only. In June 2022, its initial RRF grant allocation was revised upwards to €7 673.7 million (+ 9.1 %). In June 2023, Czechia submitted a request to modify its NRRP. The amended plan totals €9 231.3 million and now includes a REPowerEU chapter with an additional grant allocation of €680.5 million. Czechia also requested to transfer its remaining share of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to its plan (€54.9 million). The total EU contribution is €9 227.3 million, i.e. 4.1 % of the country’s 2019 gross domestic product (GDP), with €8 409.2 million in grants and €818.1 million in loans. Czechia’s NRRP comprises reforms and investment to help the Czech economy recover, while advancing the green and digital transition and addressing structural weaknesses. Measures under the plan are to be completed by 2026. In the 2024 country report, the European Commission assessed the implementation of the plan as being under way, albeit with a risk of some delays. In this context, the Council recommended accelerating investment, maintaining reform momentum and addressing emerging delays. In December 2024, a third payment, consisting of a fourth and fifth instalment of €1 482.5 million (net of pre-financing) in grants and a first instalment of €190.9 million in loans, was disbursed to Czechia. However, a payment of €162.7 million from the fourth instalment and of €97.6 million from the fifth instalment of the grant support was suspended, pending full implementation of the two remaining milestones. So far, Czechia has received €4 365.4 million (47.3 % of the modified plan), of which €1 061.7 million is in pre-financing, €3 112.8 million in grant payments, and €190.9 million in loans. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Fourth edition. The previous edition was drafted by Marketa Pape. The ‘NGEU delivery’ briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Switzerland seen from abroad in 2024: very positive public image, with media focus on Bürgenstock Summit

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    In 2024, Switzerland was perceived positively. The Summit on Peace in Ukraine attracted by far the most attention from the world’s media. Overall, there was less coverage of Switzerland and fewer critical reports than in 2023 and 2022. Switzerland’s image among the general public abroad remains very positive.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Radio Televisión Española and the Recovery and Resilience Facility – E-000573/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000573/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabel Benjumea Benjumea (PPE), Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

    The Spanish Government has allocated over EUR 20.5 million in Recovery and Resilience Facility funding to Generación D, a project run by the Spanish broadcasting company Radio Televisión Española (RTVE). One of the TV series made as part of the project was Brigada Big Tech, which had thirteen 45-minute episodes and cost EUR 4 565 353. The cost per episode was EUR 351 181 and the production cost per minute was EUR 7 804. This is dearer than the top-level football matches – such as European Championship ties – that RTVE broadcasts.

    The host of Brigada Big Tech, Luján Argüelles, took home EUR 15 000 per episode, the third‑highest salary at Televisión Española at the time, and the highest on the ‘La 2’ channel. For comparison, star presenters like those on Spain’s MasterChef earn EUR 10 000 per episode. However, Brigada Big Tech was a catastrophic flop in terms of viewing figures.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Has the Commission asked for data on the Generación D project, including data on the final implementation of the project, the list of subcontractors and the amount of money each subcontractor received?
    • 2.How does it view EU funds being used for projects like this one, with salaries well above the market average and a budget that is at odds with the quality of the programme?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Radio Televisión Española and the Recovery and Resilience Facility – E-000571/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000571/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabel Benjumea Benjumea (PPE), Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

    The Spanish Government has allocated over EUR 117 million in Recovery and Resilience Facility funding to the Spanish broadcasting company Radio Televisión Española (RTVE). This would make RTVE, a public entity, one of the main beneficiaries of those EU recovery funds.

    The various projects RTVE has financed using those EU funds have not had the impact expected – they have actually been very controversial owing to breaches of regulatory requirements, the return of some of the funding, and the state of RTVE’s finances.

    In light of the fact that RTVE is in such dire financial straits that it, firstly, has been forced by the unsustainable state of its accounts to turn to a government reserve fund, and secondly, continues to run up debt: should the Recovery and Resilience Facility be used to fund such a public entity – especially if the projects funded have not achieved the targets they were designed to?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Participation of social stakeholders in the European Contact Group on Search and Rescue – E-000574/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000574/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez (Renew)

    Commission Recommendation (EU) 2020/1365, which accompanied the new Pact on Migration and Asylum, establishes a framework for cooperation and exchange of information between Member States and other stakeholders with regard to search and rescue, focusing on operations conducted by private vessels as their predominant activity.

