NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Condemns President Trump’s Comments About Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    February 19, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, released the following statement after President Donald Trump publicly attacked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In the post, President Trump claimed the U.S. was “duped” into spending billions to help Ukraine defend itself following Russia’s 2022 full-scale military invasion and that President Zelenskyy is a “dictator without elections.” Further parroting a Kremlin propaganda point, President Trump also falsely claimed that Ukraine started the war against Russia.

    “The 46,000 Ukrainians who have died defending their country from Putin’s invasion deserve more than the insulting rant President Trump delivered this morning.

    “I would call on President Trump to apologize to the people of Ukraine, but it would be a waste of breath. Donald Trump is a pushover for Putin.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Possible measures to control illegal immigration at European borders – E-000619/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000619/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE)

    With the recent inauguration of US President Donald Trump, new measures and decrees have immediately been implemented to reinforce immigration policies. These measures include stricter border restrictions, the signing of agreements for the return of illegal immigrants to their countries of origin and a large deployment of troops to ensure compliance with these policies.

    The situation in Europe is serious, specifically in Spain, where the number of irregular arrivals continues to increase. In 2024, these arrivals rose by 12.3 % compared to 2023. Crime and a lack of security in our streets are causing great concern among citizens, and the lack of effective mechanisms to manage this situation makes it difficult to find a solution to illegal immigration.

    • 1.Does the Commission consider the current European policies robust enough to guarantee the effective control of our borders?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering an update to the recently adopted Migration Pact to strengthen the mechanisms for the expulsion and return of irregular immigrants, and taking, as a reference, similar measures implemented in the US, such as the Laken Riley Act?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Closer-to-nature forestry initiative and the planned EU certification framework – E-000610/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000610/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Schneider (PPE), Angelika Winzig (PPE), Alexander Bernhuber (PPE)

    The aim of the Commission’s closer-to-nature forestry initiative is to promote sustainable forest management; but it could have far-reaching consequences because of linking in with an EU-wide certification framework. Critics see in this approach a possible circumvention of national competences in the forestry sector plus creeping centralisation. The planned certification framework might also weaken established standards such as PEFC and FSC, create additional bureaucratic burdens for businesses and make access to funding more difficult.

    • 1.What are the Commission’s objectives with regard to the planned certification framework, and how will it be ensured that the subsidiarity principle is observed?
    • 2.What institutions or organisations are to carry out certification, and how will incorporation of existing voluntary standards such as PEFC and FSC be ensured?
    • 3.Does the Commission plan to link certification in with EU funding programmes, and how will it be ensured that that does not involve an additional burden for forest holdings?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Persons with disabilities in the occupied Palestinian territories – E-000618/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000618/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lynn Boylan (The Left), Kathleen Funchion (The Left)

    Disability inclusion in the occupied Palestinian territories remains a critical issue. Even after the 2025 ceasefire, life-saving humanitarian aid for persons with disabilities continues to be blocked by Israel. Many forcibly displaced people are unable to return home because of the inaccessibility of the route and checkpoints. Their homes have often been destroyed, and tented accommodation lacks basic essentials for safety and security, including accessible water, sanitation and hygiene services. Persons with disabilities face a continued shortage of assistive technology and will be disproportionately impacted by the growing mental health crisis. Children and women and girls with disabilities are at particular risk.

    How is the Commission:

    • 1.ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches Palestinians with disabilities in the occupied territories, and that disability-specific requirements (such as assistive technology) are being met?
    • 2.assisting Palestinians with disabilities to return to their homes, and supporting the inclusive, accessible reconstruction of housing, transport and other public infrastructure?
    • 3.engaging with and supporting Palestinian civil society and disability advocacy groups to ensure that their voices and requirements are reflected in EU-funded work?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Turkish meddling in the Turkish Cypriot community’s education system – E-000614/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000614/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giorgos Georgiou (The Left)

    According to recent revelations, the Turkish-controlled teachers’ union KIB-TES is attempting to influence and alter the character of the Turkish Cypriot community’s education system. A report by KIB-TES to the President of Türkiye was recently revealed, calling on Türkiye to intervene in specific ways to make the educational programme in Turkish Cypriot schools more conservative.

