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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster’s green makeover: £500,000 funding boost for public spaces | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has selected 16 local projects to receive funding through its Greening Westminster grants programme — a community-led initiative to make the city’s public spaces greener, healthier, and more welcoming. 
     
    This year, almost £500,000 has been awarded to a range of local groups and partner organisations to deliver green projects in parks, on highways and housing estates.   

    From tree planting and pollinator-friendly flowers to edible gardens and greener play areas, the chosen projects showcase a creative, community-driven approach to bring more nature into Westminster’s built-up urban environment. 

     The Greening Westminster programme is a key part of the Council’s Fairer Westminster strategy, which helps improve the environment and supports communities to make positive changes in their neighbourhoods. The programme also aims to give residents greater access to high-quality green spaces that benefit their health and wellbeing.  

     Projects include:  

    • The Onion Garden (Victoria): Adding more plants and wildlife features to a popular community garden.
    • Charfield Court in Bloom  (Amberley Estate): Residents are adding greenery to their housing estate.
    • Covent Garden Playground: Making the playground greener with plants and showcasing a sustainable approach
    • University of Westminster: Improving green spaces on campus and along Marylebone Road.
    • North Paddington Food Bank – The Roots Garden Kitchen: Creating a garden to grow food for the community by the community.  
    • Parish of St Marylebone: Turning church gardens into greener, more welcoming public spaces.
    • Paddington Now BID: Putting up flower baskets with pollinator-friendly plants on Eastbourne Terrace. 

    Cllr Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, said:  

    “We’re proud to support these inspiring community-led projects that will help make Westminster greener, healthier, and more welcoming for everyone.  

    “By working together with local groups, we’re transforming public spaces into vibrant places that bring people closer to nature and to each other, which is part of our Fairer Environment commitment.” 

    For more information and a full list of funded projects, visit: 
    www.westminster.gov.uk/greening-westminster 

    ENDS 

    • The Council received 20 applications for its Greening Westminster grants programme and approved 16  
    • Since 2017, Greening Westminster has supported 51 projects across Westminster  

    The 16 recipients who have successfully been awarded funding: 

    Walterton and Elgin Community Homes (WECH) 
    Parish of St Marylebone
    Covent Garden Playground
    St Augustine’s School
    St Barnabas Church
    St Stephens Church 
    North Paddington food bank
    The Onion Garden
    University of Westminster
    Stone Wharf Gardens
    Charfield Court Resident Group – Amberley Estate 
    Grosvenor Residents Association – Edric House
    Hallfield Estate
    Oldham’s Walk
    Community 4 All – Lydford Hall garden

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “China-Russia Business Meeting Lounge” Opens in Border City of Dandong

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — A launch ceremony for the “Dandong China-Russia Business Meeting Lounge” was held in Dandong, northeast China’s Liaoning Province, on Tuesday, the Penpai news portal reported.

    Located in the Guomenwan border trade zone of Dandong City, the new institution was established by the Dandong Chamber of International Commerce and the relevant chambers of commerce and industry of the Russian Federation.

    According to the announcement, the “China-Russia Business Meeting Room” will regularly host economic and trade talks, cultural exchanges and technical seminars, and organize regular online or offline meetings for high-quality Chinese and Russian enterprises selected according to their current trade needs and committed to economic and trade cooperation.

    After the opening ceremony of the “Living Room”, a presentation of trade projects aimed at Russian partners was held right there.

    As an important gateway for Liaoning Province to open up to the outside world, Dandong City has unique geographical and transportation advantages. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Over 300 people evacuated after landslide on China-Nepal border

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    LHASA, July 9 (Xinhua) — More than 300 people, including Nepalese nationals, affected by a landslide in Gyirong County on the China-Nepal border have been evacuated, the county government of southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region said Wednesday.

    On Tuesday at 05:46, a landslide occurred near the Gyirong checkpoint. As a result of the incident, 11 people on the Chinese side went missing. After receiving the information, local authorities immediately launched a search and rescue operation.

    The evacuees included 90 Nepalese businessmen and workers, 46 residents of Gyirong village, 61 construction workers, 11 traders, two tourists, and border customs and passport control officers. They were all provided with basic necessities and rooms in local hotels.

    Work to eliminate the consequences of the emergency continues. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Financial health notice to improve: South Devon College

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Financial health notice to improve: South Devon College

    A financial health notice to improve issued to South Devon College.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Notice to improve: South Devon College

    PDF, 273 KB, 5 pages

    Details

    This letter and its annex serve as a notice to improve financial health at South Devon College.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 June 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Financial health notice to improve: Newbury College

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Financial health notice to improve: Newbury College

    A financial health notice to improve issued to Newbury College.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Notice to improve: Newbury College

    PDF, 136 KB, 6 pages

    Details

    This letter and its annex serve as a notice to improve financial health at Newbury College.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 June 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Our five principles for SEND reform

    Source: Liberal Democrats UK

    Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey and Education Spokesperson Munira Wilson have written to Keir Starmer setting out five principles for SEND reform, and offering to work on a cross-party basis with the government to ensure the reforms deliver for children with SEND and their families.

    The five principles include maintaining the right to SEND assessments for children, boosting special school capacity, improving early identification and cutting waiting lists. The Liberal Democrats are also calling for more support for local authorities to provide SEND services and better training for school staff.

    The full letter can be found below:  

    Dear Prime Minister,

    We are writing to you regarding the recent reporting on your Government’s forthcoming reform of the special education needs and disabilities (SEND) system.

