NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The effect of the sanctions imposed by the United States on the functioning of the ICC – P-002270/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002270/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alex Agius Saliba (S&D)

    On 15 May 2025, we read[1] that staffers of the International Criminal Court (ICC) were no longer able to perform their duties due to the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration. According to this report, one effect of the sanctions imposed on the chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, is that he has lost access to his Microsoft email address.

    Trump’s executive order threatens any person, institution or company with fines and prison time if they provide Khan with ‘financial, material, or technological support’. That is why we want to raise several questions in relation to the digital sabotage targeted at an international organisation based in the EU.

    • 1.Has the Commission undertaken action concerning these sanctions against a representative acting in their official capacity, to protect the functioning of the international rule of law, at diplomatic level as well as with representatives of Microsoft?
    • 2.What is the legal assessment of the actions undertaken by Microsoft to digitally undermine the ICC and its chief prosecutor and are there measures possible under the EU acquis to force Microsoft to resume their services?
    • 3.How does the Commission assess the risks to other European and international entities, public and private, of falling victim to this example where a US company withdraws essential digital services if they go against the Trump administration?

    Submitted: 5.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.euronews.com/2025/05/15/trumps-sanctions-on-icc-halt-tribunals-work-staffers-claim.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU’s military fuel infrastructure – E-002024/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002024/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bart Groothuis (Renew)

    With the rise in geopolitical tensions and European armed forces’ clear dependence on civilian fuel systems, the shrinking capacity to store and refine fossil fuels in Europe could threaten military readiness. This problem is made worse by the lack of a clear strategy, contingency planning, regulatory barriers that restrict the modernisation of infrastructure, and limited coordination between the civilian and military sectors. Following a report by The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS),[1] there are doubts regarding how Mr Kubilius, the Commissioner for Defence and Space, plans to align an increasingly electrified civilian infrastructure with military fuel needs in order to ensure military readiness.

    • 1.Does the Commission agree with the findings of the HCSS report and support its recommendations?
    • 2.Has NATO ever asked the Commission to develop a liquid fuels strategy and, if so, when can we expect the Commission to present such a strategy?
    • 3.Has NATO asked the Commission to improve its military fuel infrastructure and, if so, what concrete steps did the Commission take to meet these demands?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    • [1] https://hcss.nl/report/securing-european-military-fuels-in-a-tense-security-environment-supply-distribution-and-storage/.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Simplifying Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on deforestation – E-002176/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002176/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Letizia Moratti (PPE), Fulvio Martusciello (PPE), Flavio Tosi (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Salvatore De Meo (PPE), Giusi Princi (PPE)

    The Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) lays down uniform requirements for sectors that are anything but, disregarding the fact that it covers industries and traceability systems which are, along with the producer countries’ processes and risk levels, very diverse indeed.

    The EUDR’s scope, the complexity of its requirements and the inadequacy of its interpretative guidelines have resulted in a disproportionate and very burdensome law – particularly for SMEs – a state of affairs that is at odds with the Commission’s aim of simplifying red tape and cutting it by 25-35 %.

    In addition, the Deforestation Regulation adopts a punitive and proscriptive approach that could harm operators while failing to meaningfully address the root causes of deforestation.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Has the Commission assessed the economic and social impact of grouping very diverse sectors in the same regulation, and is it truly aware of the extent to which increasing red tape can jeopardise European supply chains?
    • 2.Given the above, as well as the fact that the EUDR’s guidelines have only added to the confusion, will the Commission postpone the regulation’s entry into force so that it can systematically revise it, potentially as part of a future omnibus package?
    • 3.Instead of simply banning market access without providing any cooperation tools worthy of the name, does the Commission not think that it would be preferable to adopt a proactive, rewards-based approach that incentivises sustainable practices, certified reforestation programmes, voluntary agreements and partnerships with producer countries?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Use of slurry solids as bedding in dairy stalls – E-002168/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002168/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lena Düpont (PPE)

    A fundamental objective of our EU agriculture is to become more sustainable and also more efficient. Our farmers work innovatively and in line with the latest standards. One of these methods is slurry separation. By separating slurry, nutrients can be deployed even more precisely and efficiently, while the solids can also be used in a variety of sustainable ways. One possible use of solids is as bedding in dairy stalls. However, Regulations (EC) No 1069/2009 and (EU) No 142/2011 do not, as of yet, explicitly provide for the use of slurry or slurry products, such as slurry solids, as bedding in dairy stalls.

    • 1.Do the above-mentioned regulations provide for the possibility of applying for a derogation for the use of slurry and slurry products such as slurry solids as bedding in dairy stalls?
    • 2.Is the Commission aware of Member States where slurry and slurry products, such as slurry solids, are used as bedding in dairy stalls?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to amend the above-mentioned regulations in order to allow, in principle and explicitly, the use of slurry and slurry products, such as slurry solids, as bedding in dairy stalls?

    Submitted: 29.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Depleted uranium in Sardinia – E-000741/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Maximum levels (MLs) for lead and cadmium in food were established by Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915[1] and for feed by Directive 2002/32/EC[2]. Only food and feed compliant with the MLs can be placed on the market guaranteeing a high level of human and animal health protection.

    Without information on the levels of thorium in feed and food in the concerned area, no assessment of the possible risk for animal or public health can be done.

    2. The Commission is aware of the potential health implications arising from environmental pollution and emphasises the importance of ensuring compliance with EU legislation that aims to protect public health. However, safeguarding public health is primarily the responsibility of Member States including the investigation of potential disease clusters.

    3. If the pollution is the result of a serious breach of EU environmental law, then the conduct might be framed as an environmental crime under the Environmental Crime Directive[3]. If the liable operator is identified and the contamination fulfils the criteria of environmental damage under the Environmental Liability Directive[4], the operator shall be required to remedy the damage to the environment.

    Salto di Quirra is located in air quality zone IT2010 Zona Rurale according to Ambient Air Quality Directive 2008/50/EC[5], with the closest sampling point in Nuraminis. The latest data for this zone for 2022 and 2023 does not indicate the exceedance of any air quality standard[6].

    Based on the information from the European Industrial Emissions Portal[7], no industrial installation covered by the industrial emissions directive was identified in the area.

    • [1] Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 of 25 April 2023 on maximum levels for certain contaminants in food and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 OJ L 119, 5.5.2023, p. 103-157
      ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/915/oj.
    • [2] Directive 2002/32/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 May 2002 on undesirable substances in animal feed OJ L 140, 30.5.2002, p. 10-22 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2002/32/oj.
    • [3] Directive 2008/99/EC on the protection of the environment through criminal law OJ L 328, 6.12.2008, p. 28-37, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2008/99/oj, replaced by Directive (EU) 2024/1203 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 on the protection of the environment through criminal law and replacing Directives 2008/99/EC and 2009/123/EC, OJ L, 2024/1203, 30.4.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1203/oj, in force and to be transposed by Member States by 21 May 2026.
    • [4] Directive 2004/35/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 April 2004 on environmental liability with regard to the prevention and remedying of environmental damage, OJ L 143, 30.4.2004, p. 56-75. ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2004/35/oj.
    • [5] Directive 2008/50/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe OJ L 152, 11.6.2008, p. 1-44 ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2008/50/oj.
    • [6] The Italian authorities are reporting information of the following pollutants in this zone: arsenic, benzene, benzo(a)pyrene, cadmium, carbon monoxide, lead, nickel, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and sulphur dioxide, https://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/it/eu/aqd/g/.
    • [7] https://industry.eea.europa.eu/.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support for farmers affected by low temperatures in March 2025 – E-001579/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the common market Organisation Regulation[1] the Commission may adopt exceptional measures financed by the agricultural reserve and may provide emergency support to farmers negatively affected by extreme adverse weather events and natural disasters as it recently did for producers in Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, Latvia and Hungary[2].

    This exceptional measure followed a request for support from the five Member States and was designed following an assessment of the situation and of its exceptional nature by the Commission services, based inter alia on the available information and data on actual damages and losses per sector provided by the relevant Member States.