    This development is an extension of Türkiye’s increased interference in the internal affairs of Turkish Cypriots. As a result, among other things, transfers of teachers from Türkiye are being promoted, religious schools are being strengthened, and pressure is being exerted to establish compulsory religious education in the Occupied Territories of Cyprus.

    All of this, however, contradicts the identity and will of the overwhelming majority of the Turkish Cypriot community and its representatives (political parties, educational unions, etc.).

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission acquainted with the positions of the Turkish Cypriots on the above issue?
    • 2.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to support the right of the Turkish Cypriots to an independent education system?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Increase in criminal acts against Catholic churches – E-000584/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000584/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE)

    According to a report by the Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians in Europe, 2 444 anti-Christian hate crimes were documented in 2023, including nearly 1 000 in France (41 % of the total in Europe). Of those, 62 % were acts of vandalism, 10 % were arson, and 7 % were acts of physical violence.[1]

    The trend took a turn for the worse in 2024, especially in France, where actual and attempted arson attacks against churches increased by more than 30 %[2].

    In 2015 the Commission appointed an EU Coordinator on combating antisemitism, and in 2018 it appointed an EU Coordinator on combating anti-Muslim hatred. No one has been appointed to combat Christianophobia.

    The lack of effective border controls and shortcomings with regard to the integration of certain populations are resulting in hostile behaviour towards the culture and traditions of the host countries.

    • 1.Does the Commission acknowledge that there has been an increase in criminal acts against Catholic churches in Europe?
    • 2.What measures does it have in mind to prevent these attacks in Europe?
    • 3.Is it planning to appoint a coordinator to combat Christianophobia in 2025, or at a later stage?

    Submitted: 8.2.2025

    • [1] https://www.intoleranceagainstchristians.eu/publications/oidac-report-2024?
    • [2] https://fr.aleteia.org/2025/02/03/en-2024-moins-dactes-anti-chretiens-mais-plus-dincendies-criminels-deglises?
    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – New EU bulk order for 146 million doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine – E-000608/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000608/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    Countless doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines have been discarded all over the world because they have expired or are not deemed suitable for new variants. The Commission has now placed a new order with Moderna for more than 146 million doses. It is unclear how much this order will cost and it is questionable whether it is really needed. What is more, the many side effects of the other mRNA vaccines have yet to be analysed. Many doses could be discarded yet again, which would cost taxpayers money without bringing any real benefits. It is rumoured that the Health Emergency Preparedness Response Authority (HERA) signed the contract on behalf of 17 participating countries.

    • 1.Which Member States have ordered Moderna vaccines and who signed the procurement contract?
    • 2.Why are vaccines being ordered once more – by way of an opaque procurement procedure – even though it is not certain that the doses will not end up discarded again and simply cost taxpayers more money?
    • 3.What studies have been carried out on the newly ordered vaccine to confirm that it is safe and effective?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public consultations on Rare diseases and Women’s health – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    Coming up soon: public consultations of the Committee on Public Health on Rare diseases and Women’s health

    When preparing European laws and other initiatives, Members of the European Parliament represent all the European citizens and their will. To better understand their needs and expectations, Parliament can publish public consultations where citizens and other stakeholders can present their opinions on specific topics.

    The Committee on Public Health will soon open public consultations on Rare diseases and Women’s health (links will be activated soon).

    The purpose of these consultations is to collect YOUR experiences, suggestions and opinions. Your input will feed into the work of SANT Committee and form the basis for forthcoming work on Rare Diseases and Women’s Health.

    These two public consultations will be organised through online surveys. Citizens, but also stakeholders (patient organisations, representatives of industry, NGOs etc.) will have the opportunity to provide anonymous input with information about their difficulties, needs and expectations regarding further actions of the EU.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Oral question – Adoption of the proposal for a Parenthood Regulation – O-000005/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for oral answer  O-000005/2025
    to the Commission
    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, 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 of 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.How has the Commission facilitated the discussion on the proposal in the Council?
    • 2.Is the Commission prepared, or is it planning, in the event that unanimity among the Member States cannot be reached, to pursue the objectives of the proposed regulation using alternative legislative instruments or mechanisms provided for in the Treaties?