    Let us be clear: after years of Conservative neglect, the SEND system needs fundamental change. Your commitment to reform is welcome.

    For too long, a broken system has forced children and families to fight long battles to get the support they need. Outcomes for those children haven’t improved while council deficits have ballooned, leaving many on the brink.

    Change is sorely needed. But this reform must be honest, ambitious, and must have children at its heart. It cannot see children’s rights rolled back.

    Many parents are deeply worried that the forthcoming reforms will leave their children worse 

    off, with an erosion of the rights that underpin the support they need. The lack of clarity from your Government is leading to worry and confusion, with constant conflicting reports on what exactly is being considered. SEND families are being deprived of the certainty they need to live their lives.

    Those families have waited too long for a system that works. We need to get this right.

    We are writing to outline five fundamental principles, which we believe should underpin the coming reform.

    Our five principles and priorities for SEND reform are as follows:

    1. Putting children and families first Children’s rights to SEND assessment and support must be maintained and the voices of children and young people with SEND and of their families and carers must be at the centre of the reform process.
    2. Boosting specialist capacity and improving mainstream provision Capacity in state special provision must be increased, alongside improvements to inclusive mainstream provision, with investment in both new school buildings and staff training.
    3. Supporting local government Local authorities must be supported better to fund SEND services, including through:
      1. The extension of the profit cap in children’s social care to private SEND provision, where many of the same private equity backed companies are active, and
      2. National government funding to support any child whose assessed needs exceed a specific cost.
    4. Early identification and shorter waiting lists Early identification and intervention must be improved, with waiting times for diagnosis, support and therapies cut.
    5. Fair funding The SEND funding system must properly incentivise schools both to accept SEND pupils and to train their staff in best practice for integrated teaching and pastoral care.

    We would welcome the chance to discuss these principles and priorities with you further. Together with our Liberal Democrat colleagues, we are eager to work with you on a cross-party basis, to make sure that the forthcoming reforms truly deliver for children with SEND and for their families.  

    Yours sincerely, 

    Ed Davey 
    Munira Wilson

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Double success: the first graduates of SPbPU and Lanzhou University of Economics and Finance received diplomas

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU hosted the first graduation of bachelors of the international educational double degree program with Lanzhou University of Economics and Finance (China).

    The defense of final qualification works in the direction of “Economics” (profile “Finance”) was held in English on the campus of Lanzhou University of Economics and Finance in Gansu Province. Students presented the results of their research on current issues of finance, economic analysis and investment management. The examination committee from SPbPU included the director of the Higher School of Engineering and Economics of IPMEiT Dmitry Rodionov, associate professor of VIES and program director Daria Krasnova, associate professors of VIES Ekaterina Burova and Evgeny Konnikov. The members of the committee highly appreciated the level of preparation of the graduates.

    Joint final assessment is a vivid example of successful academic cooperation. Each defense becomes not just an exam for students, but an important step in strengthening scientific and cultural ties between our countries. We highly value the partnership with our Chinese colleagues and are confident that it will develop, opening up new opportunities for students and teachers, – commented Dmitry Rodionov.

    During the award ceremony for the best graduates, student Zhang Liwen was awarded the badge of excellent student of the 3rd degree. Student Zhang Xinran received gratitude for the responsible performance of the duties of a class monitor during two years of study in St. Petersburg.

    This project confirms that international partnership in education opens up new opportunities for students and teachers. It was very nice to see the guys and take part in the defense of their research achievements. Joint defenses not only strengthen academic ties, but also allow for the exchange of best practices in training future financiers, says Daria Krasnova, head of the international educational program.

    “It is a great honor for me to participate in the joint defense of theses between our universities,” shared student Shan Yuhong. “It was an invaluable experience that allowed me not only to present the results of my research to an international commission, but also to get acquainted with Russian approaches to economics and finance. I would especially like to thank the teachers for their qualified comments and recommendations, which will help me in my future academic and professional activities.”

    A joint educational program with a Chinese university is not only an academic exchange, but also a bridge between cultures. Today’s defenses have shown how effective such a partnership is: students demonstrate unique competencies, and their research opens up new prospects for scientific cooperation. I thank all participants of this project for their contribution to strengthening international ties! – concluded the Director of IPMEiT Vladimir Shchepinin.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Home Affairs to submit ‘Digital ID’ policy to Cabinet for approval

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Home Affairs to submit ‘Digital ID’ policy to Cabinet for approval

    Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber says government is laying the foundation for an ambitious plan to create South Africa’s first ever Digital ID system.

    “Home Affairs will shortly submit a Digital ID policy to Cabinet for approval to conduct public hearings. Beyond the material benefits, such as clamping down on fraud and enhancing inclusion, the Digital ID system will also restore the integrity and pride of our cherished South African identity,” said the Minister.

    He was delivering the department’s Budget Vote in Parliament on Tuesday.

    Schreiber said the department plans to deliver digital versions of enabling documents that can be accessed online and on smart devices.

    “[The] Digital ID will also enable users to remotely authenticate themselves, laying the foundation for a digital revolution not only for government services, but also for critical private sector services like banking, finance and insurance.”

    The Minister said government was committed to the digital transformation of the department – called Home Affairs @ home.

    “We call this vision Home Affairs @ home… Our goal is nothing less than revolutionising the way citizens interact with their government by moving from manual to digital,” said the Minister.

    He said building a new reform model – based on decentralisation, modernisation, digital transformation and remote access – will “restore the hope that South Africa as a whole can work”.

    The constant investments being made in the reform of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority and Government Printing Works, is starting to compound and grow.

    “During the past year, we have delivered nearly 3.6 million Smart IDs – almost half a million more than the previous annual record. We cleared a visa backlog of over 306 000 applications dating back over a decade.

    “We deported over 46 000 illegal immigrants, the highest number in five years and more than countries like France and Germany combined. We used drones and body cameras to increase the number of attempted illegal crossings that were detected and prevented by up to 215%.

    “We empowered naturalised citizens and permanent residents to obtain Smart IDs for the first time, expanding inclusion and making our country less reliant on the green ID book that is 500% more vulnerable to fraud than the Smart ID.

    “If this is just some of what Home Affairs could do in one year. Just imagine what we can do in five,” said Schreiber.

    Now that the department is enabling all qualifying categories of persons to obtain Smart IDs, “the next step will be to dramatically scale up access to this critical and more-secure enabling document”.

    In line with the Medium-Term Development Plan adopted by Cabinet, the department will do so by expanding the successful pilot project that currently delivers Smart ID and passport services in about 30 bank branches across the country.

    “We will use digital transformation to integrate the Home Affairs IT platform onto banks’ networks, thereby enabling many more bank branches to deliver this service around the country.

    “Our target for this financial year is to expand this service to at least 100 more branches.”

    This same technology reform will enable South Africans to order Smart IDs and passports through their banking app, just like they already when buying electricity or data.

    The department will further introduce the option of home delivery for Smart IDs and passports, using advanced facial recognition technology to secure the process.

    “Through scaling up the existing collaboration with banks, we will rapidly accelerate access to Smart IDs with the goal of ending the production of new Green ID books by the end of this year.

    “This will be a momentous step towards delivering dignity for all, while simultaneously clamping down on fraud,” said the Minister.

    He announced that, by the end of this month, Home Affairs will launch new facilities abroad to assist South Africans living and working overseas. These new facilities will ensure a five-week turnaround time for IDs and passports.

    “We are starting in Australia, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates, followed by France, Germany and The Netherlands later this year, and North America in the new year.”

    He said the ultimate aim is to deliver “Home Affairs @ home”, which will enable every South African, no matter where they are in the world, to obtain services from their government online. – SAnews.gov.za

    Janine

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU annual budget: Council agrees its position on the 2026 draft budget

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Today, the Council reached an agreement on its position on the 2026 EU draft budget. In total, the Council’s position for next year’s budget amounts to €186.24 billion in commitments and €186.49 billion in payments, not including appropriations foreseen for special instruments outside the MFF. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – A joint body to coordinate the reconstruction of Ukraine? – E-002036/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Ukraine’s ownership of the reform and reconstruction process is a basis for the Commission’s support. Through the Ukraine Facility[1], the Commission ensures that this process advances Ukraine’s EU accession.

    The Commission’s support for the new public investment management system is essential as it will embed Ukraine’s reconstruction in a framework of strategic planning, transparency accountability, and ensure alignment with pan-European strategies and EU accession requirements.

    The Commission recognises the role of cross-border cooperation for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. It therefore welcomes initiatives for cross-border cooperation to support Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction, including based on existing programmes: long-standing Romanian-Ukrainian cooperation supported by the Commission will soon extend to include Moldova-Ukraine cross-border actions.

    Cross-border initiatives of Chambers of Commerce and business associations can play an important role in reinforcing the Commission’s mobilisation of private sector investments for Ukraine’s reconstruction under the Ukraine Investment Framework — the investment arm of the Ukraine Facility.

    Cross-border partnerships, including of chambers of commerce, are traditional and very effective partners in the EU cooperation programmes.

    Trilateral cooperation can follow best practices in this area to further Ukraine’s reconstruction and help integration into the single market.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/792 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 February 2024 establishing the Ukraine Facility, OJ L, 2024/792, 29.2.2024.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Sales of alcoholic beverages in Sweden on producers’ sites – E-001654/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 5 July 2024, Sweden notified the ‘Draft Act amending the Alcohol Act (2010:1622)’ to the Commission under Directive (EU) 2015/1535[1] under the reference 2024/388/SE[2].

    The Commission issued a request for supplementary information on 2 August 2024 and Sweden answered to the Commission’s request on 16 August 2024.

    Portugal issued a detailed opinion. The Commission did not react on the ‘Draft Act amending the Alcohol Act (2010:1622)’. The final text of the measure at issue has not been notified to the Commission yet.

    According to the case-law, Article 37 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU[3] may be applied in the context of alcohol monopolies by ensuring that monopolies are organised and operated in such a way as to exclude discrimination between nationals of Member States.

    Monopolies must pursue objectives of general interest, such as the protection of public health, without placing goods from other Member States at a disadvantage[4].

    According to the information which has been provided to the Commission, the Swedish legislative proposal does not change the rules on which products are listed by Systembolaget and still requires all operators, together with all interested manufacturers, to meet the criteria applicable to each range.

    The on-site farm sales are intended to be of limited scope and are not meant to constitute ordinary retail sales or an alternative to Systembolaget’s retail trade.

    The Commission exercises discretionary powers in deciding whether reacting under Directive (EU) 2015/1535, based on the potential impact of the measure on the internal market.

    The absence of a reaction from the Commission under Directive (EU) 2015/1535 to a draft technical regulation does not prejudice any decision that might be taken under other EU acts.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2015/1535 of the European Parliament and the Council of 9 September 2015 laying down a procedure for the provision of information in the field of technical regulations and of rules on Information Society services, OJ L 241, 17.9.2015, p. 1.
    • [2] https://technical-regulation-information-system.ec.europa.eu/en/notification/26051.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:12016E037.
    • [4] Case C-198/14, Visnapuu, 12 November 2015, ECLI:EU:C:2015:751, paragraph 95.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission control of Recovery and Resilience Facility funds – E-000746/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 1 January 2021, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) had 343 statutory posts, while on 1 January 2024, it had 313 statutory posts. For 2021, the authorised staff level for the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) amounted to 130 (95 statutory posts and 35 contract agents), while for 2024 it was 289 (232 statutory posts, 28 contract agents and 29 seconded national experts).

    OLAF’s investigative team on the expenditure side remain organised by geographical area and by management mode. OLAF does not have any employees allocated on a full-time basis to monitor Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) expenditure only. The Commission does not have information on the internal organisation of resources in EPPO.

    The RRF control framework includes strict mechanisms to protect the EU’s financial interests, including preventing, detecting and correcting fraud, corruption, and conflict of interest. Member States are primarily responsible for protecting these interests and ensuring compliance with EU and national law. In cases of serious irregularities affecting EU’s financial interests that have not been adequately corrected by the Member State, the Commission can reduce proportionately the support under the RRF and recover any amount due to the EU budget.

    Close cooperation with OLAF and EPPO strengthens further the EU capacity to effectively control RRF expenditure.

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU regulatory environment, artificial intelligence and competitiveness – E-001181/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The 2025 Annual Single Market and Competitiveness Report[1] warns that Europe risks falling behind in the area of innovation. In response, the Commission’s Competitiveness Compass[2] includes targeted actions, such as a new EU Start-up and Scale-up Strategy and a 28th regime to address the obstacles preventing new companies from emerging and scaling up .

    The Single Market Strategy[3] presents an action plan to improve the functioning of the Single Market and promote cross-border provision of services and cross-border movement of goods and to support competitiveness and innovation more broadly.

    The Commission is simplifying EU rules and their implementation to reduce complexity and compliance costs for businesses, including sustainability reporting[4].

    Further measures are planned in the Commission’s 2025 work programme[5]. In addition, the Commission’s goal is to make Europe the ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) Continent’.

    The AI Act[6] ensures market access, legal clarity and stronger consumer trust, while safeguarding EU citizens’ safety and fundamental rights. The AI Continent Action Plan[7], launched on 9 April 2025, will boost the EU’s AI innovation capabilities.

    Evaluations and fitness checks will allow evaluating the potential to simplify, consolidate and codify the EU acquis and find opportunities to cut costs.

    As part of its simplification agenda, the Commission will conduct an ambitious and comprehensive screening of existing EU legislation to stress-test the EU acquis and identify overlaps, contradictions, and obsolete provisions.

    The Commission will also apply the new small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and competitiveness checks with a strong sector focus, and analysis on SMEs impacts.

    • [1] The 2025 Annual Single Market and Competitiveness Report, COM(2025) 26 final.
    • [2] A Competitiveness Compass for the EU, COM(2025) 30 final.
    • [3] The Single Market: our European home market in an uncertain world. A Strategy for making the Single Market simple, seamless and strong, COM(2025) 500 final.
    • [4] Sustainability Omnibus: https://finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/commission-simplifies-rules-sustainability-and-eu-investments-delivering-over-eu6-billion_en.
    • [5] 2025 Commission work programme: https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/strategy-documents/commission-work-programme_en.
    • [6] Artificial Intelligence Act, Regulation (EU) 2024/1689.
    • [7] AI Continent Action Plan, COM(2025) 165 final.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission contradictions over the regulation of corporate sustainability – E-000957/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission agrees on the importance of a thorough assessment of competitiveness in impact assessments. This is why a compulsory competitiveness check is implemented with a stronger focus on sectorial impacts, to better reflect the impacts on sectors, particularly those exposed to international competition.

    New consultation approaches, such as implementation dialogues and reality checks with stakeholders that are impacted by regulatory initiatives are also being implemented to seek their views, including on the best possible ways to shape these initiatives to secure the competitiveness of Europe’s economy.

    They come on top of the Commission’s existing consultation tools, ranked first by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)[1].

    The original legislative measures that the Omnibus package adopted on 26 February 2025[2] aims to simplify were subject to comprehensive impact assessments[3] and preceded by extensive stakeholder consultation.

    However, the multiple and complex crises and events happening in the meanwhile have strong impact on the competitiveness of Europe’s economy. A recalibration is now needed to address areas where EU companies may be at a competitive disadvantage.

    This approach clearly signals that the Commission intends to stay the course on building a greener and fairer society and economy, but to do so in the simplest manner possible and by boosting the competitiveness of our economy at the same time.

    If these first Omnibus proposals are adopted and implemented, conservatively estimated total savings in annual administrative costs of around EUR 6.3 billion can already be achieved[4].

    • [1] See the OECD Regulatory Policy Outlook 2025, https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/oecd-regulatory-policy-outlook-2025_56b60e39-en.html.
    • [2] See https://commission.europa.eu/publications/omnibus-i_en.
    • [3] See https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52018SC0264, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52021SC0150 and https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52021SC0643.
    • [4] See Staff Working Document Accompanying the documents COM(2025) 80 — COM(2025) 81, https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/1da93ca2-7911-4e1f-9ce6-cecd09a85250_en?filename=SWD-Omnibus-80-81_En.pdf.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ensuring proper connectivity between Rudozem, Bulgaria and Xanthi, Greece – E-001694/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is aware of the situation concerning the Rudozem-Xanthi Road section, which forms part of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) comprehensive network and has addressed the situation with Greece. The timely development of this infrastructure is important for improving cross-border connectivity and is relevant in the context of the Schengen Borders Code. The Commission underlines the responsibility of the Member States concerned to ensure that infrastructure projects are delivered in line with their commitments under the TEN-T Regulation[1], which foresees the completion of the comprehensive network by 2050.

    2. Delays in making this cross-border section operational may affect progress towards key policy goals, including the reduction of transport pressure on other corridors and improvements in road safety. While the Commission has not carried out a specific assessment of the economic or social impacts of this particular delay, well-functioning transport links are known to contribute to both regional development and the objectives of the EU’s Vision Zero strategy[2], which aims to eliminate road deaths by 2050.

    3. The Commission encourages the competent national authorities to take the necessary steps to address the outstanding issues and ensure that this section of the TEN-T network becomes fully operational. Continued dialogue and coordination between the Member States concerned remain essential to achieve proper cross-border connectivity in line with the broader objectives of the TEN-T policy.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1679/oj/eng.
    • [2] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/document/download/1c3740d6-a8bf-4be8-b4b2-ad6324299dfe_en?filename=H2020%20Transport-Road%20Safety%202022-web.pdf.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Making airbags mandatory for motorcyclists – E-001560/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to preserving and improving the road safety performance of motorcycles through the enforcement and constant update of the requirements of the motorcycle type approval framework (Regulation (EU) 168/2013)[1] in line with the development of international standards at United Nation’s (UN) level and technological advancements.

    Article 40 of Regulation (EU) 168/2013 allows motorcycle manufacturers to apply for an EU type-approval in respect of a type of vehicle, system, component or separate technical unit that incorporates new technologies that are incompatible with one or more of the legal technical requirements but contribute to the safety performance of the vehicle. This has been recently used by the Commission to approve a motorcycle system with advanced braking and distance control capabilities that are not yet subject to UN Regulations.

    According to our knowledge, the motorcycle airbag is a technology in its early stages of development. The Commission does not yet have sufficient evidence of the road-safety benefits related to this new technology to consider a mandatory requirement.

    The Commission promotes the safety of vulnerable road users, including r iders of powered two-wheelers, through all available means. These include networks of Member State officials and of stakeholders in the sector, EU road safety conferences, twinning programmes between responsible authorities and awards schemes.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/168/2024-11-27.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support measures for the European fertiliser industry – E-001698/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Fertilisers are highly tradeable internationally and the EU is dependent on imports for most of the inputs they require. Exogeneous developments, such as spikes of natural gas prices or tightening of global supply for phosphatic fertilisers, have a strong impact on production costs.

    The Commission is currently undertaking several initiatives to support the European industry, among which the action plan for Affordable Energy[1] that will benefit energy-intensive industries. In addition, the President of the Commission announced a dedicated action plan for the EU chemical industry[2].

    The Common Agricultural Policy[3] supports the improvement of nutrient management, that includes the substitution of mineral with bio-based fertilisers, closing nutrient loops and therefore reducing dependencies. Such actions are planned for 15.5% of EU farming area by 2027[4].

    A Fertiliser Market Observatory[5] was also established to improve market transparency and monitoring. Fertilisers availability and affordability in the EU improved in 2024, driven by increased nitrogen fertilisers production and lower prices.

    The Commission is currently exploring the simplification potential for rules on EU fertilising products[6], including possible disproportionate burden on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

    Furthermore, SMEs can seek financial support from different EU programmes, like the EU Innovation Fund[7] and the European Hydrogen Bank[8].

    • [1] eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0079.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/el/read_25_1198.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013, OJ L435, 6.12.2021.
    • [4] https://agridata.ec.europa.eu/extensions/DashboardCapPlan/result_indicators.html#.
    • [5] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/data-and-analysis/markets/overviews/market-observatories/fertilisers_en.
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2019/ of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 laying down rules on the making available on the market of EU fertilising products and amending Regulations (EC) No 1069/2009 and (EC) No 1107/2009 and repealing Regulation (EC) No 2003/2003, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32019R1009.
    • [7] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-funding-climate-action/innovation-fund/what-innovation-fund_en.
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52023DC0156.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU Response to democratic backsliding and Russification in Georgia: sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili and other responsible actors – P-002424/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In reaction to Georgia’s democratic backsliding, the EU has adopted a number of measures. Political contacts with the authorities have been downgraded and assistance to the authorities has been suspended.

    The EU has stepped up its support to civil society and independent media and additional resources have been made available to counter disinformation[1]. Georgia’s accession process has been effectively halted. The visa-free regime for the Georgian holders of diplomatic and service passports has been suspended[2].

    At the Foreign Affairs Council of 16 December 2024[3], the High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) proposed to impose sanctions on those Georgian citizens responsible for, involved in, or associated with serious human rights violations under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime. While unanimity on sanctions has not been reached yet by Member States in the Council, discussions with Member States continue.

    As announced by the HR/VP at the Foreign Affairs Council of 23 June 2025[4], the situation in Georgia and further concrete EU measures will be discussed at an upcoming Foreign Affairs Council.

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/foreign-affairs-council-press-remarks-high-representative-kaja-kallas-press-conference_en; https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/fac/2024/12/16/.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/01/27/georgia-council-suspends-visa-free-travel-for-diplomats-and-officials/.
    • [3] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/foreign-affairs-council-press-remarks-high-representative-kaja-kallas-press-conference_en.
    • [4] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/foreign-affairs-council-remarks-high-representative-kaja-kallas-press-conference-0_en.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Removing obstacles faced by small and medium-sized enterprises – E-001400/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As acknowledged by the Honourable Member, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the EU economy. There are 26.1 million SMEs in the EU, providing jobs to more than 89.8 million citizens.

    The Commission is paying particular attention to SMEs’ access to EU funding. The scale of SMEs’ involvement can be illustrated by their participation in EU programmes.

    Between 2021 and 2024, Horizon Europe[1] funded around 10 077 SMEs, of which approximately 1 450 (14%) funded under the European Innovation Council[2], with a total of EUR 7.4 billion in grants (of which EUR 3.9 billion for SMEs only).

    InvestEU[3] has supported over 55 000 SMEs in its first two years. The SME Pillar of the Single Market Programme[4] has provided assistance to 292 000 SMEs through the European Enterprise Network[5] alone.

    In the 2023 calls under the European Defence Fund[6] (EDF), SMEs represented around 50% of the total number of entities, requesting approximately 30% of the total grant amount. For the period 2023-2027, the EDF is expected to fund SMEs with up to EUR 840 million.

    The Commission sees SMEs as a priority target of its policies. The recently published Single Market Strategy[7] sets out a number of actions, including to address SMEs’ difficulties in accessing sustainable finance.

    Finally, the recently published EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy[8] contains a comprehensive set of measures to improve framework conditions, including access to finance for startups and scaleups, many of whom are the most promising SMEs.

    Furthermore, the Commission pays particular attention to the specific needs of SMEs with international ambitions and deploys several tools to support them trade internationally, such as the Access2Markets platform[9] or dedicated SME chapters in trade agreements.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32021R0695.
    • [2] https://eic.ec.europa.eu/about-european-innovation-council_en.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02021R0523-20240301&qid=1749143262375.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32021R0690.
    • [5] https://een.ec.europa.eu/.
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02021R0697-20240301.
    • [7] European Commission: The Single Market: our European home market in an uncertain world A Strategy for making the Single Market simple, seamless and strong — 21.5.2025 COM(2025) 500 final.
    • [8] European Commission: The EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy Choose Europe to start and scale — 28.5.2025 COM(2025) 270 final.
    • [9] https://trade.ec.europa.eu/access-to-markets/en/home.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Impact of Israeli colonial exploitation and extractivism on Palestinian agriculture – E-002150/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has been consistently clear in its position that settlements are illegal under international law and has repeatedly condemned Israel’s settlement policy and the occupation of the Palestinian territory that began in 1967.

    EU positions and policies are fully aligned on the United Nations resolutions regarding the status of the o ccupied Palestinian territory (OPT)[1] and are overall consistent with the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of 19 July 2024[2] as regards the duty of non-recognition, the duty to distinguish in the dealings with Israel between its territory and the OP T , and the duty of non-assistance .

    The EU differentiation policy implies that goods, including agricultural products, originating from Israeli settlements in occupied territories since June 1967 do not fall within the scope of the EU-Israel Association Agreement[3] and therefore cannot benefit from trade preferences under the Agreement.

    Moreover, in 2015, the Commission adopted an Interpretative Notice to provide guidance on the labelling of goods, including agricultural products, from Israeli settlements in the OP T and how the existing legislation on labelling should be applied[4]. The approach of the Interpretative Notice was confirmed by a judgment of the Court of Justice of the EU in 2019[5]. Official controls on the labelling of imported goods are primarily the responsibility of Member States, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/625 on official controls on the agri-food chain[6].

    • [1] https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/ltd/n24/266/48/pdf/n2426648.pdf.
    • [2] Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024 , https://www.icj-cij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/186/186-20240719-adv-01-00-en.pdf.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:411c0668-144d-44a1-a5e3-dd2342f7a5b5.0017.02/DOC_1&format=PDF.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52015XC1112(01).
    • [5] Judgment of 12 November 2019, Organisation juive européenne and Vignoble Psagot Ltd v Ministre de l’Économie et des Finances, C 363/18, EU:C:2019:954, https://curia.europa.eu/juris/document/document.jsf;jsessionid=A16C97FD2EEC535918F5478A663AC7D6?text=&docid=220534&pageIndex=0&doclang=en&mode=req&dir=&occ=first&part=1&cid=8005913.
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The scourge of Sargassum – E-002707/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002707/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rody Tolassy (PfE), André Rougé (PfE), France Jamet (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Marie Dauchy (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Virginie Joron (PfE), Angéline Furet (PfE), Mélanie Disdier (PfE)

    A few days ago in Nice, the Commission President unveiled the European ocean pact. In the West Indies, however, our children are still having to breathe in toxic fumes emanating from rotting Sargassum.

    This seaweed scourge has been coming back every season for 14 years now, with devastating effects on people’s health, the environment and the economy.

    This is not only the result of climate change: it is also caused by structural imbalances, including transatlantic currents and eutrophication.

    Faced with this perma-crisis, companies are now coming up with innovative solutions that can be industrialised, such as gathering the seaweed out at sea and turning it into energy or usable materials.

    This positive model could be replicated in other regions affected by the problem in the Caribbean, Africa and the Pacific. It’s time to turn this nuisance into a sustainable resource.