    The Commission has not received information from Romania on damages due to frost events that occurred in March 2025.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/1308/oj.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2025/441/oj.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Updating of designations of wine grape varieties with reference to origin – E-001573/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware that climate change can modify growing conditions and favour a geographical shift of certain varieties more adapted to forthcoming climatic conditions.

    According to Article 81 of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013[1], it is for Member States to classify the wine grape varieties that may be used on their territories for wine production. Furthermore, grape varieties that can be used in each Geographical Indication (GI) are an element of the GI product specification.

    Product specifications can be modified and adapted to the specific production needs of each GI, in accordance to Article 24 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1143[2].

    A change of grape varieties is possible and can be made through a ‘standard amendment’ to the product specification, subject to a national procedure followed by notification to the Commission, as provided for in particular by Articles 24(4) of Regulation (EU) 2024/1143, 4 and 5 of Regulation (EU) 2025/27[3] and 12 of Regulation (EU) 2025/26[4].

    The Commission is not planning changes to Annex IV, Part B of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33[5] considering the sensitivity of this labelling issue.

    This Annex was the result of a compromise reached after a long debate in the context of the recast of EU labelling rules resulting in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33.

    While Article 50 of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 does not allow the use of the name of the varieties Barbera or Sangiovese on the label of wines with GI in Germany, it does not preclude the use of those varieties and others to produce wine, provided that those varieties are listed in the national classification of varieties and, in the case of GIs, are set out in the product specification of the relevant protected GI.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/1308/oj/eng.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1143/oj.
    • [3] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2025/27/oj.
    • [4] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2025/26/oj.
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2019/33/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Joint efforts to prevent and combat different forms of hatred against traditional national and linguistic minorities – E-001599/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The respect for minority rights is enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union[1]. Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union[2] prohibits any discrimination including on grounds of ethnic or social origin, language or membership of a national minority.

    The Commission is committed to ensure that there is no place for hate[3] in the EU. The 2008 Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia[4] requires Member States to criminalise public incitement to violence or hatred based on race, colour, religion, descent, or national or ethnic origin, when directed against a group of persons or a member of such group.

    National authorities, including national courts, remain competent to determine whether a specific behaviour or act qualifies as hate speech or hate crime under applicable national law.

    The High Level Group on combating hate speech and hate crime[5], which is in place since 2016, has contributed to develop widely used standards and guidance to support national authorities in their responses to hate crime and hate speech and the effective enforcement of national laws on the ground.

    The High Level Group will maintain a comprehensive approach on all forms of hate speech and hate crime, in particular focusing on the grounds listed in the framework Decision, including ethnicity or nationality.

    Enhancing the protection of individuals and groups at risk of hate victimisation based on these grounds may also bring protection for groups speaking minority languages, as relevant in specific national contexts.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A12012E%2FTXT.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:12012P/TXT.
    • [3] Joint Communication to the European Parliament and the Council JOIN/2023/51 final on ‘No place for hate: a Europe united against hatred’ JOIN/2023/51 final.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32008F0913.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/combatting-discrimination/racism-and-xenophobia/combating-hate-speech-and-hate-crime_en.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – European drone capabilities and defence autonomy: steps to reduce dependency on China and foster innovation in drone- and counter-drone systems – E-000668/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is actively working to reduce dependency on Chinese drone components by promoting diversification of supply chains and supporting EU industrial capacities.

    To this end, the European Defence Fund provides funding for collaborative projects in drone and counter-drone technologies. The EU’s foreign direct investment screening framework helps identifying and mitigating risks associated with third-country dependencies.

    The EU Drone Strategy 2.0[1] contributes to the objectives of the ‘Action plan on synergies between civil, defence and space industries’, exploring synergies between the civil and defence drone industries, including counter-drone technologies.

    The Drone Strategy includes measures to support research related to drones and innovation with dual-use potential, sets up an EU network on civil-defence drone testing centres, promotes alignment of certification requirements for civil and military drone applications, and supports the adoption of EU counter-drone package.

    Moreover, in the White Paper and Rearm Europe Plan published[2] 19 March 2025 the Commission has recognised drones and counter-drones systems as one of the critical capability shortfalls and is committed to support Member States actions aimed at reducing dependencies.

    The EU counter-drone communication[3], adopted in October 2023, aims to address the terrorist threat possibly posed by non-cooperative drones. It identified 18 key actions aiming at drawing up a fully-fledged EU counter-drone policy, which are being implemented.

    • [1] https://transport.ec.europa.eu/document/download/1cb5fb4f-4252-4f97-abf4-c4a167b1c7d2_en?filename=COM_2022_652_drone_strategy_2.0.pdf.
    • [2] https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/introducing-white-paper-european-defence-and-rearm-europe-plan-readiness-2030_en.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52023DC0659.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Scientific basis for designation of mineral soil as peat soil under GAEC 2 – E-001438/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In 2022 and 2023, the Commission’s Joint Research Centre provided technical information to assist Member States with the mapping of peatland and wetland as part of a project entitled ‘Satellite based mapping and monitoring of European peatland and wetland for LULUCF[1] and agriculture’ (SEPLA).

    This notwithstanding , defining the territorial scope of the Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition Standard for the protection of wetland and peatland (GAEC 2) within the context of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans lies primarily with the Member States.

    The Commission services assess whether the scope proposed by the Member States aligns with the standard’s core objective, as set out in Article 109(2)(a)(i) of Regulation (EU) 2021/2115[2].

    It is for the Member States to carry out the relevant mapping and to decide to publish the scientific data, methodology and potential resulting restrictions imposed on farming activity underpinning its chosen approach.

    • [1] Land use, land-use change and forestry Regulation — https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/land-use-sector_en.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/2115/oj.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Urgent activation of the EU Blocking Statute, as requested by Parliament in its 2024 annual report on human rights and democracy in the world – E-002163/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002163/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rima Hassan (The Left), Manon Aubry (The Left), Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE), Carola Rackete (The Left), Abir Al-Sahlani (Renew), Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE), Leila Chaibi (The Left), Marc Botenga (The Left), Irene Montero (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Özlem Demirel (The Left), Thijs Reuten (S&D), Arash Saeidi (The Left), Damien Carême (The Left), Marina Mesure (The Left), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Li Andersson (The Left), Maria Walsh (PPE), Diana Riba i Giner (Verts/ALE), Lucia Yar (Renew), Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE)

    On 6 February 2025, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). The broad and ambiguous scope of these sanctions seriously undermines the ICC’s ability to deliver on its mandate to end impunity for the most serious crimes of international concern. Asset freezes and targeted sanctions against ICC staff have a chilling effect on companies and civil society organisations that might otherwise engage with the ICC.

    At a time when victims of international law violations are growing in number – in Ukraine, Palestine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan – these sanctions obstruct access to justice for all those affected by crimes within the ICC’s jurisdiction. Yet the EU has a legal instrument to counter such extraterritorial measures: the EU Blocking Statute, designed to neutralise the effects of sanctions imposed by non-EU countries.

    In its 2024 annual report on human rights and democracy in the world[1], Parliament called on the Commission to ‘urgently activate the Blocking Statute’.

    • 1.What concrete steps has the Commission taken to respond to this request?
    • 2.Has the Commission assessed the impact of these sanctions on the Member States and on European actors cooperating with the ICC?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    • [1] Texts adopted, P10_TA(2025)0059.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need for strategies to promote local food production and agriculture – P-002223/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002223/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D)

    Rural communities in the European Union manage natural resources, mitigate climate change and ensure our food production and security of supply. Our regions are drivers of progress, but they face serious and permanent challenges, such as depopulation, the price crisis in the agricultural sector or generational renewal. This is why the European Commission recognises the importance of supporting EU farming communities.

    Despite this, some regional authorities prioritise the economic criterion in the public procurement of food services – such as in the kitchen canteens – without taking into account proximity or sustainability criteria. In doing so, they act to the detriment of small-scale economies that favour more environmentally and community-friendly local production.

    Bearing in mind that the European Commission confirms in its ‘vision for the future of agriculture and food production’ that a fair and competitive food system must be created with affordable and sustainable food for all, I would like to ask the following questions:

    • 1.Does the Commission consider it important to promote local food production and agriculture?
    • 2.Does the Commission believe that sustainability, seasonality of products and health criteria should be taken into account in public procurement?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Expediting gender equality in Romania through improving its score on the Gender Equality Index – E-002179/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002179/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gabriela Firea (S&D)

    The Gender Equality Index is measured on a scale of 1 to 100 at European Union level. It assesses gender gaps, over a given period of time, in areas such as knowledge, work, money, time, power, health and violence.

    Sadly, Romania ranks last in the EU in terms of gender equality, with an index of 57.5 according to the EIGE’s 2024 report. The gender gaps in Romania are most pronounced in the areas of power (32.8 points), violence (36.5 points) and knowledge (55.4 points), out of a total of 100 points.

    In this context:

    • 1.What concrete measures does the Commission intend to take to support Romania in improving gender equality?
    • 2.Which specific funds or programmes can be used by Member States with a low index to expedite gender equality solutions?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Exchange of views with Ioannis Tsakiris, Vice-President of the EIB – Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

    Source: European Parliament

    On 16 June, HOUS Members will hold an exchange of views with Ioannis Tsakiris, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB).

    Vice-President Tsakiris will provide an overview of the recently approved EIB housing action plan.

    The meeting will also offer insight into selected projects to showcase how the EIB is assisting cities, regions and the construction sector in the development and renovation of affordable and energy efficient housing solutions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The need to strengthen the role of the new cohesion policy in deep renovations, energy upgrading of housing and affordable housing – E-002173/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002173/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    Buildings account for approximately 40 % of total energy consumption in the EU and 36 % of CO₂ emissions, making them a key driver of climate change.[1] Decarbonising the building stock through deep renovations is essential to achieving the EU’s climate goals.[2] However, despite the establishment of European policies,[3] the social dimension of environmental policy has not yet been sufficiently integrated.[4] The lack of binding social clauses in European cohesion policy funding programmes increases the risk of phenomena such as ‘green gentrification’ or ‘state-subsidised eviction by renovation’ (‘renoviction’), where renovations lead to rent increases and the displacement of vulnerable groups.[5]

    Considering that an estimated 800 000 social housing units require renovation each year, while around 1.5 million new homes are needed annually:[6]

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that the ‘renovation wave’ is incorporated into cohesion policy through stable and adequately funded programmes after 2027 for the deep renovation of social housing, tackling energy poverty and prioritising the renovation of empty buildings for sustainable social and affordable housing?
    • 2.Will the Commission consider establishing a European Renovation Loan[7] to cover capital needs towards a net-zero emissions building stock by 2050?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to propose the inclusion of social clauses for green public renovation investments from cohesion funds, in order to prevent rent increases and social exclusion following renovations?

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

    • [1] See https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52021PC0802
    • [2] Energy retrofitting of housing reduces carbon emissions, improves people’s quality of life, reduces energy poverty and makes housing more affordable and resilient to energy price fluctuations.
    • [3] For information on the financial instruments provided by the European Union and the EIB, see https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/energy-efficiency/financing/financing-building-renovations_en
    • [4] See the report by Enrico Letta, ‘Much More than a Market’, April 2024.
    • [5] Increasing housing costs exacerbate energy poverty and social exclusion, especially in Southern Europe, where the existing housing stock is old.
    • [6] The EIB calculates that EUR 270 billion in investment is needed annually to meet these needs.
    • [7] See https://www.climatestrategy.com/en/informe_23.php and https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-9-2023-0068_EN.pdf.
    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

    Submitted: 29.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

    In view of the above:

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

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

    Submitted: 5.6.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

    In view of the above:

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

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

    In view of this:

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

    Submitted: 1.6.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

    In view of the above:

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

    Submitted: 30.5.2025

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

    Submitted: 29.5.2025

    Last updated: 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

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

    Source: European Parliament

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –