Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Panetta’s Statement on the Release of Cliona Ward

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Santa Cruz, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) issued the following statement on the release of Cliona Ward, a 30-year legal permanent resident of Santa Cruz County who was detained and threatened with deportation back to Ireland under this Administration’s deportation policy: 

    “Cliona Ward’s release demonstrates what can happen when we come together to fight for transparency, due process, and justice. We fought for Cliona from the top down and the bottom up.  I pressured officials from the White House to the Irish government.  We worked with her exceptional legal team from Seattle to Santa Cruz.  And we coordinated with community advocates and her family.  We fought to make sure that all of the facts about Cliona and her case were presented so that the Court could use its full discretion and do the right thing.”

    “But this case also is an example of this Administration doing the wrong thing when it comes to its overreaching deportation policies that can sweep up people like Cliona.  As a former narcotics and gang prosecutor, I understand and appreciate the removal of gang members and violent criminals from our communities.  However, due process and transparency are what allow us to formally separate green card holders like Cliona who have turned around their lives and contribute to our communities.  That is just one of the many reasons why we in California’s 19th Congressional District will continue to stand up, speak up, and step up for people like Cliona, and fight for due process under the laws of our land.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s speech at Fondation de France Asia second edition of signature’s Night for Philanthropy (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Fondation de France Asia second edition of signature’s Night for Philanthropy today (May 7):
     
    Deputy Consul General Hubin (Deputy Consul-General of France, Mr Benjamin Hubin), Mrs Axelle Davezac (Chief Executive Officer of the Fondation de France), Dr Andrew Yuen (Ambassador of the Fondation de France Asia), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good evening. I am most delighted to join you at tonight’s Night for Philanthropy, and my thanks to the Fondation de France Asia (Foundation) for your kind invitation so that I can share the joy and great spirit of this meaningful and exceptional event.
     
         Further to our celebration of the Foundation’s establishment in Hong Kong in July last year, I am sure we are all excited to gather again tonight to rejoice the stronger ties between France and Hong Kong, under the banner of the common good, while enjoying the wonderful arts, culture, food and wine on this beautiful occasion.
     
         Hong Kong itself has a deep tradition of philanthropy. About 10 600 charities in Hong Kong have contributed tremendously towards building and enhancing our social fabric, ranging from our schools, hospitals to elderly homes and welfare facilities. In financial year 2023-2024, approved charitable donations from business donors stood at about HK$4.8 billion; while for individual donors, approved charitable donations amounted to about HK$7.4 billion.
     
         It is our vision to develop Hong Kong into a philanthropic centre for global family offices and philanthropists to deploy charitable capital benefiting Hong Kong, the Mainland and the overseas. This vision is not just aspirational, but is indeed deeply rooted in Hong Kong’s unique strengths: our strategic location and unique proximity to China; robust legal framework and adherence to the rule of law; as well as a vibrant financial ecosystem with a strong banking system, extensive capital markets, and availability of professional services and talents. These altogether help make Hong Kong an ideal platform for philanthropic endeavours. But beyond these tangible assets, I believe Hong Kong’s true potential lies in the people here in the city – your compassion, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to building a better society.
     
         The Foundation, with its dedication to creating tailored projects for donors interested in supporting cross-border philanthropic initiatives, has certainly been a catalyst for positive change in Hong Kong. I am delighted to learn that the Foundation has supported five meaningful projects in the areas of education, heritage and music, four of which will be further explained later this evening. Furthermore, the Foundation has also been a strategic partner in Hong Kong’s philanthropic initiative Impact Link, or iLink in short, which is being championed by the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy.
     
         The iLink is an excellent example of public-private philanthropy partnerships, whereby private foundations as strategic partners are brought together by the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government in pursuit of the common good. It also serves as a platform for nurturing the next generation of philanthropists and fostering meaningful collaborations that drive social change.
     
         With the unfailing support from the Foundation and other strategic partners, capacity-building seminars and workshops under iLink have helped families initiate their first steps towards philanthropy and allowed them to acquire best practices from leading philanthropy organisations. Looking ahead, the iLink’s depository platform will be launched this year, which will provide a dedicated platform for invited family philanthropists to discover scalable initiatives that address critical challenges in Hong Kong and beyond. Strategic partners, family partners and projects nominated, including those nominated by the Foundation, will be displayed on the platform. We would continue to count on the thought leadership of the Foundation in promoting the exceptional qualities of Hong Kong in supporting philanthropic causes.
     
         In closing, may I commend Fondation de France Asia again for your contribution to Hong Kong. I wish the Foundation enormous success in all its endeavours, whether in Hong Kong, Asia or other parts of the world. For everyone here, may I wish you good health and joyful donation. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU and WEF relationship – E-001702/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001702/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    The EU and World Economic Forum (WEF) have been working closely together for years, as the Commission’s website explains. It states that ‘moral and intellectual integrity is at the heart of everything [the WEF] does’.

    Since 2024 at least, the WEF has been heavily criticised. Serious allegations, including of sexism, racism and abuse of power, have been made against the organisation. A case was brought against Klaus Schwab, long-time chairman and founder of the WEF, which, according to the press, was settled out of court, with compensation paid to the complainant.

    On Easter Monday 2025, Schwab then resigned following new, serious allegations also involving members of his family. He is primarily accused of mixing private and business interests, and in particular of misusing WEF funds for personal ends.[1],[2],[3],[4],[5]

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to continue working with the WEF despite the fact that the organisation faces serious, publicly documented allegations?
    • 2.Why has it to date remained silent over the allegations of sexism, racism and financial misconduct made against the WEF?
    • 3.What will it do to ensure that working with the WEF does not further damage its reputation?

    Submitted: 28.4.2025

    • [1] https://knowledge4policy.ec.europa.eu/organisation/wef-world-economic-forum_en
    • [2] https://www.nzz.ch/wirtschaft/das-wall-street-journal-wirft-dem-wef-sexismus-und-rassismus-vor-die-organisation-spricht-von-nachweislich-falschen-behauptungen-ld.1837801)
    • [3] https://www.handelszeitung.ch/politik/klaus-schwab-ich-habe-mit-der-klagerin-nie-etwas-zu-tun-gehabt-756947
    • [4] https://www.handelszeitung.ch/unternehmen/klaus-schwab-klage-wegen-diskriminierung-ist-vom-tisch-805224
    • [5] https://www.blick.ch/wirtschaft/neue-vorwuerfe-wef-leitet-untersuchung-gegen-gruender-klaus-schwab-ein-id20804793.html
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Threat to the EU from the mafia of Türkiye and the Occupied Territories – E-001699/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001699/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    The CHP leader confirmed reports about a corruption scandal in Türkiye and occupied Cyprus, denouncing a bribery case in the Occupied Territories, referring to five lost videos that the Turkish National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) is looking for, and naming the sons of former Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The case relates to Halil Falyalı, a mafia boss in the Occupied Territories, who possessed 45 video recordings for blackmailing politicians and bureaucrats. The CHP claimed that the pseudo-ambassador of the Occupied Territories was connected to organised crime, revealing the existence of ‘missing video recordings’. He also reinforced the allegations, stating that the blackmail network includes top officials in the Turkish Government, with the involvement of Cemil Önal, Falyalı’s former finance director. It is worth noting Sedat Peker’s earlier revelations.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.The Occupied Territories are an ideal base for money laundering, drug trafficking and illegal gambling. Turkish and EU networks operate in the Occupied Territories, making them a crucial link in criminal networks. How does the Commission plan to protect the European market more effectively from the mafia-like den of iniquity, corruption and organised crime of the Occupied Territories?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that there are strategic deficiencies in the Turkish systems for combating money laundering and terrorist financing (AML/CFT), which pose significant threats to the Union’s financial system (‘high-risk third countries’)?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider that there is a need to adopt further measures under Article 9 of Directive (EU) 2015/849?

    Submitted: 29.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Persecutions of Hellenism by Türkiye – E-001700/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001700/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    Over the past 70 years, Greeks have suffered significant persecution by Türkiye, with serious consequences for Hellenism in its ancestral homeland.

    In 1955, the September Pogrom in Constantinople was a tragic climax of tension: Greek property was looted, churches were destroyed and thousands of Greeks were expelled. In 1964, the Turkish Government ordered the expulsion of Greek nationals and the confiscation of their property, further reducing the Greek population of Constantinople. At the same time, the situation on Imbros and Tenedos worsened, as Türkiye violated international agreements and effectively altered the ethnological character of the islands. To this day, the Greeks of Constantinople, Imbros and Tenedos remain very few in number, bearing the scars of displacement and oppression, with over 99 per cent having sought asylum in order to survive outside Türkiye.

    Certainly, the invasion of Cyprus in 1974 brought a new wave of refugees and ethnic cleansing against Hellenism by the Turkish military forces who illegally invaded, occupied and purged the Greeks on over one third of the island.

    Clearly, it is absolutely essential to protect human rights and cultural heritage, especially when it comes to Greek (European) citizens.

    In view of this:

    • 1.How many times and with what demands has the Greek Government raised the issue over the last decade?
    • 2.Consequently, how has the Council raised the issue with the Turkish Government?

    Submitted: 29.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Political pressure put on EMA over vaccine testing – E-001696/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001696/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    The Commission is reported to have deliberately quashed important COVID-19 vaccine safety audits in 2020. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) waived mandatory inspections of test centres, saying it was because of the risk of infection and political pressure. EMA Director Emer Cooke decided to cancel missions to carry out inspections, in particular to AstraZeneca’s test sites in Brazil, for example. The decision, however, was not officially documented. Later it came out that the vaccines had many serious side effects, such as brain thrombosis. Reports of adverse reactions for the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccines were also ignored. Critics complain that the EMA relied to a large extent on manufacturer’s claims when granting authorisation. The agency has to date defended its actions.[1]

    • 1.Why was political pressure put on the EMA to suspend mandatory safety testing when approving vaccines?
    • 2.Who put political pressure on the EMA to suspend suspend mandatory safety testing when approving vaccines, and when?
    • 3.What consequences will ensue following these revelations?

    Submitted: 28.4.2025

    • [1] https://apollo-news.net/eu-kommission-unterdrckte-bewusst-sicherheitsprfungen-von-covid-impfstoffen/
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening EU-UK defence cooperation and implications for national sovereignty – E-001725/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001725/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    British defence companies have been allowed to participate in the EU’s security fund. In view of the fact that no measures have been announced to ensure that the strengthening of this cooperation does not undermine the sovereignty of EU Member States, can the Commission say:

    • 1.On the basis of what criteria has the United Kingdom, which is no longer an EU Member State, been included in strategic European defence schemes, and how does the Commission intend to eliminate any potential risk of critical know-how or security data leaking to non-EU powers?
    • 2.How will it ensure that the involvement of non-EU countries in Common Security and Defence Policy structures does not alter its character as a European, strictly intergovernmental operation?
    • 3.Is there a mechanism to suspend or limit the participation of non-EU countries (such as the UK) should conflicts of interest or breaches of ethical and legal frameworks be identified?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Skin sensitisation tests involving the use of guinea pigs – E-001720/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001720/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Niels Fuglsang (S&D)

    A total of 33 029 skin sensitisation tests were conducted in 2022. The proportion of skin sensitisation tests involving the use of guinea pigs is now at 78 %, despite the availability of a more refined method using mice (local lymph node assay – LLNA)[1].

    Can the Commission explain why such a high proportion of guinea pigs are still being used in testing and what is being done to encourage Member States to use the available non-animal approaches, or at the very least, the LLNA, which is viewed as a refinement?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    • [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16938465/.
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Non-human primates used in experiments and the phasing out of animal testing – E-001722/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001722/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Niels Fuglsang (S&D)

    Non-human primates were involved in a total of 7 658 uses for animal tests in 2022 (up by 9 % since 2021), with France (4 147 uses) and Germany (2 204 uses) being the largest users.

    We note with concern that France, Germany and – for the first time, in 2022 – Denmark are the only Member States that use baboons in experiments. In 2022, France reported 73 uses of baboons (an 83 % increase since 2021) while Germany and Denmark each reported 5 uses. France is also the only Member State that uses vervet monkeys, with 51 uses in 2022 (up by 1 600 % since 2021).[1]

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Could the Commission explain what measures are being taken to encourage Member States to reduce and replace the use of non-human primates for testing?
    • 2.Could the Commission explain why these species of primate continue to be used and what is being done to encourage France, Germany and Denmark to permanently phase out testing using these species?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    • [1] https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/envdataportal/content/alures/section2_number-of-uses.html.
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Samidoun: Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network – E-001728/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001728/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Sophie Wilmès (Renew)

    Samidoun: Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network is linked to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, which is considered to be a terrorist organisation by the EU. Samidoun also has links with terrorist groups such as the Islamic Resistance Movement, also known as Hamas, and actively supports the latter’s actions. As a result, some countries have imposed sanctions on Samidoun. Germany, for example, has prohibited and dismantled the organisation.

    Given this, several MEPs sent a written question (Written Question E-003092/2023/rev.1[1]) to the former Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, in 2023 to find out whether Borrell intended to propose adding Samidoun to the EU’s list of terrorist organisations. He replied that such an inclusion could only be made ‘on the basis of precise information and material in the national file indicating that such a decision is conforming to the requirements of CP 931’ (Council Common Position of 27 December 2001 on the application of specific measures to combat terrorism).

    Therefore, does the Commission intend to propose adding Samidoun to the EU list of terrorist organisations?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2023-003092_EN.html
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Animal welfare standards in EU aquaculture to boost competitiveness and food security – E-001689/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001689/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Niels Fuglsang (S&D), Robert Biedroń (S&D), Thomas Pellerin-Carlin (S&D), Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE), Krzysztof Śmiszek (S&D), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Marianne Vind (S&D), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Maria Noichl (S&D), Isabella Lövin (Verts/ALE), Günther Sidl (S&D), Per Clausen (The Left), Michal Wiezik (Renew), Alice Kuhnke (Verts/ALE), Pär Holmgren (Verts/ALE), Christel Schaldemose (S&D)

    While up to one billion fish are farmed in the EU each year, there are no rules to protect them. This allows unethical practices to persist.

    Yet several opinions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) demonstrate that fish are sentient beings, and nine out of ten EU citizens want better protection for farmed fish. Cost-effective solutions are available, with a recent report by environmental economist Griffin Carpenter showing that implementing stunning in EU aquaculture is economically feasible[1].

    The Commissioners for animal welfare and fisheries have reiterated their commitment to modernising the rules on animal welfare and making aquatic animal welfare a priority of their respective mandates.

    The Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food calls for animal welfare standards to be applied to imports in order to boost food security and competitiveness in the EU.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Will farmed aquatic animals be included in the scope of the upcoming consultations on the animal welfare legislation taking place this year?
    • 2.Will the Commission commit to delivering species-specific welfare provisions for farmed fish and other aquatic animals, as part of the comprehensive modernisation of animal welfare laws on kept animals, slaughter and labelling, based on the upcoming EFSA opinions on farmed finfish and invertebrates?

    Submitted: 28.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/library/stunning-results-eu-aquaculture.
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Cultural and gastronomic identity of the Greek islands – E-001724/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001724/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    The Greek islands’ traditional gastronomy and local products form an invaluable part of Europe’s cultural and dietary heritage. However, for the most part, they are not covered by European protection and promotion mechanisms, such as PDO/PGI indications. As a result, they are threatened by commercial homogenisation and cultural invisibility.

    In light of the above, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.Does it intend to strengthen, through specific programmes or technical support, the recognition of traditional products from the Greek islands (such as cheeses, wines, sweets, herbs) as PDO or PGI products, thereby helping to preserve and strengthen local identity and the economy?
    • 2.Does it intend to finance cultural measures to promote the gastronomy of the islands within the framework of European cultural policy, making use of gastronomy as a tool for sustainable tourism and regional development?
    • 3.Is there a plan to create a single European platform for the promotion of traditional island products and recipes to strengthen the link between cultural heritage and the agri-food chain?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting citizens and democracy against the threat of deepfake and AI-generated content – E-001742/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001742/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    The Danish Government recently announced its intention to ban the distribution of deepfake videos and AI-generated content without the consent of the individuals depicted. The government argues that current legislation is insufficient to protect democracy, public discourse and personal identity from the harmful effects of manipulated content. To address this, Denmark plans to amend its Copyright Act by introducing a new right for individuals over the use of their own body, voice, facial features and image. The proposal would allow for a ban on the distribution of deepfakes and AI-generated material portraying individuals without their consent.

    Given the serious threats that non-consensual deepfake content poses to personal rights, trust in public information and democratic stability across the EU, swift and coordinated action at European level is urgently needed.

    What concrete measures does the Commission intend to take to address the risks posed by deepfake and AI-generated content and to ensure the protection of citizens’ identity and dignity and democratic values across the Union?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Attack on Gaza Freedom Flotilla – E-001794/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001794/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Lynn Boylan (The Left)

    In the early hours of 2 May 2025, the Conscience – a vessel that is part of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla – was attacked by a drone in international waters and sustained significant damage.

    The Gaza Freedom Flotilla is seeking to break the blockade of Gaza, which is now so severe that no humanitarian aid has entered since the ceasefire was broken by Israel in March 2025. EU citizens were present, on board the ship, when it was attacked.

    Thus far, Israeli officials have refused to comment on the attack.

    Will the VP/HR:

    • 1.Demand full transparency and accountability for this attack?
    • 2.Demand an immediate end to Israel’s blockade of Gaza?
    • 3.Ensure that there are diplomatic and political consequences for attacks on any humanitarian workers – including EU citizens?

    Submitted: 2.5.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Pet breeding mills in the EU – E-001711/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001711/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kosma Złotowski (ECR)

    In recent years, the EU has seen a rise in pet breeding mills, which operate illegally or on the fringes of the law. These types of mills not only negatively impact animal welfare, as the animals are often kept in appalling conditions, but also pose a serious risk to public health and the safety of people purchasing these animals. Pet breeding mills circumvent regulations on animal welfare and transport, fail to keep adequate records, do not carry out veterinary examinations and are solely profit-driven, often showing complete disregard for ethical issues. The scale of the phenomenon, the lack of effective legal and institutional mechanisms, and the cross-border nature of the issue mean that action must be taken not only at national level, but also at EU level.

    • 1.What specific steps will the Commission take to draft and implement effective mechanisms for identifying, monitoring and shutting down pet breeding mills operating illegally, and is the Commission considering creating an EU database of breeders alongside a system to assess and verify them?
    • 2.Are there any plans to amend existing EU regulations laying down standards for the breeding of cats and dogs, with a view to making registration requirements stricter, increasing penalties for operating illegal breeding mills and providing more effective monitoring tools?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to take action in the form of information and educational campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of buying animals from illegal sources, including pet breeding mills, and to support the responsible adoption and purchase of animals only from legally operating breeders?

    Submitted: 29.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Skilled labour shortage in the EU – E-001778/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001778/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

    The shortage of skilled labour is becoming one of the biggest constraints to economic growth and technological progress in EU Member States. This problem is exacerbated by an ageing population, the inadequate connection of education systems to the needs of the labour market and the increasing demand for digital and technical skills.

    How does the Commission intend to strengthen its strategy to attract and develop skilled workers, in particular in sectors crucial for the green and digital transition?

    Submitted: 2.5.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Application of the 2020 Drinking Water Directive to football stadiums – E-001762/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001762/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lynn Boylan (The Left)

    Does the Commission consider football stadiums to be public spaces for the purpose of providing water intended for human consumption under Directive (EU) 2020/2184?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – EoV with Maja Pakiz, Vice President of European Society of Gynaecological Oncology – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    On 14 May, Members of the SANT Committee will hold an Exchange of Views with Maja Pakiz, Vice President of the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO).

    ESGO is a European scientific society working to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gynaecological cancers. Through research, education, and quality standards, ESGO aims to reduce inequalities and improve outcomes for women across Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Presentation of ECA Special Report 11/2025:Transparency of EU funding granted to NGOs – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    NGO © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    On 14 May 2025 the ECA Special Report 11/2025 : “Transparency of EU funding granted to NGOs. Despite progress, the overview is still not reliable” will be presented to Members of the Committee of Budgetary Control (CONT) by reporting ECA Member Laima Andrikienė.

    The Court examined the EU Funding granted to NGOs under the EU’s internal policies (such as ESF+ and Erasmus+). It found that the transparency of these funds is not sufficient, due to the absence of a common definition among Commission, Member States and other implementing partners of what a NGO is. Another issue identified by the Court is that information in the financial transparency register is not verified, and therefore of unknown quality. The Court recommends the Commission to correct the issues identified.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – BUDG-CONT-ECON – Presentation of Court of Auditors’ report on EFSI – 13.05 – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    ECA Special report 07/2025 © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On 13 May from 15:00 to 16:30, the BUDG, CONT and ECON committees have invited Mr Lefteris Christoforou, the European Court of Auditors’ Member who led the audit team of its Special report 07/2025 on “The European Fund for Strategic Investments”.

    Launched in 2015 by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) aimed at tackling the investment shortfall within the EU after the financial crisis, by mobilising an additional €500 billion in investments by 2022 through various debt and equity instruments. The initiative was supported by a €26 billion EU budgetary guarantee and €7.5 billion in EIB resources. According to ECA’ special report the programme made significant strides in addressing the investment gap. However, it fell short of its target, with an estimated overstatement of the reported amount of €503 billion by €131 billion (26%). This presentation will provide an opportunity for the ECA to share its findings and discuss them with the BUDG, CONT and ECON Members.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania – RC-B10-0260/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
    replacing the following motions:
    B10‑0260/2025 (Verts/ALE)
    B10‑0261/2025 (S&D)
    B10‑0263/2025 (Renew)
    B10‑0264/2025 (PPE)
    B10‑0265/2025 (ECR)

    Sebastião Bugalho, Reinhold Lopatka, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, Željana Zovko, Michał Szczerba, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Danuše Nerudová, Miriam Lexmann, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Marit Maij
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Assita Kanko, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Alberico Gambino
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Urmas Paet, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Michal Wiezik, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Catarina Vieira
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    Document selected :  

    RC-B10-0260/2025

    Texts tabled :

    RC-B10-0260/2025

    Texts adopted :

    European Parliament resolution on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania

    (2025/2690(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas Tundu Lissu, leader of Chadema, Tanzania’s main opposition party, was arrested on 9 April 2025 in Mbinga, following a peaceful rally advocating electoral reforms;

    B. whereas Lissu narrowly survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and was forced into exile, only to face renewed persecution upon his return to Tanzania;

    C. whereas on 10 April 2025, Lissu was charged with treason, along with three offences of publication of false information under cybercrime laws; whereas treason in Tanzania carries a potential death sentence; whereas the EU is unequivocally opposed to the death penalty under all circumstances;

    D. whereas shortly after Lissu’s arrest, Chadema was disqualified from the October 2025 presidential and parliamentary elections, based on the party’s refusal to sign an electoral code of conduct;

    E. whereas ahead of the November 2024 local elections, Tanzania’s Government impeded opposition meetings, arbitrarily arrested hundreds of opposition supporters, imposed restrictions on social media access and banned independent media; whereas thousands of opposition candidates were disqualified from participating; whereas at least four government critics were forcibly disappeared and one Chadema official was abducted and brutally killed;

    F. whereas Tanzania’s ranking in Freedom House’s freedom report was downgraded in 2025 to ‘not free’;

    1. Condemns the arrest of Lissu and expresses grave concern over the charges against him, which appear to be politically motivated and carry the risk of capital punishment; calls on the Tanzanian Government to immediately and unconditionally release him, ensuring his safety and his right to a fair trial and legal representation;

    2. Urges the Tanzanian authorities to end the escalating crackdown, arbitrary arrests, violence, attacks and harassment against opposition members, human rights defenders, indigenous peoples, LGBTIQ+ activists, journalists and civil society organisations, and to independently investigate police abuses and enforced disappearances, to uphold the rule of law, freedom of expression, press, media and association, and judicial independence, to bring Tanzania’s cybercrime and media laws in line with international human rights law, to respect the rights of political parties and to ensure free and fair elections;

    3. Calls on the Tanzanian authorities to reinstate Chadema’s full participation in the October 2025 elections and to engage with all political parties in transparent and inclusive dialogue on electoral reform, in consultation with civil society groups and other stakeholders;

    4. Calls for the EU and its Member States to critically engage with the Tanzanian authorities regarding Lissu’s case and to closely monitor the trial; urges them to consider appropriate measures if the human rights situation continues to deteriorate; urges Tanzania to abolish the death penalty and commute all death sentences;

    5. Reiterates the need for the EU to ensure that its development cooperation with Tanzania, including the Global Gateway initiative, is consistent with the promotion of human rights, freedom of expression and fair trial standards;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Government and Parliament of Tanzania, the African Union and the VP/HR.​

     

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia – RC-B10-0249/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
    replacing the following motions:
    B10‑0249/2025 (Verts/ALE)
    B10‑0250/2025 (S&D)
    B10‑0252/2025 (Renew)
    B10‑0255/2025 (PPE)
    B10‑0258/2025 (ECR)

    Sebastião Bugalho, Jessika Van Leeuwen, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, Sandra Kalniete, Željana Zovko, Andrzej Halicki, Michał Szczerba, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Dariusz Joński, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Reinhold Lopatka, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Danuše Nerudová, Miriam Lexmann, Ondřej Kolář, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Ewa Kopacz, Matej Tonin, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Thijs Reuten, Evin Incir, Pina Picierno
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Rihards Kols, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Aurelijus Veryga, Reinis Pozņaks, Alexandr Vondra, Maciej Wąsik, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Michał Dworczyk, Assita Kanko, Jaak Madison, Mariusz Kamiński, Roberts Zīle, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Dick Erixon, Sebastian Tynkkynen
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Petras Auštrevičius, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Abir Al‑Sahlani, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Michał Kobosko, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Villy Søvndal
    on behalf of The Left Group
    Hanna Gedin, Jonas Sjöstedt, Merja Kyllönen

    Document selected :  

    RC-B10-0249/2025

    Texts tabled :

    RC-B10-0249/2025

    Texts adopted :

    European Parliament resolution on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia

    (2025/2691(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to its previous resolutions on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,

     having regard to the UN Charter, the European Convention on Human Rights, the Geneva Conventions and their additional protocols, the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), the UN Convention on the rights of the child, and the Genocide Convention (CPPCG),

     having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas since February 2022 around 20 000 Ukrainian children have been forcibly deported to the Russian Federation and Belarus or detained in temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories, with only 1 293 returned and 624 confirmed dead, according to President Zelenskyy’s ‘Bring Kids Back UA’ initiative; whereas according to the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) the real figures are probably much higher, as these transfers and deportations continue;

    B. whereas international law prohibits forcible transfer to an occupied territory or deportation from an occupied territory to the territory of the occupier, which is a war crime under the Rome Statute and may amount to genocide under the CPPCG;

    C. whereas on 17 March 2023 the ICC issued arrest warrants for Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for their responsibility for the war crime of unlawful transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children;

    1. Strongly condemns the violent actions of the Russian Federation and the complicity of Belarus in the mistreatment of Ukrainian children, including murder, forced transfer and deportation, illegal adoption, sexual abuse and exploitation, forced Russification and militarisation; stresses that these acts form part of a genocidal strategy to erase Ukrainian identity;

    2. Urges the EU to hold those responsible to account and to sanction individuals and entities implicated in these crimes;

    3. Demands that these crimes cease immediately and that Russia reports the identities and whereabouts of all deported Ukrainian children and ensures their well-being and safe and unconditional return;

    4. Urges Russian federal and local authorities to grant international organisations, such as the ICRC, OHCHR and UNICEF, access to all deported Ukrainian children;

    5. Denounces the forced imposition of Russian citizenship on deported children and their state-sponsored adoption by Russian families as part of a deliberate policy of forced assimilation;

    6. Calls for the EU to closely cooperate with and support Ukrainian authorities, international and non-governmental organisations in their efforts to document all missing and deported Ukrainian children; urges the international community, including the United States, to maintain HRL’s funding and the EU to ensure its continuation;

    7. Emphasises that any genuine peace deal must include the repatriation of these children and accountability for forcible transfers and deportations;

    8. Urges the international community to hold Russia accountable by reinforcing coordination through the ICC, the ICJ, and the Special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine;

    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the VP/HR, the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Council of Europe, the OSCE, the President, Government and parliament of Ukraine, and to the United States, Russia and Belarus.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Disappearance of migrant children in the EU – 07-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Between 2021 and 2023, at least 51 433 unaccompanied minors were reported as missing across Europe, averaging nearly 47 children a day. Over 18 000 migrant and refugee children were reported as missing across Europe between 2018 and 2020. It is feared that many of these children may have been exploited and abused for sexual or labour purposes. The European Parliament has repeatedly stressed the need to address this issue.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Territorial supply constraints: An unaddressed barrier to single market integration – 07-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Territorial supply constraints (TSCs) still constitute a barrier to the single market. TSCs are restrictions on the supply of goods that are linked to the territories in which sales are made at different levels in the supply chain. A study delivered for the European Commission in 2020 estimated that eliminating TSCs could lead to consumer savings of around €14 billion. In the absence of specific rules, this problem has been tackled at EU level by competition law, but with only partial success. Competition law is constrained by certain parameters, notably the requirement for agreements to exist between contracting parties or for one of the parties involved to have a dominant position on the market, which means that it is not suitable to tackle all instances of TSCs. The same phenomenon has been visible in the past in similar policy areas. For example, unfair trading practices in the food sector were also addressed, with partial success, by competition law, before specific legislation was adopted. To meet recent calls for action on TSCs, the same progression – from partial regulation through competition law to full internal market legislation – may be required.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on violations of religious freedom in Tibet – RC-B10-0248/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
    replacing the following motions:
    B10‑0248/2025 (Verts/ALE)
    B10‑0251/2025 (S&D)
    B10‑0254/2025 (Renew)
    B10‑0256/2025 (PPE)
    B10‑0259/2025 (ECR)

    Sebastião Bugalho, Danuše Nerudová, Michael Gahler, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Reinhold Lopatka, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Miriam Lexmann, Ondřej Kolář, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Hannes Heide
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Assita Kanko, Maciej Wąsik, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Alexandr Vondra, Mariusz Kamiński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Carlo Fidanza
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Engin Eroglu, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Ľubica Karvašová, Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Ville Niinistö
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    European Parliament resolution on violations of religious freedom in Tibet

    (2025/2692(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to its previous resolutions on Tibet and China,

     having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, the Chinese authorities have become increasingly oppressive; whereas the human rights situation in Tibet continues to deteriorate; whereas respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law should be at the centre of the EU’s relations with China;

    B. whereas Tulku Hungkar Dorje, a respected Tibetan Buddhist religious leader and humanitarian figure, died on 28 March 2025 under suspicious circumstances while in custody in Vietnam, following his arrest by Vietnamese and Chinese authorities; whereas his body was reportedly cremated without the consent of his family, raising serious concerns;

    C. whereas Tibetan Buddhists, who are systemically targeted by Chinese authorities and face forced disappearances and physical abuse, represent the largest religious group among political prisoners in China;

    D. whereas credible reports identify extensive pressure from Chinese authorities on Rinpoches to align with the Chinese Communist Party’s narrative, including forced interrogations and attempts to enforce support for the Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama;

    1. Strongly condemns the repressive assimilation policies throughout PRC and their violations of universal human rights, especially in Tibet, which seek to eliminate distinct Tibetan religious and cultural traditions and heritage; calls for a clear separation between State and religion in China;

    2. Firmly opposes any attempt by the Chinese Government to interfere in the selection of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leaders, including the Dalai Lama;

    3. Expresses its deep concern and sorrow over the suspicious death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje and extends its sincere condolences to his family, monastery and followers;

    4. Strongly condemns the continued persecution of Tibetan religious and cultural leaders and the practice of transnational repression by Chinese authorities, including the cultural and linguistic assimilation of children in state-run residential schools, reflecting a broader policy of forced assimilation; calls for the suspension of extradition treaties with the PRC;

    5. Calls for an immediate, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into his death, with international oversight and access to evidence and witnesses, and the immediate return of his remains;

    6. Demands that those responsible for wrongdoing be held accountable under international human rights standards and law; demands that the EU impose sanctions on officials and entities responsible for human rights violations in Tibet;

    7. Urges the PRC to uphold its obligations under international law and cease all discrimination against religious and ethnic minorities, allow peaceful religious practice, and release all religious and political prisoners, including the rightful Panchen Lama and Ilham Tohti;

    8. Urges the EU and Member States to raise this case in bilateral and multilateral dialogues with PRC and Vietnam, and demand accountability for human rights violations in Tibet; insists on also raising the repression of other religious minorities such as the Uyghurs in Xinjiang;

    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the EUSR, the governments of PRC and Vietnam, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Central Tibetan Administration.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The EU’s digital transformation programmes and the European funds that have been disbursed to achieve it – E-001032/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Digital Europe Programme (DEP), the first programme entirely dedicated to the deployment of digital infrastructures and an important enabler of the European digital transition, has an overall budget of EUR 8.1 billion for funding activities in six areas: supercomputing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced digital skills, ensuring the wide use of digital technologies across the economy and society and semiconductors.

    Due to the 50% funding rate of the programme, the same amount is being invested by Member States and beneficiaries from the programme.

    2024 saw the signature of the 500th grant under DEP. This milestone represents an overall investment of EUR 3.3 billion, with EUR 1.9 billion contributed from the DEP budget. Over EUR 1 billion has been invested in over 140 procurements and in contribution agreements.

    Through InvestEU, EUR 83.63 million have been committed to support strategic digital technologies and EUR 67 million for investments in semiconductor technologies that are expected to mobilise EUR 2.1 billion.

    The implementation of DEP is on track to achieve its objectives. A number of big initiatives have been launched: deployment of world-class supercomputers and artificial intelligence factories, launch of leading semiconductor pilot lines, European Digital Identity ( eID) pilot projects, The European Quantum Communication Infrastructure Initiative (EuroQCI), security operation centres, Destination Earth, the European Virtual Human Twins Initiative, and the network of Digital Innovation Hubs in all Member States.

    These flagship initiatives for the EU are now well recognised by the Member States and stakeholders alike, paving the way for European digital transition.

    Detailed data on the implementation of DEP, including financial data, can be found in the DIGITAL dashboard[1].

    • [1] https://dashboard.tech.ec.europa.eu/qs_digit_dashboard_mt/public/extensions/CNECT_DIGITAL_dashboard/CNECT_DIGITAL_dashboard.html

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Possible violation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union by the Italian Highway Code – E-000726/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, non-discrimination is a core principle. However, for the Charter to be applicable, the measure in question must involve the implementation of EU law[1].

    In general, traffic rules remain primarily a matter of national competence, and the situation described involves a national rule, specifically Article 122(2) of the current Italian Highway Code[2].

    Accompanied driving schemes usually involve drivers below the standard minimum age for a certain driving licence category who are accompanied by an experienced driver.

    Article 4(6)(d) of Directive 2006/126/EC[3] grants Member States the discretion to lower the minimum age for certain driving privileges, however without requiring an accompanied driving scheme.

    As there are currently no EU rules on accompanied driving schemes, the national rule in question does not implement EU law and hence the Charter does not apply.

    It is the responsibility of national authorities and courts to ensure that national measures adhere to fundamental rights, potentially under Italian law or the Italian Constitution.

    That said, things will change in the future. During the recent negotiations on the upcoming fourth Driving Licence Directive, the co-legislators endorsed the Commission’s proposal to mandate an EU-wide accompanied driving scheme for Category B.

    However, they chose not to extend this obligation to Category C, leaving the implementation of the scheme optional for both Categories C and C1.

    The planned introduction of accompanied driving is expected to promote greater harmonisation across Member States in the future.

    • [1] Art. 51 (1) of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
    • [2] Law Decree 121/2021, as amended by Law 177/2024.
    • [3] OJ L 403, 30.12.2006, p. 18.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Israeli settlement products: alignment of EU policies with UN resolution – P-001801/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001801/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE)

    On 15 January 2025, in a written response, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič stated that the ‘EU positions and policies are fully aligned’ with the UN General Assembly resolution of 13 September 2024[1].

    However, this resolution, recalling the conclusions of the 19 July 2024 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), calls on all states ‘to take steps towards ceasing the importation of any products originating in the Israeli settlements’.

    • 1.In light of the UN resolution and the ICJ advisory opinion, does the Commission consider that the EU’s differentiation policy – which merely renders Israeli settlement products ineligible for trade preferences under the EU-Israel Association Agreement – is aligned with paragraph 5(b) of said resolution and paragraph 278 of the aforementioned advisory opinion? And if so, on what basis?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider that Member States are violating international law by continuing to allow the trade of Israeli settlement products within the EU market?
    • 3.How does the Commission plan to move forward with the ban on Israeli settlement products?

    Submitted: 5.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002150-ASW_EN.html
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU Cohesion Policy – P-001314/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. As underlined in the recent Commission’s communication on ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[1] (MFF), it is imperative that the next EU budget plays a central role in promoting the EU’s sustainable prosperity and bolstering economic, social and territorial cohesion.

    2. In line with the political guidelines of the President of the Commission[2] and the above-mentioned communication, the future EU budget will include a strengthened cohesion and growth policy with regions at the centre. At the core of the modernised EU budget should be a plan for each country with key reforms and investments, and focusing on joint priorities, including promoting economic, social and territorial cohesion, which will be designed and implemented in partnership with national, regional and local authorities. Delivering on EU priorities must be done together — with Member States and their regions shaping many of the EU investments on the ground, and the EU budget supporting and incentivising their action. Cohesion policy will continue to support all regions, with particular attention to the less developed ones.

    3. The Commission is currently engaging with the EU institutions, including the European Parliament, Member States and stakeholders to help prepare the proposal for the next MFF, which it intends to present in July 2025.

    • [1]  https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/6d47acb4-9206-4d0f-8f9b-3b10cad7b1ed_en?filename=Communication%20on%20the%20road%20to%20the%20next%20MFF_en.pdf
    • [2]  https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Bureaucratic barriers and delays in the development of energy communities in Italy – E-001222/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Directive (EU) 2018/2001[1] (RED II) and Directive (EU) 2024/1711[2] amending Directive (EU) 2019/944 as regards improving the Union’s electricity market design create a comprehensive legal framework for renewables self-consumption, energy sharing and energy communities.

    Member States had until 30 June 2021 to transpose RED II into their national legislations. The deadline to transpose the relevant provisions on energy sharing of Directive (EU) 2024/1711, which give final customers engaged in energy sharing the right to have the shared electricity deducted from their total consumption to reduce the customer’s bill, is 17 July 2026.

    The infringement proceeding against Italy for partial transposition of RED II (INFR(2021)0266) w as closed in February 2025[3]. The conformity of the transposition will be investigated in a second phase.

    In addition, Directive (EU) 2023/2413 amending RED II[4] introduced shorter deadlines for the permit-granting procedure of renewable energy projects, which do also apply to renewables self-consumers and renewable energy communities. Member States had until 1 July 2024 to transpose these rules.

    The Commission is currently checking whether the provisions of the directive have been fully transposed and has opened infringement proceedings against a number of Member States, including Italy[5], for failing to transpose into national law the EU permit-granting procedures rules from the directive (EU) 2023/2413. The conformity of the transposition will be investigated in a second phase.

    The Commission is working with Member States through e.g. the Concerted Action on the RED to ensure that the provisions are completely and correctly transposed and facilitate self-consumption and renewable energy communities.

    • [1] 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, OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82-209.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2024/1711 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 amending Directives (EU) 2018/2001 and (EU) 2019/944 as regards improving the Union’s electricity market design, OJ L, 2024/1711, 26.6.2024.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?lang_code=en&langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byDecision&refId=INFR(2021)0266
    • [4] Directive (EU) 2023/2413 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 October 2023 amending Directive (EU) 2018/2001, Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 and Directive 98/70/EC as regards the promotion of energy from renewable sources, and repealing Council Directive (EU) 2015/652 (OJ L, 2023/24, 31.10.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2023/2413/oj).
    • [5] INFR(2024)0232), September infringement package (https://energy.ec.europa.eu/news/september-infringement-package-key-decisions-energy-2024-09-26_en) and February infringement package (https://energy.ec.europa.eu/news/february-infringement-package-key-decisions-energy-2025-02-12_en).
    Last updated: 7 May 2025

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