NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Closure of the Monastery of St Catherine in Sinai and violation of religious freedoms by the Egyptian authorities – E-002164/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002164/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    According to recent reports, the Egyptian authorities have obtained a court ruling that provides for the suspension of the operation of the historic Monastery of St Catherine in Sinai, the confiscation of its property and the removal of the monks. The Monastery in question, which was founded in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian, is the oldest functioning Christian monastery in the world and is globally recognised as a place of significant cultural and religious heritage.

    This ruling contradicts the public commitments of the Egyptian President to the Greek Government, while raising serious questions regarding the protection of religious freedom, cultural heritage and the rights of the monks who have resided there for centuries.

    Given the EU’s close relations with Egypt and the fundamental values that the Union upholds:

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to react to this blatant violation of religious freedom and the property rights of the monks of the Monastery of St Catherine?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to raise the issue in EU-Egypt political dialogue and demand the lifting of the restrictive measures on the Monastery?
    • 3.What actions, including financial and/or political sanctions, does the Commission intend to take to protect the Monastery’s cultural heritage and prevent it from being turned into a tourist attraction, against the will of the religious community?

    Submitted: 29.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Challenges and gaps in the Commission proposal for European funding for affordable housing from cohesion policy funds – E-002174/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002174/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    According to a recent opinion from the European Court of Auditors,[1] the Commission proposal in the context of the mid-term review of cohesion policy,[2] which allows for the financing of investments in ‘affordable housing’ through cohesion funds, has gaps and carries the risk that the support will mainly benefit property owners, without hitting its real social target. While recognising the widespread lack of and urgent need to support affordable housing in the Member States, the proposal: a) is not accompanied by any definition of ‘affordable housing’, b) does not clearly define the types of eligible housing or the target social groups, c) is not based on any gap analysis to demonstrate where European intervention is most needed, and d) does not clarify how this expenditure will contribute in practice to improving the functioning of national housing markets.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to propose a clear, commonly accepted definition of ‘affordable housing’ for the purposes of cohesion policy and to specify the types of housing that can be considered eligible for funding, as well as the social groups it seeks to benefit?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to carry out a gap analysis at Union level on affordable housing, in order to guide targeted interventions in the Member States?
    • 3.What measures does the Commission intend to take to ensure that the funds are truly socially targeted and to avoid European support becoming an indirect tool for profiteering?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    • [1] Opinion 02/2025 (pursuant to Article 322, TFEU) concerning the proposal 2025/0084 (COD) for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056 as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the midterm review and the proposal 2025/0085 (COD) for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1057 establishing the European Social Fund + (ESF+) as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges, https://www.eca.europa.eu/el/publications/op-2025-02.
    • [2] A modernised Cohesion Policy: The mid-term review, https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/communication/mid-term-review-2025/communication-mid-term-review-2025_en.pdf.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Harmonisation of post-exposure HIV treatment timeframes – P-002268/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002268/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis (S&D)

    Post-exposure HIV treatment offers a therapeutic option to people who have been exposed to a sexual risk of HIV infection, sometimes as a result of sexual violence or rape.

    Often, people in such situations experience denial and considerable guilt. They do not always find it possible to take post-exposure HIV treatment in countries that have set the maximum post-exposure timeframes for taking this medication at 36 or 48 hours.

    In this context, EU countries offer different timeframes for accessing post-exposure HIV treatment, leading to disparities for their citizens. The maximum required timeframe for EU citizens to benefit from post-exposure treatment can differ from 36 to 72 hours.

    Given that HIV knows no borders and Europeans are increasingly moving throughout the continent, is it possible to promote EU-level harmonisation of the timeframe for accessing post-exposure HIV treatment, with a view to extending it to up to 72 hours after a potential sexual exposure?

    Submitted: 5.6.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening the role of local authorities in addressing the housing crisis in the European Union – E-002175/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002175/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    The housing crisis is affecting more and more regions in the EU, with particular intensity in urban centres, islands and remote areas. Local authorities are on the front line of the crisis, facing diverse and often unique challenges, which require solutions tailored to specific local needs. Their active participation is therefore essential for the development and implementation of national housing strategies and for the effective implementation of EU policies. However, access to European financial instruments for local authorities, especially small municipalities, remains limited.[1] To strengthen their capacity to implement housing programmes, there is a need to create specific European programmes and fast-track funding mechanisms for sustainable social and affordable housing, to allocate part of cohesion policy funds directly to local authorities in a targeted manner and to provide technical assistance to mature housing projects, in particular in municipalities without technical capacity.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to strengthen the institutional participation of local authorities, including island and small municipalities, in the design and implementation of housing policies under cohesion policy after 2027?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to establish specific mechanisms for direct and rapid financing of municipalities for social and affordable housing projects from cohesion policy funds?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to support the creation of public funding intermediaries and the provision of technical assistance for the implementation of housing projects by municipalities with limited technical capacity?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    • [1] The existing European Union financial instruments that can be mobilised to support social and affordable housing initiatives are not sufficiently accessible or adapted to the needs of local and regional authorities. The complexity of application procedures, the lack of technical support and the inadequate direct allocation mechanisms often act as structural barriers for cities and municipalities wishing to access such funds.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – ‘Resilience Tax’ – E-002183/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002183/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Yannis Maniatis (S&D)

    The tourism industry, whose contribution in Greece exceeds 30 % of national GDP, certainly also has negative impacts on local communities, leading to environmental degradation, traffic congestion and a general burden on local infrastructure. To address these negative impacts, many European countries have adopted bespoke local ‘accommodation taxes’ with remunerative features. The aim is to address issues and improve the operation of the tourism sector at the local level (cleanliness, infrastructure maintenance, tourist promotion, etc.).

    Unfortunately, Greece recently renamed the ‘accommodation tax’ the ‘resilience tax’, increased its revenues by up to 700 % and legislated for the management of these hundreds of millions by central government. The revenue is supposed to finance climate change and disaster recovery actions, despite the fact that all such actions are provided for from other sources, such as, for example, the Recovery and Resilience Fund. Thus, local authorities are left to face their daily problems without help and without their own resources.

    In view of this:

    • 1.Is the Greek model compatible with best practices in terms of reciprocity for the financial support of local governments?
    • 2.What European tools can the Government use to finance climate and disaster actions, to take the place of the revenue from the ‘resilience tax’ and leave that with the municipalities?

    Submitted: 1.6.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The need to exclude social and affordable housing investments from Member States’ deficit calculations and review State aid rules – E-002170/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002170/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    The housing crisis in the European Union is getting worse all the time, with house purchase and rental prices skyrocketing,[1] making decent housing unaffordable for more and more households, especially low- and middle-income ones. Housing costs absorb most of citizens’ disposable income, reinforcing social inequalities and widening the exclusion gap. Furthermore, the existing State aid framework and the strict fiscal constraints of the Stability and Growth Pact act as disincentives for critical public investments in social infrastructure, such as affordable and social housing, depriving Member States of the possibility of substantial interventions.[2]

    In practice, the current definition of ‘social housing’ in the 2012 Services of General Economic Interest (SGEI) Decision remains restrictive, creating legal and practical uncertainties in Member States and limiting the effective use of Community financial instruments for affordable housing projects, such as the European Regional Development Fund.[3]

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to propose the immediate exclusion of public investment in sustainable social and affordable housing from the calculation of Member States’ deficits under the Stability Pact and the European Semester?
    • 2.Is the Commission aiming to revise the 2012 SGEI Decision to include a European definition of affordable housing?
    • 3.What initiatives does the Commission intend to put in place to remove existing obstacles preventing public investment in affordable housing[4] through the European Structural Funds and the EIB?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    • [1] Between 2015 and 2023, house prices in the Union increased by an average of 48 %.
    • [2] The strict application of fiscal rules prevents Member States from making long-term, sustainable investments in public, non-profit or cooperative housing.
    • [3] Although social housing is generally recognised as a social service of general interest, many Member States consider the provision of housing to vulnerable citizens to be an economic activity. In these cases, social housing is classified as an SGEI and is subject to EU internal market and competition rules. If a Member State defines social housing in accordance with the 2012 SGEI Decision, it is exempted from the obligation to notify the Commission in advance and is not subject to strict State aid control. This does not apply to affordable housing.
    • [4] E.g. regarding compensation for the provision of services of general economic interest at an annual amount exceeding EUR 15 million.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Joint military exercise between Azerbaijan and IRGC in Nagorno-Karabakh and implications for EU sanctions policy – E-002165/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002165/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    Between 12 and 21 May 2025, Azerbaijani special forces and the ground forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) held a joint military exercise called ‘Aras-2025’ in Nagorno-Karabakh, a region from which the Armenian population was forcibly expelled in September 2023.

    The IRGC is under European Union sanctions due to serious human rights violations as well as its involvement in supporting the Russian Federation in its aggressive war against Ukraine. According to reports, IRGC units entered Azerbaijani territory through the Bileh Savar border crossing.

    This military cooperation between a country designated by the EU as a strategic partner and an organisation subject to sanctions raises serious concerns about the credibility and coherence of the Union’s external activities, including the sanctions regime.

    • 1.How does the High Representative/Vice-President assess the impact of this military cooperation on the effectiveness and credibility of European sanctions policy?
    • 2.Is the European Commission considering a review of the Strategic Partnership with Azerbaijan, including the Memorandum of Understanding in the Field of Energy?

    Submitted: 29.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Management of stray animals in the EU – E-001104/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. In line with international standards[1] and for reasons of subsidiarity, the management of stray dog and cat populations remains under the responsibility of the Member States, including on policies for reproduction control, record keeping and protection.

    The proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the welfare of dogs and cats and their traceability of 2023[2] includes provisions on the management of dogs and cats kept in shelters, which are considered “former” strays[3], and they are registered in a national database in the name of the person responsible of the shelter. The proposal also requires the display of a warning regarding responsible ownership, when advertisements are placed on online platforms. This measure could contribute to decreasing the abandonment of owned dogs and cats, that is a common source of stray animals.

    2. Even though the welfare of stray dogs is not governed at EU level as mentioned in the Commission’s reply to PQ E-001939/2021[4], some concrete actions have been taken. In particular, the Commission remains the main financial donor of Regional Platform on Animal Welfare for Europe of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)[5]. This Platform is a key regional mechanism to facilitate the implementation of the WOAH standards on animal welfare, including on dogs’ population management[6] by the 53 countries of the Regional Commission for Europe. The Commission also prepares the EU position on the WOAH international standard for dog population management.