    Submitted: 18.2.2025

    Lapses: 19.5.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Oral questions on Parenthood Regulation. Commissioner Dombrovskis’s exchange of views – Committee on Legal Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    On 18 February, the JURI committee voted on the questions for oral answer to the Council and the Commission on the adoption of the proposal for a Parenthood Regulation (2025/2545(RSP)).

    The Committee will heard the presentation of the annual report 2024 and work programme 2025 of the EP Coordinator on Children’s Rights, Ms Ewa Kopacz, Vice-President of the European Parliament.

    Further, the Committee heard the reporting back on the Plenary meeting of the Observatory of the EUIPO, taking place on 15-16 October 2024.

    Finally, the JURI Members held an exchange of views with Valdis Dombrovskis, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Revised Product Liability Directive – 19-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    As products have become more complex in the digital age, the need for a new directive on liability of defective products has arisen. The new directive will revise the existing Product Liability Directive, adopted nearly 40 years ago in 1985. The directive brings the European Union’s product liability regime up to speed with the digital age, circular economy business models and global value chains by ensuring that consumers receive compensation for defective products, including those manufactured outside the EU. It introduces new provisions to address liability for products such as software (including artificial intelligence systems) and digital services that affect how the product works (e.g. navigation services in autonomous vehicles). It also alleviates the burden of proof for victims under certain circumstances. The new directive on liability of defective products was published in the EU’s Official Journal on 18 November 2024. It entered into force on 9 December 2024. Member States must transpose the directive into their national laws and implement the changes by December 2026. Fourth edition. The ‘EU Legislation in Progress’ briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – 13 February 2025 – Delegation to the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly

    Source: European Parliament

    On Thursday, 13 February 2025 (09.00-10.00), the DACP delegation held a meeting in Strasbourg (DE MADARIAGA S5).
    The main point of the agenda was an Exchange of views on the recent US policy developments, particularly in relation to the G20.
    The meeting was webstreamed.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Displaced Ukrainians: Challenges and outlook for integration in the EU – 19-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 forced millions of people to flee Ukraine. To date, approximately 6.8°million people have had to seek refuge, mostly in the EU and its neighbourhood. The EU responded rapidly in March 2022, activating the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD) for the first time ever. The TPD’s emergency mechanism offers swift protection and rights to those in need who arrive in large numbers, preventing Member States’ asylum systems from becoming overwhelmed. Rights under the TPD include access to a residence permit, employment, housing, medical and social welfare assistance, and education for children and adolescents. For those fleeing Ukraine, these rights also include travel within the EU, and to and from Ukraine. Currently, the largest number of beneficiaries of temporary protection from Ukraine reside in Germany, Poland and Czechia. Among them are nearly 1.3 million children, with 50 % still awaiting enrolment in their host countries’ education systems. Many pupils attend online classes delivered from Ukraine, as parents prefer to keep ties with their home country. The EU and its Member States have made efforts and funds available to support the integration of displaced people from Ukraine in terms of employment, housing, education and healthcare. Research indicates that Ukrainian refugees have a high employment rate in host countries, reflecting the circular mobility pattern observed among Ukrainians prior to 2022, when they were the largest non-EU workforce within the EU. However, with no end to the war in sight, the situation of Ukrainian refugees remains uncertain. There is currently no EU-level strategy regarding the status of refugees from Ukraine beyond the extension of temporary protection until March 2026. By April 2024, an estimated 1.2 million Ukrainians had already returned to their country despite the war. While most only go for brief visits to see family or tend to their properties, some intend to return permanently. Both the EU and Ukrainian policymakers face questions about the potential scale of and reasons for returns, as they seek to adapt and prepare their policies.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Reviewing the classification of IP addresses as personal data – E-002546/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The definition of personal data in Regulation (EU) 2016/679[1] (GDPR) is technologically neutral and broad to prevent creating a serious risk of circumvention of the protection of personal data[2]. Article 4(1) GDPR defines personal data as ‘any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person’, including an online identifier that identifies the person directly or indirectly.

    Online identifiers, such as cookies and Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, combined with other information may be used to create online profiles of natural persons and identify them[3].

    Whether an IP address is personal data within the meaning of Article 4(1) GDPR depends on whether it can be linked to an identified or identifiable natural person.

    That is not necessarily always the case and depends on the specific circumstances of the case. In that respect, account must be taken of all the means reasonably likely to be used to identify the person, looking at all objective factors, such as the cost, the amount of time required for identification, taking into consideration available technology[4].

    The Court of Justice of the EU found on several occasions that IP addresses constituted personal data because the user of the IP address could be identified by the controller at issue[5].

    In the second report of the application of the GDPR[6], the Commission did not conclude that the definition of personal data should be amended.

    Regardless of their nature as personal data, where IP addresses are stored or accessed from the user’s terminal equipment, Article 5(3) of Directive 2002/58/EC[7] applies.

    That provision protects the confidentiality of users’ terminal equipment. It requires consent for the storage of or access to information (both personal and non-personal) stored in the terminal equipment, unless it is carried out for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication or if it is strictly necessary for the provision of an information society service explicitly requested by the user[8].

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation) (Text with EEA relevance), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
    • [2] See for more Recital 15 GDPR.
    • [3] See for more Recital 30 GDPR.
    • [4] See for more Recital 26 GDPR.
    • [5] See for example C-470/21 and C-604/22.
    • [6] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council Second Report on the application of the General Data Protection Regulation, COM/2024/357 final.
    • [7] Directive 2002/58/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2002 concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector (Directive on privacy and electronic communications), OJ L 201, 31.7.2002, p. 37-47, see in particular Recital 28.
    • [8] See also EDPB, Guidelines 2/2023 on Technical Scope of Art. 5(3) of ePrivacy Directive.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Best interest of the child in cases of cross-border gender-based violence in Europe – P-000040/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The best interests of the child remain a key priority for the European Union[1].

    The Brussels IIb Regulation[2] is based on the best interests of the child, mutual trust between Member States and the protection of children in all cross-border civil proceedings that affect them.

    The recommendation on integrated child protection systems[3] calls on Member States to ensure that all children within the European Union and beyond[4] have non-negotiable rights to protection from all forms of violence in all the domains of their lives.

    Upholding the best interests of the child is a guiding principle of the Violence Against Women Directive[5], which requires, e.g., that competent authorities have access to information on cases of violence involving children so that that information can be taken into account in civil proceedings concerning such children. Member States will have to comply with this directive by 14 June 2027.

    In an individual case, it is for the competent national court to assess the facts of the case. In urgent cases, Brussels IIb Regulation allows a court of another Member State to take protective measures in respect of a child who is present in that Member State[6].

    • [1] In accordance with Article 24 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
    • [2] Council Regulation (EU) 2019/1111 of 25 June 2019 on jurisdiction, the recognition and enforcement of decisions in matrimonial matters and the matters of parental responsibility, and on international child abduction. (recast) OJ L 178, 2.7.2019, p. 1-115 (BG, ES, CS, DA, DE, ET, EL, EN, FR, HR, IT, LV, LT, HU, MT, NL, PL, PT, RO, SK, SL, FI, SV).
    • [3] Commission Recommendation on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child (C(2024) 2680 final).
    • [4] In accordance with Article 3(5) of the Treaty on EU.
    • [5] Directive (EU) 2024/1385 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on combating violence against women and domestic violence, OJ L, 2024/1385, 24.5.2024.
    • [6] Granting of the measures is subject to the conditions set up in the regulation and the case-law of the Court of Justice.
    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Lack of access to court for post-conflict victims – P-002838/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    It is primarily a Member State’s responsibility to deal with the sensitive and complex issue of addressing the horrors and crimes committed in the past by totalitarian regimes.

    Within its competence, the Commission can facilitate the process of remembrance by encouraging discussion and sharing of experiences, as well as promoting best practices.

    Keeping the memory of totalitarian regimes alive is a collective duty as a tribute to and respect for the victims. Preserving this memory nourishes not only the commitment of the European Union to democracy and the respect of fundamental rights, but also to the fight against modern manifestations of intolerance, extremism and historical revisionism.

    The EU is currently funding many initiatives worldwide, aimed at providing reparations and redress to victims in the framework of its transitional justice activities.

    None of such programmes is dedicated to the process of transitional justice in relation to crimes committed during the World War II either in Poland or in any other Member States.

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Need for immediate EU action and financial support in response to damage caused by recent floods in Cyprus – E-002774/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission expresses its deep regret for the damage caused to Cyprus by the floods on 2 November 2024. Under the ‘Thalia 2021-2027’ Programme, Cohesion Policy supports Cyprus with EUR 79 million (EU contribution) for long-term investments aimed at risk prevention and resilience-building, particularly in coastal areas.

    These investments include targeted anti-flood measures, designed to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. In addition, Cyprus’ recovery and resilience plan includes several anti-flood and water collection measures, as well as measures to enhance Cyprus’ civil protection system .

    Similarly, through the Cypriot Rural Development Programme 2014-2022 and the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan 2023-2027, significant support is available for restoring agricultural potential.

    Furthermore, on 19 December 2024, the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE) proposal was approved.

    RESTORE introduces targeted flexibilities under the 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy framework, for reconstruction and repair measures to alleviate the negative socioeconomic consequences of natural disasters.

    Additional measures under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) are also available to provide liquidity support for farmers, forest holders, and small and medium-sized enterprises under the Rural Development Programmes impacted by such events.

    The Commission stands ready to collaborate with the Cypriot authorities to explore how EU resources can be deployed effectively. In line with the shared management principle, the national authorities are responsible for selecting, implementing and monitoring the EU co-funded projects, in line with the programming documents.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strategy of weaponising illegal migrants from Turkey – E-001425/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU-Turkey statement[1] remains valid and is the main framework of cooperation with Türkiye in the area of migration. The statement has produced tangible results leading to a significant decrease of loss of human lives, a reduction in irregular crossings and perilous migrant journeys via Türkiye to the EU and improving the situation of refugees and migrants in Türkiye.

    The number of irregular border crossings between Türkiye and the EU has remained consistently and significantly lower than before the EU-Turkey statement. The Commission expects Türkiye to fulfil its commitments from the statement, including prevention of irregular arrivals to the EU.

    Full implementation of all elements of the EU-Turkey statement and the EU-Turkey readmission agreement remains key. The Commission is pursuing all strands of this key relationship, in line with the 2024 Joint Communication and the extraordinary European Council in April 2024[2], and one of the next steps should be the relaunch of the High-Level Dialogue on Migration and Security.

    In December 2024, the Commission adopted a package of support worth EUR 1 billion to assist with Syrian refugees and vulnerable communities and to support Türkiye with border and migration management.

    The EU Action Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean[3], contains targeted operational measures aiming at enhancing migration management along this route, including measures focused on strengthening cooperation with Türkiye regarding counter-smuggling and border management.

    Among the operational measures, the action plan foresees:

    — Strengthening cooperation with countries of origin and transit in Asia and Africa and Türkiye to counter migrant smuggling;

    — Supporting border management capacities on Türkiye’s eastern borders;

    — Continuing to engage with Türkiye to promote the full and effective implementation of the EU-Turkey statement and the EU-Turkey readmission agreement;

    — Continuing cooperation with Türkiye on strengthening its asylum and reception systems.

    The EU expects that Türkiye would protect the human rights of all irregular migrants in line with its international obligations.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2016/03/18/eu-turkey-statement/
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf
    • [3] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/eu-action-plan-eastern-mediterranean-route_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Compatibility of the institution of emphyteusis with EU principles – E-002872/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Article 17 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the Charter) provides that everyone has the right to own, use, dispose of and bequeath his or her lawfully acquired possessions. However, according to its Article 51(1), the provisions of the Charter are addressed to the Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    On the basis of the information provided, it does not appear that the matter referred to by the Honourable Member is related to the implementation of EU law. In particular, there is nothing that indicates that the free movement of capital applies in the case at issue.

    In the present case, it is thus for the concerned Member States to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international obligations.

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – EU-India relations: Time for a new boost? – 19-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Union (EU) is seeking to strengthen its strategic partnership with India, in place since 2004. The European Commission has given a strong signal in this direction. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced in Davos that the first visit of the whole College of Commissioners to a third country would be to India, on 27 and 28 February 2025. The EU-India Trade and Technology Council will also meet. A joint communication on a new strategic EU-India agenda is expected in the second quarter of 2025. An EU-India summit may take place in the last quarter of 2025. The EU wants to develop its relationship with India, whose market and economic growth (including in green technology) represents a valuable opportunity for EU companies. India’s strategic geographical position in the heart of the Indo-Pacific, where about 80 % of total global trade by volume passes, makes it a key partner for maintaining the security of the region and the freedom of navigation that are crucial to EU interests. The EU is also looking to expand its circle of key partners, against a backdrop of uncertainty over transatlantic relations. India meanwhile maintains a privileged relationship with Russia and is strengthening ties with the Trump administration. The EU and India are currently negotiating a free trade agreement, an investment protection agreement and an agreement on geographical indications. They also cooperate on a wide range of policies, including security, climate and energy, connectivity, research and innovation, and space. However, as the European Parliament underlined in its report on EU-India relations in January 2024, the partnership has not yet reached its full potential. Meanwhile, the EU-India five-year roadmap to 2025 is coming to an end, creating an opportunity to continue building a strong relationship. To develop their partnership, the EU and India would need to address some challenges. In particular, on trade negotiations New Delhi considers the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism and deforestation legislation to be unfair and detrimental to domestic markets. The EU is concerned about India’s stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and about its human rights situation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Addressing the housing crisis – E-000331/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000331/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Georgios Aftias (PPE)

    Affordable housing has become an enormous problem in all European Union countries. Millions of European citizens, mostly young men, women and couples, are looking for a solution to the housing crisis. European funding has come to the rescue in several countries, but no definitive solution has yet been put in place.

    In view of this, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Will affordable housing subsidy schemes continue in all EU countries, in order to assist millions of families?
    • 2.Will there be joined-up employment, tax and property incentives for the acquisition of housing, and simultaneous provision of low-interest housing loans for those in real need?

    Submitted: 26.1.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Are the Commission’s objectives regarding the rate of wind power installation still tenable and warranted? – E-000581/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000581/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    In 2024, mainly thanks to nuclear energy, the share of decarbonised electricity produced by France was nearly 95%[1], though wind energy production fell by 8.4% in spite of a 6.6% increase in wind power capacity[2]. France is the only major industrial country to have achieved such a level of electricity decarbonisation.

    In September 2024, however, the Commission brought infringement proceedings against France,[3]principally because its renewable-energy development targets for 2030 were regarded as insufficient and because of incomplete transposition of Directive (EU) 2018/2001[4].

    According to the European Court of Auditors, the cost of the energy transition in the EU between 2021 and 2030 is put at EUR 11 200 billion[5]. To achieve 70% renewable-electricity capacity by 2030, Europe would have to double the rate of wind power installation and maintain the record rate achieved by solar in 2023[6].

    The problems and limitations of wind power within the renewable-energy mix, coupled with the staggering overall costs of the energy transition, are now well documented.

    Does the Commission think it conceivable to lower its targets, in particular as regards wind power deployment?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    • [1] https://www.rte-france.com/actualites/production-electricite-francaise-atteint-plus-haut-niveau-depuis-5-ans
    • [2] https://www.rte-france.com/eco2mix/les-chiffres-cles-de-lelectricite
    • [3] https://horizon-63.cerfrance.fr/actualites/energies-renouvelables-la-france-mise-en-demeure-par-la-commission-europeenne
    • [4] https://www.lemonde.fr/planete/article/2024/07/11/dans-le-plan-energie-climat-de-la-france-soumis-a-bruxelles-des-objectifs-insuffisants-en-matiere-de-renouvelables_6248839_3244.html
    • [5] https://www.connaissancedesenergies.org/tribune-actualite-energies/transition-energetique-quel-cout-et-quelles-mesures-prioritaires?
    • [6] https://www.iddri.org/sites/default/files/PDF/Publications/Catalogue%20Iddri/Etude/202406-ST0224-transition%20elec%20EU_0.pdf?
    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – US tariffs threaten Galician competitiveness and industry – E-000652/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000652/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE)

    The new Trump administration in the United States has recently announced tariffs on aluminium and steel, which may be the first batch of several new tariffs to be imposed by the US on the EU, a close ally and partner. The Galician metallurgic industry alone exports aluminium and steel to the US to the value of EUR 42.5 million. For a country that is already experiencing a severe housing and demographic crisis, a trade war between the US and the EU, or worse, one that extends to several other international partners and allies, will represent a significant blow to our industrial capacity and will have a devastating effect on our citizens.

    Given that the tariffs are going to be imposed on the EU, what is the Commission planning to do to protect the EU’s industrial capacity, economic sovereignty and citizens?

    Submitted: 12.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Support for the 100 climate-neutral cities under the Green Deal – E-000580/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000580/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Yannis Maniatis (S&D)

    One of the EU Missions set out under the Green Deal and Horizon Europe relates to the creation of 100 climate-neutral and smart cities. The mission aims to achieve climate neutrality in 100 European cities by 2030, with those cities acting as experimentation and innovation hubs.

    Six Greek cities are taking part: Athens, Thessaloniki, Ioannina, Kalamata, Kozani and Trikala. These cities were invited to implement long-term planning and organise action plans and investment strategies to facilitate the project with public and private funding.

    However, the project’s implementation has been accompanied by significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, staffing, funding, training, as well as administrative capacity. What is more, Greek cities face additional obstacles, namely the lack of space for energy communities in the electricity grid and the lack of an institutional framework for direct financing through European funds.

    In view of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.What stage of maturity has this important initiative/mission reached in Greece and in the EU as a whole?
    • 2.In light of the challenges, which instruments and financial tools is the Commission planning to use to help the participating Greek cities achieve their complex objectives?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Making use of the infrastructure that has been implemented in Greece and that can ensure the energy security of the EU – E-000579/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000579/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Yannis Maniatis (S&D)

    According to recent statements by a representative of the Turkish Government, ‘Türkiye is one of the main routes for the supply of natural gas to the EU’. The representative proposed ‘resuming the EU-Türkiye High-level Energy Dialogue’ (opposed only by Cyprus), as well as ‘connecting Mediterranean reserves with the Southern Corridor’.

    At the same time, despite increased gas needs and the extensive investment undertaken by Greece (such as upgrades to the Revithoussa terminal and national network capacity, the new FSRU in Alexandroupolis) and Bulgaria (upgrades to the national network), full use has still not been made of the Vertical Corridor. At the same time, the EastMed pipeline, which has been included in the list of European Projects of Common Interest since 2013, will allow Eastern Mediterranean reserves to be directly connected to both the Vertical Corridor and the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What initiatives does the Commission intend to take to complete the Vertical Corridor project and resolve the last outstanding issues, such as upgrading the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria pipeline and the network in Romania and addressing the matter of high network charges between Romania and Moldova?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to improve the diversification of natural gas supply sources and routes, for example by promoting the implementation of the EastMed pipeline project?
    • 3.Bearing in mind that Russia is using Türkiye to circumvent EU sanctions, is the Commission considering resuming the EU-Türkiye Energy Dialogue and under what conditions?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Improving drinking water quality and checking the safety of plastic packaging – E-000648/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000648/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

    Recent studies have raised serious concerns about the quality of drinking water available in plastic bottles, as microplastics, chemicals and other contaminants that could pose a risk to public health have been detected. Despite EU legislative initiatives to reduce plastic pollution and improve water quality, the problem of drinking water contamination and its potential health impacts remains.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission assess the level of safety of bottled water in the Member States and what are the main findings of the checks carried out in recent years?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to implement the regulatory framework for bottled water packaging materials in order to reduce citizens’ exposure to harmful substances?
    • 3.What measures does the Commission plan to promote to further improve the quality of drinking water, both bottled and tap water, in order to ensure citizens’ access to clean and safe water?

    Submitted: 12.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Delay in PGI certification for ‘Crete’ olive oil – E-000659/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000659/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Kefalogiannis (PPE)

    Olive oil is the most emblematic product of Crete and is of great financial value to the island. Nevertheless, the certification and confirmation of Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status has been pending with the European Commission since June 2021.

    It is widely known that granting PGI status to a European product contributes to the creation of new jobs and an increase in agricultural income. However, in the case of ‘Crete’ olive oil, this process has been significantly delayed, which is particularly detrimental to the product and to all those directly involved in its production, distribution, sale and consumption. Four years have passed since the initial submission of the application, with no results so far, while in cases of corresponding PGI olive oil products from other Member States the process is much shorter.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that the delay in granting PGI status to ‘Crete’ olive oil undermines its commercial prospects?
    • 2.Why has the process not been expedited?
    • 3.When is the submission of the PGI file for ‘Crete’ olive oil for final approval planned to take place?

    Submitted: 12.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Illegal use of spyware in Serbia – P-000686/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000686/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vladimir Prebilič (Verts/ALE), Alexandra Geese (Verts/ALE)

    A recent report by Amnesty International entitled ‘A Digital Prison: surveillance and the suppression of civil society in Serbia’ has revealed that Serbian authorities have engaged in widespread illegal surveillance practices by using spyware against activists, journalists and members of civil society.

    These alarming revelations emerge at a time when Serbia is witnessing its largest protests in decades, fuelled by growing concerns over widespread corruption and the increasing authoritarianism of its government.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the reported use of spyware and abuse of digital forensic tools targeting activists and journalists in Serbia and what steps, if any, has it taken so far?
    • 2.What further actions, if any, is the Commission considering in response to these allegations and do these include the possibility of calling for an independent investigation and ensuring accountability?
    • 3.To the Commission’s knowledge, has the EU been involved in the procurement of any equipment – such as forensic tools, software or other technologies – for Serbian institutions or agencies in the security sector that could potentially be misused to undermine or threaten human rights? If so, could it provide details on the EU’s involvement and specify which tools or technologies were procured?

    Submitted: 13.2.2025

    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Action to facilitate and simplify funding for digital health projects – E-000550/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000550/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE)

    EU funding programmes have contributed significantly to the development of digital healthcare solutions. However, according to a recent report by the European Court of Auditors[1], Member States face obstacles in using EU funds to digitalise healthcare. This is due to, among other reasons, the fact that the rules for applying for support and implementing funded actions differ from programme to programme, and that the requirement to provide national co-financing prevents some Member States from participating in joint actions, owing to their limited national resources.

    The above challenges make it difficult for Member States to identify and make use of available European funds.

    In light of this:

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to make it simpler to access funding and reduce the red tape involved in the application and reporting procedures of EU funds?
    • 2.How does it intend to improve its support and guidance for Member States with regard to the availability of EU funding for healthcare digitalisation projects?

    Submitted: 6.2.2025

    • [1] Special report 25/2024: Digitalisation of healthcare
    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU funds spent by UNRWA on terrorist-linked activities – E-002294/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Given the essential role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) , which provides crucial support to the civilian population in Gaza and the wider region, as confirmed by the European Council in December 2024[1], the EU expressed grave concern about the serious allegations made on 24 January 2024 on the possible involvement of some UNRWA staff in the unprecedented 7 October 2023 attacks, which the EU condemned in the strongest possible terms.

    The Commission has been in constant contact with UNRWA at the highest levels. As a result, UNRWA committed, notably in the context of the signature of the EU-UNRWA contribution agreement to implement the actions requested in the 29 January 2024 Commission statement[2]: (i) to allow an audit to be conducted by EU-appointed independent external experts; (ii) to strengthen its Department of Internal Investigations; and (iii) to carry out a review of all UNRWA staff to confirm that they did not participate in the attacks.

    Following the fulfilment by UNRWA of all the conditions agreed for the 2024 EU funding, the Commission disbursed in three tranches a total of EUR 82 million, and an additional top-up of EUR 10 million in December 2024[3].

    This came in addition to the EUR 48.5 million of EU humanitarian funding in 2024. The Commission is committed to continuing its support for the Agency, and closely monitors the implementation of the action plan developed by UNRWA in response to the recommendations of the Independent Review Group[4] and further decisive action by the UN to ensure neutrality, accountability and to strengthen control and oversight over the operations of the Agency.

    The Commission will also continue monitoring the implementation of the recommendations resulting from the EU audit.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [2] https://neighbourhood-enlargement.ec.europa.eu/news/european-commission-statement-unrwa-2024-01-29_en
    • [3] https://neighbourhood-enlargement.ec.europa.eu/news/commission-disburses-additional-eu10-million-payment-unrwa-2024-12-20_en
    • [4] https://www.unrwa.org/resources/reports/colonna-report-and-unrwa%E2%80%99s-high-level-action-plan-implementation-recommendations
    Last updated: 19 February 2025

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