    What strategy is the Commission planning to put in place, in particular via ambitious funding arrangements, to support these initiatives and turn Sargassum into a driver of innovation for the benefit of the overseas territories?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Decline in birth rates and possible link to COVID-19 vaccinations – E-002731/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002731/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    A recently published Czech study has systematically analysed data on birth rates in relation to women’s vaccination status for the first time. According to that study, the results point to a significant decline in live births by vaccinated women since the second half of 2021. Since then, according to the study, the incidence of live births by unvaccinated women has been about 50% higher than by vaccinated women. That cannot be ignored. According to the report, there is also an urgent need for clarification as to the possible effects of COVID-19 vaccines on fertility – among both women and men.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to initiate an independent, EU-wide epidemiological study into the possible correlation between COVID-19 vaccination status and birth rates which would draw on all national birth registers and vaccination data?
    • 2.What does the Commission think of the opinion that women of fertile age in particular are disproportionately affected by vaccination side-effects, and how does it view the accusation that women’s health complaints are being systematically trivialised or are not being taken seriously?
    • 3.Will the Commission also have a scientific study carried out into the possible impairment of male fertility associated with COVID-19 vaccines, especially in the light of growing evidence from clinical practice?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Consequences of the anti-dumping case brought by Imerys S.A. (C/2024/7049) – E-002084/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    For the Commission to impose measures, the investigation assesses if there is dumping which is causing material injury to the EU industry and if imposing measures would be against the EU’s interest.

    As part of the assessment of the EU interest, the Commission considers carefully the interests of all interested parties which includes the users of the product under investigation.

    The objective is to restore a level playing field, not to exclude legitimate competition from the market or to favour individual companies. Investigations are evidence-based and conducted in line with the relevant legislation, ensuring that the instrument is not used to distort competition or facilitate market monopolisation by any individual company.

    In the EU interest assessment, the interests of the stakeholders concerned, including users, importers, and consumers are considered. In this context, representations from companies importing and using fused alumina, such as the abrasives industry, are taken into consideration to decide if any anti-dumping measures are warranted.

    However, the scope of the Commission’s current anti-dumping investigation remains limited to imports of fused alumina originating in China. Imports of downstream products, including abrasives materials, do not fall within that scope.

    An investigation into downstream products from China would require the submission of a substantiated complaint in accordance with Article 5 of Regulation (EU) 2016/1036[1].

    The relocation of companies within the EU does not fall within the scope of the investigation. The EU interest test concerns the overall economic impact of the measures on the EU as a whole, rather than on individual Member States.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/1036/oj/eng.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Public Hearing on Bureaucratic burden reduction in different transport modes – 16-07-2025 – Committee on Transport and Tourism

    Source: European Parliament

    Administrative Burden © Adobe Stock

    The Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) organises a public hearing on ‘Bureaucratic burden reduction in different transport modes’ on Wednesday, 16 July, 2025 from 15.45 to 17.45 in Brussels (room ANTALL 4Q2)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine continues to have a devastating impact on children: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine continues to have a devastating impact on children: UK statement to the OSCE

    Deputy Ambassador James Ford condemns the grave violations Russian armed forces and authorities have committed against children in Ukraine, including through attacks on schools and hospitals.

    Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Mr Chair.  I would also like to thank the speakers for their insights on the important and emotive topic we are dealing with today. 

    The United Kingdom is deeply concerned about the worsening situation for children in conflicts around the world.  More grave violations against children were verified by the UN than ever before in 2024, and instances of rape and other forms of sexual violence against children increased by 35% compared to 2023. 

    Regrettably, Madam Chair, our own region has not been immune from this trend.  Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine continues to have a harrowing effect on Ukraine’s 7.5 million children – on their health, education, family life and prospects for their futures. 

    In 1999, UN Security Council Resolution 1261 defined ‘Six Grave Violations’ most frequently affecting children in times of war. According to the latest UN report on children and armed conflict, there is mounting evidence that Russian authorities and Russian armed forces have committed at least five of these Six Grave Violations in Ukraine.  For consecutive years, the UN Secretary General has reported that under two categories – the killing and maiming of children, and attacks on schools and hospitals – the violations committed by Russian armed forces are prolific enough to warrant formal listing in his annual report.

    A case in point is the attack on the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv.  Yesterday marked one year since a Russian KH-101 cruise missile struck the hospital. It was the biggest children’s medical facility in Ukraine and the country’s primary provider of specialist paediatric care.

    According to UNICEF’s report from November 2024, the war has killed or injured over 2,406 children – an average of sixteen children every week.  The UN verified 222 cases of children being killed or injured in Ukraine between 1 March and 31 May 2025 – three times more children killed than during the previous quarter. In April this year alone, 97 children were killed or maimed. According to UN statistics, that is the highest monthly number of child casualties since June 2022.

    It is not just death or injury that Ukrainian children face on a daily basis.  According to the Government of Ukraine, the Russian authorities and armed forces have deported nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children to Russia and the temporarily occupied territories.  UN reports detail the treatment of Ukrainian children in these territories. Russian authorities have systematically forced the introduction of Russian language curriculum in schools, as well as ‘military-patriotic’ training. They have also forced Ukrainian children to adopt Russian citizenship.  Save the Children estimates that Russian attacks destroyed or damaged 576 education facilities in 2024 – more than double the 256 of the year before.

    UN and Save the Children reports also underline that children fleeing the fighting in Ukraine are at significant risk of family separation, abuse, violence, sexual exploitation, and trafficking.  Countless people will bear the social and psychological trauma for years to come.  