    • [1] World Organisation for Animal Health, Terrestrial Code, Chapter 7.7. Dog Population Management: ‘Considering that sources and drivers of free-roaming dogs and management goals differ across communities, dog population management should be individually tailored to local and national contexts’ or “these recommendations for dog population management measures are described in detail in Articles 7.7.14. to 7.7.24. and should be implemented in accordance with the national context and local circumstances’.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52023PC0769.
    • [3] There is a typing error in the proposal which reads “formal” instead of “former” stray.
    • [4] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2021-001939-ASW_EN.html.
    • [5] https://rr-europe.woah.org/en/Projects/animal-welfare-platform-europe/about-the-platform/.
    • [6] https://www.oie.int/fileadmin/Home/eng/Health_standards/tahc/current/chapitre_aw_stray_dog.pdf.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Differences between Member States in the treatment of sheep and goat plague – E-001186/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Control measures at EU level for sheep and goat plague, (also known as Peste des petits ruminants — (PPR)), as well as for sheep pox and goat pox (SGP), among many diseases, are laid down in Regulation (EU) 2016/429[1] and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687[2]. Certain measures differ between these diseases.

    Upon occurrence of a disease in an area previously free from it, Regulation (EU) 2016/429 provides for the possibility to adopt temporary national measures, also restricting trade.

    Additional EU emergency measures specific to the disease and the affected Member State have also been adopted[3]. After their adoption, such emergency measures are harmonised in the EU and make the above national measures unnecessary, and restricting trade unjustified. The Commission is closely following this process to ensure proper implementation of EU legislation.

    Those specific EU measures, in response to outbreaks of diseases like PPR and SGP in each Member State, are fine-tuned and tailormade, taking into account various factors.

    The Commission is constantly evaluating them, in cooperation with Member States, to be risk-based, proportionate, and best adapted to the particulars of each epidemiological event, at the time ensuring full compliance with the EU legal framework, while safeguarding both animal health and the internal market .

    To support and ensure a coordinated implementation, the Commission works with Member States via the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed, enables real-time disease reporting through the Animal Disease Information System, performs Commission audits, and deploys Veterinary Emergency Teams[4] where necessary.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/429/oj.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/687/oj.
    • [3] Infection with Peste des petits ruminants virus https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/diseases-and-control-measures/infection-peste-des-petits-ruminants-virus_en; Sheep pox and goat pox https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/diseases-and-control-measures/sheep-pox-and-goat-pox_en.
    • [4] https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-diseases/veterinary-emer gency-team_en.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Impact of national restrictions on strategic autonomy and uranium supply in the EU – E-001097/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    A diversified uranium supply is important for enhancing security of supply in the nuclear sector. As per EU Treaties, the Commission cannot take a position on national policies for the use of their natural uranium resources when compliant with the applicable Euratom legislation[1].

    The global uranium market is diversified, with many suppliers available[2]. However, the EU currently does not mine uranium in its territory. Given the good level of cooperation with our international partners[3] and the characteristics of the global market, we do not consider there is a significant risk as regards the natural uranium supply to the EU.

    In line with the recently adopted Roadmap towards ending Russian energy imports[4] and the REPowerEU plan[5], the Commission is holding regular exchanges with uranium producing countries to secure further alternative sources of uranium. The Euratom Supply Agency has recommended that Member States and market actors should increase indigenous sources of supply.

    The Commission regularly reviews the list of critical raw materials and assesses any potential gaps. The Commission plans to update the list of critical raw materials by 24 May 2027[6].

    The Euratom Supply Agency concludes uranium supply contracts and monitors the nuclear supply market to maintain regular and equitable supply of nuclear materials (ores, source material and special fissile material) for all users in the European Atomic Energy Community[7].

    • [1] Art.2 let. d) and Chapter 6 of the Euratom Treaty.
    • [2] In 2023, the majority of uranium supplies to the EU came from Canada (33%), Russia (23%) and Kazakhstan (21%). Euratom Supply Agency — Annual Report 2023, p.13 (https://euratom-supply.ec.europa.eu/document/download/29018562-122c-4818-8774-2424fc029bf6_en?filename=ESA%20Annual%20Report%202023%20-%20Final%20draft.pdf). Australia and Uzbekistan have also become notable suppliers with 2.55% and 1,9% of import share respectively.
    • [3] e.g. Canada, Australia, and others.
    • [4] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/document/download/d681d15f-ceca-4b20-bcc2-b84334a8fc0e_en?filename=Roadmap%20towards%20ending%20Russian%20energy%20imports.pdf.
    • [5] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions REPowerEU Plan (SWD(2022) 230 final).
    • [6] Art. 4 of the Critical Raw Materials Act. Available at: Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202401252).
    • [7] Ch. 6 of the Euratom Treaty and Council Decision of 12 February 2008 establishing Statutes for the Euratom Supply Agency (2008/114/EC, Euratom).
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Follow-up on the European Council’s call for long-term investment planning on interconnecting the EU energy market – E-001304/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As outlined in the Affordable Energy Action Plan[1], there is a clear and urgent need to develop energy system interconnections to strengthen our Energy Union in order to lower energy costs, enhance competitiveness and ensure an independent and secure energy system.

    Investments in grids and interconnectors will be particularly instrumental. Investing EUR 2 billion per year in cross-border networks provides EUR 5 billion in benefits for citizens yearly.

    The Connecting Europe Facility is the key EU funding instrument for promoting cross-border energy infrastructure, with a financial envelope for the period from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2027 of some EUR 5.8 billion dedicated to energy projects.

    The Competitiveness Compass[2], the Clean Industrial Deal[3] and the Affordable Energy Action Plan recall the importance for the EU to continue providing sufficient funding to support the completion of the Energy Union’s interconnectors and energy infrastructure. Concrete proposals on future financing will be considered in the framework of the next multiannual financial programme.

    As announced in the Clean Industrial Deal, EU funding will provide significant further investments in the infrastructure and connectivity required to complete the Energy Union.

    The Commission will also put forward a European Grid Package to, among others, ensure cross-border integrated planning and delivery of projects, especially on interconnectors.

    At the same time, the Commission recalls that existing infrastructure needs to be used efficiently, notably by fully implementing the target of 70% of available capacity for cross-border exchanges at the interconnectors.

    • [1] Action Plan for Affordable Energy Unlocking the true value of our Energy Union to secure affordable, efficient and clean energy for all Europeans, COM/2025/79 final.
    • [2] A Competitiveness Compass for the EU, COM(2025) 30 final.
    • [3] The Clean Industrial Deal: A joint roadmap for competitiveness and decarbonisation, COM(2025) 85 final.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The explosive state of public health, which rewards private groups – E-001242/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    According to Article 168(7) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union[1], Member States are responsible for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care, including the management thereof and the allocation of the resources assigned to them.

    In 2020, 2022 and 2023, Greece received country-specific recommendations to ensure adequate and equal access to healthcare, notably for primary healthcare.

    They were reflecting, among others, the share of the surveyed population reporting forgone medical needs for financial reasons (9% in 2024)[2].

    The situation is worse for women and for lower income groups. Without prejudice to these national responsibilities, the grant component of the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) includes reforms and investments, with an estimated cost of EUR 1,537 million[3], to improve the resilience, accessibility, and sustainability of the healthcare system.

    The national public health prevention programme in particular aims to improve the quality of life of the population and enhance the resilience of the health system by ultimately reducing behavioural risk factors.

    Additionally, around EUR 280 million (EU allocation) has been allocated under the European Regional Development Fund to co-finance infrastructure and equipment at all levels of care in the Greek national health system[4].

    Moreover, around EUR 250 million are allocated by the European Social Fund Plus towards investments to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of Greek primary healthcare services[5].

    All these financial measures are expected to lead to improved health services in Greece and support the principle of equal access to health services, efficiency and social cohesion.

    • [1] eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT&from=en.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/bookmark/bac814b3-7a51-4326-8709-5d060d9796e9?lang=en.
    • [3] Data retrieved from European Commission’s FENIX database (data current as of 15 April 2025)
    • [4] Data retrieved from European Commission’s Cohesion Open Data Platform, accessible via https://cohesiondata.ec.europa.eu/, data refer to spending categories 128 Health infrastructure, 129 Health equipment, 130 Health mobile assets (data current as of 15 April 2025).
    • [5] Data retrieved from European Commission’s Cohesion Open Data Platform, accessible via https://cohesiondata.ec.europa.eu/, data refer to spending Category c Accessibility, effectiveness & resilience of health systems (data current as of 15 April 2025).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – UN Ocean Conference 2025 – Supporting global action for people and maritime life – 09-06-2025 – Committee on Development

    Source: European Parliament

    DEVE’s First Vice Chair Isabella Lövin will join a group of Members of the Environment and Fisheries committees to attend the 3rd UN Ocean Conference and meet with a wide range of stakeholders. The summit will bring together policy makers and experts from around the world to advance global action on ocean governance and protection of marine ecosystems. The European Commission and European Council Presidents will present the European Ocean Pact and 57 voluntary commitments of the EU.

    Ahead of the mission, Isabella Lövin underlined that oceans are ‘essential for livelihoods, food security, and climate resilience around the world’ and critical for developing countries, including Small Island Developing States. The UN Ocean conference, together with the implementation of the Agreement on the protection of biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ), will be key to ensuring that our oceans, including international waters, are governed sustainably and equitably.’

    Lövin stressed that ‘as the world’s largest donor, the EU has an important role to support partner countries in implementing and ratifying global agreements, identifying critical marine areas for protection, and strengthening biodiversity governance. By strengthening cooperation and commitment, we can safeguard healthy oceans and promote sustainable development for coastal communities in developing countries worldwide.’

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Letter from the minister of foreign affairs of the Netherlands urging for a review of Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement – P-001865/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    At the Foreign Affairs Council meeting of 20 May 2025[1], following the proposal of the Netherlands, and with the support of 17 Member States, the High Representative/Vice-President announced the launch of a review of Israel’s compliance with the provisions of Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

    As regards the extension of the EU-Israel Action Plan, discussions are ongoing in the relevant Council’s preparatory bodies.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/fac/2025/05/20/.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Changes to Commissioner Jørgensen’s mission letter – E-000416/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The communication on the 2040 climate target[1] and its Impact Assessment confirm that all zero and low carbon solutions, including renewables and nuclear, are necessary to decarbonise the energy system by 2040.

    A greater share of renewables in 2040 is thus necessary to meet our climate goals in the most cost-effective way, while enhancing energy independence and affordability.

    During his hearing on 5 November 2024, the Commissioner for Energy and Housing set out his intention to propose a renewable energy target for 2040, which has been reflected in his Mission Letter[2].

    The Commission will then work on this proposal with all the energy stakeholders and in close cooperation with all Member States, in view of supporting investor predictability, innovation and market growth for clean technologies.

    As reaffirmed by the Commissioner for Energy and Housing[3], it is also important to ensure technology-neutrality when decarbonising our economy, in line with the Treaty.

    As announced in the Affordable Energy Action Plan[4], the Commission will assess investment needs in an updated Nuclear Illustrative Programme and the possibility of streamlining permitting and licensing practices for the deployment of new nuclear technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

    The European Industrial Alliance on SMRs was launched to facilitate the deployment of the first SMRs in the EU by early 2030s. The Commission will continue to support the work of the Alliance.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52024DC0063.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/1c203799-0137-482e-bd18-4f6813535986_en?filename=Mission%20letter%20-%20JORGENSEN.pdf.
    • [3] https://hearings.elections.europa.eu/documents/jorgensen/jorgensen_verbatimreporthearing-original.pdf.
    • [4] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/publications/action-plan-affordable-energy-unlocking-true-value-our-energy-union-secure-affordable-efficient-and_en.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Circumscribing Treaty rights of non-national workers to equal treatment over the course of their careers by invoking domestic statute of limitations legislation – E-001324/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has been following the case of former lettori in Italian Universities very closely with the aim that Italy complies with the judgments of the Court of Justice of the European Union in cases C-212/99[1] and C-119/04[2].

    In July 2023, the Commission decided to refer Italy to the Court of Justice of the European Union for maintaining discrimination of foreign lecturers[3]. Case C-519/23[4] is currently pending at the Court of Justice.

    The aim of the infringement procedure is to ensure that Italy puts appropriate measures in place to accommodate the requirements of the Court judgments.

    It is, however, for Italy to decide how to best accommodate the requirements of the Court judgments. Member States have a primary responsibility to monitor the application of the relevant legal provisions and to take the necessary steps for enforcement.

    In October 2024, the Italian authorities indicated to the Commission that the implementation of the procedure laid down in Ministerial Decree No 688/2023 of 24 May 2023 has ensured that former lettori had the right to reconstruct their career, in compliance with the obligations arising from EU and national legislation and the procedure has concluded with the payment of the sums due to former lettori.

    In March 2025, the Italian trade unions provided the Commission with recent information regarding the case, which the Commission has transmitted to the Italian authorities for their reaction.

    The Commission is following the developments of the case.

    • [1] Judgment of the Court of Justice of 26 June 2001, Commission of the European Communities v Italian Republic, Case C-212/99, ECLI:EU:C:2001:357 eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=oj:JOC_2001_227_R_0002_02.
    • [2] Judgment of the Court of Justice of 18 July 2006, Commission of the European Communities v Italian Republic, Case C-119/04, ECLI:EU:C:2006:489 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:62004CJ0119.
    • [3] https://curia.europa.eu/juris/liste.jsf?num=C-519/23.
    • [4] Case C-519/23: Action brought on 10 August 2023, European Commission v Italian Republic, OJ C 338, 25.9.2023, p. 15 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:62023CN0519.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Need for a permanent ceasefire and the escalation of violence in the West Bank – E-000985/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Council in March 2025[1] deplored the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza, and called for an immediate return to the full implementation of the ceasefire-hostage release agreement.

    It stressed the need for a ceasefire leading to the release of all hostages and a permanent end to hostilities. Joint statements by the High Representative/Vice-President, the Commissioner for the Mediterranean and the Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management on the importance of lifting the blockade on humanitarian aid into Gaza were issued on 12 April 2025[2] and 7 May 2025[3].

    The EU has been consistently calling for the immediate resumption of humanitarian aid at scale into Gaza and encouraged all similar appeals.

    The EU remains committed to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution in accordance with the international law and relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions.

    The EU continues its efforts promoting a political process through the Global Alliance for the implementation of the two-state solution. The EU also continues to support the Palestinian Authority[4] to address its most pressing needs, build institutional capacities, and implement its reform agenda.

    At the EU-Palestine High-Level Political Dialogue, which took place on 14 April 2025 in Luxembourg, the Commission proposed a multiannual Comprehensive Support Programme[5] worth up to EUR 1.6 billion, to foster Palestinian recovery and resilience for 2025-2027.

    It is structured around three pillars: 1) Support to services for Palestinian people (EUR 620 million in grants of direct assistance); 2) Support to recovery and stabilisation of the West Bank and in Gaza (EUR 576 million in grants, including EUR 82 million per year for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East); and 3) Support for the private sector (up to EUR 400 million of European Investment Bank in loans).

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/viyhc2m4/20250320-european-council-conclusions-en.pdf.
    • [2] https://north-africa-middle-east-gulf.ec.europa.eu/news/joint-statement-high-representative-kallas-and-commissioners-suica-and-lahbib-humanitarian-situation-2025-04-12_en.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/de/statement_25_1155.
    • [4] This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual positions of the Member States on this issue.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_1055.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Action to facilitate and simplify funding for digital health projects – E-000550/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Special Report by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) on digitalisation of healthcare (25/2024)[1] indicates that the Commission provided effective support to Member States overall.

    The report identified a number of challenges, such as administrative burden, timing issues, insufficient administrative capacity in Member States and the need for national co-financing.

    However, the Special Report confirms that the large majority of Member States made use of the available EU funds to digitise their healthcare systems, and that EU funds for healthcare digitalisation matched Member States’ needs overall.

    The Special Report provided two concrete recommendations to improve reporting on the eGovernment Benchmark and the Digital Decade eHealth indicator, and to improve reporting on the use of EU funds for healthcare digitalisation. The Commission accepted those recommendations based on concrete implementation target dates.

    As noted by the ECA, the Commission provided Member States with guidance on the availability of EU funds for projects in healthcare digitalisation given that it recognises the importance of supporting and guiding Member States in the use of EU funds.

    Therefore, it will continue to share information recurrently on funding opportunities on several programmes with Member States, particularly through the eHealth Network.

    The Commission is committed to exploring further improvements through the corresponding feedback and consultation mechanisms.

    • [1] https://www.eca.europa.eu/ECAPublications/SR-2024-25/SR-2024-25_EN.pdf.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Introduction of a European passport for medical radioisotopes and its incorporation into European e-health records – E-000950/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Council Directive 2013/59/Euratom[1] lays down provisions at EU level for the protection of the public, workers and patients against the dangers of exposure to ionising radiation.

    It requires to give information to patients who have undergone nuclear medicine procedures on the risks of ionising radiation and appropriate instructions aiming to restrict doses to persons in contact with them.

    However, this directive does not include provisions on a European passport for medical radioisotopes. In 2011, the Heads of the European Radiological Protection Competent Authorities (HERCA) network[2] prepared a ‘patient release card’[3], to be used on a voluntary basis, as a standard document in case of transboundary movement of nuclear medicine patients across Member States.

    Electronic Health Records (EHRs) may include information on procedures involving radioisotopes in line with their practices and legal requirements.

    Article 14 of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation[4] defines the priority categories of personal electronic health data in the scope of the European Electronic Health Record Exchange Format (EEHRxF), the rights of natural persons and the certification of EHR systems.

    Information on radioisotopes procedures could be exchanged as part of these priority categories, if relevant for healthcare provision, as they are not meant for non-medical uses.

    The EEHRxF technical specifications will be defined under Article 15 of the EHDS Regulation and be based on input from experts and stakeholders.

    A European medical radioisotope passport is not in the scope of the EHDS, but, under its Article 24, the Commission may support supplementary cross-border digital health services if Member States provide them through MyHealth@EU.

    • [1] Council Directive 2013/59/Euratom of 5 December 2013 laying down basic safety standards for protection against the dangers arising from exposure to ionising radiation, and repealing Directives 89/618/Euratom, 90/641/Euratom, 96/29/Euratom, 97/43/Euratom and 2003/122/Euratom, OJ L 13, 17.1.2014, p. 1.
    • [2] HERCA is a voluntary association of 56 radiation protection authorities from 32 European countries including the 27 EU Member States.. More information at https://www.herca.org.
    • [3] https://www.herca.org/download/4681/?tmstv=1743758182.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2025/327 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 February 2025 on the European Health Data Space and amending Directive 2011/24/EU and Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 OJ L, 2025/327 http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/327/oj.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The 28th legal regime – E-001019/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Competitiveness Compass[1] announced the initiative on the 28th regime as one of the key measures to contribute to EU competitiveness and to make business easier and faster in Europe.

    This initiative will provide a single set of rules for companies. It would include an EU corporate legal framework, based on digital-by-default solutions, and will help companies overcome barriers in setting up, scaling up and operating companies across the Single Market.

    Such a 28th regime would offer companies a choice to carry out their activities across the Single Market through an EU-wide legal status.

    It is to be determined whether the proposal would be adopted as a European legal form or whether a new harmonised national legal form for companies would be more appropriate.

    However, in both cases, these rules would apply in all Member States and company founders would have a choice whether to adopt a legal form under the 28th regime or whether to adopt an existing national legal form.

    This corporate legal framework will be complemented by targeted actions in other policy areas to help innovative companies, start-ups and scale-ups develop in the S ingle Market.

    Whether and what tax law elements could be included remains to be determined. This initiative may be complemented with additional features depending on the outcome of upcoming consultations.

    The public consultation on the 28th regime will be launched before the summer of 2025 and the proposal is planned to be adopted in the first quarter of 2026.

    • [1] COM(2025) 30 final.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spread of sheep pox from the Evros region mainland to Samothrace and lack of preventive measures – E-000428/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Sheep pox and goat pox (SGP ) control measures at EU level are laid down in Regulation (EU) 2016/429[1] and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687[2]. Additional measures for SGP in Greece are laid down in Implementing Decision 2024/2207[3].

    EU measures in response to SGP outbreaks include the killing and disposal of all sheeps and goats in the affected establishments, as well as the establishment of rectricted zones around them, with movement restrictions for animals and products therof.

    The size, the duration and the specific measures of each restricted zone are adapted so that they are proportionate to each epidemiological situation.

    Since the confirmation of SGP in its territory, restricted zones have been established on the island of Samothrace, where exit and entry of sheep and goats are prohibited, to prevent the further spread of the disease to or from the island, to the rest of Greece or to other Member States or third countries.

    The Commission is continuously monitoring the implementation of EU rules through audits and evaluating the control measures, ensuring they are risk-based and proportionate, in cooperation with Member States.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/429/oj.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/687/oj.
    • [3] http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2024/2207/oj.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Balance between renewable energy and territorial sustainability: measures to avoid saturation of large-scale projects in Aragon and encourage self-consumption – E-001027/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Renewable power generation is key to lower energy prices, reinforce EU’s competitiveness and energy autonomy and achieve EU’s decarbonisation objectives.

    Mindful of the importance of balancing energy generation with other public interests, EU legislation has established a comprehensive legal framework to fully explore synergies for land and encourage the multiple use of space.

    Moreover, the EU legislative framework is also supportive of renewables small-scale projects, energy communities and self-consumption, particularly through Article 16d and 21 of the Renewables Energy Directive[1] and Article 15 and 15a of the Electricity Market Directive[2].

    The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive[3] also includes a phased obligation to install solar energy on certain categories of buildings.

    Full implementation of these provisions by Member States is urgent and should be encouraged. Member States may also develop their own initiatives to boost self-consumption, as Spain is doing through various reforms and investments under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan[4], including its REPowerEU chapter.

    Highlighting this complementarity, the EU Solar Energy Strategy recognises that to meet our EU targets we need both rooftop and utility-scale solar.

    It underlines how innovative forms of deployment, such as infrastructure-integrated solar, plug-in mini-solar or agrisolar systems can help mitigate land constraints.

    Some of them also help to promote renewables self-consumption. To complement the strategy, the Commission is also developing recommendations and guidance for Member States in this area.

    • [1] Consolidated text: Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (recast).
    • [2] Consolidated text: Directive (EU) 2019/944 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 on common rules for the internal market for electricity and amending Directive 2012/27/EU (recast).
    • [3] Directive (EU) 2024/1275 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 on the energy performance of buildings (recast) (Text with EEA relevance).
    • [4] Component 7 includes Reform 2 (C7.R2) on National self-consumption strategy, Reform 3 (C7.R3) on Development of energy communities and investment 1 (C7.I1) for the development of innovative renewable energies, integrated into buildings and production processes. Component 8 includes investment 3 (C8.I3) to develop new business models in the energy transition. Component 31 (REPowerEU) includes r Investment 1 (C31.I1) to promote self-consumption (based on renewable energy and behind-the-meter storage) and energy communities.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The fiscal situation in Romania – 10-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This briefing outlines recent and past developments concerning Romania’s fiscal situation and the steps taken under the Excessive Deficit Procedure. On 4 June 2025, the Commission issued a recommendation stating that Romania had failed to take effective corrective action. Should the Council adopt a decision in this regard, the Commission would be obliged to propose the suspension of payments or commitments under the ESI Funds and the RRF. Such a suspension could carry significant economic and social repercussions. Finally, this briefing recounts the situation of Spain and Portugal which also faced a suspension of payments in 2016, and highlights the role of the European Parliament in this process.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – AI Act implementation timeline – 10-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act regulates AI systems according to the risks they pose, and general-purpose AI (GPAI) models according to their capabilities. Published in July 2024, the AI Act should take at least three years to come fully into effect. Guidelines, standards, and codes that complement the act are expected.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – UN Ocean Conference 2025 – Supporting global action for people and maritime life – Committee on Development

    Source: European Parliament

    UN ocean conference 2025.jpeg © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    DEVE’s First Vice Chair Isabella Lövin will join a group of Members of the Environment and Fisheries committees to attend the 3rd UN Ocean Conference and meet with a wide range of stakeholders. The summit will bring together policy makers and experts from around the world to advance global action on ocean governance and protection of marine ecosystems. The European Commission and European Council Presidents will present the European Ocean Pact and 57 voluntary commitments of the EU.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Lack of reliability in olive oil taste classification systems experienced by Spanish producers – E-001575/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2022/2104[1], two organoleptic characteristics and six chemical ones are among the eight parameters used to classify olive oil in different categories.

    All eight parameters are analysed when performing conformity checks, in addition to 27 parameters for olive oil purity, set by the same Regulation.

    The set of characteristics laid down in Regulation (EU) 2022/2104, makes the olive oil standard an exceptionally comprehensive quality standard.

    The Commission considers that the work of tasting panels is harmonised to a great extent. Further harmonisation efforts are under way in the International Olive Council (IOC), of which the EU is a member.

    Panels are applying the same IOC organoleptic testing method and are approved and reviewed by their national authority in accordance with Article 10 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2105 on conformity checks for olive oil marketing standards[2].

    In addition, tasting panels seek and obtain IOC recognition, passing yearly inter-laboratory comparison tests. European panel leaders are part of the EU delegation participating in the IOC organoleptic expert group.

    All IOC recognised panels participate in a yearly IOC harmonisation workshop. As the EU is a member of the IOC, it is bound to apply IOC methods.

    Nevertheless, the Commission is aware that part of the sector is not satisfied with the organoleptic method. Therefore, under the Horizon 2020, the Commission prioritised and financed research and innovation on the assessment of the qualities of olive oil, leading to the OLEUM project.

    The results of the project include a new method determining volatile compounds, which is currently further developed by the IOC.

    • [1] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/2104 of 29 July 2022 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards marketing standards for olive oil, and repealing Commission Regulation (EEC) No 2568/91 and Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 29/2012; ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2022/2104/oj.
    • [2] Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/2105 of 29 July 2022 laying down rules on conformity checks of marketing standards for olive oil and methods of analysis of the characteristics of olive oil; ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2022/2105/2022-11-04.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Training given to the EU diplomatic service by the Muslim Brotherhood network – E-002090/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002090/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Fabrice Leggeri (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), Susanna Ceccardi (PfE), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE), Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE), Marieke Ehlers (PfE), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), András László (PfE), Viktória Ferenc (PfE), Tamás Deutsch (PfE), Kinga Gál (PfE), Enikő Győri (PfE), András Gyürk (PfE), György Hölvényi (PfE), Ernő Schaller-Baross (PfE), Pál Szekeres (PfE), Annamária Vicsek (PfE)

    On 21 May 2025, the French Government published a report entitled ‘The Muslim Brotherhood and Political Islamism in France’. It revealed 70 years of Muslim Brotherhood strategy, including hundreds of shell associations, faith-based schools and Qatari funding in France and Europe. France and the European Union are described as being undermined by these Islamists.

    The report also states that ‘the European External Action Service (EEAS) has received training provided by supporters of the movement, such as Sondos ASEM, former advisor to Mohammed Morsi’, the latter being a former Egyptian president and member of the Muslim Brotherhood.

    While it is well documented that these Islamists wield influence within the European Commission and Parliament, notably through Femyso and ENAR, this shows that Islamists are infiltrating other European institutions. This is all the more serious given that the EEAS is the EU’s diplomatic service.

    Can the head of the EEAS, the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, therefore say:

    • 1.What this training was and how much it cost?
    • 2.Whether she will undertake to ensure that the EEAS no longer has any links with the Muslim Brotherhood and therefore relying on its support for training courses?

    Submitted: 23.5.2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Prinos, Thasos: risks posed by the Carbon Capture and Storage Plan – E-002182/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002182/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    The plan for a permanent CO2 storage project in an underwater area near Prinos, a village on the Greek island of Thasos, raises serious questions with regard to long-term management and responsibility.

    There are environmental and legal concerns, technical and geological questions regarding the safety of storage on the site – which is located less than 10 km away from populated areas – and fierce opposition from local communities in Kavala and Thasos, as well as concerns in relation to Mount Athos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the European

    Natura 2000[1] network. What is more, Greece is one of countries with the most seismic activity in Europe. Finally, unlike the Atlantic OSPAR Convention, which allows, following its amendment, the discharge of pollutants, the Barcelona Convention and the Protocol for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea against Pollution from Land-Based Sources prohibit, save for an express exception[2], the discharge of pollutants into the sea bed.

    In light of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.How does it assess the compatibility of this project with the Barcelona Convention and Directive 2009/31/EC[3]?
    • 2.Has an environmental assessment been carried out at EU or Member State level for the project?
    • 3.How does it ensure long-term monitoring and responsibility for leakages or effects on the marine environment?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    • [1] https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:0c8a35db-fb7d-4af8-b32e-20c47fbc0333
    • [2] https://www.unep.org/unepmap/who-we-are/contracting-parties/barcelona-convention
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32009L0031
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The need for substantial action in the European Union to end homelessness by 2030 – E-002172/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002172/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    Homelessness has been rising steadily in recent years, as a result of the ever-increasing cost of housing, the impact of the economic crisis, the reduction of social protection and the lack of effective policies to address it, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable sections of the population. According to recent data, approximately 1.3 million people in the EU are homeless, including almost 400 000 minors.[1]

    Considering that:

    – access to decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the European Pillar of Social Rights and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU;[2]

    – the 27 Member States committed in 2021, in the Lisbon Declaration, to work towards ending homelessness by 2030;

    – the EU has not yet developed a European strategy to end homelessness by 2030[3]:

    • 1.Will the Commission propose a single European definition of homelessness and develop a European strategy to end homelessness by 2030?
    • 2.Will the Commission propose legislative measures to ensure the right to housing in practice and promote the widespread implementation of ‘Housing-Led’ social inclusion models, providing housing security, such as the ‘Housing First’ model[4] in all Member States?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to propose the creation of a dedicated European Fund to Combat Homelessness, allowing local authorities to manage part of the funds directly, under the next MFF?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    • [1] For more information, see https://www.feantsa.org/en/report/2024/09/19/report-9th-overview-of-housing-exclusion-in-europe-2024.
    • [2] In practice, the right to housing varies considerably between Member States and housing is still treated mainly as a commodity, rather than a social right.
    • [3] The European Parliament has repeatedly called on the Commission in its resolutions to propose a common definition of homelessness in the EU and a European strategy to end homelessness in the EU. See e.g. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2025-0032_EN.html.
    • [4] The European Platform to Combat Homelessness, in the framework of the Lisbon Declaration, promotes the exchange of good practices and support for Member States in implementing the ‘Housing First’ model. The ‘Housing First’ model prioritises the immediate provision of permanent and independent housing to people experiencing homelessness, without conditions.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – On the dangers of Greek ports and EU policy – E-002178/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002178/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

    The state of Greek ports is worrying, with another dangerous incident involving a ship’s cable that broke during boarding at the port of Alonissos.

    This is not an isolated incident. At the end of April, a catapult was repaired at sea by a crew on the Syros-Piraeus route. A deceased dock worker has also been recovered during loading and unloading at the port of Piraeus.

    Port infrastructure is old, incomplete and poorly maintained, and with intensified use and the deteriorating labour rights of seafarers, constitutes an explosive mix for the life and safety of crew and passengers.

    The policy of governments and the EU shields and strengthens the profitability of the shipowners and business groups that control the ports. Notorious ‘competitiveness’, military mobility and poorly maintained, dangerous port infrastructure lead to accidents.

    Meanwhile shipping capital enjoys voluntary taxation and tax exemptions with constitutional protection, as well as recently being awarded a reduction in port fees.

    What is the European Commission’s position on the fact that:

    • 1.on the basis of Regulation 2017/352, unacceptable port services, from infrastructure to staff training, aim to boost the profits of business groups, as demonstrated by the reduction of port fees for shipowners in Greece at the expense of the safety of passengers, crew and port workers?
    • 2.on the basis of the EU’s strategy of promoting so-called ‘military mobility’, workers and passengers in these poor port infrastructures are exposed to additional major risks to their lives, health and safety?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

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