    The recommendation also calls for the Commission to establish the first interdisciplinary European Contact Group in this sphere. The group would be composed of entities and organisations that operate or represent private or commercial vessels involved in search and rescue activities.

    According to the recommendation, participating stakeholders are to be designated by Member States. Having read the minutes of the contact group’s meetings to date, I have the following questions for the Commission:

    • 1.Is it possible for social stakeholders to participate in the group or in a subgroup?
    • 2.If so, is there a record of social stakeholders who have participated in the group or in a subgroup?
    • 3.What role have social stakeholders been able to play in the group or in a subgroup?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU funding and state-sponsored human trafficking in Tunisia – E-000583/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000583/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ilaria Salis (The Left), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Leoluca Orlando (Verts/ALE), Pernando Barrena Arza (The Left), Damien Carême (The Left), Estrella Galán (The Left), Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left), Tineke Strik (Verts/ALE)

    Recent reports, including the RRX State Trafficking Report[1] (presented at Parliament on 29 January 2025) and a communication from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (AL TUN 6/2024)[2], suggest that Tunisian state authorities may be involved in human trafficking. Findings indicate that Tunisian security forces have allegedly expelled sub-Saharan migrants to the Libyan border, where they may have been handed over to armed groups in exchange for money. The OHCHR has informed Italy, Libya, Algeria and EU representatives[3], yet the EU is continuing to fund Tunisia’s border enforcement and ‘search-and-rescue’ efforts. Reports suggest EU-backed units may be involved in illegal pushbacks at sea, raising concerns about potential state-sponsored trafficking.

    • 1.What safeguards are in place to prevent EU funds from supporting Tunisian authorities involved in human trafficking and rights abuses?
    • 2.Is the Commission investigating Tunisia’s role in state-sponsored trafficking, and will it consider suspending funding or reassessing the EU-Tunisia agreement?
    • 3.Given the vulnerability of the witnesses in the State Trafficking Report in Tunisia and Libya who are willing to testify before EU institutions and courts, does the Commission support establishing a legal-humanitarian corridor for the investigation?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    • [1] https://statetrafficking.net/.
    • [2] https://spcommreports.ohchr.org/TMResultsBase/DownLoadPublicCommunicationFile?gId=29320.
    • [3] https://statetrafficking.net/StateTrafficking_EN_21012025_light.pdf.
    Last updated: 20 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Cost of censorship on social media – E-000567/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000567/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Angéline Furet (PfE), Tiago Moreira de Sá (PfE), Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE), Filip Turek (PfE), Gerald Hauser (PfE), Roman Haider (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE), Gerolf Annemans (PfE), Dominik Tarczyński (ECR), Pascale Piera (PfE), Petr Bystron (ESN), Sarah Knafo (ESN), Hermann Tertsch (PfE), Fernand Kartheiser (ECR), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Jorge Martín Frías (PfE), Branko Grims (PPE), Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI), Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Virginie Joron (PfE), Barbara Bonte (PfE), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Petar Volgin (ESN), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE), Anna Bryłka (PfE), Hans Neuhoff (ESN)

    Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, recently announced that the company was terminating its fact-checking program in the United States and, in a similar vein to X (formerly Twitter), adopting ‘community notes’ instead. Zuckerberg also accused the European Union of ‘institutionalising censorship’ and hampering innovation.

    These comments call the EU’s commitment to freedom of speech and digital innovation into question.

    • 1.In the light of the above accusations of censorship and holding back innovation, could the Commission clarify its position on these matters? What costs have been incurred as a result of current European laws in this field – particularly the Digital Services Act – and their implementation?
    • 2.What is the profile of EU fact-checkers, and what criteria are used to recruit professionals whose task it is to ensure diversity of opinion?

    Supporters[1]

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by Members other than the authors: Julien Leonardelli (PfE), Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Catherine Griset (PfE)

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU’s position on Italy’s role in the release of Osama Almasri Najim – E-000568/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000568/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ilaria Salis (The Left), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Benedetta Scuderi (Verts/ALE), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Leoluca Orlando (Verts/ALE), Ignazio Roberto Marino (Verts/ALE)

    Reports indicate that Italian authorities facilitated the release of Osama Almasri Najim, a Libyan commander allegedly implicated in grave human rights violations and sought by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Given the EU’s commitment to justice, human rights and the principles of the Rome Statute, such actions could undermine the EU’s credibility in supporting accountability efforts in Libya. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is now reportedly under investigation for this incident.

    • 1.How does the Commission assess Italy’s involvement in securing the release of Osama Almasri Najim, and does it consider this action compatible with EU values and legal commitments?
    • 2.What measures is the Commission taking to ensure that the Member States do not act in ways that undermine the ICC’s work and broader EU policies on accountability for human rights violations?
    • 3.How will the Commission strengthen its engagement in Libya to support justice and prevent further impunity for crimes under international law?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Transparency and accountability over EU funds for Ukraine – E-000497/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000497/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Alexander Sell (ESN)

    At a press conference in Ankara on 24 January 2025, Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said: ‘The EU is Ukraine’s largest overall donor. We have contributed over EUR 134 billion’.

    In an interview with The Associated Press on 1 February 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he was unaware of where most of the US aid to Ukraine had gone. While US President Donald Trump states that his country has provided over USD 200 billion to Ukraine, President Zelenskyy claims that they have only received around USD 75 billion. To date, the EU has given EUR 134 billion to Ukraine, and it is estimated that EUR 500 billion will be needed for reconstruction.

    • 1.Is the Commission able to confirm that all of the funding awarded to Ukraine has actually reached the intended beneficiaries and that it has been used for its intended purposes?
    • 2.What control and monitoring mechanisms has the Commission put in place to track the allocation and use of EU funds in Ukraine?
    • 3.If US President Trump follows through with his intentions to limit his country’s involvement in the reconstruction of Ukraine, what share of costs involved does the Commission expect the EU to finance?

    Submitted: 4.2.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The deteriorating security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo due to the actions of the M23 group supported by Rwanda – P-000703/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000703/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Fernand Kartheiser (ECR), Nora Junco García (ECR), Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Angéline Furet (PfE), Hans Neuhoff (ESN), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE)

    In light of the deteriorating security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to the actions of the M23 group supported by Rwanda, Kigali’s role in this conflict has been strongly criticised. Furthermore, the Memorandum of Understanding on minerals between the EU and Rwanda, signed on 19 February 2024, is being reconsidered, as it allegedly facilitates the illegal importation of minerals from the DRC into Rwanda, thereby fuelling the conflict in the DRC.

    In this context, the Commission is asked to respond to the following questions:

    • 1.Is the Commission undertaking diplomatic efforts, in cooperation with regional organisations, to put an end to the activities of the M23 group, and are there any planned initiatives or discussions aimed at pacifying and stabilising the region?
    • 2.Does the Commission plan to take concrete measures to ensure the cessation of Rwandan support for M23 and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from DRC territory, and are sanctions being considered against those responsible for the violence?
    • 3.Is the Commission willing to terminate the EU-Rwanda Memorandum of Understanding on minerals?

    Submitted: 14.2.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Chipping in with €1 billion

    Source: European Investment Bank

    With a background in physics and fluid mechanics, Dirkzwager spent almost a decade in central engineering at Philips in the Netherlands, before moving to Hong Kong, where he was inspired by the city’s entrepreneurial energy and eagerness to grow.

    “The approach was all about trial and error,” he says. “Trying things quickly, seeing what worked and moving on to the next idea.” NXP Semiconductors was born with this mindset, as a spinoff from Philips’s semiconductor division in 2006. “That’s when we shifted our focus to customers beyond Philips, serving the global market,” says Dirkzwager. “It was an exciting, hectic time.”

    According to a McKinsey study, the global market for semiconductors could reach more than $1 trillion by 2030, up from $600 billion in 2021.

    Today, more than half of NXP’s chip design, manufacturing and distribution serves the automotive market. About 25% goes to industrial and Internet of Things customers, and 17% to the mobile sector, including smartphones and tablets.

    NXP’s research and development in chips for the automotive sector will be ready to be used in the market in about five years, and the work on post-quantum encryption will be ready for the market in 10 to 20 years. The semiconductor industry’s focus on the future ties in well with the long-term investment preference of the European Investment Bank, making the loan a good fit for both parties.

    “The Bank was fast, efficient and competitive,” Dirkzwager says. “It’s a good feeling.”

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: SEK 22 billion in EIB financing provided for Swedish firms and municipalities in 2024

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The city of Stockholm, SKF, Ericsson, Tele2 and Chromafora were some of the actors in Sweden granted EU financing in 2024 through the EIB Group.
    • This financing amounted to around SEK 22 billion (€1.9 billion) and more than 65% of this went to initiatives supporting the green transition.
    • Just over 32 000 jobs are estimated to have been saved thanks to this financing.

    Over the course of 2024, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF) continued to support Sweden’s economic development and climate initiatives through substantial investments.

    The EIB Group’s financing during the year amounted to around SEK 22 billion, of which more than 60% went to climate measures and environmental sustainability. This money supported wind power, energy-efficient housing and industrial electrification, among other projects.

    These investments are estimated to have kept 32 000 jobs in Sweden.

    “Sweden has come a long way in the green transition, but the work is far from complete. As the EU climate bank, we are proud to be accelerating efforts within renewable energy, electrification and other climate-promoting initiatives, and we will continue to support investments that make a real difference for the climate and society as a whole. We are also proud to contribute to jobs and strong infrastructure, which creates long-term value for Swedish society,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros.

    Over the course of 2024, the EIB Group signed more than 20 agreements to provide financing in Sweden. Here are a few examples:

    SKF: €430 million for research and innovation in fields such as renewable energy and electromobility.

    Chromafora: €22.5 million to combat PFAS (“forever chemicals”).

    Tele2: €140 million to expand the 5G network in order to reach 99% of the Swedish population.

    City of Stockholm: €368 million to redevelop the Slussen area and reduce the risk of flooding.

    City of Malmö: €225 million to build more than 1 500 energy-efficient apartments.

    These investments reflect the EIB Group’s extensive involvement in Sweden’s green transition, digitalisation and social development.

    The European Investment Fund (EIF) – which is part of the EIB – allocated €320 million to capital investments and guarantees in Sweden in 2024. This in turn is expected to mobilise around SEK 3.8 billion in investment for the Swedish economy, with more than 5 300 companies expected to benefit from this financing in different ways.

    Several of the initiatives are supported by the European Commission’s InvestEU programme.

    In addition to investing in funds such as Course Corrected and the Swedish Impact Lending Fund, the EIF also issued guarantees for businesses such as the corporate lender Froda.

    Please note: The figures provided in this press release are approximate and subject to exchange rates.

     Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. The EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support €1 billion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our 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.

    Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. This underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and the convergence of living standards.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: New diagnostics for thyroid tumors: More precise cancer diagnosis thanks to 3D computed tomography

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Empa researchers have developed a new 3D tissue analysis for thyroid tumors. This special X-ray method uses artificial intelligence to enable more precise diagnoses without damaging the tissue removed. In the future, this examination method could also be used for other types of cancer and replace more complex procedures with simpler imaging methods.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Oral question – Adoption of the proposal for a parenthood regulation – O-000004/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for oral answer  O-000004/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 142
    Ilhan Kyuchyuk
    on behalf of the Committee on Legal Affairs

    Proposal for a Council Regulation on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition of decisions and acceptance of authentic instruments in matters of parenthood and on the creation of a European Certificate of Parenthood (COM(2022)0695) was published by the Commission on 7 December 2022. It is based on Article 81(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which calls for the use of the special legislative procedure, where after consulting Parliament, the Council adopts the final text by unanimity. Parliament’s opinion on the proposal, prepared by the Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI), was adopted by the plenary on 14 December 2023 and forwarded to the Council.

    In its opinion, Parliament focused on safeguarding children’s rights derived from parenthood regardless the legal relationship between the parents or the way the child was conceived. Parliament expressed support for the main objective of the proposed regulation, which is to address the issue of non-recognition of parenthood status by assuring that if a child-parent relation has been established in one Member State all other Member States shall recognise it without additional proceedings.

    Taking into account that the Council has been working on the proposal for more than two years:

    • 1.What progress has been made by the Council so far in terms of the adoption of the parenthood regulation by all Member States? On which parts of the proposal have discussions already been concluded, if any?
    • 2.What solutions have been discussed to accommodate certain Member States’ concerns related to the most contentious matters, such as the establishment and recognition of parenthood of children born via surrogacy and children of same-sex parents?
    • 3.Is the Council considering, in the event of not being able to obtain unanimity, triggering the enhanced cooperation mechanism under the Article 20 of the Treaty on European Union and Articles 326 to 334 TFEU?

    Submitted: 18.2.2025

    Lapses: 19.5.2025

    Last updated: 20 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Including Mexican drug cartels on the EU list of terrorist organisations – E-000631/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000631/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Jorge Martín Frías (PfE)

    One of the first measures taken by the incoming President of the United States, Donald Trump, was to designate Mexican drug cartels as ‘foreign terrorist organisations’[1] in order to be able to allocate the necessary resources to the war on drugs.

    However, at the end of January, the Council renewed the EU list of terrorist persons, groups and entities[2] without including the Mexican drug cartels as the Trump administration had done.

    As this Member has warned in previous questions (E-001790/2024[3], E-002382/2024[4] and E-002686/2024/rev.1[5]), the complicity of Claudia Sheinbaum’s government with drug trafficking organisations – with the approval of the botched judicial reform or with an unambitious ‘zero impunity’ security strategy, for instance – is making life easy for these organisations and ensuring their impunity in Mexico.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Will the Council include Mexican cartels on the list as part of the forthcoming review of Common Position 2001/931/CFSP of 27 December 2001 on the application of specific measures to combat terrorism?
    • 2.Will the Council attempt to coordinate a security strategy with the United States so as to jointly combat drug trafficking?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    • [1] THE WHITE HOUSE – Designating Cartels And Other Organizations As Foreign Terrorist Organizations And Specially Designated Global Terrorists – EXECUTIVE ORDER – 20 January 2025.
    • [2] Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/207 of 30 January 2025 updating the list of persons, groups and entities covered by Common Position 2001/931/CFSP on the application of specific measures to combat terrorism, and repealing Decision (CFSP) 2024/2056.
    • [3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-001790_ES.html.
    • [4] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002382_ES.html.
    • [5] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002686_ES.html.
    Last updated: 20 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting of Wednesday 12 March 2025, Strasbourg – Delegation for relations with the Mashreq countries

    Source: European Parliament

    The Delegation will hold an exchange of views on Lebanon’s political priorities following the election of President Joseph Aoun on 9 January 2025 with:

    • H.E. Mr Fadi HAJALI, Ambassador of Lebanon to the EU
    • Ambassador Sandra DE WAELE, Head of the EU Delegation in Lebanon

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission welcomes political agreement on the €1.9 billion Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 20 Feb 2025 The Commission welcomes the political agreement reached last night between the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on the Regulation to establish a Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by President von der Leyen at the joint press conference with Barbadian Prime Minister Mottley

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Statement Bridgetown, 19 Feb 2025 Prime Minister, dear Mia,
    Thank you for hosting me here in Barbados. It is indeed the first time that I am here, it is fantastic. It is a big pleasure to join you and our partners at this CARICOM Summit. I have crossed the Atlantic to share with you how much Europe values its partnership with the Caribbean. We live in an unpredictable world. In these times, it is more important than ever to stick together; to stand up for our values; and to deepen ties with friends.

    Despite being an ocean apart, Europe and the Caribbean are very close at heart. We are strong and vibrant democracies; we are convinced that it is of big importance to defend multilateralism and the rule of law; we believe in freedom and the right of people to choose their own future. This is why you have been standing with Ukraine since the very beginning of the war. Ukraine is a future member of the European family. So supporting them means also supporting us. And it is important to also call for a just peace not only in Ukraine but also in the Middle East, in Sudan and Haiti, which is what you have always done.

    While sharing our values, we also face some of the same challenges. When devastating hurricanes sweep through your islands, like hurricane Beryl last July, Europe wants to be by your side: We provide emergency support to those who have lost everything, we are rebuilding together. Actually, we are currently supporting Grenada to rebuild Carriacou and Petite Martinique with the goal of making the islands 100% powered by renewable energy. And we have just discussed how to strengthen our cooperation in resilience and preparedness, so to work closer together to have a foresight when these natural disasters and extreme weather events, which are often related to climate change, hit.

    We know that the fight against climate change is truly existential. In the face of hardship, the Caribbean are showing incredible leadership. Especially you, my dear Mia. You have amplified the voice of small island nations on the global stage, for the benefit of all humanity. This was key, for example, to the launch of the Loss and Damage Fund together at COP29. It amounts to almost USD 750 million in pledge, half of it covered by Europe and its Member States. Because climate financing is another very important challenge. Europe is the leading provider. We contribute well beyond our fair share of the USD 100 billion annual target.

    But we know that given the scale of the transition and its urgency, we need new and innovative financing tools – in addition – like green bonds and carbon and nature credits, for example, which is what we are working on. And we need to bring the private sector fully on board, with a smarter use of private and public funds. With your Bridgetown Initiative, dear Mia, you are leading the way to making green and development financing fairer, more accessible and more affordable so that the climate targets can be met.

    Another initiative you mentioned is renewable energy. At COP28 we agreed on global targets for renewables and energy efficiency. We want to triple renewable energy and double energy efficiency by 2030. To implement these goals, we created the Global Energy Transition Forum, because only what gets measured gets done, and we really need that the goals on paper are achieved on the ground. And this year, Barbados joined the Global Energy Transition Forum, I am very glad about that, that is great. It will allow us to deliver concrete projects on the ground and unlock more investment for the transition. And I hope that many Caribbean nations will follow your example.

    This brings me to our bilateral work. The starting point for us is our investment programme Global Gateway. That is the investment programme abroad for partners. It is already at work – here in Barbados and across the Caribbean. Together with Hydrogen de France we have just signed the first green hydrogen storage project in Barbados. What is important is that renewable energy is homegrown, and therefore it is cheaper: It gives you energy independence and it gives you energy security, and it is the energy of the future, because it is clean energy.

    We are, as you said, also working on the health sector. I think both of us have learnt our bitter lessons during COVID-19 and how vulnerable we are. And therefore, we support your pharmaceutical sovereignty. It means vaccines and medication produced in the Caribbean, for the Caribbean, but also to be a hub for the rest of the world. We have just signed a biomedical partnership between BioMedX, a European biotech company, and Barbados. And tomorrow, we will launch ‘PharmaNext’, a project that really boosts innovation and investments across the Atlantic. Because it also aligns the regulatory environment that is so important to move forward.

    We have other great projects in the Caribbean. One has really caught my attention: In Barbados and Grenada, we are turning the sargassum threat into an opportunity, and I think it is really smart. We are working to transform this harmful alga into fertiliser, biomass and even cosmetics.This project has, and this is phenomenal, the potential to leverage almost EUR 400 million in investments. And actually, we are bringing thus a harmful alga, fighting a harmful alga but turning it into an opportunity that brings revenue. So it could not be better. Finally, we are bringing the Caribbean closer together and closer to us – with digital connectivity. Tomorrow, we will commit with Spain to deliver high-speed internet via satellite to even the most remote communities here. So the last kilometre that is always so difficult, we are going to manage that now via satellite.

    To me, the spirit of Global Gateway is needed more than ever. We are investing in value chains, skills and jobs. We are sharing knowledge and technology for the benefit of both sides. We are looking into a long-term and trusted partnership. And we are convinced that a win-win situation is the most beneficial for our people and our economy.

    Thank you very much again for having me here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Witness appeal after woman was struck by a van in SE14

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing for witnesses and any road users with footage after a collision in New Cross left a woman seriously injured.

    The incident happened on Monday, 10 February shortly after 14:00hrs in Milton Court Road, SE14. A female pedestrian in her 30s was struck by a van.

    Officers and London Ambulance Service attended the scene and the woman was rushed for hospital for treatment. Her condition is not life-threatening but she is likely to suffer lasting injuries.

    The vehicle involved did not stop at the scene but has since been recovered.

    Officers are appealing for any witnesses or footage of the incident that could assist them in building a clear picture of what happened.

    Detective Sergeant Jack Mounstephen, of the South East Command Unit, said: “At this stage, we are treating this incident as a deliberate act and need to understand exactly what happened in the build-up and aftermath.

    “Were you in the area of Milton Court Road between 14.00hrs and 14.25hrs on Monday, 10 February? Did you witness this incident which resulted in a woman being seriously injured? No matter how insignificant you think the information you have is, I would urge you to contact us immediately.

    “If you were driving in the area, please check any dashcam or camera footage to see if you have captured what happened.”

    Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote 01/7148469/25.

    = One man has appeared in court charged with grievous bodily harm and causing serious injury due to dangerous driving. A second man, 46, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and bailed pending further enquiries.

    MIL Security OSI –