    Moscow continues to try to disguise these crimes through a campaign of denial and disinformation.  But these abuses have all been verified by independent sources, including the UN, ODIHR and reports commissioned under the OSCE’s Moscow Mechanism.

    As we all know, and as the speakers have detailed today, children are uniquely vulnerable and disproportionately affected by conflict.  We welcome the OSCE’s work to hold Russia accountable for its actions and to support Ukraine, including through the SPU, the Support Programme for Ukraine.  And we call on Russia to cease this unprovoked, illegal war and immediately and unconditionally return forcibly deported children to Ukraine. 

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 July 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – BUDG- CONT- Presentation of ECA Review 3/2025: Opportunities for the post-2027 MFF – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    Presentation of ECA Review 3/2025: Opportunities for the post-2027 MFF © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On 15 July the European Court of Auditors (ECA) Review 03/2025: “Opportunities for the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)” will be presented to Members of the Committee on Budgets (BUDG) and of the Committee of Budgetary Control (CONT) by reporting ECA Member Jan Gregor.

    The Commission’s Communication “The road to the next multiannual financial framework (MFF)” outlines the policy challenges and provides guidance for its upcoming MFF proposal, which is expected on 16 July. The Court’s review is structured around the main themes of the Communication and identifies opportunities for the design of the next MFF, based on the Court’s knowledge and audit experience concerning EU budgetary revenue and expenditure. The review aims to contribute to the ongoing debate on the next long-term EU budget.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Serious damage to long-duration pastures in the SPA of Magredi del Cellina in Friuli-Venezia Giulia – E-002701/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002701/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE)

    The special protection area (SPA) of Magredi del Cellina in the Dandolo di Maniago district, is protected under both the EU’s Birds and Habitats Directives and Friuli-Venezia Giulia Regional Law No 9/2015, containing as it does important habitats and protected species of flora and fauna, including nesting bird species.

    The Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region has invested more than EUR 1 million in EU funding and LIFE project[1] resources to improve and conserve the long-duration pastures and habitats in the area.

    At the beginning of June, inspections carried out by environmental associations revealed serious environmental damage to the area’s long-duration pastures caused by heavy wheeled and tracked vehicles, possibly during military exercises.

    The local authorities immediately ordered the necessary investigations to clarify the circumstances and ascertain who was responsible

    Given the foregoing:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the aforementioned events that caused damage to the SPA of Magredi del Cellina?
    • 2.Does it intend to conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain responsibility for any breaches of regulations and damage to the environment and property?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.lifepollinaction.eu/?p=4285.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Local action groups and the rural development programme – E-002733/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002733/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Per Clausen (The Left)

    The aim of local action group funding is to support rural areas. One of its major advantages is that the money is distributed to local action groups that are independent of municipal authorities. This means that villages and projects can receive support even if rural development is not a priority for the local council concerned.

    With that in mind:

    • 1.With a view to fostering a lasting, reinvestment-focused effect for local communities, can the Commission state whether EU rules are preventing rural development support from being provided as loans for beneficiaries who wish to receive funding in that form, so that funds that are repaid can be included in a new round of local distribution and investment?
    • 2.Does the Commission see future opportunities and advantages in stepping up the financing of local action group funding as a tool to bring about sustainable rural development?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – EU’s trade and digital economy – Challenges and opportunities for SMEs – 09-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This research paper examines the evolving landscape of digital trade and its impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the European Union (EU). As digitalisation transforms global commerce, EU SMEs face significant opportunities as well as regulatory and competitive challenges. The study highlights key digital policy approaches, and in that context situates the current EU practice and commitments in international trade agreements affecting cross-border data flows, digital platforms and market access. The research highlights that while digital trade lowers costs and expands opportunities, complex compliance requirements and regulatory fragmenta¬tion hinder SME competitiveness. The study contrasts the EU’s rights-based approach to digital governance with the market-driven framework of the United States and the state-controlled model of China. To enhance SME participation in digital trade, the paper recommends a coordinated whole-of-government approach to digital regulation, stronger EU leadership in global trade negotiations, tailored SME provisions in trade agreements and expanded support for digital innovation and skills.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need to revise the strategy for tackling sheep pox and goat pox in areas of Greece – E-002700/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002700/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

    Sheep pox and goat pox continue to affect Greek livestock farming, with recurrent outbreaks and devastating effects in regions such as Chalkidiki. Despite the strategy implemented by the Greek Ministry of Rural Development, which is based on measures to kill infected animals and establishing protection zones, the diseases continue to spread. There have been recent reports of recurrent cases, which shows that the current approach is not sufficient. The economic losses for farms are enormous, and many are forced to permanently abandon production, while assistance from national or EU support tools is insufficient to cover damages or restock livestock.

    The absence of a prevention strategy and the insistence on measures to suppress the spread of the diseases, without adaptation to local conditions, raises questions about the need to reassess practices and seek alternative science-based response strategies, drawing on technical support from European authorities.

    Can the Commission therefore say:

    • 1.How does it assess the effectiveness of existing strategies intended to address sheep pox and goat pox, especially in areas with recurrent outbreaks?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to assist Greece by providing technical support or guidance on the assessment and adoption of alternative prevention and control methods that respond to the particular geographical and epidemiological circumstances?
    • 3.Is it considering amending or increasing flexibility in the implementing acts of the EU regulation in order to take into account the specificities of local markets?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –