NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring the sustainability of small-scale coastal fishing in the South-Eastern Mediterranean – E-001507/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001507/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left), Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

    Small-scale coastal fishing makes up the core of fishing activity in the South-Eastern Mediterranean and Greece and makes a definitive contribution to the local economy, food self-sufficiency, social cohesion, environmental protection and sustainable tourism. However, local fishers are increasingly facing problems of survival, exacerbated by the implementation of European regulations designed primarily to meet the needs of the industrial fleet in the North of the EU.

    Certain provisions of Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008, Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, Regulation (EU) No 404/2011 and Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 on the control and oversight of fishing impose a framework that does not take into account the specific characteristics of Greek coastal fishing: a) climate change, which is leading to a significant reduction in the catch available, b) the spread of invasive alien species attacking catches, which disrupts the ecological balance, c) the increase in the cost of fuel and materials required for daily activity, d) the use of small traditional boats without advanced technological means and energy-intensive engines, e) the frequent lack of intermediary traders, f) the low technological training of fishers and the inability to comply with digital requirements.

    In view of this:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to safeguard the viability of small-scale coastal fishing in the South-Eastern Mediterranean by introducing an income restoration system (zero deficit clause) for fishers who have suffered a significant reduction in catches?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering adapting the regulatory framework to incorporate the potential and specificities of small traditional fishing fleets in southern Europe?

    Submitted: 11.4.2025

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Water Sector Fund doubles in size with support from the Netherlands

    Source: European Investment Bank

    The European Investment Bank (EIB)’s Water Sector Fund has received a significant boost from the Dutch government with a €31 million contribution, doubling the fund’s size. This substantial commitment, provided through the Dutch state-owned development financier Invest International, will bolster the EIB’s capacity to provide technical and financial support for high-impact water investments in low and lower-middle-income countries.

    The new funding will be specifically used to enhance water security in Jordan through the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance project.

    The Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Zeina Toukan, commended the Dutch government, Invest International, and EIB’s Water Sector Fund for their support of this critical project as part of the Team Europe initiative on Green Economy. “This project will provide an important source of water and contribute to enhancing economic development in Jordan.”

    “We are proud to partner with the EIB in supporting the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance project through the Water Sector Fund. This investment is vital for enhancing water security in Jordan and addressing water challenges, which have been exacerbated by regional conflicts and climate change. The investment demonstrates our commitment to addressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration,” said Ms. Petra Vernooij Invest International’s Director for Public Infrastructure.

    “This significant contribution from the Netherlands underscores our shared commitment to ensuring access to safe and sustainable water resources,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti. “The Water Sector Fund plays a crucial role in mobilising finance for essential projects, and this new funding will allow us to expand our impact in Jordan.”

    The Water Sector Fund, established by the EIB and the Dutch government, targets projects in regions where public authorities have limited resources to develop adequate water infrastructure. The fund’s technical assistance and advisory services support institutional skill development, project preparation, and innovative solutions, investment grants help to decrease the total funding needs for the promoter at given investment project costs. The Water Sector Fund provides financial instruments to leverage private and public investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene projects and is open to further contributions from donors seeking to promote a greater impact in this sector.

    This new €31 million contribution represents the fourth agreement between the EIB and the Netherlands to support the Water Sector Fund.

    The contribution is earmarked for the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance project, Jordan’s largest water generation scheme. This project aims to address the country’s dire water scarcity by generating 300 million cubic meters of potable water per year. The project includes the development of seawater abstraction, desalination, and water conveyance infrastructure. The fund’s contribution will be disbursed as an investment grant, blended with a sovereign loan already agreed with the EIB and project financing expected to be finalised later this year.

    The Ministry for Planning and International Cooperation of Jordan and Dutch government announced the grant support for the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project during a signature event in Amman. The funds will be channelled through the EIB’s Water Sector Fund.

    “Making additional, non-ground water available through desalination is crucial for water security,’ said Harry Verweij, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Jordan. ‘The Netherlands is proud to partner with the EIB and Jordan in the Aqaba Amman Water Desalination and Conveyor Project. This will secure future supplies of drinking water, including for vulnerable communities, and support economic growth in the country.”

    The EIB is one of the world’s largest lenders to the water sector, providing over €33 billion for water investment over the last decade. The Water Sector Fund’s innovative financial structure has helped to mobilize additional funding from other investors to share risks and accelerate project development.

    In 2023, the fund supported its first private equity fund, the Water Access Acceleration Fund. The fund is currently active in sub-Saharan Africa, with projects in developing countries around the globe also eligible.

    The EIB is expected to sign a grant agreement with the Jordanian government for this project in the coming weeks.

    Background information

    About EIB Global

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm dedicated to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance.  EIB Global is designed to foster strong, focused partnership within Team Europe, alongside fellow development finance institutions, and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices across the world. 

    About the Water Sector Fund

    The Water Sector Fund was developed by the EIB and the Dutch government to support water projects in low and lower-middle income countries in support of the UN’s 6th Sustainable Development Goal “Clean Water and Sanitation”. The fund provides technical assistance, advisory services, and financial instruments.

    .willis@eib.org”>r.willis@eib.org, tel.: +352 43 79 82155 / Mobile:  +352 621 55 57 58
    Website: www.eib.org/press – Press Office: press@eib.org

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inconsistencies in published occupational-accident statistics – P-000848/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    There are two sets of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators: those of the United Nations[1] (UN) and those of the EU. Both aim to measure progress towards achieving the SDGs, but differ in scope, focus, and application. Thus, the EU SDG indicator list[2] is tailored and coordinated but not fully aligned with the global indicator list.

    The UN SDG indicators are entirely managed by the UN, either countries produce the indicators and report directly to UN, i.e. not through the Commission, or the UN or its agencies (such as FAO) produce the data without intervention of the countries. In no case the Commission verifies those SDG data sent to the UN or produced by the UN.

    However, if the countries send the same data both to the Commission and UN, the Commission verifies the data received. This happens e.g. if there are EU regulations requiring the EU Member States to report such data to the statistical office of the EU (Eurostat).

    The European Statistics on Accidents at Work (ESAW)[3] data come from administrative sources. Eurostat receives ESAW data from national authorities based on the employers’ declarations of accidents at work.

    As specified in the European reference metadata[4], a significant issue for the accuracy of ESAW is assumed to be the under-reporting of accidents[5].

    The incidence of fatal accidents at work is considered more accurate for cross-country comparisons than the non-fatal accident rate and hence used in the EU SDG indicator list.

    Data on accidents at work are produced using a common methodology[6]. Eurostat and Member States are working to address comparability issues in Commission expert groups.

    The Commission has no influence on national data submitted to international organisations such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the UN.

    • [1] https://unstats.un.org/sdgs
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/sdi/overview
    • [3] Based on https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2011/349/oj/eng
    • [4] Further detailed in the reference metadata of the dataset https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/cache/metadata/en/hsw_acc_work_esms.htm
    • [5] It is possible that certain accidents that should have been reported were in fact not, e.g. if enterprises or workers are not aware of the obligation/possibility to notify or if they are afraid of the consequences of notification such as possible state investigations and requirements to invest in health and safety.
    • [6] European Statistics on Accidents at Work (ESAW) — Summary methodology — 2013 edition — Products Manuals and Guidelines — Eurostat: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/en/web/products-manuals-and-guidelines/-/ks-ra-12-102

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Meetings between Ursula von der Leyen and Friedrich Merz – E-002878/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission publishes information on meetings held by President von der Leyen with, among others, political leaders on the President’s online public calendar[1] or through other channels of communication including press releases and social media.

    In addition, the Commission publishes information on all meetings held by Members of the College and their Cabinets with interest representatives in accordance with Commission Decision (EU) 2024/3081[2].

    Meetings with representatives of political parties as well as meetings of a purely private or social character are not covered by publication rules set out in the said Decision.

    • [1] Calendar items of the President and Commissioners — European Commission https://commission.europa.eu/about/organisation/college-commissioners/calendar-items-president-and-commissioners_en?f%5B0%5D=commissioner_dynamic_commissioner_dynamic%3Ahttp%3A//publications.europa.eu/resource/authority/political-leader/COM_00006A0440FF
    • [2] Commission Decision (EU) 2024/3081 of 4 December 2024 on transparency measures concerning meetings held between Members of the Commission and interest representatives, and repealing Decision 2014/839/EU, Euratom (OJ L, 2024/3081, 5.12.2024).
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Definition and declaration of an international health emergency – E-001491/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001491/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    The Heritage Foundation’s ‘Project 2025’ analyses the disastrous COVID-19 policies of the WHO and governments worldwide and formulates the goal of ensuring a sensible preparation for the next health emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how disastrous the misguided and centralised COVID-19 policies were. Fundamental human rights, freedom of medical choice and the doctor-patient relationship were trampled underfoot in defiance of the facts. The number of deaths not attributable to COVID-19 rose sharply – and remains vastly higher than before. The public health system has lost the trust of the population.

    Before the next international health emergency, the health system needs to be fundamentally restructured to ensure a transparent, science-based and efficient response. Each of the excessive and factually unfounded measures taken during the pandemic – from lockdowns and school closures to mask mandates and vaccination requirements – was justified by the supposed ‘health emergency’ that had been declared. Significantly, however, no threshold has ever been defined to determine when a health emergency exists.

    • 1.What definition of ‘health emergency’ is used in the EU and internationally, and what criteria must definitely be met for it to be declared?
    • 2.Can the EU declare an international health emergency on its own, without the WHO, or is that something only the WHO can do?
    • 3.What does the Commission consider to be the prerequisites for a health emergency to be declared in the EU?

    Submitted: 10.4.2025

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The need for urgent EU action to counter foreign corrupt practices – E-001505/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001505/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Mariusz Kamiński (ECR)

    Two years ago, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative and Commission representatives presented an anti-corruption package[1]. At that time, the Commission tabled a proposal for an anti-corruption directive, which is currently going through the legislative procedure[2]. Since then, no concrete action has been taken on the matter by the Council and the Vice-President / High Representative.

    In the meantime, Parliament last week adopted important reports containing the anti-corruption provisions which I proposed: report on human rights in the world[3], CSDP[4] and report on the CFSP[5]. In the last case, my amendment introduced a comprehensive and specific provision on the risks posed by corruption in the EU’s external relations, with cross-party support from almost the entire European Parliament, as confirmed by the roll-call votes[6].

    The recent corruption scandals in Brussels, relating to Chinese and Qatari companies, only confirm that large state-backed corporations do not shy away from the use of corruption to influence EU policies and win key contracts. At the same time, work is ongoing in Washington on new guidelines and a revision of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)[7]. All of this requires a firm EU response.

    • 1.What action has the VP/HR taken to persuade the Council to implement the solutions presented two years ago, including the establishment of an EU sanctions regime for corruption offences?
    • 2.What action does the VP/HR intend to take in response to the European Parliament’s call in these reports?
    • 3.What concrete steps is the VP/HR taking to counter foreign corrupt practices, and in the VP/HR’s view, should the EU draw up its own version of a FCPA?

    Submitted: 11.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/anti-corruption-package-press-remarks-high-representativevice-president-josep-borrell-press_en
    • [2] The document refers, in a very limited way, to foreign corruption – mainly in Article 20 on jurisdiction.
    • [3] Paragraph 22, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2025-0059_EN.html.
    • [4] Paragraph 128, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2025-0058_EN.html.
    • [5] Paragraph 96, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2025-0057_EN.html.
    • [6] Result of the roll-call vote on amendment 7 on page 304-305, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/PV-10-2025-04-02-RCV_EN.pdf.
    • [7] https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/foreign-corrupt-practices-act
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Member States’ potential vineyard output – E-001015/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In accordance with Article 65 of the common market Organisation (CMO) Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013[1], when deciding on the area to be made available for new vine plantings each year, the competent authorities of Member States applying the vine planting authorisation scheme shall take into consideration recommendations presented by producer organisations, their associations or interbranch organisations, recognised and operating in the wine sector, by interested groups of producers managing a protected designation of origin (PDO) or a protected geographical indication (PGI), or by other types of professional organisations recognised on the basis of the Member State’s legislation, provided that those recommendations are preceded by an agreement entered into by the relevant representative parties in the reference geographical area.

    However, these recommendations are not binding, and the competent authorities may also consider other factors they deem relevant for their decision to apply the percentage laid down in Article 63(1) of the CMO to authorisations for new plantings or, in accordance with Article 63(2) of the CMO, to apply at national level a lower percentage or to limit the issuing of authorisations at regional level for specific areas.

    In accordance with Article 63(3) of the CMO Regulation, Member States must justify their decision to set national or regional limits on the need to avoid a well-demonstrated risk of oversupply, on the need to avoid a well-demonstrated risk of devaluation of a PDO or a PGI, or on the wish to contribute to the development of the products in question while preserving its quality.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 922/72, (EEC) No 234/79, (EC) No 1037/2001 and (EC) No 1234/2007; OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 671-854.
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Pope Francis, Mother Earth Day & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (22 April 2025)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Pope Francis
    Mother Earth Day
    Senior Personnel Appointment
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Haiti
    Colombia
    Bolivia
    Ukraine
    Good Defeats Evil

    POPE
    The Secretary-General intends to travel to Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis. When we have more details we will share them.

    MOTHER EARTH DAY
    Today is International Mother Earth Day. In his message, the Secretary-General said Mother Earth is running a fever with last year being the hottest ever on record.
    We know what’s causing this sickness, he said, referring to the greenhouse gas emissions humanity is pumping into the atmosphere, but we also know the cure. All countries must create new climate action plans that align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius – it is essential to avoid the worst of climate catastrophe, he said.
    And as a reminder, tomorrow the Secretary-General, together with President Lula of Brazil, will convene a group of Heads of State and Government for a virtual closed-door meeting to discuss strengthening global efforts to tackle the climate crisis and accelerate a just energy transition. The Secretary-General is expected to deliver some remarks on climate to you at the Security Council stakeout after the meeting. We’ll share more details as we have them.
    And what better way to celebrate Mother Earth Day than with a fashion show. We are unveiling a new tour guide uniform collection this evening at 6:15 p.m. during a fashion show in the Sputnik area of the Visitor’s Lobby. This is a collaboration between the Government of Sweden, the UN Office for Partnerships, the UN Department of Global Communications, and students from the Swedish School of Textiles at the University of Borås. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainable lifestyle, fashion and innovation. Designed with natural fibers, renewable materials, and low-impact production methods, the uniforms embody a fusion of creativity, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility. We look forward to seeing our tour guides in their new uniforms, they have the toughest job in the building.

    SENIOR PERSONNEL APPOINTMENT
    The Secretary-General is appointing of Ian Martin of the United Kingdom as Head of the Strategic Assessment, as part of his UN80 initiative, of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, that you all know as UNRWA.
    The Secretary-General is tasking Mr. Martin with conducting the Strategic Assessment in order to review UNRWA’s impact; implementation of its mandate under present political, financial, security and other constraints; and, consequences and risks for Palestine Refugees.
    As you all know, Ian Martin has had a distinguished service within the United Nations. He was involved in a number of strategic reviews, most recently as the Lead of the Independent Strategic Review of the UN Mission in Somalia and before then as a member of the
    High-Level Independent Panel on Peace Operations. We will share that announcement with you.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Meanwhile on the ground in Gaza, the situation continues to worsen. Our humanitarian colleagues report that hostilities across the Gaza Strip are continuing, with a devastating toll on civilians and critical infrastructure. Earlier today, local authorities reported attacks by Israeli forces that struck several heavy machinery vehicles across Gaza, halting solid waste and rubble removal services.
    Despite the ongoing hostilities and despite the fact that aid has not come in for more than 50 days, we and our partners are doing what we can to support people throughout the Strip. In Gaza City yesterday, the acting Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Suzanna Tkalec, led a mission to Al Shifa Hospital, where she and partners viewed work underway to install a desalination plant to serve dialysis patients at the facility.
    Our partners also report that several people suffering from severe acute malnutrition have been admitted to hospitals for treatment this week, with cases on the rise.
    Despite extremely low supplies, some 180 community kitchens in Gaza continue to operate every day. However, many of these kitchens are at imminent risk of shutting down since stocks are being depleted. Because of lack of cooking gas, families are resorting to burning plastic to cook their meals.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=22%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=el5ekOhkhYk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Delay in the absorption of CAP funds by Greece – E-000954/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 27 February 2025[1] Greece submitted the Annual Performance Report[2] covering the expenditure for claim year 2023. The Commission has reviewed the data provided and has communicated its assessment to the Greek authorities on 8 April 2025.

    Overall, the absorption of second pillar funds under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in all member states is just picking up the speed, after the reformed CAP was launched in 2023. For Direct Payment though, the absorption of funds for claim year 2023, paid in 2024, is of 95%.

    Funds for technical assistance are available within the CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) and may be used to finance a broad range of activities.

    Since the start of 2024, the Commission, together with the Member State experts and sector stakeholders, has been analysing the possibilities to further simplify and streamline implementation of the reformed CAP.

    The first round of simplifications was done in early 2024 and the second one is expected in the second quarter of 2025. However, it is also a responsibility of a Member State to remove bureaucratic obstacles when it comes to interaction with the final beneficiaries.

    The CAP is implemented under shared management. Member States have an obligation to protect Union funds from irregularities and fraud.

    The Commission conducts risk-based audits to check if the CAP governance systems put in place by the Member State function properly to ensure the legality and regularity of the CAP expenditure.

    If deficiencies are established, the Commission imposes net financial corrections (recovered to the EU budget)[3]. Moreover, in the case of Greece, the Minister for rural development and food placed the paying agency under probation on 12 September 2024 upon request from the Commission.

    • [1] https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/9i-grapti-diadikasia-epitropis-parakolouthisis-ss-kap/
    • [2] As required by Article 134 of Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 435, 6.12.2021, pp. 1-186).
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/system/files/2020-10/agri_sp_2020_2024_en.pdf — Strategic Plan 2020-2024 Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, page 30-32.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – New EU bulk order for 146 million doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine – E-000608/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The list of participating countries is available in the contract award notice that was published on 24 January 2025[1]. The framework contract was signed by the Commission on behalf of the participating countries.

    2. As the Commission pointed out in its reply to Written Question P-000356/2024[2], the framework contract signed with Moderna in January 2025 is fully flexible and does not bind the contracting authorities to make any purchase. Indeed, the volume of 146 million doses is the maximum ceiling that contracting authorities could purchase if they would have a need during the whole duration of the framework contract. In order to establish the ceiling, the Commission has consulted the contracting authorities prior to launching the call for tender and asked them about their estimated possible needs in case of crisis.

    3. The Spikevax (Moderna COVID-19 vaccine) received a marketing authorisation based on a thorough review by the European Medicine Agency (EMA), of clinical evidence confirming a favourable benefit-risk profile[3]. The vaccine was initially assessed in around 30 000 adults and over 3 000 children[4]. Adapted versions targeting emerging variants, like JN.1, are also approved based on data showing their ability to induce an immune response that can predict clinical efficacy and safety[5]. EMA monitors EudraVigilance data[6] from millions of vaccinated people, reviewing safety information from clinical studies, medical literature and periodic safety update reports to identify and investigate safety signals.

    • [1] https://ted.europa.eu/en/notice/-/detail/51540-2025
    • [2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-9-2024-000356-ASW_EN.html
    • [3] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/assessment-report/spikevax-previously-covid-19-vaccine-moderna-epar-public-assessment-report_en.pdf
    • [4] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/spikevax
    • [5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39591137/
    • [6] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory/research-development/pharmacovigilance/eudravigilance
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Fake recycling model – E-002724/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Article 14 of the Waste Framework Directive[1] establishes that the costs of waste management must be borne by the original waste producer or by the waste holders.

    The directive also indicates that Member States have the possibility of using economic instruments that cover the actual costs of waste management.

    It is good practice to link these economic instruments to the actual amount of waste generated, as indicated in Annex IV to the directive. However, the Commission has no direct control on how the collected fees and funds in the field of waste management are spent.

    The costs of waste management for the citizens can be reduced by reducing waste volumes and replacing single use items with reusables.

    Along this line, the impact assessment for the recently adopted new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation[2], which contains concrete measures for waste reduction and more sustainable packaging waste management, quantified savings of EUR 100 per citizen and year.

    • [1] Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives, OJ L 312, 22.11.2008, p. 3-30, as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/851 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May, OJ L 150, 14.6.2018, p. 109-140.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC, OJ L, 2025/40, 22.1.2025.
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Future of wine exports – new target markets and trade agreements by 2050 – E-000974/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Diversifying export destinations reduces market risks. Emerging markets in Africa, Latin America and Asia offer growth opportunities.

    After a quick growth, uncertainty prevails on Asian markets. Africa and Latin America, representing only 2.9% of imports, show a significant potential linked to projected consumption and demographic growth[1].

    The High-Level Group on Wine Policy (HLG)[2] recommends maintaining an ambitious export strategy, expanding market access, addressing trade barriers, protecting wine products from unrelated trade disputes and encouraging innovation and adaptation to changing market and consumer trends.

    The Mercosur Agreement is expected to facilitate the entry of European wine in South American countries, in particular on the growing Brazilian market.

    The Indian market has a great potential, and a Free Trade Agreement is being negotiated to tackle barriers. The EU is also negotiating trade agreements with Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines to improve market access for EU wines. The EU only has unilateral arrangements[3] with the African countries mentioned in the question.

    Promotion measures[4] covering EU wine geographical indications and wines with indication of wine grape variety can already target the above-mentioned prospective export markets.

    The work programme for 2025[5] allocates EUR 132 million to co-fund promotion activities, of which EUR 63.4 million are earmarked for non-EU countries.

    A map displaying past and ongoing campaigns is available online[6]. The recently published Commission legislative proposal[7] to support the wine sector includes an amendment to increase the duration of support for promotion operations under wine sectorial interventions to allow for better market consolidation.

    • [1] Prospects of the EU Wine Sector (https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/document/download/83588b14-0c75-43a4-b8ab-c5718bee6b01_en?filename=future-prospects-of-the-eu-wine-sector-june-2024.pdf).
    • [2] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/media/news/high-level-group-wine-outlines-policy-recommendations-future-eu-wine-sector-2024-12-17_en
    • [3] Generalised Scheme of Preferences or Everything but Arms.
    • [4]  Regulation (EU) No 1144/2014, OJ L 317, 4.11.2014, p. 56-70.
    • [5] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy/market-measures/promotion-eu-farm-products_en#_blank
    • [6] https://enjoy-its-from-europe.campaign.europa.eu/en#_blank
    • [7] COM/2025/137 final.
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Outbreak of a mysterious infectious disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – E-002832/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have been monitoring the disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) via epidemic intelligence and regular contacts with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the African CDC (Af-CDC).

    The Health Security Committee held an ad-hoc meeting on the topic on 12 December 2024[1]. The WHO Regional Office for Africa provided an overview of the epidemiological situation and informed on mortality, severity, and etiological agents. The ECDC explained that the risk posed to EU/European Economic Area countries is low.

    On 27 December 2024, the WHO informed that the undiagnosed disease reported in the DRC’s Kwango province is due to the combination of malaria and common respiratory infections in groups facing food insecurity[2].

    The Af-CDC receives support via the EU4Health and the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument — Global Europe (NDICI-GE)[3] Programmes to strengthen its prevention, preparedness and response capacities (PPRC) for emerging epidemics.

    The Commission works to strengthen third countries’ health systems, including in the DRC, to support their PPRC through Global, regional and bilateral programmes[4].

    The Commission acts against serious cross-border threats to health (SCBTH) with a variety of tools and mechanisms defined in Regulations 851/2004[5], 2022/2371[6] and 2022/2372[7] and Decision No 1313/2013/EU[8].

    It is developing a Union PPR plan to promote a coordinated response to SCBTH. It will consider provisions on joint arrangements for governance, capacities and resources, and cross-border interregional preparedness elements[9].

    • [1] https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/5c977252-7aa8-4219-a57b-b853bb2531d1_en?filename=security_20241212_sr_en.pdf
    • [2] As published in WHO’s Disease Outbreak News Item https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2024-DON547
    • [3] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/funding-technical-assistance/neighbourhood-development-and-international-cooperation-instrument-global-europe-ndici-global-europe_en
    • [4] E.g.: the Pandemic Fund, Global Fund, Gavi Alliance, etc.
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02004R0851-20221226
    • [6] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2371/oj
    • [7] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L:2022:314:FULL&from=EN
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02013D1313-20231218
    • [9] As included in Regulation (EU) 2022/2371 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 November 2022 on serious cross-border threats to health and repealing Decision No 1082/2013/EU http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2371/oj
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Greek farmers’ economic collapse and upcoming protests – E-000784/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) supports interventions that help farmers to implement actions to prevent crisis situations and build on medium and long-term resilience.

    For mitigating short-term impacts, the available tools include direct payments, aiming to stabilise farmers’ incomes, risk management tools, and compensation aid to farmers affected by adverse events.

    When needed, the Commission can adopt exceptional support measures, as it was the case in 2022 when input costs increased strongly. In addition, the Commission presented the action plan for Affordable Energy[1] to help reducing energy costs for industry and households and building a genuine Energy Union.

    The CAP is implemented in shared management with the national authorities. Member States have an obligation to protect Union funds from irregularities and fraud, and the Commission is committed to ensuring that these funds are spent appropriately and reach the rightful beneficiaries.

    Furthermore, Member States are also bound by the obligation of disbursing the payments in full and for the measures under the Integrated administration and control system at the latest by June 30 of the year following the claim.

    The Commission conducts risk-based audits to check whether the CAP governance systems put in place by the Member State function properly to ensure the legality and regularity of the CAP expenditure. Such audits were conducted in Greece in 2024, and the Member State was notified of the results.

    • [1] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/strategy/affordable-energy_en
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Police infiltration in social movements in Spain, and its impact on fundamental rights – E-000232/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As set out in its reply to written questions E-000297/2023 and E-001749/2024, internal security matters, including actions by national authorities for the purpose of maintaining law and order and safeguarding internal security, remain the responsibility of the Member State concerned.

    Consequently, policing matters, such as the one referred to by the Honourable Member, fall within the remit of the national authorities.

    In cases falling outside the scope of EU law, it is for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national legislation and international human rights obligations.

    As regards the Law on Official Secrets, in its 2024 Rule of Law Report the Commission recommended Spain to advance with strengthening access to information, in particular via revision of the Law on Official Secrets, taking into account European standards on access to official documents.

    The Commission is engaging with Spain on the follow-up given to the report and in the context of the upcoming 2025 edition.

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Working conditions of artists and workers in the cultural and creative sectors and industries – E-000809/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Improving artists’ working conditions remains a priority for the Commission. It is explicitly mentioned in the mission letter to the Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport and will be addressed in the EU strategic framework for culture, the ‘Culture Compass’. The Commission is regularly in touch with stakeholders, notably with relevant social partners via the EU sectoral social dialogues.

    The Commission is following up on the actions set out in its reply[1] to the European Parliament. It analysed regulatory gaps with social partners’ involvement, organised mutual learning activities on social protection, gathered further evidence[2] on undeclared work and further improved the EU-funded online information resource[3] on artists’ working conditions. The Commission will organise a high-level round table with relevant stakeholders to determine the scope for further EU action.

    The Commission supports Member States in the implementation of the 2019 Council recommendation on access to social protection[4].

    It also covers artists and workers in the cultural and creative sectors and monitors the implementation of EU labour law directives[5] setting minimum standards to protect the working conditions of workers in employment relationships, including intermittent workers[6].

    • [1] Commission reply to the European Parliament’s legislative initiative report of 21 February 2024 on an EU framework for the social and professional situation of artists and workers in the cultural and creative sectors.
    • [2] https://www.ela.europa.eu/en/news/creative-sectors-ela-study-reveals-precarious-working-conditions-and-undeclared-labour
    • [3] https://creativesunite.eu/work-condition
    • [4] Council Recommendation on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/GA/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32019H1115(01)
    • [5] https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/rights-work/labour-law_en
    • [6] See in particular Council Directive 1999/70/EC of 28 June 1999 concerning the framework agreement on fixed-term work: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1999/70/oj/eng
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Human rights impact assessment in the context of the EU-Tunisia Memorandum of Understanding – E-002329/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission took note of the European Ombudsman’s decision to close its own-initiative inquiry and replied to its suggestions for improvements on 18 February 2025.

    The Commission ensures that the EU-funded projects are carefully monitored. This is done through several means, including regular reports from implementing partners, on-the-spot verifications, results-oriented monitoring exercises, and thorough external mid-term and/or final evaluations.

    The Commission is developing further practical tools in close cooperation with EU Delegations to enhance internal procedures in this area and strengthen the implementation of the human rights-based approach in all its interventions.

    Some key evaluations are published. For instance, all strategic evaluations on financial instruments are published[1] and in 2022, the EU Delegation in Tunis also published the evaluation of 10 years of cooperation with Tunisia.

    A website[2] established by the Commission provides access to information on the Commission’s support to partner countries in the area of migration and forced displacement.

    The respect of human rights is considered all along a project’s life from programming to final evaluation and risks-mitigating measures are applied. Implementing partners of EU-funded programmes are bound to ensure the respect and protection of human rights.

    Contractual provisions entitle the Commission to suspend or terminate any contract if it has evidence that, or needs to verify whether, the partner has breached any of its obligations.

    The Commission can also suspend any agreement with a partner country in case it breaches its obligations related to respect for human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law.

    • [1] For instance here is the link for the evaluation of Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument for 2024: https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/2ffe013e-6287-4a09-8b18-e5f426dab2b5_en?filename=european%20unions%20external%20financing%20instruments%202014-2020-MN0924364ENN%20%281%29.pdf
    • [2] https://north-africa-middle-east-gulf.ec.europa.eu/what-we-do/eu-support-partner-countries-migration-and-forced-displacement_en
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Return of Greek antiquities to Greek museums – The case of ‘Las Incantadas’ – E-000440/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission attributes great importance to the preservation of cultural heritage in the EU.

    In accordance with Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Commission encourages and promotes cooperation among Member States with a view to conserving and safeguarding cultural heritage.

    The returns mechanisms under the directive  2014/60/EU[1] are not applicable for cultural objects unlawfully removed before 1 January 1993, namely those removed during the 19th century, as in the situation described by the Honourable Member.

    While this directive has no retroactive effect, Member States may apply on a voluntary basis its Article 15(2) arrangements to requests for the return of cultural objects unlawfully removed prior to 1 January 1993.

    The Commission has no current plans to revise the directive 2014/60/EU or to adopt specific tools to support goodwill movements, while it remains committed to supporting cultural heritage initiatives.

    • [1] Directive 2014/60/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 on the return of cultural objects unlawfully removed from the territory of a Member State and amending Regulation (EU) No 1024/2012 (Recast), OJEU L159/1 of 28 May 2014.
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission President Ursula von der Leyen concluding EU-Mercosur trade deal on her own – P-000127/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is responsible for negotiating and concluding trade agreements with third countries on behalf of the EU, acting on the basis of a mandate of the Council. Member States are regularly informed about the state of play of negotiations through the Trade Policy Committee . This was also the case for the EU-Mercosur negotiations, at every stage of the process.

    The chief negotiators concluded the negotiations at the technical level during their last meeting in Brasília on 25-28 November 2024. In both private and public statements, including at leaders’ level, Mercosur countries indicated that the Mercosur Summit in Montevideo on 6 December 2024 would be the appropriate time and venue for a political conclusion.

    The College of Commissioners was informed about the announcement of the political conclusion of the EU-Mercosur negotiations.

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Review of Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on F-gases and its meaning for the European heat pump and cooling sector – E-001165/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated gases[1] was adopted on 7 February 2024. With an ambitious quota system phasing out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) over time and a number of restrictions in crucial sectors in refrigeration and air conditioning and heat pumps, it provides clear signals to manufacturers of green technology. Many of these companies are European and/or produce in Europe.

    A review at this moment, one year after the regulation has been put in place, would remove this planning certainty for companies.

    A regular review, as envisaged by the regulation in 2030, of the cost-efficiency and effectiveness of its measures is however useful in order to ensure the continuation of appropriate policies that reduce emissions in line with the EU’s climate goals and at the same time support innovation in these crucial sectors.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/573/oj
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Continued EU financial support to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East – P-000354/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission does not have any evidence related to the Israeli hostages being held in Gaza in the United Nations Relief and Work Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East’s (UNRWA) premises and encourages those who have information on this allegation to formally notify UNRWA.

    The Commission notes that UNRWA was forced to vacate all its installations in the northern part of the Gaza Strip and had no control over them for months.

    In accordance with international humanitarian law, it is fundamental that the principle of neutrality — including as regards UNRWA’s installations — is upheld by all parties of the conflict.

    The Commission takes neutrality issues very seriously. The Commission has been working in the last months with UNRWA to enhance the neutrality processes and controls systems of the Agency.

    The Commission has been monitoring, in parallel, the implementation of the action plan presented by UNRWA on the recommendations of the United Nations Independent Review Group report[1], as well as the recommendations stemming from the EU system audit.

    The Commission will continue to closely monitor the implementation of these actions to guarantee that the Agency works in full compliance with the principles of international humanitarian law, including neutrality.

    The EU remains committed to supporting UNRWA, providing both financial and political support, to enable UNRWA to fulfil its mandate.

    • [1] https://www.unrwa.org/resources/reports/colonna-report-and-action-plan
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Extending sanctions packages, procedure for discontinuing sanctions packages and voting arrangements in the Council under the Treaties – E-000427/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Sanctions are an essential element of the EU’s foreign policy and contribute to the preservation of international peace and security, the fundamental values of the EU, such as the rule of law, democracy and human rights.

    Sanctions imposed by the EU have a preventive and administrative character, aiming at encouraging a change in behaviour of those targeted.

    Under Article 29 of the Treaty of the European Union and Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Council of the European Union takes decisions to adopt, renew or lift sanctions regimes.

    EU restrictive measures in force are kept under periodical review by the Council. A review allows to assess whether the goals for imposition of restrictive measures were achieved and the targeted persons still fulfil the listing criteria. Ultimately, EU restrictive measures are extended by unanimity of all Member States in the Council.

    Following a proposal for restrictive measures by either the High Representative/Vice-President or a Member State, the Council decides whether to adopt a proposal or reject it.

    In the event of the lack of unanimity in the Council, the author of a proposal for restrictive measures may decide whether to submit a revised or new proposal.

    The Council Presidency may also submit a modified proposal taking into account the comments of the Member States.

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unacceptable revisionist statements of neo-Ottoman grandeur by the Turkish President, questioning the sovereignty of Greece and Cyprus – E-000338/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has stated repeatedly its deep concern about such statements, expressing its expectation by Türkiye to de-escalate tensions in the interest of regional stability in the Eastern Mediterranean[1].

    In particular, the Commission has underlined in the 2024 enlargement report on Türkiye that, as stemming from obligations under the Negotiating Framework, Türkiye is expected to make an unequivocal commitment to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and the peaceful settlement of disputes having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice.

    Türkiye must avoid threats and actions that damage good neighbourly relations and respect the sovereignty of all Member States over their territorial sea and airspace as well as all their sovereign rights, including inter alia the right to explore and exploit natural resources in accordance with EU and international law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea[2].

    This is essential to ensure a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship between the EU and Türkiye[3].

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/57442/2022-06-2324-euco-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [2] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/document/download/8010c4db-6ef8-4c85-aa06-814408921c89_en?filename=T%C3%BCrkiye%20Report%202024.pdf
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_6157
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Competence to issue building assessment reports in the EU – E-000274/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the rulings issued by the Spanish Supreme Court in 2021 and 2022. The Court sovereignly interpreted a pre-existing legal reserve in the Spanish law giving the architects and technical architects the exclusive right to issue the building assessment reports.

    The main public interest reasons used by way of explanation by the Spanish Court were related to public safety, environmental protection and building preservation.

    EU Member States have the possibility to reserve certain activities to specific professions, provided that those reservations comply with the EU legislation.

    Following a complaint, the Commission carried out an assessment of the situation described in that complaint. That assessment did not permit to identify a violation of EU rules.

    The Commission is continuously monitoring the compliance of the Member States’ legislation with EU law using different tools. The reform recommendations for regulation in professional services published by the Commission in 2017[1] and 2021[2] covered the reserved activities of architects and engineers in Spain.

    More recently, in the context of the EU semester 2023 spring package, the benefit of reducing barriers for civil engineers was stressed in the Country report[3].

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52016DC0820
    • [2] SWD(2021) 185 — Staff Working Document accompanying the communication on taking stock of and updating the reform recommendations for regulation in professional services of 2017.
    • [3] https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/document/download/c2a417af-a656-4526-bec1-74977469dcad_en?filename=SWD_2023_609_1_EN_autre_document_travail_service_part1_v4.pdf
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The Grand Mosque of Paris has a monopoly on EU companies’ exports to Algeria – E-000265/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Algeria has in principle a right to establish standards for products sold within its territory and to select the conformity assessment bodies (CABs) it deems appropriate.

    This includes regulations on the use of specific labels related to compliance with religious requirements, such as Halal. However, Algeria must ensure that the selected CABs are able to conduct reliable assessments, avoid unnecessary delays and charge reasonable fees. In that regard, Algeria has decided to recognise only a single CAB within the EU (Grand Mosquée de Paris).

    The Commission has received feedback that there are important certification delays and high fees. The Commission is actively discussing these issues with the Algerian authorities.

    The Commission also remains in close contact with the Grand Mosquée de Paris, including through a recent meeting in December 2024, and has requested them to take concrete steps to minimise delays and reduce certification costs so as to ensure an efficient and cost-effective process for all EU businesses seeking to comply with Algeria’s Halal certification requirements.

    The EU-Algeria Association Agreement[1] does not include provisions on certification of CABs. Conversely, Article 17(2) of the Agreement prohibits new quantitative restrictions on imports, or any measure having equivalent effect.

    Should Algeria’s measures be found to constitute such restrictions, they would be in violation of the Agreement.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/TXT/?uri=OJ:L:2005:265:TOC
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – New directives allowing corruption in Spain – E-000244/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Through its annual Rule of Law Report, the Commission monitors developments in all Member States, related to the anti-corruption framework.

    The Commission is engaging with all Member States, including Spain, on the follow up given to the 2024 Report’s recommendations and will report on developments in its next Rule of Law Report.

    Upholding the rule of law across the EU is a priority for the Commission, as reflected by the President’s Political Guidelines. The Commission envisages further measures to ensure that the future long-term budget has strong anti-corruption safeguards applying to all funds, and that European funding is dedicated to supporting national measures on fighting corruption and protecting the financial interests of both the EU and its Member States.

    Furthermore, legislative negotiations are ongoing on a Commission proposal for a directive on combating corruption[1], which aims to strengthen the fight against and prevention of corruption in the EU.

    • [1] COM (2023) 234, final.
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Denuclearisation of the International Gulf of Trieste – E-000197/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The United Nations resolution mentioned by the Honourable Member is not anymore applicable. The current status of Trieste is determined by the Treaty between the Italian Republic and the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, adopted in Osimo on 10 November 1975[1].

    It should be underlined that the regulation of military transit and port operations remains the exclusive prerogative of the Member States.

    • [1] Gazzetta Ufficiale of Italian Republic No 77 of 21 March 1977.
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support measures for the self-employed – E-000441/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to making life easier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The economic sustainability of self-employed is part of this commitment .

    The 2020 SME Strategy for a sustainable and digital Europe[1] and the 2023 SME Relief package[2] set out a comprehensive approach for this support.

    However, EU initiatives are only complementary to Member States actions. The EU alone will not be able to support all EU’s self-employed whose financial situation has weakened.

    The Commission is committed to reducing administrative burden for SMEs by 35%[3]. To improve SMEs liquidity, the Commission proposed a revision of the late payment rules[4].

    The guarantee of the SME window of InvestEU[5] further improves liquidity of small companies by inter alia making loans for SMEs cheaper.

    Additional concrete support initiatives are the network of sustainability advisers for SMEs of the Enterprise Europe Network[6] and the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs network[7].

    The Commission also promotes entrepreneurship through the European Entrepreneurship Competence Framework (EntreComp).

    The Council Recommendation[8] on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed[9], encourages Member States to extend access for the self-employed to social protection branches such as unemployment benefits, family-related benefits or benefits related to accidents at work and occupational diseases (see also the Council conclusions on social protection for the self-employed[10]).

    The Commission is aware of the growing housing problem affecting large parts of EU society. That is why the first-ever Commissioner for Housing, Mr Dan Jorgensen, was appointed and a European Affordable Housing Plan will be proposed in 2026.

    • [1]  COM/2020/103 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52020DC0103
    • [2] Ibid. footnote 1.
    • [3] First omnibus proposal, forthcoming, February 2025.
    • [4] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/proposal-regulation-combating-late-payment-commercial-transactions_en
    • [5] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/access-finance/investeu/investeu-fund-sme-window_en
    • [6] https://een.ec.europa.eu/about-enterprise-europe-network/advice-support/sustainability
    • [7] https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2019_387_R_0001
    • [9] See also Report from the Commission to the Council on the implementation of the Council Recommendation on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed, 2023: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52023DC0043
    • [10] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-13934-2023-INIT/en/pdf
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Memoranda of Understanding on raw material value chains – transparency – E-002744/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission has already published all Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) on its website[1].

    2. The Commission drafts the roadmaps of the MoUs with the partner country, in cooperation with the European delegation and the Member States’ embassies. The roadmaps are working-level documents. The Commission reports on the progress achieved on the partnerships and on the roadmaps to the Critical Raw Materials Board[2]. The Parliament is an observer to the Board.

    3. The MoU between the EU and Rwanda[3] has as one of its main objectives to support the sustainable and responsible sourcing, production and processing of raw materials , in line with the EU’s renewed Great Lakes Strategy[4]. The goal is to increase traceability and transparency and to reinforce the fight against illegal trafficking of minerals. Notably, the MoU with Rwanda supports Rwanda’s engagement with the Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative. In addition, the EU fully supports regional efforts to increase traceability and transparency and reinforce the fight against illegal trafficking of minerals, including through support to the relevant work and action of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region of which all the countries in the region including Rwanda are members. In view of the latest developments, the Foreign Affairs Council of 24 February 2025 also discussed the need to review the MoU with Rwanda on a strategic partnership on sustainable raw material value chains. This review is now ongoing.

    • [1] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/raw-materials/areas-specific-interest/raw-materials-diplomacy_en
    • [2] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/raw-materials/areas-specific-interest/critical-raw-materials/critical-raw-materials-act/board_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/58035
    • [4] Council Conclusions of 20 February 2023, https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-6631-2023-INIT/en/pdf
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Increased import tariffs on Chinese cars – E-002523/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As stated in the impact assessment supporting the Commission’s proposal for amending the CO2 emission standards for cars and vans[1], one of the objectives was to stimulate innovation in zero-emission technologies to tackle the risk of the EU automotive value chain losing its technological leadership.

    The analysis pointed at the developments in the Chinese automotive sector and its competitive advantage in electric vehicle battery production.

    The trend towards zero-emission vehicles creates new business opportunities for automotive manufacturers, especially those taking an innovative approach, promoting and selling electric vehicles.

    Clear regulatory signals facilitate making appropriate investment decisions, to the benefit of EU industry’s competitiveness. The revised CO2 emission targets[2] provide a long-term regulatory signal.

    Delaying regulatory action would increase the uncertainty for the investments and the risk of the EU automotive industry losing its technological leadership and lose market share in the EU.

    The countervailing duties on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from China are the result of a thorough anti-subsidy investigation, conducted according to the EU and World Trade Organisation rules.

    The Commission concluded that the BEV value chain in China benefits from unfair subsidisation, which is causing a threat of injury to EU BEV producers. The investigation also examined the likely impact of these measures on the EU producers, importers, users and suppliers of BEVs.

    Finally, with regard to the future of the car industry in Europe, the Commission released an industrial action plan for the automotive sector on 5 March 2025[3] after the President of the Commission conducted a Strategic Dialogue on this specific issue.

    • [1] Impact assessment accompanying Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2019/631 as regards strengthening the CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles in line with the Union’s increased climate ambition.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/851/oj
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/topics/business-and-industry/boosting-european-car-sector_en
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –