Activities of Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Stresses the importance of the active and constructive participation of members of Assembly in plenary sessions; underlines the importance of orderly arrangements of Assembly work plan and of decision-making processes, time adequate and open parliamentary debates, consultations with stakeholders, avoidance of fast-track procedures of adoption of sensitive laws;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Urges the Kosovar authorities to comprehensively deal with previously identified electoral shortcomings by enacting timely legislative and administrative measures to address the outstanding recommendations of EU and European Parliament observation missions well in advance of the next round of elections; welcomes the steps forward in relation to gender equality in the election administration; calls on Kosovo to further step up its efforts to increase female political participation;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. UNotes how free, fair and transparent elections are crucial for democratic future of Kosovo as well as future of its EU integration process; urges the Kosovar authorities to comprehensively deal with previously identified electoral shortcomings by enacting timely legislative and administrative measures to address the outstanding recommendations of EU ~~and~~, European Parliament observation missions and Venice Commission well in advance of the next round of elections; welcomes the external audit of political party financing that has confirmed serious violations of political party finance legislation and strongly urges strengthening and enforcing of the overall legal framework; stresses the need for affirmative action to overcome the obstacles that prevent women from participating in politics and being elected;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Is concerned that Kosovo continues to be a storage and transit country for hard drugs; welcomes setting up of secure storage for seized drugs prior to destruction; expresses serious concerns about the low rate of convictions in cases against human trafficking, despite Kosovo being a source, transit and destination for trafficked women and children; notes with concern the existence of armed groups and their involvement in organised criminal activities operating across borders;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Considers it essential to implement, in a timely and comprehensive manner, the recommendations of the Kosovar Ombudsmaperson, Auditor General, Anti- Corruption Agency and the Public Procurement Regulatory Commission; stresses the need to remedy deficiencies in the public procurement system and to improve interinstitutional cooperation and the exchange of information; recommends the stepping up of monitoring, evaluation and audit capabilities and the adoption and implementation of an anti-fraud strategy to protect Kosovo and the EU’s financial interests;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Takes note of EULEX’s new mandate and its end date; stresses however the prevalence of concrete progress in the country over a set timetable;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Calls for the enforcement of the human rights framework to be prioritised, and backed by sufficient coordination and funding, especially in the field of gender equality, child and labour protection, social exclusion and discrimination against persons with disabilities and minorities, including LGBTI people; expresses in particular its concern about the high number of cases of gender based violence and prenatal gender selection; calls on the Kosovar authorities to effectively address these cases and provide support to victims, to collect data, and to train police, prosecutors and judges; believes that a comprehensive plan of awareness raising, the elimination of gender based discrimination, access to education and reproductive health services can prevent prenatal gender selection; underlines the need to reinforce the Agency for Gender Equality and the National Coordinator for the Protection from Domestic Violence and to strengthen prevention;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20a. Regrets the lack of implementation of legal framework for gender equality, and strategy and action plan on protection against domestic violence; is concerned with high discrimination of women in the labour market, the judiciary and the police; notes with disappointment the challenges women face with property ownership and inheritance; urges without delay a strong gender mainstreaming in laws and policies; stresses the need for introduction of legal definitions of domestic violence and sexual harassment in the Criminal Code, and for sustainably funded shelters for victims of gender- based violence and human trafficking;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Urges of the need to ensure the editorial freedom, financial sustainability and independence of the Kosovar public broadcaster, and to guarantee transparency of private media ownership; urges for implementation of all relevant laws in this regard; calls for improvements to multilingual broadcasting and to the quality of information offered to all Kosovar communities;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)

25a. Regrets the rise of nationalist and right wing rhetoric in the region; requests the European Commission to support reconciliation in the region as a whole, by for example supporting cultural projects;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)

26a. Highlights Kosovo's proactive participation and constructive role in regional and international cooperation trough the "Berlin process" and the Western Balkans six initiative, welcomes the outcome of the Sofia Summit 2018 and the adoption of IPA 2018 package the strategically important infrastructure project “Nis-Merdare-Pristina” highway of peace; the project will enable a better transport connection between central Serbia and Kosovo and it has symbolic significance for relations in the region;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28

28. Highlights the urgent need to adopt and implement measures ensuring transparent and competitive privatisation procedures and to investigate alleged irregularities; is concerned that migrant remittances constitute an important driver of domestic demand; expresses concern about discrimination of women on labour market, especially in hiring process;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29

29. CExpresses its concern about the dire registration and quality of medicines, as well as the corruption involved in the sector; urges the Kosovar Ministry of health to speed up its efforts in investigating these crimes and in addressing the registration and quality problems as soon as possible; calls for a comprehensive reform of the health sector, including the implementation of universal health insurance, in order to ensure universal access to healthcare; underlines the need for adequate funding of the public health system;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30

30. Call on the Commission to develop a regional strategy to address the persistent youth unemployment and brain drain by tackling the skills mismatch between the education system and the labour market, improving the quality of teaching, and ensuring adequate funding for active labour market measures and vocational training schemes, along with adequate childcare and pre-school education facilities; regrets the persisting discrimination and segregation in the education system; calls on Kosovo to develop a joint schooling system including all components of Kosovo’s society;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30

30. Call on the Commission to develop a regional strategy to address the persistent youth unemployment and brain drain by tackling the skills mismatch between the education system and the labour market, improving the quality of teaching, and ensuring adequate funding for active labour market measures and vocational training schemes, along with adequate childcare and pre-school education facilities; regrets that there is no progress on improving the quality of education; is concerned that overall spending on education is dominated by the wage bill, as well as that early childcare and pre-schooling enrolment rates are very low at 4.4 % and 33.9 % respectively, which is well below the EU target of 95 % by 2020;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31 a (new)

31a. Calls on the European Commission and Kosovo to effectively support SMEs in order to develop a viable Kosovar economy;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32

32. Draws attention to the extremely poor air quality of Pristina and other heavily polluted ~~Western Balkan~~ cities; calls for effective air and water quality monitoring systems, for the improvement of water treatment infrastructure and for reliable and readily available real-time pollution data;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33

33. Notes that most of last report's recommendation on energy policies are not implemented and stresses the need to move away from the use of lignite for unsustainable energy generation and stresses the urgency of decommissioning Kosovo A Power Station and of ensuring additional sustainable generation and import capacity; notes partial progress on the Third Energy Package and stresses the need to ensure the independence of the Kosovar energy regulator; calls for stronger efforts in energy efficiency and energy saving, particularly in the construction sector; calls the authorities to adopt the law on energy efficiency and to establish the Energy Efficiency Fund;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2149(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35

35. Regrets the lack of progress in exploiting the potential of renewables ~~and calls on~~; calls the authorities to adopt the action plan for energy strategy 2017-2026 for reaching the mandatory renewable energy target of 25% in 2020; urges the Commission to step up assistance in this regard;

2018/09/10
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)

Ba. whereas tens or even hundreds of decisions of Constitutional Court are not implemented which questions the legality of establishment of BiH;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Regrets that no compromise has been reached with regard to changes to the electoral legislation required to implement the Constitutional Court decision in the Ljubić case on the election of the members of the Federation House of Peoples; urges all political leaders to show responsibility and amend swiftly the electoral framework in order to ensure smooth implementation of the results of the elections; stresses that holding credible elections and implementing the results is an essential feature of a well-functioning democracy, as well as a requirement for any country aspiring to join the EU; reiterates that all acts of election irregularities should be investigated and condemned in the clearest possible terms, and any unlawful activities prosecuted;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Firmly reiterates the need of rapid formation of the Federation House of Peoples in line with rulings by the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina; expresses deep concern because of the risks of complete dysfunctionality of the Presidency of BiH; regrets the possibility of election of the member of the presidency of BiH against democratic will of Peoples that he is to represent which points toward much needed reform of the election process in BiH;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Deplores the fact that delegates from BiH have still been unable to agree on the rules of procedure for the SAPC, due to the attempts to introduce ethnic blocking into the SAPC's voting rules, which has consequently not met for three years; regrets the failure to cooperate with the European Parliament ~~and~~, recalls that this is a clear breach of the obligations stemming from the SAA and urges all actors to agree to and accept Rules and procedures of the SAPC based on the recommendation of the European Parliament's opinion on the subject;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)

4a. Notes incoherent legal framework for inclusive and evidence-based policy as well as its legislative development which hinders effective implementation; is concerned about the lack of systematic regulatory impact assessments and public consultations, the limited quality of and practice in monitoring and reporting and lack of a formal requirement to publish key government planning documents;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Recalls that the necessary energy investment is delayed by a lack of coordination and cooperation between government levels; notes that the market for electricity and gas remain fragmented and dominated by key incumbent companies; is concerned about the explosion that happened in refinery Bosanki Brod due to the lack of adequate maintenance and management of the refinery; highlights that the consequences of the explosion could negatively affect human health and environment; calls urgently on the BiH authorities to create functional energy and transport chains; Calls for the adoption of further countrywide strategies in areas such as energy, employment and public financial management, which will enable consistent implementation of reforms throughout the country, as well as access to further IPA funding; urges the adoption of a national programme for approximation of the country’s laws with the EU acquis, a legal requirement under the SAA and an indispensable means of preparing for EU accession;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Notes that legislation without implementation is futile and urges swift implementation of legal provisions providing equality between women and men; firmly points at the lack of effective implementation of legislation on the prevention and protection which facilitates gender-based violence, in particular domestic violence; urges aligning of the relevant legislation with the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence; is concerned that the number of protective measures issued remains low, and calls for improvement of the general system of response and support to victims; draws attention to the fact that the existing safe houses remain in most cases strongly underfunded, which is in breach of existing legislation;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Urmas PAET, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)

8b. Is concerned about lack of educational and economy reforms that fosters high youth unemployment and high economic emigration which will have long-term consequences on country’s demography; notes with concern a high gender imbalance of labour force participation rates;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Acknowledges that some progress has been made in establishing institutional mechanisms of cooperation between authorities and civil society organisations (CSOs) and in ensuring public financing for CSOs; reiterates its call for the adoption of a strategic framework of cooperation with civil society at all levels of governance; urges authorities to open an effective dialogue with social partners which could in turn produce legislative and capacity-building initiatives needed in order to strengthen the capability of social partners;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Remains concerned by the widespread corruption in BiH and the persistent gap between the declared political will to fight it and the lack of concrete results; underlines that there is a lack of track record of high profile cases and that legal and institutional framework for combating systemic corruption like political party finance, public procurement, conflict of interest, and assets declaration is weak and inadequate; calls for steps to be taken to improve the legal and institutional anti- corruption framework in line with European standards, by better harmonising the action plans adopted at various levels, implementing the existing strategies and enhancing the cooperation between corruption prevention bodies and with the aAnti-corruption agency;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Welcomes the adoption of the action plan on the implementation of the 2014-2018 Justice Sector Reform Strategy in March 2017 and the establishment of the necessary reporting and monitoring structures; points to the need for decisive action regarding its implementation; is concerned by continuing politically motivated threats against the judiciary; reiterates the need to strengthen the independence of the judiciary, including from political influence, as well as its impartiality, professionalism, efficiency and accountability; welcomes ~~the implementation of the action plan adopted~~adopted detailed action plan to implement the European Commission's recommendations on issues within the HJPC remit by the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council (HJPC) aimed at strengthening appointment, disciplinary and integrity measures as regards the judiciary; urges for a swift adoption of related legislative acts and start of its implementation;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Deplores any kind of glorification of persons convicted for the gravest crimes against humanity; calls, as a matter of urgency, for respect for victims of war crimes and for reconciliation to be promoted; reminds all political leaders and institutions in BiH that they have a responsibility to assess war-time events objectively, in the interests of truth, reconciliation and a peaceful future, and to avoid misuse of judiciary for political purposes;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Acknowledges that some progress has been achieved in the implementation of Annex VII to the Dayton Peace Agreement on refugees and internally displaced persons; ~~calls again for significant attention to be devoted to damages compensation for property that cannot be returned, access to healthcare and employment, social protection, safety and education;~~ notes that there are still extremely high number of internally displaced persons (98,324 according to UNHCR data from 2017), 47,000 minority returnees and a huge number of refugees; is concerned with persistently high number of missing persons and slow progress in that respect; urges resumption of operations of the Commission for Real Property Claims of Displaced Persons and Refugees; calls again for significant attention to be devoted to damages compensation for property that cannot be returned, access to healthcare and employment, social protection, safety and education; deplores cases of attacks against properties of returnees; calls on the authorities to embark on intensive cooperation between the two entities, and strengthen the efforts to find persons still missing as a result of the war, including full sharing of all relevant military and intelligence data;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18a. Commends Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities' efforts to stop departures of its citizens to foreign battlefields since 2015 as well as conviction of 23 returned foreign terrorist fighters for terrorism-related offences, but urges authorities to apply appropriate sentencing for foreign terrorist fighters and to manage their subsequent social re- integration; notes with concern that the cells of radicalisation have been identified in certain locations in the country, in particular in the Wahhabi communities;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20a. Urges Bosnia and Herzegovina to fully align itself with relevant EU declarations and Council decisions concerning CFSP and CSDP; strongly urges BiH to align itself with Council decisions introducing EU restrictive measures in the context of Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and events in eastern Ukraine and deplores deliberate lack of cooperation from some political actors;

2018/10/18
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital –A (new)

-A. whereas the EU enlargement continues to represent a strategic investment in peace, democracy, prosperity, security and stability in Europe;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas Albania has continued to make steady progress towards meeting the political criteria and the five key priorities for the opening of accession negotiations: public administration reform, reform of the judiciary, fight against corruption, fight against organised crime and protection of human rights, including rights of persons belonging to minorities and property rights;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)

B a. whereas challenges still persist and need to be addressed swiftly and efficiently in a spirit of dialogue and cooperation;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas constructive dialogue between ~~political forces on reforms is essential for making further progress in the EU accession process~~the government and the opposition on EU-related reforms remains crucial to advance on the reform agenda to the benefit of the citizens and move the country closer to the EU;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Fully supports the Commission’s recommendation that accession negotiations be opened in recognition of the reform efforts made by Albania; ~~calls on~~welcomes the Council ~~to open accession talks without delay in order to susta~~decision to set out the path towards opening the ~~reform momentum~~accession negotiations in June 2019; considers that the opening of negotiations would provide further incentives for the reform process and enhance its scrutiny;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls for action addressing the outstanding recommendations of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE/ODIHR) as regards electoral reform; underlines that inclusive and timely electoral reform is needed with a view to increasing public trust in the electoral process; welcomes the work by the Ad-hoc Committee on Electoral Reform of the Albanian Parliament related to election administration, campaign finance, voter registration, vote buying, the use of new voting technologies and out-of-country voting, and urges it to reach consensus on, and adoption of, the necessary reforms in due time before the 2019 local elections; notes that additional efforts are needed to better involve civil society organisations as part of an inclusive policy dialogue;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Welcomes the progress made in justice reform aimed at increasing the independence, accountability, professionalism and efficiency of judicial institutions; regrets that the administration of justice continues to be slow and inefficient; notes that the re-evaluation process for all judges and prosecutors has started and is delivering the first tangible results; calls on the Albanian authorities to ~~speed up~~further advance the vetting process, without compromising on quality or fairness, which is crucial for the success of justice reform; takes note of first dismissals and voluntary resignations of candidates prior to their hearings;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9 a. Encourages Albania to continue its good cooperation with the International Monitoring Operation and pursue intensively the justice reform;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Welcomes the continued progress made towards establishing a more citizen- friendly, transparent, professional and de- politicised public administration, including at local level; urges the full implementation of the oversight institutions’ recommendations as well as Ombudsperson’s recommendations; notes as well the progress made with regard to territorial reform and the establishment of the Consultative Council to improve coordination between central and local governments; welcomes the setting up of local EU Desks and EU co-ordinators;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Commends the significant improvements made in the legal and institutional framework with a view to preventing and eradicating corruption in public institutions; calls for additional efforts to reduce the corruption affecting the daily life of Albania’s citizens, starting with revision of shortcomings in the legal framework of Law on the Right to Information;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Calls for increased attention to be given to political and public-private corruption~~, and stresses that a convincing track record can only be attained through~~; calls for strengthening the track record of proactive investigations, prosecutions and final convictions in ~~corruption cases at all levels~~the fight against corruption and organised crime, including high-level cases;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Welcomes the progress made in the fight against organised crime, including the substantial progress made in seizures of illicit drugs ~~and the reduction of cannabis cultivation~~; notes Albania’s intensified international police cooperation – leading to effective operations against criminal networks – including in joint working groups with Member States;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Welcomes the progress made in the fight against organised crime, ~~including the substantial progress made in seizures of illicit drugs and the reduction of cannabis cultivation~~and calls to further pursue tangible and sustainable results, including in the specific area of countering cultivation and trafficking of drugs; notes Albania’s intensified international police cooperation – leading to effective operations against criminal networks – including in joint working groups with Member States;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. ~~Welcomes the additional steps taken~~Reiterates the need for effective legislative and policy measures to reinforce the protection of human ~~rights, minority~~ rights and anti- discrimination policies, including the equal treatment of all minorities; insists that measures be taken to further improve the education, employment rates and living conditions for Roma, Egyptians and other ethnic minorities;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19 a. Welcomes the equal representation of women in the new government and increased percentage of women parliamentarians; commends adoption of resolution on the fight against gender- based violence and establishment of parliamentary sub-committee on gender equality; urges further efforts to ensure that all strategies and policies are gender mainstreamed; is concerned about still existing gender-discriminatory provisions in a number of laws, lagging access to justice for women, and proportion of women in the informal labour market, especially the textile and shoe industries, without adequate labour and social protection;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Calls on the Albanian authorities to enhance cooperation with civil society organisations, ensuring effective public participation and consultation throughout the decision-making process, including at local level; urges the authorities to make significant developments in the legal and regulatory framework of the tax regime for CSOs as well as public funding;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24

24. Urges the Albanian authorities to ~~address the larg~~step up reforms aimed at increasing competitiveness and tackling the informal economy; stresses that corruption, rule-of- law deficiencies and cumbersome regulatory procedures continue to deter investment; calls to further improve the business and investment environment, including ensuring enforcement of property rights, vigorously pursuing fiscal consolidation and strengthening tax administration;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)

26 a. Commends that according to the Institute of Statistic in Albania (INSTAT) the level of unemployment in Albania decreased; stresses the need to improve the quality of the education system, including increasing capacity in order to better equip people with skills and knowledge in line with labour market needs; underlines the need to support long-term growth by developing the capacity for technological absorption, research, development and innovation;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Welcomes Albania’s commitment to implement the Connectivity Agenda in the framework of the Berlin Process~~; supports the proposal to reduce roaming fees in the Western Balkans~~ and the adoption of IPA 2018 package that includes the strategically important infrastructure project the reconstruction of Durrës Port, which is strengthening Albania's connections with Croatia and Italy and providing Albania’s landlocked neighbours, Kosovo and Macedonia access to maritime transport routes; supports the proposal to reduce roaming fees in the Western Balkans; notes that rural areas represent 40% of the population but only 1% out of this is connected to the internet;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Welcomes Albania’s commitment to implement the Connectivity Agenda in the framework of the Berlin Process; supports the proposal to reduce roaming fees in the Western Balkans in order to promote a market- and investment- friendly environment towards a digital economy;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28

28. Expresses concern over economic activity that has led to environmental damage in protected areas, such as the hydropower plants along the Vjosa river; urges the authorities to step up environmental impact assessments and public consultations on such projects; calls for stronger efforts in energy efficiency, and in this regard encourages Albanian authorities to fully align its Energy Efficiency Law with the acquis; notes that Albania has to remove legal and contractual obstacles for integrating energy markets, and the unbundling of energy companies should be finalized;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29

29. Expresses concern that Albania remains the Western Balkan country from which are made the highest number of illegal entries and stays, and unfounded asylum claims, in Member States; calls to increase the measures taken in recent months to address effectively the phenomenon of unfounded asylum applications in the EU as well as unaccompanied minors;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29

29. Expresses concern that Albania remains the Western Balkan country from which are made the highest number of illegal entries and stays, and unfounded asylum claims, in Member States; urges Albania to apply the return procedures which are compliant with the Law on Foreigners and to ensure its return mechanism for irregular migrants is in line with the EU acquis;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2147(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30

30. Commends Albania’s success in stemming the outflow of foreign fighters; welcomes the regional cooperation that has been achieved in countering potential terrorist threats; calls for further measures to disrupt financial flows aimed at financing terrorism ~~and to address online radicalisation~~, to strengthen the prevention and monitoring mechanisms involving civil society and religious communities, and to address online radicalisation; calls on the government to improve programmes to reintegrate returnees and their families and to prevent radicalisation in prisons;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas Serbia has been ~~continuously~~ engaged in the normalisation of relations with Kosovo, resulting in the First Agreement on the Principles of Normalisation of Relations of 19 April 2013 and the August 2015 agreements; whereas Serbia has remained engaged in the dialogue;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. ~~Welcom~~Notes the continued engagement of Serbia on the path of integration into the European Union; calls on Serbia to actively promote this strategic decision among the Serbian public;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Underlines that the thorough implementation of reforms and policies ~~remain~~is a key indicator of a successful integration process; calls on Serbia to improve the planning, coordination and monitoring of the implementation of new legislation and policies;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Welcomes the progress made by Serbia in developing a functioning market economy, ensuring economic growth and preserving macroeconomic and monetary stability; stresses that although Serbia has made good progress in addressing some of the policy weaknesses that have been an issue in the past, in particular through budget consolidation, unemployment and economic inactivity are still high, particularly among women and youth and the private sector is underdeveloped and hampered by weaknesses in the rule of law and the enforcement of fair competition; underlines that the restructuring and privatisation of state- owned enterprises has partially advanced; stresses the paramount importance to Serbia’s economy of small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) which face a number of challenges, including high and unpredictable para-fiscal charges, and difficult and costly access to finance;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Takes note of the presidential elections on 2 April 2017; ~~welcomes~~notes some improvement of the general conduct of the elections~~; calls on the authorities to fully address the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission~~, but regrets prevailing violations that hamper fair and efficient electoral process, such as unbalanced media coverage, pressure on voters and employees of state-affiliated structures, and a misuse of administrative resources; calls on the authorities to fully address the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, including a comprehensive and inclusive review of the legal framework on elections to address gaps and loopholes, shortcomings in the transparency of party and campaign financing, the need for strict separation of party and state activities, and the need for independent regulatory bodies to exercise their monitoring and oversight role proactively and effectively;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Takes note of the presidential elections on 2 April 2017 and calls on the authorities to ensure that procedures for free and fair elections are in line with international standards; welcomes the general conduct of the elections; calls on the authorities to fully address the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission and to engage in dialogue with domestic independent election observation missions; calls on the authorities to properly investigate claims of irregularities, violence and intimidation that arose during the electoral process;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls on Serbia to progressively align its foreign and security policy to that of the EU, including its policy on Russia; welcomes Serbia’s important contribution and continued participation in ~~international peacekeeping operations~~the EU missions, roster of the EU Battle Groups, and international peacekeeping operations; is concerned about Serbia's continuing military cooperation with Russia, including procurement of strategic arms and joint military exercises in vicinity of the EU borders; notes with concern the ratification of agreement on cooperation and joint action between Serbia’s Ministry of Interior and the Russian Federal Protective Service which could infringe on its obligations under EU accession negotiations related to data protection and exchange of classified information;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Commends Serbia’s constructive approach in managing the effects of the migration and refugee crisis, and the substantial efforts the country has made to provide shelter and humanitarian supplies, primarily with EU support; urges Serbia to progressively align its visa policy with that of the EU, and to put in place a robust return mechanism for irregular migrants, which is in line with the EU acquis;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Urges Serbia to step up its reform efforts in the area of rule of law, and in particular to ensure the independence and overall efficiency of the judicial system; stresses that special focus should be put on implementing effective reform in this area; notes that while some progress has been made in reducing the backlog of old enforcement cases, and in putting in place measures to harmonise court practice, judicial independence in Serbia is not fully assured; calls on Serbia to strengthen the accountability, impartiality, professionalism and overall efficiency of the judiciary, and to establish a free legal aid system ensuring the broad range of free legal aid providers, including civil society organisations;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Reiterates the importance of intensifying the fight against corruption and urges Serbia to show a clear commitment to tackle this issue; welcomes the adoption of the amendments made in the economic crimes section of the country’s criminal code; reiterates its call to swiftly adopt a new law on the Anti- Corruption Agency to improve the planning, coordination and monitoring of the implementation of new legislation and policies; urges Serbia to adopt or amend other necessary anti-corruption legislation, as identified in the Action Plan for Chapter 23 of negotiations and in GRECO and ODIHR recommendations; stresses that it is critical that the Agency receives and maintains the human and financial resources it needs to carry out its mandate in an independent manner; calls on the authorities to fill all open positions in the Agency; urges the Serbian Parliament to finalize the election of the Anti-corruption Agency Board members in a transparent and democratic manner; calls on Serbia to further improve its track record on investigations, indictments and final convictions in high- level corruption cases, and to publish statistics and information about the results of investigations in all publicly known cases of alleged corruption of public officials;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. ~~Acknowledges some progress has been made in the~~Urges Serbia to show a clear commitment in fighting against organised crime; calls on Serbia to establish a convincing track record of investigations, prosecutions and convictions in organised crime cases, including mafia-related murders and money laundering, based on proactive investigations; calls on Serbia to focus on the implementation of the action plan agreed with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF);

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Stresses that the Serbian parliament still does not exercise effective oversight of the executive, and that the transparency, inclusiveness and quality of the legislative process need to be enhanced; ~~welcomes the declining use of urgent procedures to adopt legislation; stresses, however,~~stresses that the still-frequent use of urgent procedures undermines parliamentary and public scrutiny; ~~stresses th~~condemns the deliberate actions that limit the ability of the Serbian parliament to conduct an effective debate on, and scrutiny of, legislation ~~should be avoided~~; is concerned by the increased practice of filibustering adopted by the ruling majority, which prevents the opposition from actively taking part in parliamentary procedures: calls for additional measures to ensure cross-party dialogue and the effective involvement of civil society in the work of the parliament; welcomes the Serbian parliament’s continued efforts to improve transparency through debates on Serbia’s negotiating positions on EU accession chapters, and through exchanges with the core negotiating team and with the National Convention on the European Union; stresses that the role of independent regulatory bodies, including the country’s Ombudsman, needs to be fully acknowledged and supported; urges the Serbian Parliament to engage in promoting and monitoring the implementation of independent regulatory bodies' findings and recommendations;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Stresses that the Serbian parliament still does not exercise effective oversight of the executive, and that the transparency, inclusiveness and quality of the legislative process need to be enhanced; welcomes the declining use of urgent procedures to adopt legislation; stresses, however, that the still- frequent use of urgent procedures undermines parliamentary and public scrutiny; stresses that actions that limit the ability of the Serbian parliament to conduct an effective debate on, and scrutiny of, legislation should be avoided; welcomes the Serbian parliament’s continued efforts to improve transparency through debates on Serbia’s negotiating positions on EU accession chapters, and through exchanges with the core negotiating team and with the National Convention on the European Union; stresses that the role of independent regulatory bodies, including the country’s Ombudsmaperson, needs to be fully acknowledged and supported; is concerned that for the last two years the government has not issued a report on the implementation of the Ombudsperson’s recommendations;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Underlines that the legislative and institutional framework for upholding human rights is in place; stresses that consistent and efficient implementation across the whole country is needed; calls on Serbia to adopt the new Law on Personal Data Protection fully in line with EU standards; notes that further sustained efforts are necessary to improve the situation of persons belonging to vulnerable groups, including children, persons with disabilities, persons with HIV/AIDS, and LGBTI persons; underlines that shortcomings in the legislative and institutional framework for upholding human rights of children and adults with disabilities still persist; calls on Serbia to actively pursue investigations, prosecutions and convictions of hate- motivated crimes;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13a. Calls on authorities to promote a climate of tolerance and to condemn all forms of hate speech, public approval and denial of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes by implementing provisions of Criminal Code; calls for effective investigation of high-profile war crimes cases; calls for improving regional cooperation in war crime cases;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)

13b. Welcomes the alignment of the Criminal Code and the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence with the Istanbul Convention; urges swift adoption of the new Gender Equality Law drafted by the coordination body for gender equality as well as new national strategy and action plan for combating violence against women in family and partner relationships that expired in 2015; is concerned about wide gender gaps in the areas of labour, time use, political participation, property and access to resources, as well as prevalent discrimination against women with disabilities, older, rural and Roma women; condemns the role of the media in perpetuating gender stereotypes and minimising gender-based violence;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Reiterates its concern that no progress has been made to improve the situation regarding freedom of expression and of the media; stresses that threats, violence and intimidation against journalists ~~remain an issue of concern~~and media outlets, including administrative harassment and intimidation through the courts remain an issue of concern especially when coming from elected officials; calls upon officials at all levels to be consistent in publicly condemning any form of intimidation of journalists and to refrain from such behaviour; notes, in this regard, that while several cases have been solved and some criminal charges have been filed, convictions are still rare; calls on the authorities to investigate and prosecute any cases of attacks against journalists and media outlets; express its concern over the Regulatory Body for Electronic Media's absence of supervision and action, especially during the election period; calls for the full implementation of media laws and the strengthening of the independence of the country’s Regulatory Body for Electronic Media by eliminating any political interference and influence over its work through the process of nomination and appointment of its Council members, and by broadening its mandate to issue sanctions and securing its financial independence; welcomes the renewed efforts to adopt a media strategy to create a pluralistic media environment, and stresses, in this regard, the importance of a transparent and inclusive consultation with stakeholders; underlines the need for complete transparency in media ownership and funding;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10a. Notes that no progress was made towards establishing an enabling environment for the development and financing of civil society; regrets that the relationship between government and CSOs is still marked by fragmented cooperation and a selective approach towards individual CSOs; condemns the negative statements made by government officials on civil society in general and the harsh criticism of human rights defenders by some media outlets; notes that most CSOs lack stable funding and transparent criteria for public financial support are not clearly defined; calls for the adoption of a national strategy and related action plan to regulate the environment in which CSOs operate; stresses that further efforts are needed to ensure systematic cooperation between government and civil society;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Is concerned that a national strategy for an enabling environment for civil society organisations (CSOs) and its accompanying action plan has not been adopted; strongly condemns government's and government managed media's negative campaign towards CSOs; urges better definition of criteria for public financial support to ensure overall transparency as the lack of financial sustainability of CSOs affects the potential of social entrepreneurship to address local community needs and stimulate employment and economic growth;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Welcomes the adoption of an action plan for the realisation of the rights of national minorities, and the adoption of a decree establishing a fund for national minorities; calls for the full implementation of the action plan and for improved coordination and inclusion of stakeholders; notes that the fund for national minorities is functioning and that its funding has been increased; reiterates its call on Serbia to ensure consistent implementation of legislation on the protection of minorities, including in relation to education, the use of languages, representation in public administration and access to media and religious services in minority languages; calls for full implementation of the right to timely birth registration for all children born in Serbia, including those of undocumented parents;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Invites the Serbian government to fully implement all international treaties concerning minority rights such as agreement with Republic of Croatia from 2005 on protection of rights of Croatian national minority in Serbia; calls on the authorities to protect existing media and programs in minority languages during the process of privatisation;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Welcomes the adoption of the new Roma social inclusion strategy for the period 2016-2025 along with an action plan covering education, health, housing and employment; calls for full implementation of the new strategy for Roma inclusion and the action plan; is concerned with the high rate of school drop outs, especially for Roma girls who are forced into child marriages;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Welcomes the adoption of the new Roma social inclusion strategy for the period 2016-2025 along with an action plan covering education, health, housing and employment; notes that the majority of Roma live in informal settlements lacking adequate access to fresh water and electricity, suffer from social exclusion and face systematic violations of their rights: calls for full implementation of the new strategy for Roma inclusion and the action plan; highlights the importance of formulating policies to combat discrimination against Roma and Anti-gypsyism;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Welcomes the adoption of a national strategy for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes and the adoption of an operational prosecutorial strategy; welcomes the appointment in May 2017 of a new war crimes prosecutor; reiterates its call for ~~the~~an efficient and timely implementation of this strategy, in particular by means of bringing forward indictments~~, and~~; calls for the ~~adoption of an operational prosecutorial strategy;~~effective investigation of high-profile war crimes cases: calls on Serbia to again cooperate fully with the current Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals; ~~urges the Serbian authorities to continue working on the issue of the fate of missing persons~~calls on the Serbian political and judicial authorities to fully cooperate with their regional partners in order to identify remaining war criminals and bring them to justice; urges the Serbian authorities to continue working on the issue of the fate of missing persons, including opening state archives related to the war period; urges Serbia to prepare a reparations scheme for victims and their families as an important precondition for reconciliation; highlights the importance of the work carried out by the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) and its local branches in promoting reconciliation among the youth;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Welcomes the adoption of a national strategy for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes; notes the adoption of a prosecutorial strategy for investigation and prosecution of war crimes and calls on Serbia to implement decisively all foreseen activities; welcomes the appointment in May 2017 of a new war crimes prosecutor; reiterates its call for the efficient and dedicated implementation of thise National strategy, in particular by means of bringing forward indictments~~, and for the adoption of an operational prosecutorial strategy~~; calls for effective investigation of high- profile war crimes cases; calls on Serbia to again cooperate fully with the current Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals; urges the Serbian authorities to continue working on the issue of the fate of missing persons; highlights the importance of the work carried out by the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) and its local branches in promoting reconciliation among the youth and with its regional partners in war crime cases; urges the Serbian authorities to express their political commitment to dealing with the consequences of armed conflicts; urges the Serbian authorities to continue working on the issue of the fate of missing persons, including opening state archives related to the war period; urges Serbia to prepare a reparations scheme for victims and their families as an important precondition for reconciliation; points out that a new law on civilian victims should be adopted without any undue delay; highlights the importance of the work carried out by the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) and its local branches in promoting reconciliation among the youth; reiterates its support for the initiative to establish the Regional Commission for the establishment of facts about war crimes and other serious violations of human rights committed in the former Yugoslavia, and urges the Serbian government to take the lead on its establishment;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Regrets the persisting lack of an objective assessment and understanding of the crimes committed in the former Yugoslavia; stresses the need for far- reaching political decisions and initiatives aimed at establishing responsibilities and raising awareness in schools about Serbia's troubled past; calls for enhanced inclusiveness of education systems across the region so as to eliminate old prejudices and eradicate the seeds of hatred in the new generations; reiterates its support for the initiative to set up a Regional Commission for the establishment of facts about war crimes and other serious violations of human rights committed in the former Yugoslavia, and urges the Serbian government to take the lead in its creation;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)

20b. Expresses its concern over repeated statements by high-ranking politicians putting into question the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and condemns any form of nationalist rhetoric aimed at encouraging its disintegration;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6

Energy and transport

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Calls on Serbia to implement fully the connectivity reform measures in the energy sector; ~~encourages~~calls on Serbia to fully unbundle Serbiajagas and to develop competition in the gas market; ~~welcomes the country’s efforts to promote investments in the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy~~recalls that the legislation on efficient use of energy and on the energy performance of buildings is not fully in line with the corresponding EU Directives; urges Serbia to develop a system of sustainable financing for energy efficiency projects in order to achieve the targets;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2146(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Welcomes the joint commitment signed by Serbia and Bulgaria on 17 May 2018, on the occasion of the Western Balkans summit of Leaders in Sofia, to build the gas interconnector between the two countries and the adoption of IPA 2018 package that includes the strategically important infrastructure project “Nis-Merdare-Pristina highway of peace” that will enable a better transport connection between central Serbia and Kosovo and has symbolic significance for relations in the region;

2018/09/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas Montenegro has to further strengthen, inter alia, parliamentary, legislative and oversight capacity, institutional transparency, respect for the rule of law, domestic handling of war crimes cases, integrity of the electoral process, media freedom, and the fight against corruption, organised crime and the informal economy;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Notes that fundamental freedoms were respected in the April 2018 presidential elections; calls for shortcomings identified by the OSCE ODIHR to be comprehensively addressed in order to improve public trust in the electoral process, notes that frequent local elections cause ‘election fatigue’ that hinders quality of and transparent elections and calls for comprehensive electoral reform;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Welcomes the efforts made to improve the transparency of public administration and information sharing but ~~would~~ encourage ~~steps toward~~s establishing a more citizen- friendly, professional and de-politicised public administration; calls for improved regulatory impact assessments, comprehensive reports on audit and inclusive public consultations on law proposals; stresses the importance of cooperation with the CSOs;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Welcomes the moderate progress made towards increasing the independence, transparency, accountability, professionalism and efficiency of judicial institutions~~; calls for safeguards against political interference~~, but notes with the concern that the corruption in judiciary is still prevalent; calls for safeguards against political interference, particularly of Anti- Corruption Agency, proactive attitude of institutions, and for a coherent application of codes of ethics and disciplinary measures; welcomes the fact that new judges and prosecutors have been appointed for the first time using the new recruitment system;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Is concerned by the increasing instances of violence and assassinations linked to organised crime, which have a detrimental effect on the daily life of ordinary citizens; welcomes the fact that the authorities have identified this issue but calls for more robust preventative action and production of a convincing track record against money laundering and human trafficking;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Reiterates its call for systematic, inclusive, timely and genuine consultations with civil society on key EU-related legislative reforms, including their implementation at local level; stresses the need to improve financial regulatory environment for CSOs;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. UHighlights the need to ensure effective implementation of fundamental rights policies on gender equality, disability rights, rights of the child and Roma rights by securing sufficient budget allocation to implement the policies, improve the capacity of responsible institutions and increase their inter- institutional coordination; urges improvement in the enforcement and monitoring mechanisms for human rights protection, including by tackling violence against women and children, highlighting the findings of the recent evaluation of the child rights monitoring system in Montenegro;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25

25. Urges that the full potential offered by digital tools in the field of land registry, invoicing and the issuing of construction permits be used; notes the need to speed up the roll-out of broadband access to businesses and households; stresses the need for government-wide interoperability framework to support further digitalisation and simplification of administrative and business procedures;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26

26. Welcomes regulatory changes in the field of education~~; urges the authorities to address~~ and efforts to increase pre-school participation rates, including by children from disadvantaged backgrounds and highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to early childhood development including by addressing health concerns such as the low immunization coverage; encourages continued curricular reform in primary and secondary education to teach basic and transversal skills and focus on learning outcomes; urges the authorities to address the low secondary education completion among Roma students (3%, the lowest in the region) and the high long-term unemployment rate among youth, Roma and women;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Welcomes Montenegro’s strengthened participation in the Erasmus+ programme and expresses its support for the Commission’s proposal to double the Erasmus+ budget; encourages stronger coordination on horizontal issues affecting youth employment, inclusion, active citizenship, volunteering and education;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Subheading 7

Environment ~~and energy~~, energy and transport

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28

28. Notes that the development of additional hydropower and tourism capacities must meet EU environmental standards; urges the further exploitation of potential renewables and energy-efficiency measures and the improvement of water and waste management; urges the Montenegrin authorities to fully align national legislation with the Renewable Energy Directive and Energy Performance of Buildings Directive;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)

29 a. Highlights Montenegro's proactive participation and constructive role in regional and international cooperation trough the "Berlin process" and the Western Balkans six initiative, welcomes the outcome of the Sofia Summit 2018 and the adoption of IPA 2018 package that includes funding of two important infrastructure projects “Budva bypass” on the Adriatic Ionian Corridor and “Vrbnica- Bar railway section” on Orient/East-Med Corridor; emphasizes the importance of those traffic routes that are the direct link between Balkan countries and the EU markets;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2144(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32

32. Urges Montenegro to intensify its efforts in proactively prioritising and punishing war crimes and clarifying the fate of missing persons; ~~welcomes the efforts for reintegration of displaced persons under the Regional Housing Programme~~is concerned that the Special Prosecutor's Office (SPO) opened eight new cases in 2016 of which six are still in preliminary investigation phase, as well as that in all cases SPO had to rely on letters rogatory to ICTY & prosecution services of neighbouring countries; notes with disappointment that there is still no charges for command responsibility, co-perpetration and aiding and abetting, and that the judicial decisions reached contained legal mistakes and shortcomings in application of international humanitarian law; welcomes the efforts for reintegration of displaced persons under the Regional Housing Programme; urges the insurance of the equal access to justice for all victims, reparations in line with national legislation; stresses the need to fight the impunity;

2018/09/03
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1

State of play 2018 – Tackling ~~information~~hybrid warfare

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph c

c) to support the growing number of state institutions, think tanks, NGOs and other actors dealing with propaganda and disinformation, and ensure that EU strategic communication becomes a matter of high priority on the European agenda; calls on the VP/HR and the Commission to become more closely involved in this area;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph c a (new)

ca) to ensure that the EU institutions and Member States work hand in hand on existing and future initiatives to step up efforts to secure free and fair democratic processes and to address disinformation campaigns, which attempt to create divisions in open societies and interfere in the elections and decision-making process of EU, Member States and EU's neighbours;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph f

f) to focus and adapt EU and Member States' response on the continuously growing sophistication of the tools used to spread fake news, including the new ways of spreading propaganda by using multiple low-level websites, deep fakes and video content manipulations, automated bots, encrypted messaging services, on-line portals and TV stations to disseminate the main narratives; is concerned about Russia’s and other third parties' activities in this context;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph h a (new)

ha) to make sure the industry and on- line platforms deliver on the commitments undertaken in the Code of Practice on Disinformation and effectively tackle the disinformation problem by: (i) ensuring transparency of political advertising based on effective due diligence checks of the identity of sponsors, (ii) taking decisive action against fake accounts active on their services, (iii) identifying the misuse of automated bots, and (iv) cooperating effectively with independent fact- checkers;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph l

l) to pay special attention to the importance of not only debunking and exposing, but also ensuring the clear attribution of such attacks, including publicly naming the perpetrators, their sponsors and the goals they seek to achieve, as well as measuring the effects of these attacks on the targeted audience;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph m a (new)

ma) to raise awareness about negative impact of disinformation through dedicated communication campaigns as well as seminars and trainings for media, influencers and public opinion shapers in the EU and its neighbourhood;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph m b (new)

mb) to support cross-border cooperation on media literacy programmes and promote tools for the media literacy, such as EU on-line media literacy library and learning centre;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph n a (new)

na) to welcome the establishment of the new EEAS Strategic Communication Task Forces consisting of experts with appropriate linguistic and knowledge skills, namely the Task Force for Western Balkans and the Task Force South for the countries in the Middle East, Northern Africa and Gulf region, which are tasked to ensure coordinated and consistent EU communications in the regions and counteract disinformation and propaganda against the EU;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph n b (new)

nb) to support the joint efforts of the Commission and the EEAS to improve capabilities to detect, analyse and expose disinformation by equipping the EEAS Strategic Communication Task Forces and EU Delegations in the neighbourhood with new staff, tools and skills, including new data analysis tools, hiring of additional data scientists and disinformation experts, as well as covering a wider range of sources and languages on the reach and impact of disinformation;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph o

o) to ~~turn~~support all three E~~ast~~EAS Strat~~Com Task Force into a fully-fledged unit, and to provide~~egic Communication Task Forces by providing them with adequate financial and personnel resources ~~which will~~aimed at significantly increase ~~its~~of their potential, effectiveness, professionalism, institutional continuity and quality of work;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph p

p) to address the current deficiencies in the East StratCom Task Force, including lack of regional expertise, a large turnover of staff and lack of institutional continuity, and to ensure adequate financial resources and an adequate organisational structure, as this is the only way to ensure full professionalism, effectiveness and results;deleted

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph q

q) to invite Member States which have not done so already to assign their own seconded National Experts to the ~~East~~three StratCom Task Forces;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph r

r) to engage the EU Representations inside the EU, and the EU Delegations outside the EU, in supporting the work of the East StratCom Task Force, Task Force South and Task Force for Western Balkans, including by providing translations of their publications in local languages;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph s

s) to focus on the accession countries and partners in the EU neighbourhood, which are often on the front line in terms of exposure to Russian propaganda; to assist them in their efforts to counteract hostile propaganda and disinformation activities, inter alia by supporting strategic communication units within their respective institutions; to urge these EU partner countries, when necessary, to take more dedicated, proactive, effective and transparent measures in this regard;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph s a (new)

sa) to strengthen capabilities of the EU Delegations abroad, the Commission Representations and the European Parliament Liaison Offices in Member States to develop local capacity to detect and expose disinformation and to communicate effectively the EU's values and policies;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph s b (new)

sb) to extend campaign-based communication and better coordinate and amplify positive narratives across the EU institutions and Member States, including by consolidating respective budgets and building a shared on-line repository of success stories;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph u

u) to propose to the next European Council and the Commission that counteracting strategic propaganda is given a separate portfolio in the new Commission with adequate support from a specialised agency;deleted

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2115(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph v

v) to link existing national and local specialised centres, think tanks, NGOs and other actors and institutions, in particular NATO, dealing with strategic propaganda into an EU-wide network that would help coordinate their actions and gather their findings in one place; to assign adequate resources to this undertaking; stresses that this network should be open to like-minded partners of the EU;

2018/12/05
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Notes that the rules-based world order is being increasingly challenged both at the political-military level and, more recently, at the commercial-economic one, and that the societal, ecological, economic, technological and geopolitical trends point to the growing vulnerability of the world's population to shocks and stresses; notes that these systemic challenges are being accompanied by the continuous deterioration of the international environment confronted with interstate conflicts, natural disasters, extreme weather events, water crises, terrorism, state failure and cyber and hybrid attacks on the foundational pillars of our societies; acknowledges that the defence of the rules-based international order and the values defended by liberal democracies should be of the outmost priority and should be approached without compromise;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Stresses that these challenges are too vast to be successfully met by any single country; is firmly convinced that EU's vulnerability is direct outcome of the lack of integration as well as lack of coordination; emphasises that it is vital for the EU to respond to these challenges, consistently, effectively and with one voice; notes that the CSDP is a useful tool for addressing many of these challenges; points out that the CSDP institutions are in place as well as its many instruments and urges Members States to use them without delay;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Emphasises, however, that to this date cooperation is still in a developing stage and much more needs to be done to ensure that the EU and Member States reap the rewards of deep, and sustained~~, long-term~~ cooperation on defence that will lead to common EU defence;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5 a. Emphasises practical and financial benefits of further integrations of European defence capabilities; underlines that through comprehensive and trustworthy work of all stakeholders, it is possible to increase the scope and efficiency of defence spending without the increase of defence spending itself;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5 a. Notes that recent activities and policies by Russia have reduced stability and changed the security environment and emphasises that the EU and Member States need to come to a more common, strategic approach with regards to Russia;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6 a. Emphasises that multilateralism to which Europe is deeply attached is increasingly being called into question by the attitudes of the US and other world powers; reiterates the importance of multilateralism in maintaining peace and stability, as a vehicle for promoting the values of the rule of law and tackling global issues;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Welcomes the creation of a dedicated title for defence in the Commission’s MFF proposal, and in particular the establishment of a budget line from which the European Defence Fund and Military Mobility projects will be funded; is of the opinion that these decisions will, most probably, call for a centralized management on defence at Commission level; underlines that funding from that budget line should be exclusively spent for defence purposes without politicization as security is indivisible and should be coherent with the capability and infrastructure needs of Member States and in line with the EU’s aspirations for strategic defence autonomy;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. CUrges the establishment of precise and binding guidelines to provide a well- defined framework for future activation and implementation of Article 42(7) TEU; calls, therefore, for the conceptualization and adoption of a EU Security and Defence White Book that will guarantee that future capability building processes will be based on EU´s strategic security interests in accordance with military and industrial necessities;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Reaffirms the importance of developing the necessary military capabilities to deal with the comprehensive security challenges in and around Europe outlined by the EU Global Strategy as the facilitation of the EU security is firstly and chiefly EU obligation; recalls that European Union´s Global Strategy encourages the realization of deep defence cooperation that would lead, as stipulated in the Lisbon Treaty, to a common EU defence;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13 a. Reiterates its call for an EU-wide ban on export, sale, update and maintenance of any form of security equipment which can be or is used for internal repression, including Internet surveillance technology to states with a deplorable human rights record such as Saudi Arabia;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Considers that EU Member States jointly must cover the full-spectrum of land, air, space, maritime and cyber capabilities, including strategic enablers, to defend ~~themselves~~EU and contribute to ~~EU´s~~ Common Security and Defence Policy;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14 a. Considers it vital that the EU and NATO step up the sharing of intelligence in order to enable the formal attribution of cyber attacks and consequently enable the imposing of restrictive sanctions to those responsible for cyber attacks;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)

14 b. Expresses its concern over the damaging effects that the uncontrolled export of cyber-surveillance technologies by EU companies can have on the security of the EU's digital infrastructure and on human rights; stresses the importance of the EU institutions' ongoing efforts to update the dual-use export control regulation and calls on the Council to rapidly establish an ambitious position in order to reach an agreement before the end of this legislative term;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)

14 c. Considers that interference in other countries’ elections through cyber operations undermines or violates the right of people to take part in the government of their country, directly or through freely chosen representatives, as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and when done by other states it constitutes a violation of international law also when there is no use of military force, threat to territorial integrity, or threat to political independence;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Considers that the capabilities for the Union`s security and defence could be improved by making better use of the existing frameworks of defence and military cooperation such as the European multinational high readiness corps HQs and the EU battlegroups; believes that this will contribute to the continuous transformation of national armed forces, towards ~~the goal of~~ being more interoperable, more sustainable, more flexible and more deployable, and a final goal of common EU army; invites the Council to investigate, for example, the feasibility of potentially setting-up a permanent Spearhead Europe Force, which could be drawing on the European multinational high readiness corps HQ in Strasbourg, Szczecin and Münster; considers that the EU battle groups should grow into full- scale brigades and should be assigned to the corps HQ on a permanent basis;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15 a. Urges Council to take concrete steps towards the harmonisation and standardisation of the European armed forces, in accordance to Article 42(2), in order to facilitate the cooperation of armed forces personnel under the umbrella of a new European Defence Union as a step in progressive framing of a common Union defence policy;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17 a. Stresses that the use of all possibilities provided for in the Treaty would improve competitiveness and functioning of the defence industry in the single market, further stimulate defence cooperation through positive incentives, and targeting projects that Member States are not able to undertake, reducing unnecessary duplication, and promoting a more efficient use of public money; is of opinion that the outputs of these strategic cooperative programmes have great potential to be dual-use technologies and as such bring extra added value to Member States; emphasises on development of European capabilities and an integrated defence market;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20 a. Calls for the formation of the European Intelligence Agency with the mission and capability to implement a de facto transversal intelligence network within the Member States allowing the European Union to react in a comprehensive and coordinated way to emerging threats by adhering to Article 24(3) and Article 4(3), as the comprehensive gathering of intelligence information cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States, either at central level or at regional and local level, but can rather, by reason of the scale or effects of the proposed action, be better achieved at Union level (Article 5(3));

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22 a. Encourages the Member States participating in PESCO to set up a permanent 'European Integrated Force' composed of divisions of their national armies and to make it available to the Union for the implementation of the common security and defence policy as foreseen by Article 42(3) TEU;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30

30. ~~Underlines that EU-NATO cooperation should be complementary and respectful of each other’s specificities and roles; i~~Is convinced that a stronger EU and NATO reinforce each other, creating more synergies and effectiveness for the security and defence of all partners; stresses that the EU-NATO strategic partnership is equally ~~fundamental~~important for the EU’s evolving CSDP and for the future of the Alliance, as well as for EU-UK relations after Brexit;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31

31. Welcomes the new EU-NATO declaration adopted at the NATO Summit in Brussels on 12 July 2018 and emphasises that successful implementation of the Joint Declaration depends on the political will of all Member States throughout; while recognising the tangible results in the implementation of the 74 common actions, believes that further efforts are needed with regard to the practical implementation of the many commitments already made; notes in particular the involvement of the European Defence Agency (EDA) in the implementation of 30 actions;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33

33. Highlights, in this context, PESCO’s complementarity to NATO and the need to ensure that the multinational initiatives in capability development of both the EU and NATO are complementary and mutually reinforcing;deleted

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2099(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33

33. Highlights, in this context, PESCO’s complementarity to NATO and the need to ensure that the multinational initiatives in capability development of both the EU and NATO are complementary and mutually reinforcing; Emphasises the importance of transparency and communication about PESCO to the United States and other NATO Allies in order to avoid any misconceptions;

2018/10/16
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the EU’s security environment is now more volatile, unpredictable, complex and ambiguous than at any time since the end of the Cold War, confronted with interstate conflicts, natural disasters, terrorism, failed states, cyber attacks and hybrid warfare; whereas current EU policies may no longer suffice to promote a stable and prosperous neighbourhood;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Mirja VEHKAPERÄ, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas EU external action has a direct impact on our citizens’ lives, be it by supporting security and stability ~~in our neighbourhood~~within and outside our borders or preventing crises before they happen;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas the new world order is increasingly characterised by asymmetry, with numerous non-state actors ~~becoming increasingly~~having expanded their influen~~tial~~ce over the past decade: from NGOs advocating human rights, to transnational corporations influencing government policy, to social media activists calling for democratic change, to international organized criminal groups, to terrorist organisations committing terrorist attacks in an attempt to undermine democratic principles; whereas, nevertheless, no emergent state or non-state actor can impose an incontestable world view;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Mirja VEHKAPERÄ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Recital G

G. whereas globalisation has increased interdependence, with decisions taken in Beijing or Washington having a direct impact on our lives; whereas, in turn, interdependence has resulted in global public opinion becoming cognisant of t~~ransnational problems, which require~~he need for transnational solutions to address transnational ~~solution~~problems;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Recital H

H. whereas almost one fourth of the world’s population live in fragile states or societies; whereas these states or societies are increasingly a breeding ground for frustration and socio-economic inequality; whereas, as a result, terrorist organisations take advantage of the power vacuum to establish a recruitment base;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Mirja VEHKAPERÄ, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital J

J. whereas Western democracies have become more protectionist and inward- looking, and are swinging to the extremes at a time when multilateral cooperation is the only way to respond to global challenges effectively; whereas this power vacuum is being filled by other powers such as China or Russia; whereas the latter states have a different approach to development cooperation in Africa and other developing areas that is not linked to improvements in rule of law or other democratic reforms;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Mirja VEHKAPERÄ, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Regrets the fact that the Member States all too often prioritise their national interests, regardless of the possible consequences at a European level, thereby undermining the EU’s credibility as a global player; calls for a ~~grea~~better division of responsibilities and enhanced coordination between the EU and its Member States; believes that good cooperation among the Member States is essential to safeguard our democracy, our freedom, and our social and environmental standards;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Mirja VEHKAPERÄ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Stresses that the EU should stay true to its principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law; emphasises the importance of assessing whether the promotion of these principles in third countries has been successful; stresses that the EU's reputation as promotor of these principles could only be sustained if it ensures that these exact principles are protected and adhered to within all of its Member States;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6a. Considers that the EU should use more effectively its foreign policy instruments, including human rights and development instruments and bilateral agreements with third countries when breaches of democratic standards and human rights are taking place, and to exert effective and tailored pressure at the highest level on the host governments in question to rise systematically those issues in political and human rights dialogues; private demarches are an important first step, but should they do not work, it is important to consider more public diplomacy;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Notes that the EU has played an important role in de-escalating and resolving foreign policy crises, namely when some Member States have taken the lead under the auspices of the Union overall, such as in the Normandy format or the EU3+3 negotiations with Iran; ~~supports~~takes that, while pursuing increased security and defence cooperation in the long term, the establishment of ad hoc coalitions of Member States that can intervene to respond swiftly to international crises~~, making~~ could render EU external action more flexible and responsive in the short term by reducing the pressure of having to achieve universal consensus among the Member States;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Highlights that transatlantic relations are indispensable for the security and prosperity of both sides of the Atlantic; regrets the US’s progressive retreat from the multilateral, rules-based world order, namely its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement, and deplores the cutting of funds to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA);

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Reaffirms its full support and commitment to the JCPOA as a cornerstone of peace and stability and crucial for the security of the region;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Stresses that investing in the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans means investing in the security and future of our Union; reiterates the European perspective for the countries in the Western Balkans; highlights that the enlargement process is merit-based and must depend on nothing other than the concrete results achieved by each individual country on issues such as fundamental human rights, corruption, money-laundering practices, overall transparency and judicial independence; reiterates the importance, throughout this process, of the rule of law, reconciliation and good neighbourly relations, security and migration, socio-economic development, transport and energy connectivity and the digital agenda;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Mirja VEHKAPERÄ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to continue using the EU’s transformative power at its Eastern borders, using trade agreements and access to the single market as incentives to foster democratic reforms and the adoption of European rules and standards; calls further on the EEAS to monitor democratic processes in its direct neighbourhood and ensure that democratic progress is not halted or reverted;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Insists that only by engaging with the real relevant actors on the ground, by involving local communities and working on solutions that tackle the root causes for migrations at their source of origin and that any financial support is subjected to strict terms and conditionalities on upholding respect for the rule of law, fundamental and human rights and democracy;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)

17b. Reiterates its supports to the EU's CSDP stabilisations missions in the sub- Saharan area and calls on their reinforcement, by entrusting the mandate and means that are appropriate to the grave challenges they are facing; recalls also its support to the northern African countries, in the understanding that economic development is the base of a stable and just society, in the framework and respect for human rights as core values;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 c (new)

17c. Stresses that the EU must play a leading role in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, my means of its decisive soft-power and the full implementation, in all their provisions, of all association agreements with the countries in the region;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 d (new)

17d. Stresses that preserving peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region is of substantial interest to the EU and its member states; calls for all parties concerned in the region to solve differences through peaceful means and to refrain from taking unilateral actions to change the status quo, including in the East and South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, in order to safeguard regional security;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Timothy Charles Ayrton TANNOCK, Cristian Dan PREDA, Eduard KUKAN, Andrey KOVATCHEV, László TŐKÉS, Tunne KELAM, Boris ZALA, Anders VISTISEN, Johannes Cornelis van BAALEN, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Tamás MESZERICS, Jordi SOLÉ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 e (new)

17e. Emphasises that strengthening regional security in the Indo-Pacific is of critical importance to the interests of the EU and its Member States; stresses that all disputes should be settled through peaceful means based on international laws; takes note that official dialogue between China and Taiwan has been frozen over the past two years; encourages a quick resumption of bilateral talks to de-escalate tensions between the two sides and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait; reiterates its firm support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organisations, mechanisms and activities;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 f (new)

17f. In the aftermath of the recent presidential and parliamentary elections in the region, reaffirms its commitment to continue forging strong relations with Latin America, promoting the defence of democracy and human rights in so far as shared core values by both the EU and LAC; expresses its grave concern on the lack of respect for democracy and rule of law, especially in Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela, and on the attacks against democratically elected opposition leaders, journalists, students and human rights defenders, in particular those working on environmental issues and their lawyers; emphasizes that respect to rule of law and to stable political and legal framework, including fight against corruption and impunity, as well as progress towards democracy and the respect for and promotion of fundamental freedoms, are cornerstone for deeper integration and cooperation with LAC;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 g (new)

17g. Observes with concern the electoral developments in Brazil, key country in the region;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 h (new)

17h. Commends the efforts of all the parties concerned in the Peace Process in Colombia; reiterates its full support to the Peace Process and to its effective implementation, which is decisive for the future of Colombians and for stabilisation in the region of which this country is a part;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Believes that the capacity to dispatch forces to global conflicts is an essential pre-condition for becoming a credible political power; calls on the EEAS and the Member States to develop sufficient military capabilities, covering the full-spectrum of land, air, space, maritime and cyber capabilities to defend their values and interests around the world;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2097(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 c (new)

20c. Stresses that furthering the Defence Union should provide for a complementary role in the EU's external relations;

2018/10/19
Committee: AFET

2018/2086(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10a. Calls for the continuation of the work of the Commission’s Working Groups responsible for assisting the Member States’ national authorities to better implement cohesion policy funds in those Member States that are lagging in terms of the absorption of ESIF funds.

2018/09/19
Committee: REGI

2018/2086(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 11

11. ~~Hopes that~~Stresses the importance of the structural reform support programme ~~will be enhance~~and hopes that the programme will be enhanced in the upcoming programming period, by spelling out its role as a facilitator rather than a source of technical assistance, and improved in terms of effectiveness and efficiency.

2018/09/19
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas border regions mostly face worse conditions for social and economic development and generally perform less well economically than other regions within the Member States;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas, in spite of the efforts already undertaken, obstacles – mainly administrative and legal barriers – still persist and hamper ~~growth~~economic and social development and cohesion in the border regions;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Points out that access to public services is crucial for the 150 million- strong cross-border population, and is hampered by numerous legal and administrative barriers; calls, therefore, on the Commission and the Member States to maximise their efforts to remove these barriers, especially when related to health services, transport, ~~education~~construction of vital physical infrastructure, education, communications, labour mobility, as well as regulation and business development;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Underlines that the problems faced by the border regions are common to some extent, but also vary from region to region or between Member States and depend on the individual characteristics of a given region, which makes an individual approach in tackling these obstacles a necessity;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Underlines that the differing legal and institutional frameworks of the Member States can lead to legal uncertainty in the border regions, which results in an increase in the time needed and the cost of implementing the projects, and constitutes an additional obstacle for citizens, institutions and enterprises in the border regions; stresses, therefore, that greater complementarity and willingness to tackle barriers between the Member States, or at least at border region level, is desirable;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Recognises the special situation of cross-border workers, who are most seriously affected by the challenges present in the border regions, including, in particular, the recognition of diplomas and other qualifications, healthcare, transport and access to information on job vacancies, social security and taxation systems; calls, in this context, on the Member States to step up their efforts to overcome these obstacles and allow for greater powers, funds and flexibility for regional and local authorities in border regions to improve the quality of life of cross-border workers;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Points to the challenges related to business activities carried out in the border regions, in particular when related to the adoption of labour and commercial law, taxation, public procurement or social security systems; calls on the Member States to better align and harmonise the relevant legal provisions and achieve convergence in regulatory frameworks, in order to allow for more flexibility in the implementation of national legislation, as well as to improve the dissemination of information on cross-border issues, e.g. by creating one-stop-shops;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Points out that transport services are still insufficiently developed in the border regions, which hampers cross- border mobility; stresses, furthermore, that cross-border transport infrastructure is also particularly adversely affected by complex regulatory and administrative arrangements; awaits the forthcoming Commission study on missing railway links along internal EU borders; underlines that any such study or future recommendations should be based on information and experience from local and regional authorities; stresses the need to tackle transport bottlenecks, which hamper economic activities, such as transport, tourism and citizens' travel;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Considers that mutual trust, political will and a flexible approach among multi-level stakeholders, from local to national level, are vital to overcoming the abovementioned persistent obstacles and boosting growth and development in border regions; calls, therefore, for better coordination, dialogue and a further exchange of best practices among authorities; urges the Commission and the Member States to enhance such cooperation;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Underlines the importance of education and culture, and, in particular, the opportunities to step up efforts to promote multilingualism and intercultural dialogue in border regions;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13a. Calls on the Commission to explore the possibilities of enhancing cooperation and overcoming barriers to regional development at the external borders with neighbouring regions, in particular, with regions of those countries preparing for EU accession;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Underlines the positive role of European Territorial Cooperation (ETC) programmes, and in particular cross- border cooperation programmes, in the development and cohesion of border regions; calls on the Commission to preserve ETC as an important objective in the next programming period, with a more distinct role within cohesion policy post- 2020, as well as a significantly increased budget; underlines at the same time the need to simplify the programmes and reduce the administrative burdens for beneficiaries and to facilitate more investment in infrastructure projects through cross-border cooperation programmes;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Regrets that the potential of the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation is not being fully exploited, ~~which could be due partly to regional and local authorities’ reservations, and partly to their unfounded fear of a transfer of competences~~and calls on the Commission to propose measures to overcome the obstacles to the effective application of this instrument;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Urges that consideration be given to the experiences of the numerous Euroregions that exist and are operating across internal and external border regions of the EU in order to further the opportunities for economic and social development and the quality of life of citizens living in border regions;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)

16b. Calls for better use to be made of the potential that EU macro-regional strategies can offer to border regions;

2018/05/23
Committee: REGI

2018/2046(BUD)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Given that, according to the latest report (30 June 2018) on disbursements broken down by Member State, some Member States are lagging quite a long way behind in terms of funds disbursed, calls on the Commission to ascertain the shortcomings and take measures with a view to improving the uptake of ESI Funds;

2018/07/17
Committee: REGI

2018/2046(BUD)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Points out that funding from the European territorial cooperation programmes, that is to say, for cross- border cooperation on the EU’s external borders, helps to bolster enlargement policy.

2018/07/17
Committee: REGI

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)

- having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to the UN Human Rights Conventions and the optional protocols thereto,

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)

- having regard to the resolution (A/RES/65/276) of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the participation of the European Union in the work of the United Nations, which grants the EU the right to intervene in the UN General Assembly, to present proposals and amendments orally which will be put to a vote at the request of a Member State, and to exercise the right to reply,

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)

- having regard to the key principles enshrined in the Global Strategy for the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy of June 2016, particularly those pertaining to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of state borders which are equally respected by all participating states,

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 b (new)

- having regard to its Annual report on the implementation of CFSP of 13 December 2017,

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the EU remains fully committed to multilateralism, good global governance and the promotion of UN core values as an integral part of the EU’s external policy;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas the EU and its Member States remain collectively the single largest financial contributor to the UN, with the primary aims of eradicating poverty, promoting long-term peace and stability, combating social inequalities, and providing humanitarian assistance to populations, countries and regions that are confronted with all types of crises, whether natural or human-made;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)

D a. whereas the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states, the inviolability of borders and the peaceful settlement of disputes are key elements of European security order, and these principles apply to all states, both within and beyond the EU’s borders;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)

Ed. whereas the EU is one of the most dedicated defenders and promoters of human rights, fundamental freedoms, cultural values and diversity, democracy and the rule of law;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a

(a) to actively support the UN Secretary-General’s (UNSG) three pillar reform agenda; to support the streamlining of the peace and security structure, which needs to become more efficient, focused and operational with power divided in a more balanced way and with more effective diversity in the regional representation at all its bodies;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g

(g) to call on the EU and the UN to play complementary and reinforcing roles every time peace and security are threatened; to initiate structured political cooperation between the EU and the UN; to push for stronger multilateral commitments to find lasting sustainable political and peaceful solutions to current conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)

(ga) to continue to support UN special envoys’ work, actions and initiatives aimed at solving these conflicts;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i b (new)

(ib) to further strengthen the role of R2P as an important principle in UN Member States' work on conflict resolution, human rights and development; to promote a broad definition of the human security concept and the R2P principle;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i h (new)

(ih) to support actions strengthening the resilience of communities targeted by extremist propaganda and vulnerable to radicalisation, including by addressing the economic, social, cultural, and political causes which lead to it;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i i (new)

(ii) to reiterate its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism and its full support for actions aimed at defeating and eradicating terrorist organisations, which pose a clear threat to regional and international security;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i j (new)

(ij) to support efforts deployed by the UN to find a sustainable resolution to the conflict in Syria and to continue to back the EU’s role in the humanitarian field;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i k (new)

(i k) to urge the international community to do whatever is in their power in order to strongly condemn those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the Syrian conflict; to support the UNSG’s call for the establishment of a new impartial and independent panel to determine perpetrators of chemical attacks in Syria, as the absence of such a body increases the risks of a military escalation;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i l (new)

(i l) to support the UN peace plan initiative in Yemen and to tackle the ongoing humanitarian crisis as a matter of urgency; to call on all parties to respect the human rights and freedoms of all Yemeni citizens, and to stress the need of negotiated political settlement through inclusive intra-Yemeni dialogue;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i t (new)

(i t) to continue to call for the full respect of internationally recognised borders and the territorial integrity of Ukraine and all other Eastern European countries in light of the violations of international law in these areas; to support and reinvigorate diplomatic efforts for a peaceful and sustainable settlement of these ongoing and protracted conflicts;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j d (new)

(jd) to continue to promote equality and non-discrimination between women and men, and to actively promote the support of further actions against violation of LGBTI rights;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k

(k) to recall that sexual violence such as rape is used as a tactic of war and constitutes a war crime; to ensure safe medical assistance for cases of war rape; to call for strengthened protection of women and girls in conflict situations, especially as regards sexual violence; to urge all UN Member States to make all necessary financial and human resources available to assist the population in conflict areas;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r a (new)

(ra) to strongly condemn the widespread human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law; to call for greater protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in every dimension of their expression, including in the context of new technologies;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u b (new)

(ub) to recall the obligation of the General Assembly, when electing the membership of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), to take into account the respect of candidates for the promotion and protection of human rights, the rule of law and democracy; to call for the establishment of clear human rights performance-based criteria for membership of the UNHRC;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v

(v) to fully support the UN-led efforts to negotiate two Global Compacts for Migration and on Refugees based on the September 2016 New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants; to recall that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contained in the UN 2030 Agenda, recognise that planned and well-managed migration policies can help achieve sustainable development and inclusive growth, as well as reduce inequality within and between states;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point x

(x) to ensure that ~~human rights are put at the core of the Global Compacts~~Global Compacts are people-centred and human rights-based, and provide long-term, sustainable and comprehensive measures, for the benefit of all parties involved; to pay specific attention to migrants in situations of vulnerability, such as children, women at risk, victims of human trafficking or persons with disabilities;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point x a (new)

(xa) to call for a strengthening of the child protection systems and to support concrete measures in the best interests of the child refugees and migrants, based on the Convention on the Rights of the Child;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y a (new)

(ya) to assist Eastern Partnership countries in dealing with problems that they have been facing as a result of massive forced internal displacement from conflict areas, and to act resolutely for the protection and restoration of the rights of displaced people, including their rights to return, property rights and the right to personal security;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y b (new)

(yb) to reiterate its serious concern that hundreds of thousands of IDPs and refugees who fled their native lands in connection with protracted conflicts remain displaced and to reaffirm the right of all IDPs and refugees to return to their places of origin in safety and dignity;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2040(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z

~~(z)~~ to reaffirm the EU’s commitment to ~~(z)~~ the Paris Agreement and to stress the need to implement the Paris Agreement globally to preserve our habitat for future generations; to work towards more effective action for environmental sustainability, notably in the fight against climate change by promoting international measures and actions to preserve and improve the quality of the environment and the sustainable management of natural resources;

2018/05/02
Committee: AFET

2018/2038(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Stresses that, thanks to all the measures taken so far, total EU contributions, according to the information currently available, amount to over EUR 5.9 billion, representing more than 28 % of the total EU allocation to Greece for the period 2014-2020;

2018/05/25
Committee: REGI

2018/2038(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Points out the rate of payments to beneficiaries, which according to the available data exceeds 17 %, while the project selection rate is currently 48 % of available funds for the period 2014- 2020, does not deviate significantly from the EU average;

2018/05/25
Committee: REGI

2018/2038(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9a. Points out the differences between and the unequal absorption rates among the available ESI Funds;

2018/05/25
Committee: REGI

2018/2038(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Recalls that the ESIFs have a significant impact on GDP in several Member States, and that investment supported by cohesion policy and rural development policies in Greece is estimated to have increased GDP in 2015, at the end of the previous programming period, by just over 2% above the level it would have been in the absence of the funding provided; recalls that the use of EU structural funds ~~should~~must always focus on achieving real EU added value and go beyond mere GDP growth;

2018/05/25
Committee: REGI

2018/2038(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Acknowledges that by supporting public investment and deploying EU investments flexibly, through the reprogramming of funds or by raising the cofinancing rate, regional policy mitigated the impact of the financial crisis and of sustained fiscal consolidation in several Member States; reiterates nevertheless that cohesion policy should be seen primarily as a catalyst to attract additional public and private funding, and that measures resulting in a reduction in the national cofinancing quotas required for receiving funding for operational programmes financed by the Structural Funds should be ~~duly justified and only envisaged on an exceptional basis~~adopted and implemented only on an exceptional basis, such as in the case of the financial situation in Greece;

2018/05/25
Committee: REGI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas the European Union’s overarching objective of multifunctional agriculture, ~~driven by family farms,~~ remains key to delivering the positive externalities and public goods that European citizens demand;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital E

E. whereas the CAP must play an important role in overcoming stagnation and volatility of farm incomes which, despite the concentration and intensification of production and increasing productivity, are still lower than in the rest of the economy and in comparison to EU’s key competitors;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital J

J. whereas while the focus on research and development for both product and process innovation is to be welcomed, more must be done to translate the results of research into food and farming practice, facilitated by EU-wide agricultural extension services;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital K

K. whereas the competitive agriculture and food sector must be incentivised to continue to contribute to the environmental care and climate action objectives of the EU set out in international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the UN SDGs;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Welcomes the intention to simplify and modernise the CAP, but emphasises that the integrity of the single market and reaching a truly common policy must be the overriding priorities of reform;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Welcomes the efforts of the Commission to establish programme design, implementation and control of an output-based approach in order to foster performance rather than compliance, while ensuring adequate monitoring via clearly defined, simple, solid and measurable indicators at EU level, including an appropriate system of quality control and penalties;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Underlines that the simplification should allow higher degree of possibility for Member States to design the necessary tools as appropriate, subject to the condition that this would not lead to a distortion of a level playing field;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Calls on the Commission to grant more flexibility to Member States and regions within the framework of the agricultural de minimis rules, while securing the integrity of the internal market;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10a. Stresses the need to balance and mitigate any social and environmental implications of any kind of any financial arrangement of the future CAP;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Underlines the necessity of identifying the key elements of a transparent and objective system of penalties and incentives for determining farmers’ eligibility for public funding, which should consist of voluntary, simple and mandatory measures;

2018/03/22
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13a. Underlines that different levels of regional and national state aids, fiscal, social, environmental and other compensations and incentives provided at national level to farmers, lead to unfair competition on the single market;

2018/03/23
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Recalls that generational renewal is a challenge faced by famers in many Member States and that ~~each~~a common European and national strategy ~~must~~is therefore needed to address this issue through a comprehensive approach, including top-ups in Pillar I and targeted measures in Pillar II, as well as by means of new financial instruments and national measures, in order to incentivise famers to pass on their farming operations;

2018/03/23
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Underlines the importance of rural development, including the LEADER initiative, in supporting multi-functional agriculture and in fostering additional entrepreneurial activities and opportunities, in order to generate income from agri- tourism, and to secure community- supported agriculture and the provision of social services in rural areas; the overall objective has to be to improve the quality of life in rural areas;

2018/03/23
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Calls on the Commission to foster innovation and modernisation in agriculture and food sector by supporting training and agricultural extension as a ~~pre-condition~~n important part in programme design and implementation in all Member States, while fostering the transfer of know-how and the exchange of best practice models between Member States;

2018/03/23
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Stresses that Parliament and the Council should, via the co-decision procedure, set the ~~general~~basic common objectives, measures and financial allocations, based on the objective indicators and determine the adequate level of flexibility needed to enable the Member States to cope with their specificities and needs in line with the single market;

2018/03/23
Committee: AGRI

2018/2037(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28

28. ~~Regrets the fact that~~Although the whole process of the CAP post-2020 programming exercise – consultation, communication, impact assessment and legislative proposals – is starting with a significant delay as the end of the eighth legislature approaches, it should not jeopardis~~ing~~e the possibility of a final agreement being reached before the European elections;

2018/03/23
Committee: AGRI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)

Da. whereas every year between 4.8 and 12.7 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the ocean;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)

Db. whereas practically every type of plastic material and object can be found in the ocean from the Great Pacific garbage patch, containing at least 79.000 tons of plastic floating in an area of 1.6 million square kilometres, to the Earth's remotest areas such as the deep ocean floor and the Arctic;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Recital D c (new)

Dc. whereas plastic makes up 85 per cent of beach litter;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Recital D d (new)

Dd. whereas 90 per cent of all seabirds swallow plastic particles;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS, Tiemo WÖLKEN

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Calls for an action plan to phase out single-use plastic items within all buildings of the European Institutions;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Subheading 12 a (new)

Marine Litter

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Angélique DELAHAYE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 d (new)

34d. Calls on the Commission to step up efforts to increase ocean literacy in Europe to empower ocean engaged citizens and by doing so raise awareness about the environmental challenge of plastic pollution and other forms of marine litter;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Angélique DELAHAYE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 e (new)

34e. Calls for an EU policy dialogue on marine litter and plastic pollution, bringing together representatives of civil society, the plastic industry, specific sectors such as the fishing, shipping and tourism, as well as scientists and politicians from the local to European level;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Angélique DELAHAYE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 f (new)

34f. Emphasises the importance of projects such as fishing for litter campaigns and beach clean-ups;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS, Tiemo WÖLKEN

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 g (new)

34g. Considering that abandoned, lost and otherwise discarded fishing gear accounts for at least 10 per cent of marine litter, calls for a better implementation of the compulsory reporting of lost fishing gear and measures to facilitate the collection, recycling and upcycling of fishing gear;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2035(INI)

Gesine MEISSNER, Tonino PICULA, Ulrike RODUST, Jozo RADOŠ, Demetris PAPADAKIS, Merja KYLLÖNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Younous OMARJEE, Catherine BEARDER, Ricardo SERRÃO SANTOS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 a (new)

36a. Given that a great portion of plastic waste in the ocean originates from countries in Asia and Africa, the issues of plastic pollution and waste management capacities should be a priority in the context of the EU's external policy framework ranging from EU development policy, sustainable fisheries partnership agreements, to ocean partnerships in the framework of an international ocean governance;

2018/05/25
Committee: ENVI

2018/2004(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)

- having regard to Directive (EU) 2016/1148 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 July 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the Union,

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Nadja HIRSCH, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 b (new)

- having regard to the work of the Global Commission on the Stability of Cyberspace,

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)

- having regard to the Commission's Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on ENISA, the "EU Cybersecurity Agency", and repealing Regulation (EU) 526/2013, and on Information and Communication Technology cybersecurity certification (''Cybersecurity Act'') of 13 September 2017,

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)

Aa. whereas cyber defence is of importance for the military, but more generally it is important for governments, industries, consumers and citizens as cyber incidents have a strong economic and societal impact;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas several Member States have invested substantially in setting up well-staffed cyber commands to meet these new challenges and improve cyber resilience; whereas cyber defence is an activity that can best be tackled cooperatively as its operational domain recognises neither national nor organisational boundaries;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas several Member States have invested substantially in setting up well-staffed cyber commands to meet these new challenges; whereas cyber defence is an activity that can best be tackled cooperatively as its operational domain recognises neither national nor organisational boundaries; whereas the majority of knowledge about operating and securing data systems, software and networks is overwhelmingly in the hands of private companies, which creates fundamental governance and security questions about the ability of states to defend their citizens;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas while cyber defence remains a core competence of the Member States, the EU has a vital role to play in ensuring that these new endeavours are closely coordinated from the start to avoid the inefficiencies that mark many traditional defence efforts; whereas a substantial cyber defence capability is a necessary part of the development of the European Defence Union; whereas the protection of our network and information security is a core competence of the European Union and should be an essential part of the European Digital Single Market;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Nadja HIRSCH

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas the EU has contributed in improving Member States cyber defence capabilities, ~~both~~ through dual-use research ~~and~~, projects coordinated by the European Defence Agency (EDA) and in improving Member States cyber resilience, through support provided by the EU Cyber Security Agency (ENISA);

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Nadja HIRSCH, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Recital M

M. whereas the UN Group of Governmental Experts on Information Security (UNGGE) has concluded its last round of deliberation; whereas even though it failed to arrive at a consensus report ~~this time~~in 2017, the 2015 and 2013 agreements still apply, in that international law, in particular the Charter of the United Nations, is applicable and essential to maintaining peace and stability, and to promoting an open, secure, peaceful and accessible cyberspace; whereas the European Union should actively engage in norm-setting initiatives that promote responsible state behaviour in cyberspace outside the UN when the UN GGE process is dormant;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Recital O

O. whereas different state actors – Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, among others – have been involved in malicious cyber activities in pursuit of political, economic or security objectives that include attacks on critical infrastructure (such as Wannacry, NonPetya), cyber-espionage, disinformation campaigns and limiting access to the internet ~~(such as Wannacry, NonPetya)~~; whereas such activities ~~could~~ constitute wrongful acts under international law and cshould lead to a joint EU response, ~~such as using~~including the use of restrictive measures as envisaged by the EU cyber diplomacy toolbox;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Nadja HIRSCH

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Recognises that many Member States consider possession of their own cyber defence capabilities to be at the core of their national security strategy and to constitute an essential part of their national sovereignty; stresses, however, that – as with other military branches, and also owing to the borderless nature of cyberspace – the scale required for truly comprehensive and effective forces is beyond the reach of any single Member State; welcomes in this regard the proposed permanent mandate and strengthened role for ENISA;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Nadja HIRSCH, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Recognises that many Member States consider possession of their own cyber defence capabilities to be at the core of their national security strategy and to constitute an essential part of their national sovereignty; stresses, however, that – as with other military branches, and also owing to the borderless nature of cyberspace – the scale and knowledge required for truly comprehensive and effective forces is beyond the reach of any single Member State;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Urges the Members States to increase financial and personal resources, in particular forensic experts, in order to improve the attribution of cyber attacks;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Strongly supports the Military Erasmus initiative aimed at enhancing the interoperability of the armed forces of the Member States through an increased exchange of young officers; believes however that exchanges for training and education in the field of cyber defence should go beyond this initiative and include military personnel from all ranks and students from all academic institutions with educational programs in cyber security; stresses that there is a need for more experts in the cyber defence domain; calls on ~~the~~academic institutions and military academies to pay more attention to, and create more possibilities in, the field of cyber defence education and training;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10a. Calls on all Member States to sufficiently and proactively inform, raise awareness and advise companies, schools and citizens about cyber security and the main actual digital threats; welcomes in this regard cyber guides as a tool to guide citizens and organizations towards a better cyber security strategy, to boost cyber security knowledge and improve cyber resilience across the board;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Patricia LALONDE, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)

10b. Notes that, given the need for more specialised personnel, the focus of the Member States should not only be on recruitment of competent armed forces personnel, but also on the retention of needed specialists;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Calls for identifying new initiatives to further cooperation between EU and NATO, taking into account as well the possibilities of cooperating within the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence and the NATO Communications and Information (NCI) Academy; welcomes the recent creation of the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats; urges all relevant institutions to regularly meet to discuss their activities in order to avoid overlaps and encourage a coordinated approach towards cyber defence;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Nadja HIRSCH, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Is convinced that increased cooperation between EU and NATO is vital in the area of cyber defence; calls, therefore, on both organisations to increase their operational cooperation and coordination, and to expand their joint capacity-building efforts, in particular joint training for cyber defence staff; considers it vital that the EU and NATO step up the sharing of intelligence in order to enable the formal attribution of cyberattacks and consequently enable the imposition of restrictive sanctions to those responsible for cyberattacks;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Nadja HIRSCH, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20a. Notes the ongoing work on the Proposal for a Regulation revising ENISA Regulation (No 526/2013) and laying down a European ICT security certification and labelling framework; calls on ENISA to sign an agreement with NATO to increase their practical cooperation, including the sharing of information and participation in cyber defence exercises;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)

21a. Notes in this regard the importance of article 2(4) of the UN Charter States, which calls on states to refrain from the threat or use of force against the political independence of any state; believes that this includes a prohibition to pursue or knowingly support coercive cyber operations intended to disrupt the technical infrastructure essential to the conduct of official participative procedures in another state, including elections and referenda;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Notes the relevance of the Tallinn Manual 2.0 in this context as an excellent basis for a debate on how international law applies to cyberspace; notes that it is now time for the Member States to start analysing and applying what the experts have stated in the Tallinn Manual; notes in particular that any offensive use of cyber capabilities should be based on international law;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/2004(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Nadja HIRSCH, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23

23. Confirms its full commitment to an open, free, stable and secure cyberspace, which respects the core values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, and where international disputes are settled by peaceful means; calls on the Member States to promote further implementation of the common and comprehensive EU approach to cyber diplomacy; strongly supports the development of voluntary, non-binding norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace; Supports in this context the work of the Global Commission on the Stability of Cyberspace to develop proposals for norms and policies to enhance international security and stability and guide responsible state and non-state behaviour in cyberspace; endorses the proposal that state and non- state actors should not conduct or knowingly allow activity that intentionally and substantially damages the general availability or integrity of the public core of the Internet, and therefore the stability of cyberspace;

2018/04/11
Committee: AFET

2018/0256M(NLE)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Stresses that it is important for this agreement to give guarantees regarding respect for international law, including human rights~~, in the territories concerned~~;

2018/10/26
Committee: AFET

2018/0256M(NLE)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Notes that this agreement does not imply recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara and that the EU’s position remains that of supporting UN efforts to ~~secure a fair~~achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable ~~settlement of the Western Sahara conflict, on the basis of the right to~~political solution, which will provide for the self- determination of the ~~Sahrawi people and in accordance with~~people of Western Sahara and in accordance with International Law and the relevant UN resolutions; reiterates, therefore, its full support to the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Mr Horst Köhler, in helping the parties to achieve this settlement;

2018/10/26
Committee: AFET

2018/0256M(NLE)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3 a. Calls on the parties to resume the negotiations under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General without preconditions and in good faith;

2018/10/26
Committee: AFET

2018/0256M(NLE)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Notes that during ~~inclusive~~ consultations led by the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) with a ~~wide~~ variety of Western Saharan local representatives, civil society organisations and other organisations and bodies, ~~broad~~a majority support was expressed, by the parties participating, for the socio- economic benefits the proposed tariff preferences would bring;

2018/10/26
Committee: AFET

2018/0256M(NLE)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Patricia LALONDE, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5

5. ~~Takes good note of~~Notes the exchange of letters and acknowledges the efforts of the Commission and the EEAS in trying, within the remit of their competences, to evaluate the benefit for the population and to ascertain their consent to this agreement; ~~stresses, nevertheless, that more could be done to improve the traceability of products coming from Western Sahara;~~ invites the Commission services~~, therefore,~~ to engage further with the Moroccan authorities to improve th~~is aspect, notably in order to produce clear and reliable statistics.~~e traceability of products coming from Western Sahara;

2018/10/26
Committee: AFET

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5

(5) The enlargement policy of the Union is an investment in peace, security ~~and~~, stability and prosperity in Europe. It provides increased economic and trade opportunities to the mutual benefit of the Union and the aspiring Member States. The prospect of Union membership has a powerful transformative effect, embedding positive democratic, political, economic and societal change.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6

(6) The European Commission reaffirmed the firm, reform-based and merit-based prospect of EU membership for the Western Balkans in its Communication 'A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans'16. This is a strong message of encouragement for the whole Western Balkans and a sign of the EU’s commitment to their European future. __________________ 16 COM(2018) 65 final available at https://ec.europa.eu/commission/sites/beta- political/files/communication-credible- enlargement-perspective-western- balkans_en.pdf

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7

(7) Assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the Union with the beneficiaries listed in Annex I. Assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in Annex I to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law, reform the judiciary and public administration, respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality, tolerance, minority rights, social inclusion and non- discrimination. Assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the European Pillar of Social Rights17. Assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional, macro-regional and cross-border cooperation as well as territorial development, including through implementation of Union macro-regional strategies. It should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance, underpinning a smart, sustainable and inclusive growth agenda, including through implementation of regional development, agriculture and rural development, social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society, also in line with the flagship initiative Digital Agenda for the Western Balkans. __________________ 17 European Pillar of Social Rights European Pillar of Social Rights solemnly proclaimed by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission at the Gothenburg Social Summit for Fair Jobs and Growth, Gothenburg 17 November 2017.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10

(10) It is essential to further step up cooperation on migration including border management, ensuring access to international protection, sharing relevant information, strengthening the development benefits of migration, facilitating legal and labour migration, enhancing border control, making humanitarian assistance available and pursuing our effort in the fight against irregular migration, trafficking in human beings ~~and~~, migrant smuggling and other forms of crime.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13

(13) The beneficiaries listed in Annex I need to be better prepared to address global challenges, such as sustainable development, environmental protection and climate change, and align with the Union's efforts to address those issues. Reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the Union's commitments to implement the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this Programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the Union's policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the EU budget expenditures supporting climate objectives. Actions under this Programme are expected to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the Programme to climate objectives. Relevant actions will be identified during the Programme's preparation and implementation, and the overall contribution from this Programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16

(16) The Commission and the Member States should ensure compliance, coherence, and complementarity of their assistance, in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle. The necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity, including through regular consultations, with other donors. The role of ~~civil society~~regional and local authorities, civil society and the private sector should be enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of Union assistance.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21

(21) In order to maximise the impact of combined interventions to achieve a common objective, this Regulation should be able to contribute to actions under other EU programmes, as long as the contributions do not cover the same costs.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24

(24) The types of financing and the methods of implementation under this Regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver effective results, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, and the expected risk of non- compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates and unit costs, as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26

(26) External actions are often implemented in a highly volatile environment requiring a continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of Union partners and to global challenges such as human rights, democracy and good governance, security and stability, climate change and environment, natural disasters, and irregular migration and its root causes. Reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial implementation of the programmes. To increase the ability of the Union to respond to unforeseen needs, while respecting the principle that the Union budget is set annually, this Regulation should preserve the possibility to apply the flexibilities already allowed by the Financial Regulation for other policies, namely carry-overs and re-commitments of committed funds, to ensure an efficient use of the EU funds both for the EU citizens and the beneficiaries listed in Annex I, thus maximising the EU funds available for the EU external action interventions.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1

1. The general objective of IPA III shall be to support the beneficiaries listed in Annex I in adopting and implementing the political, institutional, legal, administrative, social and economic reforms required by those beneficiaries to comply with Union values and to progressively align to Union rules, standards, policies and practices with a view to Union membership, thereby contributing to their stability, security and prosperity, as well as to more rapid progress in the EU accession process.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b

(b) To reinforce the effectiveness of public administration and support structural reforms and good governance at all levels, from national to regional and local;

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d

(d) To strengthen economic and social development including through increased connectivity and regional development, agriculture and rural development and social and employment policies, to reinforce environmental protection, increase resilience to climate change, accelerate the shift towards a low-carbon economy ~~and~~, develop the digital economy and society, and create conditions for the development of entrepreneurship.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point e

(e) To support territorial, interregional and cross- border cooperation.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1

The IPA programming framework shall take relevant EU macro-regional and national strategies and sector policies into due account.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point a

(a) Establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law. Interventions in this area shall aim at: establishing independent, accountable and efficient judicial systems, including transparent and merit-based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation, evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders, manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need; providing humanitarian assistance and developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime, trafficking in human beings, migrants smuggling, money laundering/financing of terrorism and corruption; promoting and protecting human rights, rights of persons belonging to minorities including Roma and other national minorities and social groups, as well as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms, including freedom of the media and data protection.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point b

(b) Reforming public administrations at all levels, in line with the Principles of Public Administration. Interventions shall aim at: strengthening public administration reform frameworks; improving strategic planning and inclusive and evidence-based policy and legislative development; enhancing professionalisation and de- politicisation of public service by embedding meritocratic principles; promoting transparency and accountability; improving quality and delivery of services, including adequate administrative procedures and the use of citizen centred eGovernment; strengthening public financial management and the production of reliable statistics; strengthening decentralisation.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point c

(c) Strengthening economic governance: Interventions shall aim at supporting participation in the economic reform programme (ERP) process and systematic cooperation with international financial institutions on fundamentals of economic policy. Enhancing the capacity to strengthen macroeconomic stability and supporting progress towards becoming a functioning market economy, including strengthening entrepreneurship, with the capacity to cope with competitive pressures and market forces within the Union;

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point d

(d) Strengthening the Union and its partners' capacity to prevent conflict, build peace and stability, and address pre-and post-crisis including through early warning and conflict-sensitive risk analysis; promoting people to people networking, reconciliation, peace-building and confidence-building measures, supporting capacity building in support of security and development (CBSD) actions.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point g

(g) Strengthening access to and quality of education, training and lifelong learning at all levels, and offering support to digital, cultural and creative sectors. Interventions in this area shall aim at: promoting equal access to quality early-childhood education and care, primary and secondary education, improving the provision of basic skills; increasing educational attainment levels, reducing early school-leaving and reinforcing teachers’ training. Developing vocational education and training (VET) systems and promoting work-based learning systems to facilitate the transition to the labour market; improving the quality and relevance of higher education; encouraging alumni related activities; enhancing access to lifelong learning and supporting investment in education and training infrastructure particularly with a view to reducing territorial disparities and fostering non-segregated education and including through the use of digital technologies.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point h

(h) Fostering quality employment and access to the labour market. Interventions in this area shall aim at: tackling high unemployment and inactivity by supporting sustainable labour market integration in particular of young people (especially those not in employment, education or training (NEET)), women, long-term unemployed and all under- represented groups. Measures shall stimulate quality job creation and support the effective enforcement of labour rules and standards across the entire territory. Other key areas of intervention shall be to support the promotion of entrepreneurship and self-employment, gender equality, promoting employability and productivity, the adaptation of workers and enterprises to change, the establishment of a sustainable social dialogue and the modernisation and strengthening of labour market institutions such as public employment services and labour inspectorates.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point i

(i) Promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty. Interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective, efficient, and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person’s life, fostering social inclusion, promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty. Interventions in this area shall also focus on: integrating marginalised communities such as the Roma; combating discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, nationality, language, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation; enhancing access to affordable, sustainable and high quality services, such as early childhood education and care, housing, healthcare and essential social services and long term care, including through the modernisation of social protection systems.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point j

(j) Promoting smart, sustainable, inclusive, safe transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures, by investing in projects with high EU value-added. The investments should be prioritised according to their relevance to TEN-T connections with the EU, cross- border links, contribution to sustainable mobility, reduced emissions, environmental impact, safe mobility, in synergy with the reforms promoted by the Transport Community Treaty.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point k

(k) Improving the private-sector environment and competitiveness of enterprises and entrepreneurship, including smart specialisation, as key drivers of growth, job creation and cohesion. Priority shall be given to projects which improve the business environment.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0247(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point m

(m) Contributing to the security and safety of food and water supply and the maintenance of diversified and viable farming systems in vibrant rural communities and the countryside.

2018/11/26
Committee: REGI

2018/0230(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3

(3) In its Communication ‘A European Solidarity Corps’ of 7 December 201618, the Commission emphasised the need to strengthen the foundations for solidarity work across Europe, to provide young people with more and better opportunities for solidarity activities covering a broad range of areas, and to support national and local actors, in their efforts to cope with different challenges and crises. The Communication launched a first phase of the European Solidarity Corps whereby different Union programmes were mobilised to offer volunteering, traineeship or job opportunities to young people across the UnDoes not affect the English version.)

2018/11/29
Committee: REGI

2018/0230(COD)

Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5

(5) Young people should be provided with easily accessible opportunities to engage in solidarity activities, which could enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities while acquiring useful experience, knowledge, skills and competences for their personal, educational, social, civic and professional development, thereby improving their employability. Those activities should also support the mobility of young volunteers, trainees and workers.

2018/11/29
Committee: REGI

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1

The ESF+ aims to support Member States to achieve high employment levels, fair social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the current and future world of work, in line with the principles set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights proclaimed by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on 17 November 2017.

2018/09/17
Committee: REGI

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17

(17) Electronic visa application systems developed by Member States help to facilitate application procedures for applicants and consulates. A common solution ~~allow~~ensuring full digitisation should be developed, making full use of the recent legal and technological developments. Electronic visa application system should be fully accessible for the people with disabilities. Straightforward and streamlined procedural guarantees should be strengthened and uniformly applied.

2018/09/14
Committee: TRAN

2018/0061(COD)

Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 10 – point a

Regulation (EC) No 810/2009
Article 14 – paragraph 4

4. Member States may require applicants to present a proof of sponsorship ~~and private accommodation or both~~, private accommodation or proof of sufficient means to cover expenses, including confirmation from inbound agent that accommodation arrangements are being handled by completing a form drawn up by each Member State. That form shall indicate in particular:

2018/09/14
Committee: TRAN

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas smart, sustainable and fully interconnected transport, energy and digital networks are a necessary condition for the completion and smooth operation of the European single market and for linking Europe with the world market; whereas these are genuine arteries for European economic growth, strengthening cohesion and the wellbeing of its citizens;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Underlines that the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), the Cohesion Fund (CF) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) should remain, in the next programming period, the core EU sources for transport infrastructure investments under the thematic objective of ‘promoting sustainable transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures’; proposes that, due to the high European added value and the extensive spill-over effects generated, these funding sources should remain available for all eligible EU regions;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Notes that the intervention logic behind EU transport infrastructure investment should remain a well-balanced construction of centrally managed and shared management sources in order to address policy and funding needs; recalls that the CEF aims to address centrally the EU-wide priority of TEN-T corridors, including safety and environmental aspects; recalls also that the ERDF and CF have a strong regional dimension that responds to ~~local demand~~regional and local needs and they support the connectivity to TEN-T and mobility through secondary and tertiary nodes and multimodal terminals; underlines, in this context, that the relevant budgetary envelopes for the three funding sources need to be strengthened in an even manner in order to avoid asymmetric distribution of investment between the levels;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Considers that the role of additional sources such as the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) and financial instruments needs to be defined in view of their complementarity to the ERDF and CF and their additionality to EIB lending operations; notes in this regard that EFSI should serve as a platform for public- private partnerships (PPPs) in matching financial instruments to private investment and to national/regional financing at project level; notes that the support available through the EU guarantee should be provided to bankable infrastructure projects which would not otherwise be supported through the ERDF, CF or CEF;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Notes that infrastructure requires objective quantification of demand and justified needs prior to setting the budget and the delivery methods; underlines that it should be possible for the ERDF and CF eligibility criteria to consider existing demand at NUTS 3 level;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Calls for the creation of an EU transport infrastructure index as an additional eligibility criterion in order to accurately reflect regional and local demand; proposes that the index help determine the overall envelope of investments as well as the co-financing rates; suggests that the EU transport scoreboard could be the basis for the proposed index with complementary elements such as road safety, regional and local specifics and environmental impact, which could contribute to the accuracy of the assessments;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Expresses the view that the less developed regions with negative demographic trends, a serious lack of transport infrastructure, which is a basic requirement for economic development, or remote ones with low accessibility should be targeted more intensively by ERDF and CF transport infrastructure investments, while additional sources and delivery methods should be expanded in the transition and more developed regions;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Calls for ERDF support to 7. European Territorial Cooperation to be strengthened through the securing of additional resources, and for the establishment of a dedicated priority axis in cross-border programmes for transport infrastructure investments; understands that the focus should be on connectivity in cross-border regions, as well as advisory assistance and capacity building at project level; calls for barriers to be dismantled in order to facilitate investments, and notably cross- border infrastructure investments, in transport;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Calls for facilitating preparations for and implementing transport infrastructure projects under the EU cross-border cooperation programmes that are being implemented with candidate countries and other European neighbourhood countries in support of their European integration processes;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)

7b. Calls on the Member States to better implement the EU macro-regional strategies for priority transport infrastructure connections and to ensure the deeper involvement of the regional and local authorities in their implementation;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2285(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 c (new)

7c. Calls for the resolution of cross- border transport bottlenecks between Member States on regional transport routes that are characterised by daily migration and that have a clear seasonal or tourism-related character;

2018/02/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 o (new)

3o. Recommends that the Georgian authorities ensure proper involvement of the civil society in the reform processes;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Reiterates the fact that the EU’s position on Georgia’s constitutional reform coincides with the Venice Commission’s overall positive assessment; regrets the postponement of the implementation of a fully proportional electoral system until 2024 and calls upon political dialogue among main stakeholders to find an intermediary solution for the 2020 parliamentary elections aimed to address shortcomings of the current electoral system; reiterates its readiness to observe future elections in Georgia and to assist the Georgian authorities in following up on and implementing the recommendations that will be presented;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)

4a. Calls upon the Georgian authorities to address concerns expressed by credible observers in the context of electoral environment and in particular to conduct meaningful investigation of violent incidents against representatives of opposition;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)

5b. Stresses the role of opposition in a parliamentary system, supports efforts of the Parliament of Georgia to strengthen parliamentary oversight and urges to put in place more rigorous mechanisms of scrutinising the executive;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)

8b. Reaffirms its unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia; demands that the Russian Federation cease its occupation of the Georgian territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and that it stop the de facto integration of both Georgian territories into Russian administration;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. ~~Notes with satisfaction~~Acknowledges Georgia’s results in fighting corruption; commends Georgia’s ~~continued~~ implementation of the Anti-Corruption Strategy and its Action Plan; calls on Georgia to ensure that the Anti-Corruption Agency is separated from the State Security Service;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9a. Reiterates the importance of effective separation of powers and a clear dissociation between politics and economic interests;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Welcomes the progress of the judicial reform; ~~calls for more transparency of the judicial system and for further improvements to its independen~~however, calls on the Georgian government to keep up with the reforms to ensure full independence and transparency of the prosecutor’s office, judiciary and the Ministry of Interior, including the Police and the Security Services;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Urges the Georgian authorities to implement without delay the judgement of 28 November 2017 of the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights in relation to the former Prime Minister Vano Merabishvili which established that the Georgian authorities breached Article 18 of the European Convention of Human Rights by pursuing "hidden agenda" and "ulterior motives" when arresting Vano Merabishvili; stresses the fact that after early release of Ilgar Mammadov by Azerbaijan, Vano Merabishvili remains the only individual in Europe in relation to whom the ECHR found breach of Article 18 and who continues to be kept in prison;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)

17b. Referring to the European Parliament resolution of 15 June 2017 on the case of Azeri journalist Afgan Mukhtarli expresses concern over the lack of progress in investigation of his abduction from downtown Tbilisi and calls upon the Georgian Government to ensure credible investigation and its prompt conclusion;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 c (new)

17c. Stresses the importance of elaborating a clear, transparent and human-rights based policy and mechanisms for investigating, prosecuting and compensating human rights violations committed during previous administrations with the assurance that this process fully respects the principle of rule of law and due process;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Reiterates the responsibility of the Georgian government to thoroughly supervise the situation of children in orphanages and religious residential institutions;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)

19b. Stresses the responsibility of the Government under international human rights law to protect all children from violence and calls for measures to ensure effective investigation and rehabilitation for children affected by sexual abuse;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Recalls the importance of free and independent mass media and a pluralistic media environment as key democratic principles; in this regard, follows very closely the legal dispute concerning the ownership rights of the Rustavi 2 TV company and expects that the Georgian authorities will respect fully the decision of the European Court of Human Rights on this case; notes with satisfaction the improvements in Georgia as reflected in the 2018 World Press Freedom Index established by Reporters Without Borders;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2282(INI)

Javier NART, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Patricia LALONDE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Welcomes the emphasis put on job creation as well as labour rights notably through the adoption of the law on occupational safety; stresses the need to put in place a fully-fledged labour inspection system aligned with ILO conventions to improve safety at work and reduce undeclared work; takes note of the Georgian authorities’ ambition to do so by September 2019; is concerned by child labour and insufficient freedom of association for trade unions; recalls that occupational safety according to the requirements of the Association Agreement is of critical importance and calls to be applied to all workplaces; is concerned by the lack of progress in terms of enforcement of criminal justice in the cases of violation of labour safety rules;

2018/09/12
Committee: AFET

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas cohesion policy aims to promote harmonious and balanced development of the whole Union, leading to a strengthening of its economic, social and territorial cohesion, in a spirit of solidarity and with the aim of promoting growth, and reducing the backwardness of the least favoured regions;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas the 7th Cohesion Report draws attention to the significant diversity of regions and territories, including within current categories of regions, owing to their specific circumstances (ultraperipherality, low income, low growth, etc.), making a tailored approach essential;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Considers it crucial that cohesion policy should continue to cover all European regions, regardless of their level of development, and remain the European Union’s main investment instrument in the future programming period, with a budget commensurate with the challenges;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Reiterates its commitment to shared management and the principles of partnership and subsidiarity, which contribute to the added value generated by cohesion policy; stresses that the added value of this policy stems primarily from its ability to take account of the needs and specificities of ~~each~~individual regions and local territoryies and to bring the European Union closer to its citizens;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Emphasises that European added value is also reflected in European territorial cooperation, in all its dimensions; calls for an increase in its share of the budget allocated to cohesion policy, ~~whil~~more effective implementation of programmes, the simplification of the procedure, and the implementation of specific projects, while at the same time improving coordination between different programmes to avoid overlaps;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Stresses the importance of cross- border cooperation for better social cohesion between cross-border regions and local communities in the Member States;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)

8b. Calls for the continued implementation of the cross-border territorial cooperation programmes with candidate countries and other neighbouring countries in order to support their European aspirations and strengthen their European integration process;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9a. Recalls the role of EU macro- regional strategies and their potential in the better implementation of the territorial dimension in cohesion policy;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Stresses that social and fiscal convergence help to foster cohesion while improving the functioning of the single market; takes the view that divergent practices in this area, as well as the unequal conditions experienced by individual regions, may run counter to the objective of cohesion and are liable to cause further problems for territories which are lagging behind or are the most vulnerable to globalisation; considers that cohesion policy could contribute to the promotion of social and fiscal convergence by providing incentives; calls on the Commission to take better account of this aspect in the European Semester;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Supports a strong thematic concentration on a limited number of priorities linked to major European political objectives, leaving managing authorities the task of drawing up their territorial strategies on the basis of their needs and different potentials, and the regions where results can be achieved; stresses that employment, innovation, support for SMEs, climate change and the circular economy should constitute priority areas for cohesion policy in future;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)

23a. Calls for strengthening capacities ,where necessary, for the management of cohesion policy at national level in the Member States, with technical support from the Commission in order to ensure the more effective use of the available funds;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)

24a. Points out the unequal conditions faced by potential beneficiaries of cohesion policy resources at the regional and local levels in several Member States resulting from the insufficient application of the subsidiarity principle, unequal degrees of decentralisation and different financial capacities, which may determine whether they are able to use cohesion policy funds effectively;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2279(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Supports a shift in cohesion policy towards a greater focus on results and on content as opposed to form, moving away from an accounting-based approach towards one which focuses on performance and allowing managing authorities more flexibility as to how to achieve targets;

2018/02/28
Committee: REGI

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Citation 10

– having regard to the NATO Secretary-General’s Annual Report 20167, released on March 15, 2018,

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas, in general, the Eastern European EU Members see Russia as a geopolitical actor and the Western members see it mainly as a commercial partner, polarizing EU commercial interests in the West and the security ones in the East; whereas both the EU and NATO are concerned by Russia’s more assertive military behaviour; whereas both the EU and NATO want to maintain dialogue with Russia;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)

Fa. whereas the Southern neighbourhood is facing unprecedented instability and represent a strategically important challenge to both EU Member States and NATO members, especially those located on the front line;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Welcomes the tangible results in the implementation of the Joint Declaration of 8 July 2016, in particular regarding countering hybrid threats, strategic communications and maritime cooperation, and encourages further progress; welcomes the new set of actions that were added on 5 December 2017, in particular those regarding counter-terrorism, military mobility and women, peace and security; welcomes the change in the culture of engagement and the smooth functioning of staff-to-staff cooperation in the implementation of each action; welcomes the engagement also of Members of both the EU and NATO; considers it important to ensure proper resources for implementation and further improvement of cooperation;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Welcomes the re-affirmation of US commitment to NATO and European security; recalls that the EU and the United States are key international partners and that this partnership is also through NATO; underlines the value of bilateral relations between EU Member States and the US; strongly believes that strengthening EU- NATO cooperation reinforces the transatlantic bond; notes that the US, which generally encouraged and welcomed the substantive developments in EU defence, ~~still needs convincing to renounce their remaining reservation~~needs more and better understanding of European strategic interests;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Considers that EU-NATO cooperation should be strengthened on the Eastern flank for the security of both organisations and that ~~Russian penetration in Eastern flank countries~~any form of aggression coming from Russia, hybrid or conventional, should be countered appropriately; underlines that the current infrastructure in Europe, which is mainly West-East oriented, should be complemented by the development of a new North-South dimension, responding to the requirements for military mobility;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Considers that EU-NATO cooperation should be strengthened on the Eastern and Southern flanks for the security of both organisations and that Russian penetration in Eastern flank countries should be countered; underlines that the current infrastructure in Europe, which is mainly West-East oriented, should be complemented by the development of a new North-South dimension, responding to the requirements for military mobility;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Welcomes the launch of Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) and stresses that it does not represent a competitor for NATO and should be a driver for further EU-NATO cooperation in capabilities development and for a stronger EU pillar in NATO; notes that after Brexit, 80 percent of NATO’s defence spending will be non-EU and three out of four battalions in the East will be led by non-EU countries; welcomes in this regard the binding commitments to which Member States agreed in the context of PESCO, in particular those on defence spending and investments;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Notes that security threats have become more hybrid and less conventional, and that international cooperation is required to tackle them; calls for the EU and NATO to further build resilience and to develop shared situational awareness of hybrid threats; encourages the EU and NATO to synchronise their crisis response mechanisms in order to provide coherent responses to hybrid threats; welcomes in this regard the separate but parallel exercises, PACE17 and CMX17, which were held in 2017 and through which respectively EU and NATO staff tested their respective procedures for communicating and sharing information during an unfolding fictitious hybrid threat;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26

26. Considers that the next EU-NATO Joint Declaration, to be adopted at the upcoming NATO summit in July 2018, should initiate the process of reviewing the ‘Berlin Plus’ arrangements; considers in this context that capabilities developed under PESCO should be available for NATO operations and that PESCO projects should be opened to non-EU members of NATO~~, such as Norway and, in view of Brexit, the UK~~; stresses that the review of ‘Berlin Plus’ should provide the framework of cooperation not only for crisis management but also for ensuring security together on the continent;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Stresses the need to address, in close cooperation between the EU and NATO, the physical and legal obstacles to the swift and rapid movement of troops and military equipment within Europe in order to ensure frictionless movement of equipment and forces across Europe, whenever necessary; stresses that compatible defence capacities facilitate EU -and NATO-wide deployment and cooperation; therefore deplores situations in which NATO allies opt for non- compatible capabilities;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 e (new)

30e. Underlines the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Turkey as a NATO Member State; is concerned, since the attempted coup of 2016, with the growing signs of authoritarianism, a nationalist political frame and the breach of human rights; encourages NATO to further straighten its political commitment to Turkey in order to ensure its continued democratic development and respect for human rights;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 d (new)

30d. Questions whether in the current global security environment nuclear deterrence is still credible; stresses that many EU citizens are worried about nuclear proliferation; recalls that diplomacy and multilateralism are the only means for effective non-proliferation and disarmament; calls in this regard for the EU and NATO to launch a global security roundtable with major global actors including China, the US, both Korea’s, Japan, India, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Brazil, Pakistan, Israel and Russia; strongly believes that this roundtable could be the starting point for a transparent discussion on the global nuclear status quo and renewed talks on non-proliferation and disarmament;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)

30a. Strongly believes that the EU and NATO should strengthen cooperation on CBRN threats; stresses that interoperability between the EU and NATO, in particular between the security and health sectors, will be a crucial element in mitigating the impact of CBRN-incidents;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 b (new)

30b. Stresses the importance of the principles enshrined in the Vienna Document, in particular the principle of openness and transparency; welcomes in this regard the openness of EU and NATO military exercises and joint exercises to international observers;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2276(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Patricia LALONDE, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 c (new)

30c. Reiterates the important role of women in CSDP and NATO missions, in particular in dealing with women and children in conflict areas; welcomes the fact that both the EU and NATO have recognised this important role; recommends the EU and NATO to proactively promote gender diversity in their structures and operations;

2018/04/05
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)

- having regard to its resolution of 23 October 2013 on European Neighbourhood Policy as well as resolution of 9 July 2015 on the review of the European Neighbourhood Policy,

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 c (new)

- having regard to its Annual report on the implementation of CFSP of 13 December 2017,

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Notes that the Agreement is in keeping with the spirit and principles expressed in the European Parliament recommendation of 15 November 2017, which unambiguously states that no comprehensive agreement will be ratified with a country that does not respect EU values; urges the authorities in Armenia nevertheless to ensure, with the support of the EU, there is no backsliding on these values, which could trigger suspension of the application of the Agreement through its Article 379; reiterates that EU financial assistance to Armenia remains conditional to implementation and quality of reforms;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Notes that the Agreement is also in keeping with the spirit and principles expressed in the European Parliament recommendation of 15 November 2017 as regards making the ~~ratif~~provisional and full application of a new agreement with Armenia or Azerbaijan conditional upon meaningful commitments to and substantial progress towards solving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict; urges both sides to increase the pace and output of their negotiations following the 2018 elections in both countries in order to make history by ending a conflict which has claimed too many lives, especially those of civilians, and which has prevented the establishment of peace and hampered socio-economic development in the region for almost three decades;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 d (new)

9d. Urges the Commission to strictly oversee the abidance of EU Member States by Council Regulation 833/2014 which is instrumental in avoiding indirect sale, supply, transfer or export of dual use goods and technology to Armenia through intermediaries which are partly intended for military uses or a military end-user;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11a. Calls on the Armenian authorities to refrain from excessive use of force against peaceful protesters and pressures such as unjustified criminal charges against protest leaders;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)

11b. Regrets that investigations into the actions of police on the cases of excessive use of force against peaceful protesters and other law enforcement–even when opened–were ineffective and no charges were pursued against any officials, despite the gravity of some of the force used;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Urges the Armenian authorities, in view of future elections, to swiftly and fully implement all the recommendations of the international observation missions led by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR), in particular in relation to allegations of vote buying, voter intimidation, the pressuring of civil servants and private sector employees and undue interference in the voting process by party representatives or law enforcement officers which failed to improve public confidence in the country’s electoral systems;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Reiterates its strong attachment to international law and fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law and good governance, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms,; regrets that serious gaps in human rights protection persist and encourages Armenia to make significant progress in these areas, in particular as regards media freedom, the independence of the judiciary and the fight against corruption, organised crime ~~and~~, abusive oligarchic control and to ensure that journalists face no pressure, fear of retaliation and violence over their work;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. ~~Welcom~~Notes the adoption of anti- domestic violence legislation in the Armenian Parliament in December 2017 but despite alarming statistics on domestic violence, the Armenian government hasn’t done enough to protect and support survivors; commends Armenia on the signature, on 18 January 2018, of the Council of Europe’s Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence and encourages Armenia to swiftly ratify and thoroughly implement this Convention to effectively meet its commitments to international standards in this field;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Regrets that violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity continue to remain as serious concerns in the country;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 f (new)

16f. Notes that physical barriers and lack of reasonable accommodations at community schools often leave children with disabilities with little or no education; calls on Armenian authorities to take effective steps in this regard;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2269(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Patricia LALONDE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Calls upon Armenia to engage in a trustful trade relations with the EU in line with its commitments taken in the WTO accession; recalls that the terms and conditions of the WTO membership as well as the obligations under the WTO Agreements and the provisions of these Agreements shall only apply to the territories of the Republic of Armenia as recognised by the United Nations;

2018/04/16
Committee: AFET

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 1

– having regard to the Treaty on European Union (TEU), in particular Article 3, and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), in particular Articles 4, 11, 174 to 178, 191 and 349 thereof,

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas cohesion policy offers not only investment opportunities to respond to regional and local needs through the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESI Funds), but also an integrated policy framework to ~~help~~reduce developmental disparities between the European regions and to help them address the multiple challenges to their development, including through support for resource efficiency and sustainable development, as well as territorial cooperation and capacity building;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Emphasises the importance of applying waste hierarchy as a prerequisite for achieving a circular economy; furthermore recognises a negative trend of investment of ESI Funds into lower levels of the waste hierarchy, in particular mechanical biological treatment (MBT) facilities and incineration, which ~~can~~in some cases leads to overcapacities and long-term technological lock-in, thus jeopardising the achievement of EU recycling targets;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Stresses the importance of the partnership principle and the important role of all stakeholders, in particular regional and local authorities and the non- governmental sector, during the drawing up of partnership agreements and operational programmes; calls for a genuine involvement of partners in policy processes, and for circular economy-related objectives to be adequately incorporated into programming documents;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Notes that projects related to the circular economy which have received cohesion policy support have brought greater benefits to more developed regions; therefore encourages national authorities responsible for programming and less developed regions to increase their efforts to achieve technological leapfrogging by implementing more projects that meet circular economy principles;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Calls for better access to finance for regional and local authorities to enable investments in green jobs and in local energy transition, including energy efficiency, decentralised distribution of energy and the circular economy;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Calls on the national and regional authorities in charge of preparing operational programmes to more closely integrate the circular economy into territorial cooperation programmes, particularly in cross-border cooperation programmes, in order to implement cross- border solutions that can generate more efficient and cheaper results.

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Believes that the future planning of ESI Funds in the next programming period should be better integrated with the national energy and climate plans for 2030;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Calls for the inclusion of circular economy projects in territorial cooperation programmes with countries in the European neighbourhood in order to help them to prepare for the European integration process.

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Emphasises the underexploited potential of macro- regional strategies to help achieve a circular economy, not only in the Member States but also in third countries located in the same geographical area; stresses that those strategies could support the creation of a market for secondary raw materials for the Union;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2211(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Encourages regional and local authorities to further invest in education and awareness raising about the benefits and advantages of all actions with the aim of implementing the circular economy through cohesion policy projects, thus increasing citizen participation and influencing consumer behaviour; underlines, in this connection, the potential of the European Social Fund;

2018/04/12
Committee: REGI

2017/2203(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)

– having regard to Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2015 on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing,

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)

– having regard to the European Parliament Resolution of 27 October 2016 on the situation in Northern Iraq/Mosul (2016/2956(RSP)),

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Recital H

H. whereas leaked intelligence even suggests that institutions and individuals in the Arabian Gulf are providing financial and logistical support to al-Qaeda, ISIS/Da’esh and other radical groups, and whereas without this funding many of these terrorist groups would not be self- sufficient;

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g

(g) calls on the Member States to take the legislative measures necessary to guarantee that banks monitor pre-paid debit cards closely so as to ensure that they can only be reloaded via bank transfers from accounts held by the cardholder; calls furthermore on the Member States to make the necessary provisions to fully facilitate the opening of a bank account to all those present in their territory;

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l – introductory part

(l) calls on the Member States to regulate ~~hawala~~traditional ways of money transferring (such as the hawala or the Chinese fei ch’ien amongst others), making it mandatory to declare to the authorities every transaction made using the ~~hawala~~se systems, and emphasising that the aim is not to crack down on traditional informal money transfers, but on trafficking involving organised crime, terrorism or industrial/commercial profits deriving from dirty money; in this respect, calls for:

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)

(ma) calls on the Commission and the Member States to increase their monitoring regarding regulating and controlling gold, precious stones and precious metals trafficking, so that these goods are not used as ways of financing terrorist activities; calls for the establishment of common European Criteria;

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m b (new)

(mb) calls on the Commission and the Member States to prohibit and sanction all commercial traffic (both exports and imports) with terrorists and organisations controlled by jihadists, with the exception of those humanitarian aid goods necessary for the subdued population; calls for the prosecution and sanctioning for imprudence or malice of all those (either physical or juridical persons) that participate in said traffics, in either one of its modalities (buying, selling, distribution, intermediation, amongst others);

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q

(q) urges the EEAS to take the same approach with its other CSDP missions in countries in which there could be terrorist hubs, especially in the Horn of Africa, Libya and the Sahel region, and to establish, in an effective manner, close cooperation with the governments in the areas concerned;

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2203(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r

(r) urges the High Representative and the EEAS to enhance cooperation with the countries in which the proceeds of drugs trafficking, human trafficking or traffic in commercial goods (such as tobacco and others) are held, so that they can be seized;

2017/11/28
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)

- having regard to The Bratislava Declaration of 16 September 2016,

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Underlines that the rules-based international order and the values defended by liberal democracies, and the peace, prosperity and freedoms which this order guarantees and which correspond to the foundations on which the European Union is built, are facing unprecedented challenges as societal, economic, technological and geopolitical trends point to the growing vulnerability of the world's population to shocks and stresses, including: interstate conflicts, natural disasters, extreme weather events, water crises, state collapse and cyber-attacks; acknowledges that the defence of the rules-based international order and the values defended by liberal democracies should be of the outmost priority and should be approached without compromise;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Deplores the fact that terrorist and criminal organisations are proliferating and instability is spreading in the South and Middle East, as fragile and disintegrating states ~~throw up~~give up on large ungoverned spaces; stresses that in the East Russia’s war against Ukraine and illegal annexation of Crimea continue; is deeply concerned that hybrid tactics, including cyberterrorism ~~and~~, information warfare and economic and energy blackmail, are destabilising the Eastern Partnership countries and the wWestern Balkans countries, as well as targeting Western democracies and increasing tensions within them; is concerned that the security environment surrounding the EU will remain highly volatile for years to come; is firmly convinced that EU's vulnerability is direct outcome of the lack of integration as well as lack of coordination;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Deplores the fact that terrorist and criminal organisations are proliferating and instability is spreading in the South, as fragile and disintegrating states throw up large ungoverned spaces; stresses that in the ~~East Russia’s war against Ukraine and~~conflict in Ukraine, the Minsk agreements have not been implemented, without which there can be no solution to the conflict, whilst the illegal annexation of Crimea continue; is deeply concerned that hybrid tactics, including cyber terrorism and information warfare, are destabilising the Eastern Partnership countries and the western Balkans, as well as targeting Western democracies and increasing tensions within them; is concerned that the security environment surrounding the EU will remain highly volatile for years to come;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2 a. Is deeply concerned over the increasingly deadly terrorist threat in the Sahelian belt as well as the extension to Central Africa and the instability in the East(Syria, Iraq, Palestine);calls on the EU HR/VP to ensure an executive mandate is granted to the CSDP missions and to intervene in a decisive and determined manner;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Believes strongly that whenever necessary, the European Union needs to take its destiny into its own hands; stresses that the framing of a common defence policy referred to in Article 42 TEU has the objective of establishing common defence and endowing the Union with strategic autonomy and freedom of action in promoting and defending peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world; emphasises practical and financial benefits of further integrations of European defence capabilities;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)

4 a. Deplores the terrorist threat that is quickly expanding both within Europe and beyond its borders;considers that an incomplete answer on the military level is inevitably leading to ever-growing internal security threats;urgently calls for an European anti-jihadist pact that can tackle these threats in an effective manner;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Welcomes the visible progress made in framing a stronger European defence since the adoption of the EU Global Strategy in June 2016; welcomes in particular the ~~suggestion for~~launching of a European Defence Fund, the proposed scaling-up of the Preparatory Action on Defence Research, and the legislative proposal for a European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP);

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Calls on the VP/HR and the Commission to act upon Parliament’s calls for an EU Security and Defence White Book in the context of preparing the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), as requested in Parliament’s resolutions of 23 November 2016, 22 November 2016 and 16 March 2017; considers that building the Defence Union, linking the Union’s strategic orientation with EU contributions to capability development and shaping the European institutional framework for defence are elements that need to be underpinned by an interinstitutional agreement; underlines that through comprehensive and trustworthy work of all stakeholders, it is possible to increase the scope and efficiency of defence spending without the increase of defence spending itself;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9 a. Urges Council to take concrete steps towards the harmonisation and standardisation of the European armed forces, in accordance with Article 42(2), in order to facilitate the cooperation of armed forces personnel under the umbrella of a new European Defence Union as a step in progressive framing of a common Union defence policy;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 b (new)

9 b. Stresses that the use of all possibilities provided for in the Treaty would improve competitiveness and functioning of the defence industry in the single market, further stimulate defence cooperation through positive incentives, and targeting projects that Member States are not able to undertake, reducing unnecessary duplication, and promoting a more efficient use of public money;is of the opinion that the outputs of these strategic cooperative programmes have great potential to be dual-use technologies and as such bring extra added value to Member States;emphasises on development of European capabilities and an integrated defence market;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 c (new)

9 c. Urges the establishment of precise and binding guidelines to provide a well- defined framework for future activation and implementation of Article 42(7) TEU;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 d (new)

9 d. Calls for the formation of the European Intelligence Agency with the mission and capability to implement a de facto transversal intelligence network within the Member States allowing the European Union to react in a comprehensive and coordinated way to emerging threats by adhering to Article 24(3) and Article 4(3) TEU, as the comprehensive gathering of intelligence information cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States, either at central level or at regional and local level, but can rather, by reason of the scale or effects of the proposed action, be better achieved at Union level (Article 5(3));

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10 a. Urges the Parliament to turn its Subcommittee on Security and Defence into a fully-fledged parliamentary committee, enabling it to have a prominent role in the implementation of the common security and defence policy and particularly a role in the scrutiny of legal acts related to the security and defence;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12 a. Encourages the Member States participating in PESCO to set up a permanent 'European Integrated Force' composed of divisions of their national armies and to make it available to the Union for the implementation of the common security and defence policy as foreseen by Article 42(3) TEU;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Underlines that the proposed DG Defence should work in liaison with the European Defence Agency (EDA); considers that the EDA should be the implementing agency for Union actions under the European Capabilities and Armaments policy, where this is foreseen by the Lisbon Treaty; renews its call on the Council to ensure that the administrative and operational expenditure of the EDA is funded from the Union budget; notes that EDA's increasing new roles and responsibilities should be followed by an increase of budget;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Welcomes the establishment of the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD) process; considers that CARD should aim at bringing the armed forces into line with each other through standardisation and harmonisation, ensuring the Union’s strategic autonomy, and allowing Member States to invest more and better in defence together; welcomes the proposal to launch a trial run in 2017;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Javier NART, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Thanks the more than six thousand women and men who have given excellent and loyal service in the Union’s civilian and military missions on three continents; ~~greatly values these missions as Europe’s common contribution to peace and stability in the world and to the security of our citizens~~deplores the limitations in the CSDP missions mandate and stresses the need for real effectiveness that can only be achieved with the provision of proper military equipment; urges the Council and the HR/VP to make use of the possibilities provided for in Article 41.2 TEU to this end; welcomes the increase in Member States’ defence spending in support of our service members; takes the view that this trend needs to be sustained, strengthened and coordinated at European level;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Welcomes the recent establishment of a nucleus for a permanent EU operational headquarters (MPCC - Military Planning and Conduct Capability), as demanded by Parliament in its resolution of 12 September 2013, as it is a precondition for effective planning, command and control of common operations; calls on the Member States to staff it with adequate personnel in order to make it work;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27

27. Calls on the Member States to apply full burden-sharing to military CSDP missions by ~~enlarging~~progressive enlargement of common funding toward full common funding, which should enable and encourage more Member States to contribute their capabilities and forces or just funds; underlines the importance of reviewing the Athena mechanism in this regard and of substantially broadening the common cost financing;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2123(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)

27 a. Urges the Council to act in accordance with Article 41(3) TEU and to adopt without delay the decision of establishing a start-up fund for the urgent financing of the initial phases of military operations for the tasks referred to in Article 42(1) and Article 43 TEU;urges the Council to resolve current problems with financing hybrid missions;calls for more flexibility in the EU's financial rules in order to support its ability to respond to crises and for the implementation of existing Lisbon Treaty provisions;

2017/09/19
Committee: AFET

2017/2121(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Emphasises that Member States must change their mentality from a national to a European perspective, as the most effective solution to protect Europe from increased threats is common EU action; is concerned about the EU’s security architecture, which remains fragile in the face of continued and fresh challenges every day and in which a ‘hybrid peace’ has become an unsatisfactory reality; urges the Member States to take action and fulfil the wishes of ~~those~~ European citizens who have repeatedly stressed that EU foreign and security policy is the most important and most necessary of all EU policies;

2017/09/14
Committee: AFET

2017/2121(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Is of the view that, in an international environment that is increasingly conflict-ridden and unstable, only a joint soft power with credible hard power can confront major security challenges, notably the refugee crisis, terrorism, conflicts in the Eastern and Southern neighbourhoods, proxy wars and hybrid warfare, and challenging assertive behaviour by Russia and China; takes the view that it is necessary to tackle the root causes of instability and of forced and irregular migration, namely poverty, the lack of economic opportunities, the lack of access to education, armed conflicts, bad governance and climate change;

2017/09/14
Committee: AFET

2017/2121(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Reiterates the need for a strategic refocus on the Western Balkans, giving a fresh impetus to EU enlargement policy and strengthening the rule of law and the resilience of state institutions and economy; is convinced that regional reconciliation and integration ~~through~~in the EU and the transatlantic institutional architecture is the best means to address the dangers stemming from destabilising foreign interference, organised crime, unresolved major state disputes, disinformation and hybrid threats;

2017/09/14
Committee: AFET

2017/2121(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Calls on the VP/HR, the Commission and the Member States to step up their efforts to increase the EU’s ability to confront hybrid threats; calls, in this regard, for the development of joint, comprehensive risk and vulnerability analysis capacities and methods ~~and~~, for bolstering the EU’s strategic communication capabilities, and for establishment of the European Intelligence Agency with the mission and capability to implement a de facto transversal intelligence network within the Member States allowing the European Union to react in a comprehensive and coordinated way to emerging threats;

2017/09/14
Committee: AFET

2017/2121(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Stresses the role of independent media in promoting cultural diversity and intercultural competences, and the need to strengthen such media as a source of credible information, especially in the EU and its neighbourhood, and to further strengthen the EU’s capacity to fight fake news and disinformation, especially through the East StratCom Task Force; highlights in this context the need to develop stronger resilience at EU level against such information spread over the Internet; calls on the Commission to coordinate better with the EEAS on those issues;

2017/09/14
Committee: AFET

2017/2121(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Believes that Europe must build a virtuous alliance between the private and public sectors ~~and should develop a strategic relationship with the US~~;

2017/09/14
Committee: AFET

2017/2084(INI)

Draft opinion
Recital A

A. whereas the transport sector holds enormous potential and should play a vital role in the transition towards new energy solutions and a low-carbon society; whereas, in order to do so, advanced storage solutions and infrastructure, as well as digital innovation are needed to support new transport and tourism businesses, SMEs and smart mobility services;

2017/10/06
Committee: TRAN

2017/2084(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Notes the major efforts being made under the EU’s Horizon 2020 research and development programme to support the decarbonisation of transport; calls on the Commission, in future, to focus the available funding more clearly on developing advanced biofuels, increasing the share of rail transport in overall EU transport performance and promoting cycling for everyone as a daily transport mode, as well as on interconnected strategic priorities, such as electromobility and integrated urban transport, with particular attention ton energy efficiency, air pollution and noise reduction;

2017/10/06
Committee: TRAN

2017/2084(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5

5. Underlines the need to share and scale up best practices and smart, sustainable and inclusive urban projects; calls for an integrated and coordinated approach to take account of the urban dimension of EU and national policies and legislation in order to improve the quality of life in urban areas; calls on the Commission and Member States to enable existing rural businesses to connect, integrate and cooperate better with urban based models;

2017/10/06
Committee: TRAN

2017/2071(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Underlines the EIB’s important role in the implementation of cohesion policy ~~through activities aimed at strengthening project preparation capacities, consultancy and analysis services and loan~~as mentioned in the Article 309 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union in supporting projects for developing less developed regions and projects which have a cross fborder nat~~ional co-financing;~~ure by complementing the Structural Funds.

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2071(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Calls on the EIB to present an additional special chapter in its annual report dedicated to EIB activities aimed at the implementation of cohesion policy including Interreg related activities by Member States, and to include detailed information on the use of loans and financial instruments in cohesion policy projects and programmes;

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2071(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Highlights the importance of the EIB in complementary financing cohesion policy objectives as well as its advisory role through activities aimed at strengthening project preparation capacities, financial and technical advice for local and regional authorities and support in developing financial instruments. as well as loans for national co-financing of ESI Funds.

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2071(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Emphasises that the EIB, as an institution through which the EU finances projects aimed at fulfilling EU policies, should contribute to economic, social and territorial cohesion; notices however that, according to the geographical breakdown of lending by country in which projects are located, five Member States received 54.11 % of the total loans granted in 2016; Moreover, more efforts should be made by the EIB to cope with Article 309 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and strengthening its support for less developed regions.

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2071(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Highlights that the EIB’s role in cohesion policy is increasing, especially due to the increased use of combining financial instruments with grants; emphasises that the level of use of financial instruments is still very low and that Member States point to the complexity of the procedures as one of the reasons for that; Therefore, the combination of financial instruments with grants should take place only when a financial instrument alone cannot achieve its objectives.

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2071(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. In 2016, urban financing has amounted to around 21 bn EUR. However, EIB should better link its financing with the Urban Agenda and Cohesion Policy objectives and have a real complementary role at urban level.

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2071(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Regrets the lack of communication and data available on the role of the EIB at each stage of the implementation cycle of cohesion policy and the limited understanding of the ways in which EIB lending activities contribute to cohesion policy.

2017/10/27
Committee: REGI

2017/2052(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 (new)

-1. Insists on the strategic importance of the MFF for sectors relying on long- term investment such as the transport sector; calls therefore on the Commission to put forward a proposal and to engage urgently with the Council and the European Parliament to define the MFF after 2020;

2017/10/26
Committee: TRAN

2017/2052(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Invites the Commission to explore, in the next MFF, new possibilities to facilitate and encourage synergies between the European structural and investment funds (ESIF), CEF and Horizon 2020 for transport related projects, especially with a view to support those projects in cross border regions and along the TEN-T;

2017/10/26
Committee: TRAN

2017/2052(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Invites the European Coordinators to conduct a thorough assessment of the projects completed and the improvements achieved along the TEN-T Corridors under the current programming period, and to present it to the Commission and the European Parliament; calls on the Commission to reflect upon this assessment in preparing the next MFF;

2017/10/26
Committee: TRAN

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas a macro-region can be defined as an geographical area including ~~territory~~regions from a number of different countries ~~or regions~~ associated with one or more common features or challenges12; _________________ 12 Schmitt et al (2009), EU macro-regions and macro-regional strategies – A scoping study, NORDREGIO electronic working paper 2009:4.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas macro-regional strategies (MRS) are significant, as they are able to mobilise public institutional actors and civil society towards common EU policy goals;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas MRS provide a platform for cooperation between EU Member States and ~~among third countri~~neighbouring non-Member States for the purposes of addressing common challenges, joint planning and fostering cooperation between and improving the integration of different policy sectors;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas macro-regions are involved in the implementation of long- term, interconnected, useful and cross- cutting political issues;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital E

E. whereas MRS are based on the ‘three no’s’ principle of no new funding, no new structures and no new legislation for now within the existing EU political framework;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas pre-existing cooperation mechanisms at EU level and between Member States facilitate the implementation of macro-regional strategies, particularly in the early phases;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital G

G. whereas the Commission adopts a single report on the success of the implementation of all existing EU macro- regional strategies every two years, with the next report due by the end of 2018;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. The relevance of the MRS has been underlined by the globalisation process, which has rendered individual countries interdependent and necessitates solutions to the cross-border problems involved, better coordination and joint planning;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Recognises that – to a varying degree – elements on which the quality of implementation depends, such as commitment, ownership, resources and governance, remain difficult to overcome in achieving the pre-determined goals;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Stresses that MRS continue to make an invaluable and innovative contribution to cross-border, cross-sector and multi- level cooperation ~~in Europe~~, the potential of which is not sufficiently taken advantage of;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Is of the opinion that multi-level governance ~~should be embedded in~~is the cornerstone of all macro-regional strateg~~y from its inception~~ies;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Encourages improved coordination and better partnerships between the different actors and policies at national ~~and~~, regional ~~level~~and local level, as well as international organisations operating in this field, in order to facilitate and improve the implementation of the MRS;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Emphasises the importance of developing administrative capacity in the competent state authorities in order to ensure the effective implementation of the strategies;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Underlines the fact that MRS must be flexible enough to be adjusted and respond to unforeseen events which may affect the regions involved, the Member States and the EU in general; highlights the necessity of the Commission’s coordinating role in this regard;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Stresses the important roles played by the experiences drawn from previous successful macro-regional strategies in ensuring the effective implementation of all macro-regional strategies.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Welcomes the results achieved since the launch of the strategy in 2009, particularly with regard to the cooperation mechanisms not only between but also within the regions and countries involved;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Highlights the positive impact the strategy has had on cooperation between the participating countries and regions;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Considers the Danube Financing Dialogue as a clear positive example of a way to overcome difficulties in financing the obstacles which projects of transnational and cross-border relevance often face;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Stresses that it is essential to maintain a high degree of political support and increase resources and capacity of competent state authorities in order to tackle the remaining challenges and improve implementation;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13a. Stresses the importance of the strategy in the process of integration of the non-Member States;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Highlights the distinct nature of the EUSAIR on account of the number of potential and candidate participating countries, and considers that this format of cooperation can be a great opportunity for the entire region, in particular as regards the European integration process;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/2040(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Notes with concern the persistent problems of resources, governance and ownership, which are preventing the strategy’s objectives from being fully achieved, and calls on the involved countries to bolster and provide greater support to the competent authorities in implementing the strategy, where such a need exists;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Highlights the important role played by territorial cooperation, and cross-border cooperation in particular, in the action carried out by regions and cities, and reiterates the need to strengthen this tool politically and financially;

2017/12/14
Committee: REGI

Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3

Decision No 1313/2013/EU
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a

(a) take action to promote education, improve the knowledge base on disaster risks, and facilitate the sharing of knowledge, the results of scientific research, best practices and information, including among Member States that share common risks, taking into account the possibility of using the European Social Fund.

2018/04/05
Committee: REGI

2017/0309(COD)

(12) Setting minimum targets for clean vehicle procurement by 2025 and by 2030 at Member State level should contribute to policy certainty for markets where investments in low- and zero-emission mobility are warranted. The minimum targets support market creation throughout the Union. They provide time for the adjustment of public procurement processes and give a clear market signal. The Impact Assessment notes that Member States increasingly set targets, depending on their economic capacity and how serious the problem is. Different targets should be set for different Member States in accordance with their economic capacity (Gross Domestic Product per capita) and exposure to pollution (urban population density). Considering that these parameters are quite often not uniform within a Member State, an assessment of their reliability will be necessary so that the methodology can eventually be complemented. Minimum procurement targets should be complemented by the obligation of the contracting authorities, entities and operators to consider relevant energy and environmental aspects in all their procurement procedures. The Territorial Impact Assessment of this amended Directive illustrated that the impact will be evenly distributed among regions in the Union.

2018/06/11
Committee: TRAN

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12

4. Where the requested Member State considers that the request is insufficiently reasoned, it shall inform the requesting Member State accordingly within ~~ten~~five working days. The requesting Member State shall further substantiate the request. Where this is not possible, the request may be rejected by the Member State.

2018/02/23
Committee: TRAN

2017/0123(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12

Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009
Article 18 – paragraph 5

5. Where it is difficult or impossible to comply with a request for information or to carry out checks, inspections or investigations, the Member State in question shall inform the requesting Member State accordingly within ~~ten~~five working days, ~~with reasons~~duly justifying that difficulty or impossibility. The Member States concerned shall discuss with each other with a view to finding a solution for any difficulty raised. In the event of any persisting problem in the exchange of information, or of a permanent refusal to supply information, the Commission, being informed, may take all necessary measures to remedy the situation, including, if appropriate, investigating the matter, issuing a recommendation or starting infringement procedures.

2018/02/23
Committee: TRAN

2017/0123(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12

Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009
Article 18 – paragraph 6

6. In response to requests under paragraph 3, Member States shall supply the requested information and carry out the required checks, inspections and investigations within ~~twenty-five~~fifteen working days from the receipt of the request, unless another time limit is mutually agreed between the Member States concerned or unless they have informed the requesting Member State that the request is insufficiently reasoned or of the impossibility or the difficulties pursuant to paragraphs 4 and 5. and no solution for those difficulties has been found.

2018/02/23
Committee: TRAN

2017/0123(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)

Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009
Article 1 – paragraph 5 – point c

(1a) in paragraph 5, point (c) is replaced by the following: (c) carriage of goods in motor vehicles the permissible laden mass of which, including that of trailers, is lower than 2,8 tonnes;

2018/02/23
Committee: TRAN

2017/0123(COD)

Gesine MEISSNER, Jozo RADOŠ

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point a

Regulation (EC) no 1072/2009
Article 8 – paragraph 2

2. Once the goods carried in the course of an incoming international carriage from another Member State or from a third country to a host Member State have been delivered, hauliers referred to in paragraph 1 shall be allowed to carry out, with the same vehicle or, in the case of a coupled combination, the motor vehicle of that same vehicle, cabotage operations in the host Member State or in contiguous Member States. The last unloading in the course of a cabotage operation shall take place within 57 days from the last unloading in the host Member State in the course of the incoming international carriage. At the end of the 7 days, the haulier having completed the cabotage operations, or another haulier using that same vehicle, shall not be allowed to carry out cabotage operations until a new international carriage originating from the Member State where the undertaking is established has been performed;

2018/02/23
Committee: TRAN

2017/0122(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 a (new)

(5a) Passenger transport is fundamentally different from freight transport. Bus drivers are in close contact with their passengers and need flexibility for taking their breaks but without lengthening driving times or reducing rest periods and breaks.

2018/02/27
Committee: TRAN

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5

(5) In its 2014 Communication on a Strategy for reducing Heavy-Duty Vehicles’ fuel consumption and CO2 emissions13 , the Commission recognised that a prerequisite to introducing such measures is a regulated procedure for the determination of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. ~~__________________ 13~~In its 2017 Mobility Package ‘Europe on the move’, the Commission envisaged a proposal for heavy-duty vehicle standards in the first half of 2018. Timely publishing of this proposal is crucial to agree the new standards within this mandate. __________________ 13 COM(2014) 285 final. COM(2014) 285 final.

2017/10/25
Committee: TRAN

2017/0111(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7

(7) Information on a vehicle’s performance in terms of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption should be made publicly available to enable all vehicle operators to take well-informed purchasing decisions. All vehicle manufacturers will be able to compare their vehicles’ performance with those of other makes. This will increase the incentives for innovation and therefore increase competitiveness. That information will also provide policy makers at Union and Member State level with a sound basis for developing policies to promote the uptake of more energy-efficient vehicles. Making necessary information publicly available will allow stakeholders to do the targeting testing independently and to check if the engines in-service are efficient as OEMs claim in the tests. This would also create more competition between the manufacturers and encourage them to make the most efficient engine possible. It is therefore appropriate that the CO2 emissions and fuel consumption values determined for each new heavy-duty vehicle pursuant to Commission Regulation (EU) […/…]15 [Opoce to include correct reference] are monitored, reported to the Commission and made available to the public. __________________ 15 Commission Regulation (EU) […/…] implementing Regulation (EU) No 595/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the determination of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption of heavy-duty vehicles and amending Directive 2007/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Regulation (EU) No 582/2011 (OJ L…,..,..).

2017/10/25
Committee: TRAN

2017/0111(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8

(8) In order to acquire a complete knowledge on the configuration of the heavy-duty vehicle fleet in the Union, its development over time and potential impact on CO2 emissions, it is appropriate to monitor and report and make publicly available in a digitally searchable format and free of charge the data on the registration of all new heavy-duty vehicles and all new trailers, including the data on the efficiency of powertrains as well as the relevant bodywork and components.

2017/10/25
Committee: TRAN

2017/0111(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2

2. The Commission ~~may~~shall carry out its own verification of the quality of the data, on a representative sample and on a regular basis, reported pursuant to Articles 4 and 5.

2017/10/25
Committee: TRAN

2017/0111(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. The Commission shall review the VECTO test procedure without any delay to include all heavy goods vehicles categories (at the latest by 1 July 2020), hybrid and zero emission powertrains (at the latest by 1 January 2020) and trailers (at the latest 1 January 2020) and report all the relevant data.

2017/10/25
Committee: TRAN

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3

(3) In its Communication “A European Solidarity Corps” of 7 December 201618 , the Commission emphasised the need to strengthen the foundations for solidarity work across Europe, to provide young people with more and better opportunities for solidarity activities covering a broad range of areas, and to support national, regional and local actors, in their efforts to cope with different challenges and crises. The Communication launched a first phase of the European Solidarity Corps whereby different Union programmes have been mobilised to offer volunteering, traineeship or job opportunities to young people across the EU. These activities, whether implemented before or after the entry into force of this Regulation, should continue to apply the rules and conditions set by the respective Union programmes that have financed them under the first phase of the European Solidarity Corps. _________________ 18 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions A European Solidarity Corps, COM(2016) 942 final of 7.12.2016.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4

(4) Young people should be provided with easily accessible opportunities to engage in solidarity activities, which could enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities while acquiring useful experience, knowledge, skills and competences for their personal, educational, social, civic and professional development, thereby improving their employability. Those activities would also support the mobility of young volunteers, trainees and workers.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6

(6) The European Solidarity Corps would provide a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the Union. Consistency and complementarity of that framework should be ensured with other relevant Union policies and programmes. The European Solidarity Corps should build on the strengths and synergies of existing programmes, notably the European Voluntary Service. It should also complement the efforts made by Member States, regions and cities to support young people and ease their school-to-work transition under the Youth Guarantee19 by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity-related areas within their respective Member State or across borders. Complementarity with existing Union level networks pertinent to the activities under the European Solidarity Corps, such as the European Network of Public Employment Services, EURES and the Eurodesk network, should also be ensured. Furthermore, complementarity between existing related schemes, in particular national solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young people, and the European Solidarity Corps should be ensured, building on good practices where appropriate. _________________ 19 Council Recommendation of 22 April 2013 on establishing a Youth Guarantee (2013/C 120/01).

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7

(7) In order to maximise the impact of the European Solidarity Corps, provisions should be made to allow other Union programmes such as the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Europe for Citizens programme, the European Social Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the Health Programme to contribute to the objectives of the European Solidarity Corps by supporting activities within its scope. This contribution should be financed in accordance with the respective basic acts of the concerned programmes. Once they have obtained a valid European Solidarity Corps quality label, the beneficiaries should be given access to the European Solidarity Corps portal and receive the quality and support measures provided according to the type of activity offered.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8

(8) The European Solidarity Corps should open up new opportunities for young people to carry out volunteering, traineeship or job placements in solidarity- related areas as well as to devise and develop solidarity programmes and projects based on their own initiative. Those opportunities should contribute to enhancing their personal, educational, social, civic and professional development. The European Solidarity Corps should also support networking activities for European Solidarity Corps participants and organisations as well as measures to ensure the quality of the supported activities and to enhance the validation of their learning outcomes.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19

(19) In order to ensure continuity in the activities supported by the programmes contributing to the European Solidarity Corps, the financial support to solidarity placements and projects should indicatively follow a~~n 80~~ 75%-205% split between volunteering placements and solidarity projects on the one hand and traineeship and job placements on the other hand.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3

(3) n its Communication “A European Solidarity Corps” of 7 December 2016,18 the Commission emphasised the need to strengthen the foundations for solidarity work across Europe, to provide young people with more and better opportunities for solidarity activities covering a broad range of areas, and to support national, regional and local actors, in their efforts to cope with different challenges and crises. The Communication launched a first phase of the European Solidarity Corps whereby different Union programmes have been mobilised to offer volunteering, traineeship, development or job opportunities to young people across the EU. These activities, whether implemented before or after the entry into force of this Regulation, should continue to apply the rules and conditions set by the respective Union programmes that have financed them under the first phase of the European Solidarity Corps. _________________ 18 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions A European Solidarity Corps, COM(2016) 942 final of 7.12.2016.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26

(26) An entity willing to apply for funding to offer placements under the European Solidarity Corps should have first received a quality label as a precondition. This requirement should not apply to natural persons seeking financial support on behalf of an informal group of European Solidarity Corps participants for their programmes and solidarity projects.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4

(4) Young people should be provided with easily accessible opportunities to engage in solidarity activities, which could enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities while acquiring useful experience, knowledge, skills and competences for their personal, educational, social, civic and professional development, thereby improving their employability. Those activities would also support the mobility of young volunteers, trainees and workers.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35

(35) In compliance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union26, the Commission should adopt work programmes and inform the European Parliament and the Council thereof. The work programme should set out the implementing measures needed for their implementation in line with the general and specific objectives of the European Solidarity Corps, the selection and award criteria for grants, as well as all other elements required. Work programmes and any amendments to them should be adopted by implementing acts in accordance with the examination procedure. _________________ 26 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002, OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5

(5) The solidarity activities offered to young people should be of high quality, in the sense that they should respond to unmet societal needs, contribute to strengthening communities, offer young people the opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge, skills and competences, be financially accessible to young people, and be implemented in safe and healthy conditions.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6

(6) The European Solidarity Corps would provide a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the Union. Consistency and complementarity of that framework should be ensured with other relevant Union policies and programmes. The European Solidarity Corps should build on the strengths and synergies of existing programmes, notably the European Voluntary Service. It should also complement the efforts made by Member States, regions and cities to support young people and ease their school-to-work transition under the Youth Guarantee19 ,by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity-related areas within their respective Member State or across borders. Complementarity with existing Union level networks pertinent to the activities under the European Solidarity Corps, such as the European Network of Public Employment Services, EURES and the Eurodesk network, should also be ensured. Furthermore, complementarity between existing related schemes, in particular national solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young people, and the European Solidarity Corps should be ensured, building on good practices where appropriate. _________________ 19 Council Recommendation of 22 April 2013 on establishing a Youth Guarantee (2013/C 120/01).

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7

(7) In order to maximise the impact of the European Solidarity Corps, provisions should be made to allow other Union programmes such as the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Europe for Citizens programme, the European Social Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the Health Programme to contribute to the objectives of the European Solidarity Corps by supporting activities within its scope. This contribution should be financed in accordance with the respective basic acts of the concerned programmes. Once they have obtained a valid European Solidarity Corps quality label, the beneficiaries should be given access to the European Solidarity Corps portal and receive the quality and support measures provided according to the type of activity offered.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8

(8) “traineeship” means a period of work practice from two to twelve months, remunerated by the organisation hosting the European Solidarity Corps participant, based on a written traineeship agreement, which includes a learning and training component, and undertaken in order to gain practical and professional knowledge and experience with a view to improving employability and facilitating transition to regular employment;

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8

(8) The European Solidarity Corps should open up new opportunities for young people to carry out volunteering, traineeship or job placements in solidarity- related areas as well as to devise and develop programmes and solidarity projects based on their own initiative. Those opportunities should contribute to enhancing their personal, educational, social, civic and professional development. The European Solidarity Corps should also support networking activities for European Solidarity Corps participants and organisations as well as measures to ensure the quality of the supported activities and to enhance the validation of their learning outcomes.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a

(a) to provide young people, with the support of participating organisations, with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities while improving their knowledge, skills and competences for personal, educational, social, civic and professional development, as well as their employability and facilitating transition into the labour market, including by supporting the mobility of young volunteers, trainees and workers;

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3

3. The financial support to solidarity placements and projects referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of Article 7(1) shall indicatively be 8075% for volunteering placements and solidarity projects; and 2025% for traineeship and job placements.

2017/10/10
Committee: AGRI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19

(19) In order to ensure continuity in the activities supported by the programmes contributing to the European Solidarity Corps, the financial support to solidarity placements and projects should indicatively follow a~~n80~~ 75%-205% split between volunteering placements and solidarity projects on the one hand and traineeship and job placements on the other hand.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26

(26) An entity willing to apply for funding to offer placements under the European Solidarity Corps should have first received a quality label as a precondition. This requirement should not apply to natural persons seeking financial support on behalf of an informal group of European Solidarity Corps participants for their programmes and solidarity projects.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28

(28) Appropriate outreach, publicity and dissemination of the opportunities and results of the actions supported by the European Solidarity Corps should be ensured at European, national, regional and local level. The outreach, publicity and dissemination activities should rely on all the implementing bodies of the European Solidarity Corps, including, when relevant, with the support of other key stakeholders.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35

(35) In compliance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union,26 the Commission should adopt work programmes and inform the European Parliament and the Council thereof. The work programme should set out the implementing measures needed for their implementation in line with the general and specific objectives of the European Solidarity Corps, the selection and award criteria for grants, as well as all other elements required. Work programmes and any amendments to them should be adopted by implementing acts in accordance with the examination procedure. _________________ 26 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002, OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2

(2) “participant” means a young person (18-30 years old) who has registered in the European Solidarity Corps Portal and takes part in a solidarity activity under the European Solidarity Corps offered by a participating organisation;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 3

(3) “disadvantaged young people” means individuals who need additional support because of disability, educational difficulties, economic or social obstacles, cultural differences, health problems, social obstacles, geographical obstacles;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8

(8) “traineeship” means a period of work practice from two to twelve months, remunerated by the organisation hosting the European Solidarity Corps participant, based on a written traineeship agreement, which includes a learning and training component, and undertaken in order to gain practical and professional knowledge and experience with a view to improving employability and facilitating transition to regular employment;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a

(a) to provide young people, with the support of participating organisations, with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities while improving their knowledge, skills and competences for personal, educational, social, civic and professional development, as well as their employability and facilitating transition into the labour market, including by supporting the mobility of young volunteers, trainees and workers;

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1

1. The actions of the European Solidarity Corps shall be consistent with and complementary to the relevant Union policies and programmes relating to the areas mentioned in Article 2(1) as well as existing Union level networks pertinent to the activities of the European Solidarity Corps.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3

3. The financial support to solidarity placements and projects referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of Article 7(1) shall indicatively be 8075% for volunteering placements and solidarity projects; and 205% for traineeship and job placements.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2017/0102(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1

1. The Commission, in cooperation with the participating countries, shall ensure the ~~dissemination~~spreading of information, publicity and follow-up with regard to all actions supported in the framework of the European Solidarity Corps.

2017/09/18
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)

Ga. whereas it is the main instrument supporting inclusive and smart growth in all EU regions;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Highlights the fact that cohesion policy funds contribute to growth and convergence if they are properly directed towards high-quality projects; stresses the importance of national policies being in line with EU priorities;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6a. Stresses the importance, for countries that participate, of territorial cooperation in the area of cross-border cooperation with non-Member States in the EU integration process;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Underlines that the current categorisation of regions, the thematic objectives and the performance framework have demonstrated the value of cohesion policy ~~and should be consolidated~~; asks the Commission to present ideas for greater flexibility, such as an unallocated reserve or a simplification of re-programming, in order to adapt ESIF investments to unforeseen events and to the specific needs of each region;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Stresses the need to create a new programming system for cohesion policy that would take a different approach towards countries and regions depending on their specific development needs and the level of development of community and business infrastructure that has been achieved, and depending on their different assumptions, economic structure and capacity to achieve the objectives of cohesion policy;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Points out that increasing the administrative capacities for programming, implementation and evaluation of operational programmes, as well as for better-quality professional training in the Member States and regions is crucial for timely and successful cohesion policy performance;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11a. Calls on the Commission to prepare a standard procedure for drafting implementing documents, establishing competent bodies and implementing territorial cooperation programmes, particularly in the area of cross-border cooperation, given the large number of these programmes and the possibilities for achieving swifter and more efficient implementation and for preventing delays arising from the slow-moving and often heavily bureaucratic procedures between countries participating in the programmes;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Calls on the Commission to consider measures aimed at resolving the issue of national financing of cohesion policy projects in view of the problem faced by local and regional authorities in highly centralised Member States that do not have sufficient fiscal and financial capacities and that experience great difficulties in co-financing projects, and often even in drafting project documentation, due to the lack of available financial resources, which leads to lower utilisation of cohesion policy;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Suggests an increased use of ESI Funds in order to tackle demographic change and address its negative regional and local consequences; notes the increasing importance of the Territorial Agenda and of successful rural-urban partnerships, as well as the exemplary role of smart cities as microcosms and catalysts for innovative solutions for regional and local challenges;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Highlights the fact that in order to improve the visibility of ESI Funds, greater focus must be placed on participation by stakeholders and recipients; urges, furthermore, the Commission, Member States, regions and cities to communicate, including by using advanced technological solutions and social networks, in a more efficient way on both the achievements of cohesion policy and the lessons to be learned;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Reiterates that it is high time to prepare the post-2020 EU cohesion policy in order to launch it more swiftly and effectively at the very start of the new programming period;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2326(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)

23a. Calls for the financial share of cohesion policy to be increased in relation to the overall plan for the post-2020 financial perspective, or maintained at the same level as under the current plan;

2017/04/04
Committee: REGI

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)

D a. whereas 51 percent of the Kosovars distrust their domestic courts and an increase is noted of cases where citizens take justice in own hands;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)

D b. whereas more than 90 % of the Kosovars fears unemployment and more than 30 % receives between 0 and 120 € per month;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2 a. Notes how free, fair and transparent municipal elections in 2017 are crucial for democratic future of Kosovo as well as future of its EU integration process; urges authorities to adopt electoral reform guided by advices from the Venice Commission; is concerned that independent audits of political party financing and party electoral campaigns have not been conducted for the last three years;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2 a. Notes that a non-authorized train, covered with Serbian political and religious symbols, scheduled to travel from Belgrade to North Mitrovica on 14 January 2017, and launched by the director of Serbia's 'Office for Kosovo and Metohija,' has been stopped by Kosovo authorities; condemns these Serbian provocations;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Condemns in the strongest terms the violent disruption of activities which occurred in the first half of the year and welcomes the return of the opposition to participate in Assembly proceedings on most issues; stresses the importance of the active and constructive participation of the opposition in the decision-making processes within the democratic institutions; underlines the importance of orderly arrangements of decision-making processes, time adequate and open parliamentary debates by ruling coalition who should avoid fast-track procedures of adoption of sensitive laws; calls for upgrading of the capacity of the EU Integration Committee given its important role in advancing EU-related reforms;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the proposal by the Commission to grant visa liberalisation, which would be a very positive step for Kosovo on the path to European integration; is concerned by the stalemate in the Assembly with regard to the ratification of the demarcation agreement with Montenegro, and stresses that visa liberalisation can only be granted once Kosovo has fulfilled all criteria, including with regard to building up a track record of high-level convictions for corruption and organised crime; is of opinion that designating Kosovo as a safe country of origin on the EU common list of safe countries of origin would be most welcoming in combating irregular migration;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the proposal by the Commission to grant visa liberalisation, which would be a very positive step for Kosovo on the path to European integration; is concerned by the stalemate in the Assembly with regard to the ratification of the demarcation agreement with Montenegro, and stresses that visa liberalisation can only be granted once Kosovo has fulfilled all criteria, including with regard to building up a track record of high-level convictions for corruption and organised crime; as Kosovo is a safe country of origin visa liberalisation won't pose too much problems;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Welcomes the progress made in implementing the various agreements signed since August 2016 in the normalisation process with Serbia, after months of little to no progress; calls on both Kosovo and Serbia to show more engagement and sustained political will as regards the normalisation of relations and recalls that this is a condition for accession to the EU; takes note of some progress on other technical issues such as cadastre, university diplomas and licence plates and on the implementation of the agreement on the Mitrovica Bridge; welcomes the allocation of an independent international telephone code to Kosovo; reiterates its call on the European External Action Service to carry out an evaluation of the performance of the sides in fulfilling their obligations on a regular basis with reporting to the European Parliament;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11 a. Notes that Ombudsperson began implementing the 2015 law on the Ombudsperson with increased and improved reporting and urges adoption of related secondary legislation; calls on assembly and government to ensure the financial, functional and organisational independence of the Ombudsperson, in line with international standards on national human rights institutions; urges government to follow up reports and recommendations of the Office of the Auditor General and Ombudsperson;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Expresses serious concerns at the lack of progress with regard to the protection of freedom of expression and media freedom, and at the increased political interference and pressure and intimidation exerted on the media; urges the Kosovo authorities to fully recognise and protect freedom of expression in line with EU standards and to end impunity for attacks against journalists; urges authorities to find a solution for the sustainable funding of the public broadcaster and to adopt legislations and regulations on media ownership and transparency;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Expresses serious concerns at the lack of progress with regard to the protection of freedom of expression and media freedom, and at the increased political interference and pressure and intimidation exerted on the media; urges the Kosovo authorities to fully recognise and protect freedom of expression in line with EU standards ~~and~~, to end impunity for attacks against journalists and bring those responsible to justice;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16 a. Is concerned that Kosovo continues to be a storage and transit country for hard drugs; notes with concern the lack of secure storage for seized drugs prior to destruction; expresses serious concerns about the low rate of convictions in cases against human trafficking, despite Kosovo being a source, transit and destination for trafficked women and children; notes with concern the existence of armed groups and their involvement in organised criminal activities such as arms smuggling and the apparent impunity with which they are able to operate across borders;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Welcomes the increased efforts to counter violent extremism and radicalisation and recognises the important work carried out by Kosovo in this area; including adoption of comprehensive legal framework; is of opinion that authorities should set up mechanisms to link central institutions with local actors to enable the early detection of radicalisation; calls for further identification, prevention and disruption of flow of foreign fighters and untraceable money intended for further radicalization; notes that many foreign fighters have returned to Kosovo and calls on the authorities to establish effective policies for prevention, de-radicalisation and reintegration; as criminalisation of the returned foreign fighters is not the sole solution; calls on the authorities to defend country's secular Constitution;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Welcomes the improvement of the economic situation and the increase in tax revenues which are making more resources available for the government to carry out its policies; expresses, however, its concerns about the sustainability of Kosovo’s budget with regard, in particular, to the amount of the benefits allocated to war veterans, and calls, in this connection, for the reform of the relevant law as agreed with the International Monetary Fund; is concerned that migrant remittances constitute an important driver of domestic demand; expresses concern about discrimination of women on labour market, especially in hiring process;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20 a. Notes with concern high youth unemployment (57.7 %); calls for set up of an action plan for tackling youth unemployment focussing on improving education outcomes, including through improved teacher training and supporting school-to-work transitions; welcomes the conclusion of 2016 Paris summit and the establishing of first Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO); calls on government to fully support its activities and projects aimed at providing the European perspective for youth on WB;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)

20 b. Regrets that there is no progress on improving the quality of education; is concerned that 75 % of overall spending on education was for salaries, only 0.2 % of education spending was earmarked for training of teachers and total spending on research and innovation amounted to just 0.05 %;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)

21 a. Notes that tendering specifications for application for all forms of contracts under IPA fund are so demanding that Kosovar or regional companies often cannot even apply for them and to that end calls for special attention to be given to guide and instruct interested stakeholders; urges authorities to direct the remaining assistance, which has not yet been programmed, towards projects with more direct impact on economy of Kosovo;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26

26. Urges the Kosovo authorities to adopt a credible long-term energy strategy based on energy efficiency, the diversification of energy sources and the development of renewables; expressed concern that almost no progress was made in making the energy sector more sustainable, in terms of both security of supply and environmental situation; Calls on the authorities to sign the Western Balkans 6 Memorandum of understanding on regional electricity market development and on establishing a framework for future collaboration with other countries; underlines that it is necessary to urgently take steps to increase the share of renewables in the country's energy mix as well as to adopt legislative framework on energy efficiency in order to mitigate further disruption of security of supply; calls on the government to respect the agreement to close down Kosovo A power plant and make use of the EUR 60 million allocated for this purpose by the EU within the framework of IPA funds; calls for a hydropower strategy for the Western Balkans as a whole; in this regard calls on government to make progress on building the Zhur hydropower plant, which is instrumental in reaching the 2020 mandatory climate targets;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)

26 a. Welcomes the launch of new railway connectivity project on the Orient/East-Med Corridor with the new railway track and stations in Kosovo that constitutes Kosovo's sole connection to the wider region; calls on government to fully support the implementation of the project;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)

26 a. Takes note of the demographical structure of Kosovo and urges the Commission, with International Organisations, to focus on education in Kosovo to fight poverty and unemployment; calls for further efforts to increase joint education of all components of Kosovo's society;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)

26 b. Calls on the Commission to increase the focus on assistance towards SME's in order to support a viable economy in the country;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2314(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 c (new)

26 c. Calls on the European Commission to continue the work on migration related issues with all the countries of the Western Balkans, in order to make sure that European and international norms and standards are followed; welcomes the work done so far and underlines that adequate IPA funding should be set aside to this end;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)

E a. whereas there are still 74 000 internally displaced persons and a significant number of refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina in neighbouring countries, whole Europe and world-wide, as well as 6 808 missing persons;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Welcomes the consideration of BiH’s EU membership application by the Council and looks forward to the Commission’s opinion on the merits of the application for membership; calls on competent BiH authorities at all levels to cooperate and coordinate in participating in the Commission’s Opinion process by providing a single set of replies to the Commission’s inquiries; deems unacceptable that the Government of the Republika Srpska is trying to establish parallel channels of communication by adopting provisions on direct reporting to the European Commission;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Welcomes the progress on the implementation of the 2015-2018 Reform Agenda, as well as the country’s determination to pursue further institutional and socio-economic reforms; stresses that harmonised implementation of the Reform Agenda is needed to achieve real change across the country and to improve the lives of all BiH citizens; calls for the reform momentum to be maintained in order to transform BiH into a fully effective, inclusive and functional state; regrets that common reform efforts often continue to be hampered by ethnic and political divisions, and through further politicization of public administrations; considers it essential to maintain consensus on EU integration and to advance in a concerted manner on the rule of law, including the fight against corruption and organised crime, the reform of the judiciary and public administration;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Regrets that the Rules of Procedure of the SAPC have still not been adopted ~~and it therefore could not be properly constituted~~, due to the attempts to introduce ethnic blocking into the SAPC's voting rules, and it therefore could not be properly constituted; urges all actors to agree to and accept Rules and procedures of the SAPC based on the recommendation of the European Parliament's opinion on the subject;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Notes that the local elections of 2 October 2016 have been broadly conducted in an orderly manner; regrets that the citizens of Mostar have again been deprived of their democratic rights to elect their local representatives owing to continued disagreements between political leaders, and urges swift implementation of the Constitutional Court ruling on Mostar; condemns the unacceptable incident in Stolac and calls on all sides to resolve the situation by respecting the rule of law; reiterates that all acts of violence or election irregularities should be investigated and condemned in the clearest possible terms, and any unlawful activities prosecuted;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Regrets that the declared political commitment to combat corruption did not translate into tangible results; underlines that there is a lack of track record of high profile cases and that legal and institutional framework for combating systemic corruption like political party finance, public procurement, conflict of interest, and assets declaration is weak and inadequate; acknowledges progress in adopting anti- corruption action plans and setting up corruption prevention bodies at various levels of governance; notes with concern that fragmentation and weak inter- agency cooperation hamper the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures; calls for greater professional specialisation within the police and the judiciary by means of appropriate coordination channels; stresses the need to establish a track record of effective scrutiny of political party and electoral campaign financing;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Reiterates its concern about the continued fragmentation into four different legal systems; ~~stresses the need~~calls for adoption of the principles of judicial independence and prosecutorial autonomy in Bosnia and Herzegovina constitution in order to strengthen judicial independence, including from political pressure, and to fight corruption in the judiciary; urges the rapid adoption of the action plan for the implementation of the 2014-2018 justice sector reform; welcomes the adoption of the law on free legal aid at state level and the introduction by the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of guidelines on prevention of conflict of interest, the drafting of integrity plans and disciplinary measures; notes the important role of the Structured Dialogue on Justice in addressing the shortcomings in the BiH judiciary; is concerned by the continuous financial and human resource difficulties of the Ombudsperson's Offices and calls for the fast adoption of the law on the reform of the Ombudsperson;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9 a. Strongly condemns the still effective Law on Order in RS which undermines the fundamental democratic rights of the freedom of assembly, freedom of association and freedom of media, as well as the provision on the death penalty in the RS; urges the full implementation of the Freedom of Access of Information Act; urges the authorities to swiftly implement the additional Protocol to the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime concerning the criminalisation of acts of a racist and xenophobic nature committed through computer systems;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Regrets that a high number of constitutional court decisions are not being implemented, in~~cluding in~~ particular those related to the election system, including the Sejdić- Finci ruling, the decision on the RS day, which was contested in the referendum held on 25 September 2016 and the decision concerning the respect of the basic democratic rights of the citizens of Mostar to vote in local elections; calls for constitutional and legislative changes in order to achieve equality of all constitutive peoples and citizens of BiH, as well as to establish a functioning state and democratic society; emphasises that respect for the rule of law and the country’s functioning constitutional framework is of paramount importance for advancing on the EU path;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Notes satisfactory cooperation on war crimes cases with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and encourages more regional cooperation with regard to processing war crimes cases; welcomes the fact that the backlog of domestic war crimes cases is being tackled and that some further progress was achieved in the successful prosecution of war crimes involving sexual violence; reminds all political leaders and institutions in BiH that they have a responsibility to assess war-time events objectively, in the interests of truth, reconciliation and a peaceful future, and to avoid misuse of judiciary for political purposes; strongly condemns the decision of the RS National Assembly in October 2016 to express appreciation to former leaders of the RS convicted of war crimes, as well as entity- wide glorification of persons convicted for the gravest crimes against humanity; calls, as a matter of urgency, for respect for victims of war crimes and for reconciliation to be promoted;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Notes some progress with regard to refugees and internally displaced persons in terms of repossession of property and occupancy rights as well as the reconstruction of houses; calls on the competent authorities to facilitate their access to healthcare, employment, social protection and education, including damage compensation for property that cannot be returned to victims; notes that there are still 74 000 internally displaced persons (7 500 still accommodated in 45 collective centres) and a huge number of refugees; is concerned with persistently high number of missing persons and slow progress in that respect; calls on the authorities to embark on intensive cooperation between the two entities, and strengthen the efforts to find the 6808 persons still missing as a result of the war, including full sharing of all relevant military and intelligence data;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Notes some progress in fighting organised crime; is concerned, however, about the absence of a consistent approach in tackling organised crime owing to the numerous action plans by the various law enforcement agencies at different levels; highlights the need to strengthen the framework for inter-agency cooperation; welcomes joint investigations but calls for more coordinated operations and better exchange of information; calls for enhancing capacities of law enforcement bodies including on counter-terrorism; welcomes the signing of the operational and strategic cooperation agreement with Europol aimed at combating cross-border criminality; calls on the Federation entity to make swift changes to the criminal code that would ban all forms of human trafficking, whose victims are 80% women and girls;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13 a. Calls for strengthening mechanisms for collecting, sharing and analysing data on migration as statistics show an increasing trend of people coming to BiH from the high-migratory- risk countries (in 2015 the number was 293 943 individuals); calls on the authorities to integrate these communities into the wider society; draws attention to the fact that there are unintegrated, often undocumented, people living in isolated pockets across BiH, who don't pay taxes and don't respect the country's secular background;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ivo VAJGL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)

13 b. Calls on the Commission to continue the work on migration related issues with all the countries of the Western Balkans, in order to make sure that European and international norms and standards are followed; welcomes the work done so far and underlines that adequate IPA funding should be set aside to this end;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls for boosting efforts to combat radicalisation and further measures to identify, prevent and disrupt the flow of foreign fighters as well as channels of untraceable money intended for further radicalization, including by close cooperation with relevant services of the Member States and countries in the region; calls for the introduction of programmes on de-radicalisation and preventing youth radicalisation; is of the opinion that linking various central institutions with local actors would enable early detection of radicalism; calls on the authorities to defend the country's secular Constitution;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Deems it essential to enhance public participation in decision-making and to better engage citizens in the EU accession process; notes that civil society is fragmented, institutionally and financially weak; calls for better cooperation mechanisms between government and civil society organisations, including the developing of a strategic framework for cooperation; condemns repeated smear campaigns and violent attacks on CSO representatives and human rights defenders;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Underlines the need for a substantial improvement in the strategic, legal, institutional and policy frameworks on the observance of human rights; calls for the adoption of a countrywide strategy on human rights and non-discrimination; is concerned about continued discrimination against persons with disabilities in the fields of employment, education and access to health care; calls for developing a comprehensive and integrated approach to the social inclusion of Roma, and the introduction of programmes on de- radicalisation and the prevention of the radicalisation of Roma population; welcomes the fact that some governments and parliaments have begun discussing LGBTI rights and drawing up specific measures for their protection; welcomes changes to the BiH anti-discrimination law extending the listed grounds for discrimination to age, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Calls for efforts to increase the participation of women in political life and employment, to improve their socio- economic situation and to strengthen women’s rights on the whole; notes that legal provisions providing equality between women and men are broadly in place but their implementation continues to be ineffective; is concerned about lack of systematic recording of gender-based violence and calls for urgent harmonisation of adopted laws in that regard (free legal aid, court representation, protective measures, support to victims); is extremely worried about underfunding of safe houses and continuation of work of safe house in Mostar, which closed in early 2016 due to the absence of official financial support, and is now only reopened thanks to donations of international NGOs;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17 a. Calls on the Government to harmonise legislation and public policies with the Istanbul Convention: to inform women survivors of violence about the available forms of support and assistance, to establish crisis centres for victims of rape or other forms of sexual violence, to criminalise offences of stalking, forced marriage and genital mutilation;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Remains concerned by the continued fragmentation, inefficiency and complexity of the education system; calls for countrywide common core curricula and better coordination between the different levels of education governance; continues to be concerned about high proportion of early leavers from education and training, especially males, and the persistently high school-drop-out rates of Roma pupils; regrets the slow progress in addressing and resolving the issue of ‘two schools under one roof’ and other forms of segregation and discrimination in schools;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Welcomes the slight reduction in unemployment; remains concerned, however, that unemployment continues to be largely of a structural nature and that youth unemployment continues to be high, resulting in very high levels of brain drain; calls on the competent authorities to introduce active labour market policies targeting in particular the youth, women and the long-term unemployed as well as reinforcing the capacities of the employment services; underlines how market conditions remain adverse for women, with lingering maternity-related discrimination;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22 a. Commends the adoption of the country-wide Framework transport strategy and action plan in July 2016; calls on the authorities to align the legal framework on transport with the relevant EU legislation to provide the functional transport chains and remove the bottlenecks on corridor Vc;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)

22 b. Welcomes the participation of BiH in "Western Balkans six initiative" and EU Strategy for Adriatic-Ionian region; highlights that agreed EU priority electricity and gas transmission interconnection projects with neighbouring countries are stalled due to lack of political agreement on a country- wide energy strategy; in this regard urges the adoption of country-wide sector strategy on energy, as well as missing strategies on environment and agricultures as they are a key requirement for Bosnia and Herzegovina to benefit fully from IPA funding;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Javier NART, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 c (new)

22 c. Notes active engagement of the Joint Parliamentary Committee for Security and Defence in ensuring democratic control over the armed forces of BiH; is concerned by the widespread presence of weapons held illegally by the population and still large stockpiles of ammunition and weapons under the responsibility of the armed forces; urges a comprehensive approach to address the remaining challenges of clearing the country of mines by 2019; calls on the Commission and HR/VP to enhance its aid in these activities;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2313(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Urmas PAET, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23

23. Welcomes BiH’s continued constructive and pro-active role in promoting bilateral and regional cooperation; calls for further efforts to resolve outstanding bilateral issues, including on border demarcation with Serbia and Croatia; commends BiH for further increasing its alignment with relevant EU statements and decisions under the Common Foreign and Security Policy from 62 % to 77 %; ~~considers it important to coordinate BiH foreign policy with EU foreign policy and that the EU remain actively engaged in preserving safety and security in BiH~~notes with disappointment that BiH did not align itself with Council decisions introducing EU restrictive measures in the context of Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and events in eastern Ukraine; considers it important to coordinate BiH foreign policy with EU foreign policy and that the EU remain actively engaged in preserving safety and security in BiH; welcomes the continued presence of Operation Althea, which retains the capability to contribute to the Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities' deterrence capacity if the situation so requires while focusing on capacity building and training;

2017/01/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas Albania has made steady and constant progress in its EU accession process; whereas further implementation of, inter alia, the judicial reform package, in particular the vetting law, electoral reform and the so-called decriminalisation law is important in strengthening citizens’ trust in their public institutions and political representatives;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)

A a. whereas challenges still persist and need to be addressed swiftly and efficiently in a spirit of dialogue, cooperation and compromise between government and opposition in order to make further progress on its path to EU accession;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)

B a. whereas the EU has highlighted the need to strengthen economic governance, the rule of law and public administration capacities in all of the Western Balkan countries;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Welcomes Albania’s continuous progress on EU-related reforms, in particular the adoption of constitutional amendments paving the way for a deep and comprehensive judicial reform; stresses that not only consistent adoption but also full and timely implementation of reforms and sustained political commitment are essential in order to further advance the EU accession process;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Fully supports Albania’s accession to the EU, and calls for the accession negotiations to be opened as soon as there is credible and sustainable progress in the implementation of judicial reform, fight against organized crime and corruption in order to keep the reform momentum; expects Albania to consolidate the progress achieved and to maintain the pace of progress on implementation of all key priorities;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Reiterates that a constructive dialogue, sustainable political cooperation and a willingness to compromise is crucial for the success of the reforms ~~and for~~; underlines that lack of political cooperation and polarisation undermine the entire EU accession process;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Commends the consensual adoption of the constitutional amendments for judicial reform and the adoption of laws on the institutional reorganisation of the judiciary in close cooperation with the Venice Commission; calls for the swift adoption and implementation of all relevant accompanying laws and by-laws, in particular the law on the re-evaluation (vetting) of judges, prosecutors and legal advisors as an important instrument to fight corruption in Albania; notes that the application of the vetting law has been suspended by the Constitutional Court, and that the latter has requested the opinion of the Venice Commission on its constitutionality; reiterates that a comprehensive judicial reform is a major demand by Albania’s citizens for re- establishing trust in their political representatives and public institutions~~, and that the credibility and effectiveness of the overall reform process, including the fight against corruption and organised crime, depend on the success of the vetting process and judicial reform~~;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Welcomes the new justice reform strategy 2017-2020 and its action plan, as well as the increased budgetary means for implementation; stresses that administration of justice continue to be slow and inefficient; notes the lack of progress in the filling of vacancies at the High Court and the administrative courts and the effective use of the unified case management system; calls for any shortcomings in the functioning of the judicial system to be further addressed, including lack of independence from other branches of power, selective justice, limited accountability, ineffective oversight mechanisms, corruption, the overall length of judicial proceedings and enforcements;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Ad-Hoc Parliamentary Committee on Electoral Reform to finalise its review of the electoral code while addressing all previous OSCE/ODIHR recommendations; calls on the competent authorities to ensure implementation in due time before the upcoming parliamentary elections of June 2017~~; recalls that all political parties are responsible for~~ in order to address the lack of impartiality and professionalism in the electoral administration; calls on all political actors that ensuring ~~that~~fair and democratic elections ~~are conducted~~ in compliance with international standards is an important precondition to further advance the EU accession process; calls on Albania’s political parties to respect the law, in spirit and in letter, on the exclusion of criminal offenders from public office when drawing up their candidate lists; calls on the authorities to encourage CSOs to actively participate in the overview of the whole electoral process;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Notes the efforts towards a more citizen-friendly public administration and steady progress in the implementation of public administration reform; calls for further progress in strengthening the application of the Civil Service Law and the Law on Administrative Procedures, in order to safeguard the independence of regulatory bodies, improve recruitment procedures based on merit and performance, and enhance institutional and human resource capacities, with a view to ensuring efficient conduct of EU accession negotiations; calls for enhancing the authority, autonomy, efficiency and resources of human rights structures, such as the office of the Ombudsman; commends the National Council for European Integration on its initiatives to enhance the capacities of public administration and civil society in monitoring the implementation of accession-related reforms;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Welcomes the adoption of key pieces of anti-corruption legislation, including on the protection of whistle- blowers; is concerned, however, that corruption remains prevalent in many areas and key anti-corruption institutions continue to be subject to political interference and have limited administrative capacities; notes that poor interinstitutional cooperation and exchange of information continue to hamper proactive investigation and effective prosecution of corruption; stresses the need for a more adequate legal framework for conflicts of interest, regulating lobbying and better interinstitutional cooperation, especially between police and prosecution services, with a view to improving their track record as regards investigation, prosecution and conviction, including in high level cases; in view of the upcoming parliamentary elections, calls for effective oversight of political party financing;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Welcomes the continued implementation of the strategy and action plan on the fight against organised crime and intensified international police cooperation; welcomes recent operations against drug plantations; notes, however, that police and prosecution fail to identify criminal gangs behind drug cultivation; calls also for organised crime networks to be dismantled and for the number of final convictions in organised crime cases to be increased, by enhancing cooperation between police and prosecution services and by strengthening institutional and operational capacities; underlines the need to step up efforts to prevent human trafficking, in particular as regards unaccompanied children and child victims of trafficking;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Notes the improving EU-related cooperation between state institutions and civil society organisations (CSOs), including their participation in meetings of the National Council on European Integration (NCEI); ~~stresses~~notes that an empowered civil society is a crucial component of any democratic system; stresses, therefore, the need for even closer coordination at all levels of government, including at local level, with CSOs; calls for the effective implementation of the right to information and public consultation and for better regulation of the fiscal framework affecting CSOs;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Notes the improving EU-related cooperation between state institutions and civil society organisations (CSOs), including their participation in meetings of the National Council on European Integration (NCEI); stresses the need for even closer coordination at all levels of government, including at local level, with CSOs; calls for the effective implementation of the right to information and public consultation and for better regulation of the fiscal framework affecting CSOs; calls on the authorities to encourage CSOs to actively participate in the overview of the whole electoral process;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11 a. Urges the adoption of a national strategy for equality between women and men; calls on the Government to harmonise legislation and public policies with the Istanbul Convention; deplores that a number of laws continued to contain gender-discriminatory provisions as well as gender bias in court decisions and treatment by law enforcement agencies; is concerned over the lack of legislation or measures for the protection of women; urges authorities to tackle gender-based stereotypical preconceptions through systematic education as well as governmental measures; is deeply concerned about the increase in unemployment and long-term unemployment rates for women in 2015, as well as of lack of progress in reducing the gender gap in employment;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Urges the competent authorities to actively promote respect of human rights and continue improving the climate of inclusion and tolerance for all minorities and other vulnerable groups in the country, including by enhancing the role of the State Committee on Minorities; ~~as regards~~underlines the need to improve the living conditions for Roma and Egyptians,; calls for continued efforts in improving their access to employment, education, health, social housing and legal aid; is concerned that, despite improvements, the inclusion of Roma children in the education system remains the lowest in the region;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12 a. Recalls that institutional mechanisms to protect the rights of the child and to tackle gender-based violence remain poor; calls for better policy implementation and better inter- institutional cooperation in order to tackle social exclusion and discrimination effectively; stresses the need for additional efforts in order to develop a track record of anti-discrimination cases;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Commends religious tolerance and good cooperation among religious communities; encourages the competent authorities and religious communities to cooperate in preserving and fostering religious harmony; considers it essential to prevent Islamic radicalisation, including through disengagement and reintegration of returning foreign fighters, to counter violent extremism in cooperation with CSOs and religious communities, and to intensify, cherishing secular Constitution; commends the country's comprehensive legal framework for the prevention and fight against the financing of terrorism; considers it essential to prevent Islamic radicalisation, as well as identification, prevention and disruption of flow of foreign fighters and untraceable money intended for further radicalization; urges for the implementation of programmes on prevention of radicalisation and de-radicalisation especially of youth and Roma population; is of the opinion that linking various central institutions and CSOs with local actors and religious communities would enable the early detection of radicalism; emphasizes the importance of strengthening of regional and international cooperation in this area;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Commends religious tolerance and good cooperation among religious communities; encourages the competent authorities and religious communities to cooperate in preserving and fostering religious harmony; notes that Albania has been affected by the phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters and a number of unauthorized mosques in the country present risks of radicalisation; considers it essential to prevent Islamic radicalisation, including through disengagement and reintegration of returning foreign fighters, to counter violent extremism in cooperation with CSOs and religious communities, and to intensify regional and international cooperation in this area;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Reiterates the critical importance of professional and independent private and public service media; is concerned about political influence in the media and widespread self-censorship among journalists; notes the slow implementation of the law on audiovisual media and the delays in filling vacancies in the Audiovisual Media Authority (AMA); with a view to upcoming parliamentary elections, calls for additional efforts to fully guarantee the independence of the Audiovisual Media Authority (AMA) and of the public broadcaster; calls for measures to raise the professional and ethical standards of and prevalence of regular work contracts for journalists, to enhance the transparency of government advertising in the media and to ensure the independence of the regulatory authority and the public broadcaster;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Welcomes improvements in fiscal consolidation, better scores in doing business, and efforts to fight the informal economy; still notes, however, shortcomings in the rule of law and a cumbersome regulatory environment, which deter investment; is concerned that migrant remittances constitute an important driver of domestic demand; urges the competent authorities to take measures for improved enforcement of contracts and better tax collection, and to continue implementing judicial reform with a view to improving the business environment;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Jasenko SELIMOVIC, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Nedzhmi ALI, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15 a. Commends that according to the Institute of Statistic in Albania (INSTAT) the level of unemployment in Albania decreased at the lowest level during the last three years; stresses the need to rise the quality of education at all levels in order to better equip people with skills and knowledge in line with labour market needs;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19 a. Comends Albania for demonstrating a clear commitment in supporting positions promoted by the EU on peace and security; notes the finalisation of destruction of surplus conventional ammunition; calls for the destruction of the remaining stockpile of small arms and light weapons as well as improvement of the condition of storage facilities; urges Albania to bring its legislation related to the import and export of military goods and dual-use goods into line with the EU acquis;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2312(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Reiterates its request that the Commission include information about IPA support for Albania and the effectiveness of implemented measures in its reports, in particular the IPA support allocated for implementation of the key priorities and relevant projects; welcomes the participation of Albania in Western Balkans six initiative; calls on authorities to continue implementing measures agreed at the Vienna Summit in 2015, especially on transport infrastructure maintenance and road safety; calls for alignment of new energy efficiency law with the EU acquis to fully benefit from additional EU funding for energy efficiency in residential buildings and sustainable development;

2017/01/11
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)

C a. whereas process of privatisation of the media in Serbia has led to the concentration of the ownerships of the media, specially endangering media and programs in minority languages;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Welcomes the opening of negotiations on Chapters 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and 24 (Justice, Freedom and Security) as the key chapters in the EU approach to enlargement based on the rule of law; welcomes the opening of Chapters 32 (Financial Control) and 35 (Other Issues), the opening of negotiations on Chapter 5 (Public Procurement) and the opening and provisional closure of Chapter 25 (Science and Research); calls on the Council to open Chapter 26 (Education and Culture) and stresses its importance in the process of promoting European values among the young generation;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Welcomes the continued engagement of Serbia on the path of integration into the EU and its constructive and well-prepared approach to the negotiations, which is a clear sign of determination and political will; calls on ~~Serbia~~government to actively promote this strategic decision among the Serbian population; is concerned about anti-EU messages towards public from members of ruling party and government directed media broadcasters, which steam anti-EU sentiments and are clearly populist instruments;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. ~~Welcomes~~Notes that the conduct of the parliamentary elections on 24 April 2016 ~~which were assessed positively by the international observers~~were in general conducted in line with the law; calls on the authorities to fully address the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on Serbia to align its foreign and security policy with that of the EU, including its policy on Russia; is concerned about Serbia's continuing military cooperation with Russia, including procurement of strategic arms and joint military exercises in vicinity of the EU borders; welcomes Serbia’s important contribution to and continued participation in international peacekeeping operations;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Commends Serbia’s constructive approach in dealing with the migration crisis; notes however, that constructive approach with neighbouring countries regarding migration should be fostered; takes positive note of the fact that Serbia has made substantial efforts to ensure that third country nationals receive shelter and humanitarian supplies with EU and international support; stresses that Serbia should adopt and implement the new asylum law; calls on the Commission and the Council to provide continued support for Serbia in addressing migration challenges; encourages Serbia to ensure that the downward trend in the number of asylum seekers coming into the EU from Serbia continues; is concerned about the fact that high percentage of asylum seekers from Serbia is from Roma population;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7 a. Calls on the Commission to continue the work on migration related issues with all the countries of the Western Balkans, in order to ensure that European and international norms and standards are followed; welcomes the work done so far and underlines that adequate IPA funding should be set aside to this end;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ, Marietje SCHAAKE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Notes that, while some progress has been made in the area relating to the judiciary, in particular by taking steps to harmonise jurisprudence and further promoting a merit-based recruitment system, judicial independence is not assured in practice; regrets that the constitutional and legislative framework is not yet in line with European standards thus leaving scope for undue political influence in the recruitment and appointment of judges; stresses that the quality and efficiency of the judiciary and access to justice remain undermined by an uneven distribution of the workload, a burdensome case backlog and the lack of a free legal aid system;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Notes that, while some progress has been made in the area relating to the judiciary, in particular by taking steps to harmonise jurisprudence and further promoting a merit-based recruitment system, judicial independence is not assured in practice, which prevents judges and prosecutors from implementing the adopted legislation; stresses that the quality and efficiency of the judiciary and access to justice remain undermined by an uneven distribution of the workload, a burdensome case backlog and the lack of a free legal aid system;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9 a. Notes that public enterprises remain particularly vulnerable to corruption; urges the further development of independent supervision for the detection of potential cases of conflicts of interest in the management of state-owned companies, in privatization procedures, public-private partnerships and in relation to strategic investment partnerships; stresses that the excessive recourse to the provision on abuse of office in the private sector in the criminal code is harmful to the business climate and hampers legal certainty;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. ~~Welcomes the progress made in the fight against organised crime and~~Notes the adoption of Serbia’s first national serious and organise crime threat assessment (SOCTA); is concerned about the rise of mafia murders and lack of credible investigations; calls on Serbia to step up efforts to investigate wider criminal networks, improve financial investigations and intelligence-led policing and develop a solid track record of final convictions; ~~has taken note of the controversial~~strongly condemns events in Belgrade’s Savamala district ~~and calls for their swift resolu~~, deplores police' refusal to provide citizens with protection during that night and authorities' refusal to carry out thorough investigation, and disclose and punish the culprits; calls for swift resolution of the investigation;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10 a. Expresses concern over the failure of the authorities to bring to justice the organizers and perpetrators of the unlawful demolition of properties in the Belgrade Savamala district on 24 April 2016; underlines that the authorities must carry out thorough investigations and bring those responsible to justice;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)

10 b. Recalls that Serbia criminalised already in 2014 the activity of foreign fighters in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2178(2014); urges the adoption of the national strategy to prevent and fight terrorism finalised in March 2016;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12 a. Calls on the authorities to ensure fair and free elections in April 2017 and, in this respect, to swiftly implement the OSCE/ODIHR recommendations following the elections in 2014 and 2016; is particularly concerned about smear campaigns against some opposition figures and presidential candidates, which have undermined democratic standards and procedures;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Reiterates the importance of independent regulatory bodies, including the Ombudsmaperson, in ensuring oversight and accountability of the executive and notes authorities' frequent disregard for its recommendations; calls on the authorities to provide the Ombudsmaperson with full political and administrative support for his work; calls on authorities to follow up on its recommendations on illegal data collection by the Military Intelligence Agency on political parties' activities;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Reiterates the importance of independent regulatory bodies, including the Ombudsman, in ensuring oversight and accountability of the executive; calls on the authorities to provide the Ombudsman with full political and administrative support for his work; notes with regret that the Ombudsman is constantly exposed to severe verbal attacks by leading government officials;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Underlines that the legislative and institutional framework for observance of international human rights law is mostly in place; calls on authorities to adopt Law on the Protection of Rights and Liberties of Persons with Mental Disabilities, Law on Registered Same-Sex Civil Partnerships and Law on Gender Identity without delay; stresses that consistent implementation across the whole country is needed; notes that further sustained efforts are needed to improve the situation of persons belonging to vulnerable groups, ~~including~~especially persons with disabilities, Roma people, persons with HIV/AIDS and LGBTI persons; expresses concern on the number of unprosecuted attacks on the members of vulnerable groups, especially Roma and LGBTI; expresses its concern about the discriminatory provisions in the draft Law on Rights of Civilian Victims of war which excludes a number of groups of victims of violence during the conflicts; calls on the authorities to urgently revise this key piece of legislation on transitional justice in consultation with human rights organisations and victims' associations;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Reiterates its concern that no progress has been made to improve the situation regarding freedom of expression and of the media; stresses that threats, violence and intimidation against journalists are~~main an~~ increased in regards to 2015 and are an urgent issue of concern; calls on the authorities to investigate, and develop a solid track record of final convictions, any cases of attacks against journalists and media outlets; c~~alls for the full implementation of media laws; underlines the need for complete transparency in media ownership and funding of media~~ondemns pro-government tabloid media which started publishing information clearly obtained from the Security Information Agency and other confidential sources (bank statements) in order to intensify smear campaign against independent investigative journalists and their media (KRIK, BIRN, CINS); calls for the full implementation of media laws; underlines the need for complete transparency in media ownership, privatisation of media outlets ended in a majority of cases with the representatives or 'sympathisers' of political parties becoming new media owners, and funding of media, as present state of play undermines media independence and is conducive to self- censorship; is concerned that most of the state-funded pro-government media turned into government's political tool used to influence public opinion and exert a political pressure on independent media's, journalists, CSOs and human right defenders through smear campaigns;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16 a. Is concerned that Law on Advertising was adopted in 2015 without proper public consultation, abolishing important provisions such as the ones related to the prohibition of the advertising of public authorities and of political advertising outside the election campaign;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)

16 b. Condemns government's and government managed media's negative campaign towards CSOs; is concerned about governmental setting up of fictitious CSOs institutions in opposition to independent CSOs; finds unacceptable that partnership with the government is needed for successful application to IPA funds by CSO's;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18 a. Invites Serbian government to fully implement all international treaties concerning minority rights such as agreement with Republic of Croatia from 2005 on protection of rights of Croatian national minority in Serbia; calls on the authorities to protect existing media and programs in minority languages during the process of privatisation;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. ~~Welcom~~Notes the adoption of the new Roma social inclusion strategy 2016-2025, which covers education, health, housing and employment; calls for the full and swift implementation of the new strategy for Roma inclusion, as they are the weakest, most marginalised and discriminated group in Serbia, urgent adoption of the action plan and an establishment of the body for coordination of implementation of the action plan; condemns demolishing of informal Roma settlements by the authorities, without notification or offering of alternative accommodation; is extremely concerned about the non-issuance of personal documents to Roma people, that restricts theirs fundamental rights; is of opinion that all mentioned leads to high percentage of asylum seekers in the EU from Roma people in Serbia;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. ~~Welcomes the fact that Serbia remains constructively committed to bilateral relations with other enlargement countries and neighbouring EU Member States; h~~Has taken positive note of the fact that Serbia has shown a~~n increasingly~~ constructive engagement in regional cooperation initiatives such as the South- East Europe Cooperation Process, the Regional Cooperation Council, the Central European Free Trade Agreement, the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative, the Brdo process, the Western Balkan Six initiative and its connectivity agenda and the Berlin process; calls on Serbia to implement the connectivity reform measures associated with the connectivity agenda and the conclusion of 2016 Paris conference on Western Balkans and TEN-T regulation in order to ensure the implementation of planned transport network projects; underlines that resolution of outstanding bilateral disputes shwould ~~not~~ have a ~~detrimental~~positive effect on the accession process; welcomes the adoption of a national strategy for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes; notes that the mandate of the former War Crimes Prosecutor expired in December 2015; stresses that the appointment of his successor is a matter of serious concern; calls for the implementation of this strategy and the adoption of an operational prosecutorial strategy; calls for full cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY); urges the authorities to continue working on the issue of the fate of missing persons;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20 a. Calls on authorities to promote a climate of tolerance and to condemn all forms of hate speech, public approval and denial of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes through amendments of the Criminal Code; calls for effective investigation of high-profile war crimes cases; calls for improving regional cooperation in war crime cases;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)

20 b. Reiterates its support for the initiative to establish the Regional commission for the establishment of facts about war crimes and other serious violations of human rights committed in the former Yugoslavia (RECOM) and urges the government of Serbia to take the lead on its establishment;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 c (new)

20 c. Condemns medaling of the high- profile war crimes suspect by the President of Serbia and greeting and praising the ICTY convict for crimes against humanity by government officials; condemns rehabilitation of WW2 war criminal Draža Mihajlović;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 d (new)

20 d. Condemns interference of President of Serbia in internal politics of BiH, especially undermining BiH's sovereignty and institutions by celebrating unconstitutionally proclaimed day of RS in BiH entity Republika Srpska, as well as supporting succession plans of leadership of RS;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22 a. Regrets the presence of the President of Serbia, along with other senior government officials, at the so called "Republika Srpska Day", a celebration which has been declared unconstitutional by BiH´s Supreme Court; calls on the Serbian authorities to support constitutional reforms in BiH in order to strengthen the country´s capacity to function and carry out EU accession talks; underlines that the unequivocal and principled condemnation of war crimes committed in the region is the cornerstone of regional stability and essential for EU integration; reiterates its call on government officials to refrain from gestures such as publicly endorsing individuals convicted for war crimes;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Norica NICOLAI, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)

22 b. Notes that a non-authorized train, covered with Serbian political and religious symbols and launched by the director of Serbia´s 'Office for Kosovo and Metohija', was scheduled to travel from Belgrade to Kosovska Mitrovica on 14 January 2017 and was stopped by Kosovar authorities; expresses deep concern over this incident and over the inflammatory rhetoric of Serbia´s highest ranking politicians linked thereto; underlines that similar gestures cannot be justified by the upcoming elections in Serbia and can seriously jeopardize the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina; urges both the Serbian and Kosovar authorities to refrain from hostile actions and statements which could hamper the normalisation process;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2311(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23

23. Calls on Serbia to fully implement the connectivity reform measures in the energy sector; ~~encourages Serbia~~is concerned that Serbia installed parallel management at the Gazivode/Ujmani hydropower plant in Kosovo and continuous to interfere in its operation with a risk to water management; encourages Serbia to to fully unbundle Srbijagas and to take steps to develop competition in the gas ~~market and to take measures~~and electricity market and to improve alignment with the acquis in the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy; calls on authorities to use additional EU funding of €50 million for developing the region's hydropower potential and energy efficiency in residential buildings in a transparent manner; commends Serbia for establishing the financing system for the environment via the Green Fund; notes with regret that there are no safeguards ensuring that the Fund's resources will be spent on environmental measures; calls on the authorities to improve the structure of the Fund so that appropriate safeguards are put in place;

2017/01/19
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Remains concerned about radical and unjustified public attacks on CSOs and foreign representatives by politicians and the media; is concerned about limited government commitment and insufficient cooperation with CSOs at all levels; urges the competent authorities to include CSOs in policymaking in a regular and structured manner; calls on the authorities to encourage CSOs to actively participate in overview of whole electoral process;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Is concerned about the lack of implementation of the Law on Equal Opportunities, the underrepresentation of women in key decision-making positions on all levels and the limited effectiveness of institutional mechanisms to advance gender equality; urges the competent authorities to make sufficient budget allocations for its implementation and to improve support services to victims of domestic violence; is concerned about the lack of women's access to the basic services, like public gynaecological services, which protect their sexual and reproductive health rights, and persistently high infant mortality rate; is extremely concerned about the restrictive and discriminatory law on termination of pregnancy that compels women to resort to illegal abortions and violates human rights; calls on swift repeal of restrictive abortion laws and policies as urged and by UN Human Rights Office of High Commissioner;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Welcomes the maintenance of macro-economic stability but is concerned that unemployment remains high with very low labour market participation, especially among youth and women; further urges competent authorities to tackle long-term and structural unemployment, to promote economic policy cooperation, to better align education with labour market demands and to develop a targeted strategy on how to better integrate young people and women into the labour market; is concerned about the outflow of highly educated young professionals; strongly calls on the government to dedicate particular attention to improving the perspectives of youth; calls on authorities to adopt a strategy promoting women's entrepreneurship, a strategy for SMEs and a strategy for tourism;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19 a. Welcomes the country's constructive role in regional cooperation, particularly in Western Balkans six initiative and connectivity agenda; notes however that transport and energy infrastructure linkages to the regional neighbours and the connection to the TEN-T are still limited; calls on authorities to strengthen the financial and technical capacity of the national accident investigation body for air and rail transport particularly, and administrative capacity for all modes of transport; is concerned that no progress was made on the opening of the electricity market; is of opinion that in this regard the government should focus on full implementation of Energy Community Treaty obligations and should adopt legislation compliant with the third energy package and unbundling of the electricity and gas system operators, as well as opening of the market;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Urges the authorities to strengthen the administrative and financing capacities in order to procure and implement EU funds properly and in a timely manner; notes with concern that the Commission has yet again reduced the IPA financial assistance by approximately EUR 27 million and calls for the reversal of that decision;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)

21 a. Calls on the European Commission to continue the work on migration related issues with all the countries of the Western Balkans, in order to make sure that European and international norms and standards are followed; welcomes the work done so far and underlines that adequate IPA funding should be set aside to this end;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2310(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Welcomes Macedonia’s continued constructive role in regional and international cooperation; commends the increased alignment with EU foreign policy (73 %); urges authorities to swiftly align its foreign policy with the Council decisions including the EU restrictive measures related to Russia; reminds about the need to align with the EU Directive on Defence and Sensitive Security Procurement and the 2014 EU rules on public procurement; urges authorities to finalise a Cyber-Security Strategy and reminds about the need to align it with the European Cyber Security Strategy; reiterates the importance of finalising the negotiations on a bilateral treaty with Bulgaria;

2017/02/09
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas organized crime and widespread corruption remain~~s a~~ serious concerns;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Commends the competent authorities for holding parliamentary elections on 16 October 2016 in an orderly manner in which fundamental freedoms were generally respected; welcomes the revised legal framework under which the elections took place, but notes the persistence of some administrative deficiencies, including on the part of the State Election Commission (SEC), as well as concerns about the accuracy of the electoral register and politicisation; is concerned about the government mandated shutdown of messaging services, including Viber and Whatsapp; reiterates that this shutdown violates the principles of freedom of expression and freedom of the media, which are part of the Copenhagen criteria; calls on Montenegrin authorities to guarantee principles of internet and media freedom and refrain from similar blocks and shutdowns in the future; expects that the alleged procedural irregularities, including alleged abuses of state funds and abuse of office, and any other reported shortcomings, will be investigated fully and addressed effectively by the competent authorities; notes with regret that part of the opposition has not recognised the results of the elections; recognises the attempts by external actors to discredit the electoral process and the difficulties this has caused;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Commends the competent authorities for holding parliamentary elections on 16 October 2016 in an orderly manner in which fundamental freedoms were generally respected; however, notes reports of irregularities and incidents, as well as the temporary closure of two mobile communication platforms; hopes that the relevant authorities will swiftly and transparently investigate the reported irregularities; welcomes the revised legal framework under which the elections took place, but notes the persistence of some administrative deficiencies, including on the part of the State Election Commission (SEC), as well as concerns about the accuracy of the electoral register and politicisation; expects that the alleged procedural irregularities, including alleged abuses of state funds and abuse of office, and any other reported shortcomings, will be investigated fully and addressed effectively by the competent authorities; is of the opinion that an improvement of the electoral process is needed in order to build full confidence in the electoral process; notes with regret that part of the opposition has not recognised the results of the elections; recognises the attempts by external actors to discredit the electoral process and the difficulties this has caused;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Notes the attempts by Russia to influence developments in Montenegro; is concerned about the serious incidents that occurred on 16 October 2016 including an assassination attempt against former PM Milo Djukanovic and coup-attempt, and calls on the Vice-President of the European Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR), and on the Commission, to follow closely on-going investigations by the competent authorities; considers it important that relevant services of the Member States share information pertaining to these incidents among themselves and with the VP/HR and the Commission;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Welcomes the new public administration reform strategy (PAR) 2016-2020, the public financial management reform programme, the entry into force of the new law on salaries and the simplification of administrative procedures; calls for measures to allocate the appropriate budgetary resources for PAR’s implementation, as well as for consistent political will to rationalise public administration, also in view of accession preparations; notes that limited progress towards strengthening administrative capacity is often due to weak commitment to reform by the authorities and a lack of clear requirements in IPA-funded projects for the authorities to follow up and capitalise on; encourages further depoliticisation of the public administration, and considers it essential to adhere to the principles of merit, accountability and transparency, and to ensure the citizens’ right to good administration, free of corruption;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7 a. Calls on Montenegrin authorities to take a more proactive approach in following up on outstanding allegations of war crimes as well as to fight impunity; emphasises the need to effectively investigate, prosecute, try and punish war crimes in line with international standards; is concerned that no charges have been brought against officials at the top of command chain, and in regard to crimes of co-perpetration and aiding and abetting; stresses the need to effectively ensure that victims of war crimes have equal access to justice and reparations and calls for the full protection of witnesses;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Welcomes the further strengthening of the anti-corruption framework, inter alia by making the Anti-Corruption Agency fully operational and by appointing special anti-corruption prosecutors; considers it essential to ensure their independence in investigations; stresses repeatedly the need to establish a track record on successful investigations and convictions, in particular in high-level corruption cases, and on measures to prevent corruption; calls for criminalising illicit enrichment; calls on the new government to make combating corruption one of its priorities by allocating sufficient human and budgetary resources to the task; regrets that sectorial action plans for areas particularly vulnerable to corruption, such as public procurement, privatisation, urban planning, education, health care, local government and police, has had very limited impact;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Notes the adoption of an action plan for fighting money laundering and terrorism financing, and the signing of the Additional Protocol to the Council of Europe’s Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism; stresses the need to continue to develop the track record in organised crime cases, especially as regards trafficking in human beings and drugs, cigarette smuggling and money laundering, to ensure stronger inter-agency cooperation and to further intensify regional and international cooperation in the fight against organised crime; is concerned about the lack of identification and protection of victims of trafficking as well as a general lack of understanding of international human rights standards and case-law which affect the performance of the judiciary;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. While acknowledging CSOs’ involvement in the accession preparations, calls on the competent authorities to further improve CSOs’ access to EU-related information and to ensure that consultations with CSOs are held in a meaningful way, where possible; is ~~deeply concerned that smear campaigns and intimidation attempts have continued against certain CSO activist~~of the opinion that authorities need to develop a more supportive and inclusive approach to facilitate grassroots activities by civil society, as well as to constructively accept criticism of state institutions, and to increase CSO's level of consultation in policy-making and theirs access to information; calls on authorities to encourage CSOs to actively participate in the overview of the whole electoral process and have observers in all bodies for conducting elections; is deeply concerned that smear campaigns and intimidation attempts have continued against certain CSO activists; urges authorities to establish a sustainable and efficient system of public funding for CSOs and an appropriate institutional and legal framework; insists on proper implementation, in line with legal requirements, of the law on gaming that is the largest source of public financing for CSOs;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Notes some progress in improving the situation of minorities; is concerned about the vulnerable position of women and girls in the Roma community including forced child marriages; welcomes the adoption of a 2016-2020 strategy and action plan for the social inclusion of Roma and Egyptians; calls for an appropriate budget to be allocated so that the action plan may be implemented properly; is concerned about persistent attacks against LGBTI community members and activists; encourages the competent authorities to continue to strengthen efforts to safeguard the rights of LGBTI people, notwithstanding the difficulties in acceptance of sexual diversity within Montenegrin society; calls on authorities to make further efforts on raising awareness about anti- discrimination among general public; remains concerned that most public buildings, including medical centres and university faculties, are still not accessible to people with disabilities;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12 a. Calls for a further strengthening of human rights institutions, including the Ombudsperson and the Ministry of Human Rights and Minorities, and is of opinion that their knowledge of international and European human rights law and standards should be increased; is concerned about the lack of a uniform approach and low levels of penalties for human rights violations;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Remains concerned about continued gender-based ~~violence~~domestic and sexual violence, as well as prevalence of femicide, widespread gender-selective abortions on the detriment of female sex, the lack of prosecutions and the inefficient support to, and protection of, victims; calls for measures to establish adequate protection services, enhance relevant inter- institutional coordination, make effective use of the new unified database of cases of domestic violence, and implement the 2016-2020 strategy on combating domestic violence; underlines the importance to educate and train employees in state institutions to work with victims; stresses the importance of encouraging women’s representation in politics, including in key decision-making positions, as well as their access to the labour market; notes the continued implementation of the 2013- 2017 action plan on gender equality; urges the competent authorities to make sufficient budget allocations for its implementation;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15 a. Notes with concern that some IPA- funded capacity-building outputs were not fully used or followed up by the authorities; stresses that for positive outcomes authorities need to ensure adequate staff availability, adopt the necessary legislation to allow the output to be used and grant the necessary independence to newly created institutions;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Welcomes the new law on the environment, as well as the national strategy for the transposition and implementation of the EU acquis on the environment and climate change and its 2016-2020 action plan; stresses the need to reinforce implementation efforts, in particular in water quality, nature protection and waste management, as well as related administrative capacities at all levels; is concerned about the significant delay in establishing protection over the potential Natura 2000 site of Ulcinj Salina; calls for further efforts to preserve the biodiversity of the Salina and the sustainable development of the coastline; notes the awarding of six concession contracts for the exploration of offshore oil and gas blocks in the Adriatic Sea, and calls on authorities to keep vigilant oversight over the operations and to implement all protective measures in accordance with adopted legislation, regulations and EU acquis; calls on Montenegro to introduce legislation implementing the Third Energy Package, particularly Renewable Energy Directive;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Welcomes Montenegro’'s proactive participation and constructive role in regional and international cooperation; commends Montenegro for continuing fully to align its foreign policy with the EU’'s Common Foreign and Security Policy, including the decision by Montenegrin authorities to align its foreign policy with Council Decision (CFSP) 2016/1671, renewing EU restrictive measures against Russia ; encourages it to continue to address, in a constructive and neighbourly spirit, outstanding bilateral issues with its neighbours, including the unresolved border demarcation issues with Serbia and Croatia;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18

18. Welcomes Montenegro’s proactive participation and constructive role in regional and international cooperation; commends Montenegro for continuing fully to align its foreign policy with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy; encourages it to continue to address, in a constructive and neighbourly spirit, outstanding bilateral issues with its neighbours, including the unresolved border demarcation issues with Serbia and Croatia; urges Montenegro to comply with the EU common positions on the integrity of the Rome Statute and related EU guiding principles on bilateral immunity agreements;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Alexander Graf LAMBSDORFF

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18 a. Notes that Montenegro, while not on the 'Western Balkan route', remains a transit country for refugees and migrants, the majority of which come from Syria; calls on Montenegrin authorities to ensure that migrants and refugees applying for asylum in Montenegro or traveling through Montenegrin territory, are treated in accordance with international and EU law, including the 1951 Refugee Conventions and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18 a. Calls on the Commission to continue the work on migration related issues with all the countries of the Western Balkans, in order to make sure that European and international norms and standards are followed, welcomes the work done so far and underlines that adequate IPA funding should be set aside to this end;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2309(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Marietje SCHAAKE, Marielle DE SARNEZ, Javier NART, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)

18 b. Welcomes the active participation of Montenegro in the 2016 Paris summit on Western Balkans, notably on the connectivity agenda; calls on the authorities to implement newly signed border crossing agreement with Albania and to implement the Trans-European Network Regulation with regard to licensing and permitting the open access to railway market; notes that even railway market in Montenegro has been open to competition since 2014, to date, no private operators have shown interest in entering the market; calls on new government to provide an open railway market, with transparent track access charges and capacity allocation that are fully aligned with the acquis;

2017/02/08
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Underlines that 2016 was a difficult year for Turkey’s population as a result of the continuing war in Syria, the high numbers of refugees, a string of heinous terror attacks, and a violent coup attempt in which 248 people were killed; reiterates its strong condemnation of the coup attempt of 15 July and expresses its solidarity with the people of Turkey; recognises the right and the responsibility of the Turkish government to take action in bringing the perpetrators to justice, with respect for the rule of law and the right to a fair trial;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Alexander Graf LAMBSDORFF

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Underlines, however, that measures taken under the state of emergency had large-scale, disproportionate and long- lasting negative effects on the protection of fundamental freedoms in the country; condemns the collective dismissal of civil servants, the mass liquidation of media outlets, the arrests of journalists, academics, judges, human rights defenders, elected officials and ordinary citizens, and the confiscation of property and passports on the basis of emergency decree laws without individualised decisions, and without the possibility of timely judicial review; expresses deep concern about the respect for the rule of law and human rights in this context;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Stresses the strategic importance of good EU-Turkey relations for both sides; recognises that both Turkey and the EU have gone through their own internal transformation processes since the accession negotiations were opened in 2004; regrets that the accession instruments have not been used to the fullest extent in making progress towards the Copenhagen criteria and that, over the years, Turkey’s full integration into the EU has lost public support on both sides; remains committed to cooperating and maintaining an constructive and open dialogue with the Turkish Government, in order to address common challenges; recommends that the Council urgently invite the Turkish Government to a summit to discuss the obvious crisis in EU-Turkey relations that we are faced with;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Takes note of the outcome of the referendum that took place on 16 April 2017, held under the state of emergency and in circumstances that prevented a fair campaign; takes the electoral fraud allegations by the opposition and OSCE mission findings seriously; supports an independent evaluation of all claims regarding irregularities; notes the remarks of the Venice Commission on the constitutional reform, and underlines that the proposed constitutional amendments do not respect the fundamental principles of the separation of powers and sufficient checks and balances, and are not in line with the Copenhagen criteria;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Alexander Graf LAMBSDORFF

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Takes note of the outcome of the referendum that took place on 16 April 2017, held under the state of emergency and in circumstances that prevented a fair campaign~~; supports~~ according to the OSCE Observers; calls for an independent evaluation of all claims regarding irregularities; notes the remarks of the Venice Commission on the constitutional reform, and underlines that the proposed constitutional amendments do not respect the fundamental principles of the separation of powers and do not provide for sufficient checks and balances, and are not in line with the Copenhagen criteria;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. CReiterates its calls on the Commission and the Member States to suspend the accession talks with Turkey if, as long as systematic violations of the rule of law, due process and human rights persist; similarly, when the constitutional reform package ~~is implemented unchanged~~remains unchanged and is implemented in its current form, Turkey no longer meets the Copenhagen political criteria as regards democracy, rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5 a. Expects the accession negotiation process to be replaced with a renewed political engagement between the EU and Turkey on economic cooperation, including issues such as deepening the Customs Union but also on shared geopolitical challenges such as the ongoing civil war in Syria and the fight against Daesh, as well as on refugee and migration related issues; underlines that any new EU-Turkey relations should be built on conditionality provisions on respect for democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, but also aim at increasing people-to-people contacts, such as student exchanges, scientific and university cooperation and visa liberalisation;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)

5 b. Points out that Turkey must abide by its commitments as a member of the Council of Europe and that a meaningful relationship with Turkey will be impossible, if the death penalty is re- introduced; calls on Turkey to remain in compliance with its Council of Europe commitments and to implement constitutional and judicial changes and reforms in cooperation with and according to the criteria of the Venice Commission;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Notes that disproportionate measures undertaken following the declaration of the state of emergency have targeted alleged members/supporters of the Gülen movement, dissent in general and political parties of the opposition in particular; strongly condemns the imprisonment of 13 MPs belonging to the People’'s Democratic Party (HDP), including its co-chairs, and of 90 Kurdish municipal mayors; urges the Turkish Government to lift the state of emergency immediately; ~~underlines that the reintroduction of the death penalty would violate Turkey’s international commitments and lead to an immediate end to the EU accession talks;~~

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Condemns strongly the violations of freedom of expression and the serious infringements of media freedom, including the disproportionate bannings of media sites and social media; notes with concern the closure of around 170 media outlets - including almost all Kurdish-language outlets and media (allegedly) related to the Gülen movement- and the jailing of more than 150 journalists; recalls that a free and pluralistic press is an essential component of any democracy and urges the Turkish government to release all journalists immediately;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9 a. Underlines that the Turkish Grand National Assembly should be the central institution in Turkish democracy, and represent all citizens on equal terms, regrets the high electoral threshold;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10 a. Is concerned about the weakening of safeguards against abuse in detention and by increased reports of torture and ill- treatment in police detention; urges the Turkish authorities to thoroughly investigate the matters without further delay and to allow international observers to monitor detention facilities;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Alexander Graf LAMBSDORFF

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. ~~Welcomes~~Calls for the deepening of EU- Turkey relations in key areas of joint interest, such as counter-terrorism, migration, energy, the economy and trade; believes EU-Turkey cooperation in these areas to be an investment in the stability and prosperity of both Turkey and the EU but should always be rooted in respect for the rule of law and universal human rights;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Calls on the Commission to ~~take i~~presento a~~ccount the latest developments in Turkey when conducting the mid-term review of~~ plan to redirect the Instrument for Pre- Accession Assistance (IPA) funds in 2017, and to suspend all pre-accession funds if Turkey no longer sufficiently complies with the EU’s Copenhagen criteria; calls on the Commission to use those funds to support Turkish civil society and to invest more in people-to-people exchange programmes, such as Erasmus+ for studentslight of recent developments, to support of Turkish civil society, the rule of law, democracy and judicial reforms through the EIDHR as well as investing in exchange programs and Erasmus+;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Calls on the Commission to take into account the latest developments in Turkey when conducting the mid-term review of the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) funds in 2017, and to suspend all pre-accession funds if Turkey no longer sufficiently complies with the EU’s Copenhagen criteria; calls on the Commission to use those funds directly to support Turkish civil society and to invest more in people-to-people exchange programmes, such as Erasmus+ for students;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16 a. Warns against the abuse of anti- terror measures to legitimize the repression of human rights;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Commends the engagement by the Turkish Government and the hospitality shown by the population in hosting around 3 million refugees; notes the EU-Turkey statement on migration, and urges the Member States to initiate the voluntary resettlement scheme for the most vulnerable refugees in Turkey; calls on the Commission to ensure long-term investment in both refugees and their host communities in Turkey; encourages the Turkish Government to grant work permits to all Syrian refugees and to respect the human rights of all refugees; calls on Ankara to keep up its patrolling efforts in the Aegean and to implement fully the bilateral readmission agreements signed with Bulgaria and Greece;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18 a. Calls for a closer cooperation and coordination and strategic alignment of foreign policy challenges between the EU and Turkey; is of the opinion that the Turkish Foreign Minister should be invited to attend foreign affairs Council meetings on a case by case basis when appropriate given Turkey's geostrategic position and membership of NATO;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2308(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19 a. Calls for translation of this report into Turkish;

2017/05/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2305(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 (new)

-1. Insists that within the current international technological race, achieving a dynamic European Gigabit Society is indispensable to maintain competitiveness and prosperity of the EU, as well as to unleash the potential for innovation and transformation in the transport sector;

2017/03/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2305(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Agrees that deployment of 5G networks is a necessary condition for the development and the uptake of existing and new business opportunities and models in the transport sector; underlines that effective use of the potential of very high-capacity internet networks is key to the process of digitisation of transport modes and services and the wide use of innovative means of transport for people and goods, such as increasingly connected and autonomous vehicles or drones;

2017/03/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2305(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Calls on the Commission to ensure that Member States, regional and local authorities and other partners are able to engage with the complex range of grants, financial instruments and public-private partnerships that are available for connectivity projects; ~~acknowledge~~supports the establishment of the Broadband Fund but urges the EIB and the Commission to focus efforts on improving existing programmes that support the IT sector, such as Horizon 2020, ~~rather than creating new ones~~examining possibilities for further investment from cohesion policy programs in post 2020 period;

2017/02/14
Committee: REGI

2016/2305(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Underlines that progress in the building of the European Gigabit Society can only be made with appropriate high levels of investment in network infrastructure in all the Member States; doubts whether financing models based only or primarily on investment funds will be sufficient to upgrade infrastructure where necessary and will help fill existing gaps in the level of development of network infrastructure, and even out differences in the availability of high- capacity internet connections in border and outlying areas, as well as in non-urban areas; highlights in this respect the added value of blending of financial instruments to trigger the necessary additional private investments;

2017/03/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2305(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Encourages the Commission to pay more attention, in the development of the European Gigabit Society, to the issues of data privacy, cybersecurity and cybercrime and their specificities in the transport sector; notes that any progress in this area cannot be made without giving adequate priority to the security of users of digitised transport systems;

2017/03/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2305(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Encourages the Commission to consider ~~adjust~~clarifying the provisions of Commission Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EUEU guidelines for the application of State aid rules in relation to the rapid deployment of broadband networks, in order to facilitate construction of high-speed internet networks;

2017/03/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2305(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Believes that the ambitious goals published by the Commission in September 2016 will not be achieved without empowering Member States, national regulatory authorities, regional and local government and without collaboration between them; the Member States have to be ready for clear, common, harmonised decision-making process; is deeply concerned that the opinion of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) on the new electronic communications framework highlights the potential for increased EU- level interference, additional bureaucracy and an undermining of its independence;

2017/02/14
Committee: REGI

2016/2305(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)

4 a. In order to improve implementation, besides the infrastructural investments, new skills and necessary educational changes will be required; educational dimension of the implementation of the 5G development should be provided by using opportunities within the European social fund; territorial cross-border cooperation programs should be consider as resource for investments in 5G, improving connectivity and cohesion between the border regions;

2017/02/14
Committee: REGI

2016/2305(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Strongly supports efforts towards ensuring access to the 5G network in public transport facilities and vehicles, in transport hubs and on all major transport routes by 2025, and expects that a full access all over the EU will follow; notes the important role of internet technology for the development of multimodal, user- friendly and safe infrastructure and transport services;

2017/03/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Notes that ensuring the visibility of cohesion policy investments should remain primarily the responsibility of the competent national authorities, and in particular local and regional authorities, as they constitute the most effective interface of communication with citizens by bringing Europe closer to them;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Notes in this context the uneven progress registered across Member States towards streamlining administrative procedures in terms of the broader involvement of regional and local partners;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Underlines that it is essential to increase ownership of the policy on the ground, both locally and regionally, in order to ensure efficient delivery and communication of the results; appreciates that the partnership principle adds value to the implementation of European public policies, as confirmed by a recent Commission study, but points out that mobilising partners remains rather difficult on account of their diversity and, sometimes, conflicts of interest;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Notes the important role of the media in informing citizens on EU affairs; regrets nevertheless the rather limited coverage of EU cohesion policy investments; stresses the need to develop communication strategies that are adapted to the current informational challenges and take account of digital advancements and the mix of different types of media channels, particularly given the increasing influence of social media on information;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to increase the coordination and accessibility of existing communication means and instruments at EU level, with a view to addressing topics that have an impact on the EU agenda; emphasises in this context the importance of communicating effectively, possibly as part of the future Europe for Citizens programme, on how cohesion policy implementation delivers concrete results for the daily life of EU citizens;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Welcomes the current specific communication activities, such as the ‘Europe in My Region’ campaign, the Commission’s ‘EU Budget for Results’ web application, the cooperation with CIRCOM Regional16 , and the opportunities provided by the newly created European Solidarity Corps, with a view to increasing awareness of cohesion policy impact on the ground, both locally and regionally; stresses moreover the need to concentrate efforts on reaching students and journalists as potential communication vectors, and on ensuring a geographical balance in the communication campaigns; _________________ 16 Professional Association of Regional Public Service Television in Europe.

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Underlines the need to adjust the communication arrangements in the Common Provisions Regulation (EU) 1303/2013, in the sense of providing a specific envelope for communication within the technical assistance, as well as increasing the binding publicity and information requirements for cohesion policy projects;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Welcomes the initiative of the V4 countries on the externalities of cohesion policy in EU-1517 and calls on the Commission to draft a broader study at EU-28 level; further urges the Commission to differentiate its communication strategies towards net contributor and net beneficiary Member States, while highlighting the specific benefits that cohesion policy brings in terms of the real economy, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation ~~and~~, creating growth and jobs in all EU regions, and improving community and economic infrastructure, both through direct investments and direct and indirect exports (externalities); _________________ 17 Report prepared within the Ex post evaluation and forecast of benefits to EU- 15 countries as a result of Cohesion Policy implementation in V4 countries, commissioned by the Polish Ministry of Economic Development and entitled ‘How do EU-15 Member States benefit from the Cohesion Policy in the V4.

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Calls on the managing authorities to identify ways to facilitate and standardise access to information, in order to increase the transparency and visibility of funding opportunities and to ensure an effective exchange of information and knowledge for beneficiaries;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Highlights the role of the partnership principle in enhancing the collective commitment to and ownership of cohesion policy; calls for the link between public authorities, the economy, civil society and citizens to be strengthened through open dialogue, adjusting the composition of partnerships as necessary during implementation, with a view to ensuring the right mix of partners to represent community interests at every stage of the process;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Highlights the need to enhance the communication dimension of cross-border and inter-regional cooperation, through the dissemination of good practices and of investment success stories; highlights the communication opportunities that could be created by making better use of communication at the level of EU macro- regional strategies;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25

25. Highlights the imperative of increasing the Union’s dialogue with citizens, rethinking communication channels and strategies, taking account of the opportunities offered by social networks and new digital technologies, and adapting messages to regional contexts;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2304(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)

30a. Calls on the Commission to consider the opportunities that the Europe for Citizens programme offers for providing better information on the results of Cohesion Policy;

2017/03/29
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Welcomes the positive impact of the work of the Task Force for Greece and the Support Group for Cyprus on the implementation of the ESI Funds in those two countries, and in particular on absorption rates; stresses the need to form a working group, based on the experiences of the 2007-2013 programming period, to support other Member States which are experiencing difficulties in implementing Cohesion Policy;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7 a. Calls on the Commission to prepare measures and resources to set up technical assistance for the implementation of EU macro-regional strategies, having taken into account the varied experiences and rates of success of implementing such strategies, as well as the fact that the strategies' participants include non-Member States and countries with limited funds and insufficient human resources; considers that this would be more effective in helping to prepare major projects at the macro-regional level that could receive funding under Cohesion Policy;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)

7 b. Calls on the Commission to establish technical assistance, namely Member States Working Groups, in order to prevent delays in developing the bodies and operational programmes that will be needed under Cohesion Policy in the Member States after 2020;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Highlights that the 2019 performance review will shed some light on the results of the use of technical assistance in the 2014-2020 programming period but these will come too late for the discussions on the post 2020-period; stresses the need, therefore, to include information in the debate on technical assistance after 2020 concerning the quality of the implementation of Cohesion Policy in the Member States;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Highlights that the largest part of technical assistance resources is spent on staff costs which are necessary for the implementation of ESI Funds; ~~consider~~stresses, however, that this funding should not under any circumstances act as a substitute for national financing in this area, and that there should be a gradual strategic shift towards activities which generate greater added value for cohesion policy in general, such as communication or experience- sharing;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Stresses that technical assistance in the future should be increasingly focused on the beneficiary/project level, regardless of whether it relates to the public economic sector or to the civil society sector;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2303(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Asks the Commission to consider all these elements in the context of the preparation of the legislative proposals for post-2020 cohesion policy, i.e. experience from the current and previous programming period;

2017/03/24
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Welcomes the fact that crucial regulatory changes in programming, implementation and management of financial instruments, such as direct links to and coverage of all 11 thematic objectives, compulsory ex-ante assessment, and creation of tailor-made and off-the- shelf solutions and reporting mechanisms, c~~ontribute to~~an have a critical impact on the attractiveness and speed of the implementation of financial instruments;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Recognises that grants have some strengths as compared to financial instruments: supporting projects that do not necessarily generate revenue, providing funding to projects that for various reasons cannot attract private or public funding, targeting specific beneficiaries, issues and regional priorities, and lower complexity of use owing to existing experience and capacity; acknowledges that in some cases grants are bound to limitations: difficulties in achieving project quality and sustainability, risk of substituting public funding in the long-run and a crowding-out effect for potential private investment even when projects may have a revolving nature and a capacity to generate revenues to repay a loan-based financing;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Recognises that financial instruments offer advantages such as leverage and revolving effects as well as higher risk investments, including private capital through high-quality bankable projects; acknowledges that financial instruments come with certain disadvantages: slower implementation, higher complexity, and ~~high management fees and implementation cost~~implementation costs that include also management fees; notes that grants represent preferable investments in some policy areas, such as the ones covered by the ESF;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Recalls that the positive experience of using financial instruments in the 2007- 2013 programming period was accompanied by a number of performance issues due in part to the lack of sufficient relevance experience at that time with the use of financial instruments in the context of cohesion policy: late start of operations, inaccurate market assessment, diverging regional uptake, overall low disbursement rates, low leverage effect, problematic revolving, high management costs and fees and inadequately large endowments; however, also recalls that after various extensions of implementation deadlines for the financial instruments belonging to the 2007-2013 programming period, a number of the original shortcomings were adequately addressed and rectified during the following two years (i.e. until end of 2015);

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Notes that some implementation delays ~~will~~did affect originally foreseen disbursement rates, revolving and leverage; recalls the fact that delays in the 2007-2013 period contributed ~~irreversibly~~ to sub-optimal performance of ERDF and ESF financial instruments; emphasises that all necessary steps should be taken to mitigate the negative effects of delayed implementation, especially regarding the risk of limited use and impact;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Notes the significant differences across the EU regarding the penetration of financial instruments, including ESI Funds and the first result of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI); emphasises that the overall success of such instruments depends on how easy they are to use and the ability of the Member States to manage investments through them;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Welcomes the Commission’s actions in optimising regulation; emphasises that, despite the improvements, complexity still exists and issues such as the long set-up time and the administrative burden for recipients are disincentives to use financial instruments; calls on the Commission to work closely with the EIB and the EIF to make access to ESI Funds in combination with EFSI (i.e. for blending activities), microcredit, loans, guarantees, equity and venture capital as possibly easy as using grants;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Encourages a greater involvement of regional local authorities in the distribution and use of funds;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Highlights that financial instruments performed so far better in well- developed regions and metropolitan areas, while grants address regional structural issues; notes that increasing the share of financial instruments should not influence the grant appropriations as this would hinder the balance; emphasises that in a number of public policies grants have to dominate, while financial instruments can play complementary roles;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Highlights the importance of a stronger promotion of financial possibilities in order to encourage their use for the public and private sector; calls for a better presentation of the results achieved, especially on the regional and local level;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2302(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)

19b. Considering the current situation of the cohesion and economic development, it's necessary, for the period after 2020, to increase the possibilities of financing projects without lowering non - refundable financial contributions;

2017/02/06
Committee: REGI

2016/2274(INI)

Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)

Aa. Whereas the transport sector has been at the forefront in the development and deployment of standards that are necessary for the creation of the Single European Transport Area;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – point b

b. Improving safety by further supporting automation and boosting the efficiency of transport traffic management systems, such as the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), the River Information Services (RIS), Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), the Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) and the new generation European air traffic management system (SESAR);

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – point d

d. Increasing the attractiveness ~~and~~, accessibility and quality of transport and tourism services for all passengers and consumers;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Points out that innovation in the transport sector provides enormous opportunities for EU businesses and insists on the need to develop new standards and uphold standardisation in order to ensure the proper implementation of EU initiatives in the field of digitalisation, such as Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) and the development of transport applications within the EU Satellite Navigation Systems (Galileo and EGNOS);

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Notes that ICT standardisation will be beneficial for the development of transport and tourism-related services~~; calls on the Commission to attach greater importance to this development when implementing its priority action plan for ICT standardisation~~ and of multimodal transport solutions; calls on the Commission, together with the European Standardisation Organisations (ESOs), to attach greater importance to this development when implementing its priority action plan for ICT standardisation, and in particular to explore a potential role of standardisation to support the technological changes and new business models emerging in the tourism sector, and to take swift action to promote the development of integrated and smart ticketing and new mobility concepts such as Mobility-as-a- Service;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Calls on the Commission and Member States to promote, facilitate financing for and expedite the deployment of the necessary infrastructure for the market uptake of new standards (e.g. alternative fuels infrastructure); highlights that infrastructure is a long term investment and therefore its standardisation should enable maximum interoperability to allow future technological developments and their application;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Regrets that differences between national standards, such as in the freight and logistics sector, remain a barrier to the internal market, and therefore calls on the Commission to mandate the drawing up of appropriate standards and, where necessary, to make them legally binding; points out, moreover, that standardisation can significantly contribute to reducing the administrative burden and transport costs for all businesses (e.g. e-documents) and can facilitate the proper enforcement of EU legislation (e.g. digital tachographs, electronic toll systems); underlines in this respect the need to seek a cross-modal harmonisation of standards;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7

7. EBelieves that 'open standards' in ICT prevents lock-in of consumers, reduces costs, fosters competition and innovation and guarantees interoperability; encourages the Commission and the European Standardisation Organisations (ESOs) to further promote ‘'open standards’' as a pillar of the Single European Transport Area architecture.

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2274(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Takes note of the cybersecurity concerns and the specificities of the threats in the transport sector; urges the Commission, when adopting by the end of 2017 its anticipated Recommendation on standards for cybersecurity, to address these specificities, as a first step towards a comprehensive strategy on cybersecurity in the transport sector;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)

Aa. whereas digitalisation has already contributed to the transformation of the transport sector, allowing in particular the gradual automation of transport modes and facilitation of transport services;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Welcomes the Commission Communication on Digitising European Industry, but regrets that, as its focus on the transport sector is limited to connected and automated driving, it does not address sufficiently all existing challenges; recalls that, although connected and automated driving is one of the most exciting digital transformations in the sector, there is potential for digitalisation in all modes of transport, and also throughout the value chain from manufacturers to passengers where results can be expected in the near future; asks the Commission to focus on digital transformations in all modes of transport, including transport and tourism related services;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Points out that the digitalisation process has not been beneficial to the same extent throughout the transport sector, which has created a detrimental fragmentation within the internal market both between different modes of transport and within the same mode; believes that developing a coordinated Industrial Digitalisation Strategy (IDS) for the EU could help overcome this fragmentation; stresses that the objective should not be just another policy paper but a real strategy reflecting innovation trends and market potential, the implementation of which would be continuously evaluated;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 – point a

(a) improve the overall safety, quality and environmental performance of the transport sector;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 – point e

(e) facilitate the proper and harmonised enforcement of EU legislation, through the development of traffic management systems, intelligent transport systems, digital tachographs, electronic toll systems, etc.;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 – point f

(f) cut administrative burdens for the smallest transport operators, for instance in the freight and logistics sector by simplifying administrative procedures, providing for cargo tracking and tracing, and optimising schedules and traffic flows;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Regrets the great fragmentation of Internet coverage within the EU; points out that uninterrupted and high performance connectivity is a precondition for further digitalisation of the transport sector; calls on the Commission and the Member States to meet their commitment to provide such a type of connectivity for main transport paths and hubs no later than 2025 and to initiate full coverage all over the EU;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Underlines the need to mobilise and attract public and private investments in order to adequately finance the transition towards digital processes and support the development of associated infrastructure; believes that better use could be made of existing EU funds, in particular the European Fund for Strategic Investments, which has so far not delivered sufficiently on projects of a truly innovative nature;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Notes that the digital transformation in the transport and tourism sectors, in particular the development of the on-demand and the collaborative economies, contributes to considerably reshaping passengers and consumers behaviour as regards mobility and tourism as well the need for infrastructure adaptation; invites the Commission to further unleash the potential of this societal change;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2271(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)

5b. Acknowledges the contribution of start-ups and SMEs to the digitalisation process, and stresses the importance to provide them with the adequate support and to ensure the application of their innovations, and favour their integration into the market;

2017/03/07
Committee: TRAN

2016/2250(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Jozo RADOŠ, Ulrike MÜLLER

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)

2 b. Emphasises that knowledge and technological advances, organic production and environmentally-friendly measures enhance sustainable farming practices, thus tackling socio-economic problems, allowing increased competitiveness within the single market and strengthening traditional agricultural activities of the OR;

2017/03/06
Committee: AGRI

2016/2250(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Ulrike MÜLLER

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2 a. Highlights that product differentiation and specialization can further stimulate and promote local production, processing and marketing of foodstuffs and thereby reduce existing disparities between OR and other EU regions;

2017/03/06
Committee: AGRI

2016/2250(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Ulrike MÜLLER

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3 a. Stresses the importance, within the POSEI scheme, of flexibility for Member States (MS) in the process of defining their programmes, while calling for clearer strategies that, on the one side, take into account MS specific needs of Member States and, on the other, comply with comprehensive EU goals;

2017/03/06
Committee: AGRI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Considers that demographic change should be tackled in a coordinated manner through the action of all European, national, regional and local authorities and preparing a common European strategy for challenging demographic progress;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3 a. Stresses the importance of regional and local level of authority in confronting and tackling demographic challenges;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Notes that the main problems relating to the demographic change currently experienced by many EU regions are decreasing population densities, an ageing population due to structural changes in the age period, falling birth rates and gradual depopulation, especially of working-age population;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls for a greater coordination of EU instruments in the different policy areas, such as the Common Agricultural Policy, European Structural and Investment (ESI) Funds, European Territorial Cooperation, the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) ~~and~~, the Connecting Europe Facility and financial instruments, so as to ensure a more comprehensive approach to demographic change, which will include regional and local aspects; reiterates its call for the Commission to adopt a European strategy on demographic change that will deliver synergies and maximise the positive impact on European citizens;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)

10 a. Considers that tackling demographic problems must have an integral approach on the whole Europe and that the solving of the problem in one part of Europe should not have a negative effect on other European territories;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Highlights the fact that the European Regional Development Fund can assist regions experiencing population change by boosting transport, telecommunications ~~and~~, public service infrastructure and support such economic sectors for which certain regions have comparative advantages;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Stresses that the European Social Fund can improve education, training and employment prospects in declining regions and serve to stem trends of out-migration;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2245(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Stresses that the EFSI can benefit declining regions by boosting investment in energy, transport, educational, business and ICT infrastructure, as well as in research, SMEs, education and social infrastructure;

2017/07/03
Committee: REGI

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 15 a (new)

– having regard to its resolutions of 7 July 2005(1), of 15 January 2009(2) and of 9 July 2015(3) on Srebrenica (2015/2747(RSP)),

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)

Ha. whereas many atrocity crimes were committed on the territory of ex-Yugoslav countries in the wars between 1991-1995;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)

Hb. whereas trial proceedings for the atrocity crimes committed on the territory of ex-Yugoslav countries in the wars between 1991-1995 progress very slowly;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H c (new)

Hc. whereas the trials for atrocity crimes must not be politically motivated or be based on any kind of political balance;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H d (new)

Hd. whereas some practices of the ICTY, such as drastic changes of verdicts, long duration of processes, and controversial decisions (acquittal of Vojislav Šešelj), eroded its reputation;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H e (new)

He. whereas genuine reconciliation can be based only on truth and justice;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Cautions that the execution of justice cannot rest on a balancing act between justice and any kind of political consideration as such balance would not foster the reconciliation efforts but diminish them;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9a. Regrets the fact that major world powers, USA, Russia and China, all permanent members of the UN Security Council, are not parties to the Rome Statute;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Calls for the EU and its Member States to sanction countries who intentionally delay the work of the Court or officially deny the existence of proven atrocity crimes;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2239(INI)

Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Fabio Massimo CASTALDO, Louis MICHEL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Calls on the Commission and the Council to put the prosecution of atrocity crimes high on the agenda of accession criteria for candidate countries;

2017/04/03
Committee: AFET

2016/2238(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)

Ha. whereas the EU and its Member States should aim at avoiding these situations in the future, and refrain from outsourcing military operations that imply the use of force and weaponry, participating in hostilities and otherwise engaging in combat or combat areas, beyond legitimate self-defence;

2017/03/20
Committee: AFET

2016/2238(INI)

Javier NART, Arnaud DANJEAN, Fabio Massimo CASTALDO, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Louis MICHEL

Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)

Hb. whereas operations and activities outsourced to PSCs in conflict areas should be restricted to providing logistical support and protection of installations, without an actual presence of PSCs in the areas where combat activities exist;

2017/03/20
Committee: AFET

2016/2238(INI)

Javier NART, Fabio Massimo CASTALDO, Jozo RADOŠ, Louis MICHEL, Louis MICHEL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6a. Stresses the categorical prohibition of allowing PSC to engage in war or in combat areas and so of outsourcing military operations that imply use of force and weaponry or participation in hostilities, allowing thus only self-defence in case of attack;

2017/03/20
Committee: AFET

2016/2238(INI)

Javier NART, Arnaud DANJEAN, Fabio Massimo CASTALDO, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Louis MICHEL

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)

6b. Stresses that the outsourcing of activities or services to PSCs should be limited to logistical support and protection of installations, and that the presence of PSCs should be limited to non-combat areas and that PSCs shall not participate or be present in interrogations;

2017/03/20
Committee: AFET

2016/2223(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 15 a (new)

- having regard to the petition ‘Stop Food Waste in Europe!’

2017/02/08
Committee: ENVI

2016/2223(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)

Aa. whereas, according to a Eurobarometer survey conducted in 2009, close to 80 million people in the European Union, or 16% of the total EU population, live below the poverty line;

2017/02/08
Committee: ENVI

2016/2223(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ulrike MÜLLER, Jozo RADOŠ, Hannu TAKKULA, Fredrick FEDERLEY, Jens ROHDE

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)

1 a. Stresses that local and regional products, as well as community-supported agriculture schemes, enable shorter supply chains, which increase the quality standards of products and support seasonal demands, thus having considerable social, environmental and economic benefits;

2017/02/09
Committee: AGRI

2016/2223(INI)

Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Ulrike MÜLLER, Jozo RADOŠ, Hannu TAKKULA, Fredrick FEDERLEY, Jens ROHDE

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)

6 a. Emphasises that educational and awareness-raising initiatives and measures, especially for the household sector, can significantly lower food wastage and increase social initiatives aimed at collecting excess foodstuffs;

2017/02/09
Committee: AGRI

2016/2223(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Encourages the Commission and Member States to cooperate with regional and local authorities and other stakeholders in order to provide information to the authorities acting as mediators between donors and recipients of donations;

2017/02/08
Committee: ENVI

2016/2222(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Notes the increased use of palm oil in processed food, with some 50 % of packaged goods now containing palm oil, and as a biofuel; calls for clear and transparent labelling of palm oil in processed goods in order to avoid misleading of consumers and urges to adapt to digital advancements;

2016/11/21
Committee: AGRI

2016/2222(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Notes the alarming scale of deforestation driven by palm oil production; notes that palm oil is an important driver of deforestation for commercial agriculture, where extremely biodiverse tropical forest is being converted to monocultural palm oil plantations;

2016/11/21
Committee: AGRI

2016/2222(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Notes with concern the occurrence of land grabbing and illegal acquisition of plantation land; ~~notes further that land acquisition may lie outside the~~calls on the relevant authorities to guarantee access to land and ensure the rule of law, a~~s local communities’ customary tenure rights are often not respected~~nd thereby sustainable long-term production of palm oil while strengthening domestic and international environmental and health commitments;

2016/11/21
Committee: AGRI

2016/2222(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Urges the Commission to step up dialogue with governments of palm-oil- producing countries in order to increase environmental, land tenure and human rights standards, as well as transparency on land tenure and corporate ownership, respecting local communities;

2016/11/21
Committee: AGRI

2016/2222(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7

7. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to establish a regulatory framework of strong and enforceable measures to guarantee that all actors throughout the supply chain, including EU financial institutions and the investments and loans they provide, are not involved in deforestation, while maintaining trade relations with third countries;

2016/11/21
Committee: AGRI

2016/2222(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 8

8. Calls for the phasing-out of pal~~l land~~m oil-based ~~biofuels, such as palm oil~~ biodiesel, ~~that~~which drives deforestation and competes against food production for land orand does not significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions;

2016/11/21
Committee: AGRI

2016/2219(INI)

Draft opinion
Recital A

A. whereas violence against women and girls is one of the world’s most widespread human rights violations, affecting all levels of society, regardless of age, education, income, social position or country of origin or residence, and representing a ~~major~~decisive barrier to gender equality;

2016/10/19
Committee: FEMM

2016/2219(INI)

Draft opinion
Recital C

C. whereas women and girls belonging to cultural, traditional, linguistic, religious, gender or sexual orientation minority groups are particularly likely to experience multiple and intersectional forms of discrimination based on both their minority status and their gender;

2016/10/19
Committee: FEMM

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Strongly condemns the continued use of rape and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls as a weapon of war; calls on all countries, and in particular EU Member States, which have not yet done so to develop NAPs implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 immediately;

2016/10/19
Committee: FEMM

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 30 e (new)

- having regard to its resolution of 11 December 2012 on a Digital Freedom Strategy in EU Foreign Policy1a, __________________ 1a Texts adopted, P7_TA(2012)0470.

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Calls for a global commitment to preventively ensure the safety of women and girls from the start of every emergency or crisis, by adequately addressing the risk of sexual and gender-based violence, raising awareness, ensuring the effective prosecution of the perpetrators of such violence and ensuring that women and girls have access to the full range of sexual and reproductive health services, including safe and legal abortion for victims of war rape;

2016/10/19
Committee: FEMM

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)

Ib. whereas there are numerous states that did not sign the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; whereas there are numerous regimes that ignore the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital K d (new)

Kd. whereas the Russian Federation passed, three years after its "Foreign Agent Law", a law on "undesirable organisations", granting the General Prosecutor authority to declare foreign organisations undesirable when deemed a threat to Russia's constitutional order, defence or security;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital K e (new)

Ke. whereas human rights defenders, lawyers and journalists faced increased intimidation, harassment, arbitrary arrest and violence in China, and authorities stepped up their controls over the internet, media and academia;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital K g (new)

Kg. whereas travel bans to prevent human rights defenders from attending international events are being used by a growing number of countries, particularly in Asia, the Middle East and Africa, and also in Azerbaijan;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital M c (new)

Mc. whereas evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity is difficult to preserve - especially at a time of unprecedented flows of refugees fleeing violence; whereas the preservation of evidence is essential to bringing perpetrators to justice;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital M d (new)

Md. whereas in Syria, government forces and non-state armed groups committed war crimes and gross human rights abuses with impunity, carrying out indiscriminate attacks and attacks that directly targeted civilians, including bombardments of civilian residential areas and medical facilities with artillery, mortars, barrel bombs and chemical agents, unlawfully killing civilians;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Recital M e (new)

Me. whereas the situation in Ukraine remained unstable in 2015, with parts of the Donetsk and Lugansk region under de facto control of Russia-backed fighters and all sides in the conflict violating international humanitarian law;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Recital M f (new)

Mf. whereas attempts to shut down the Guantánamo Bay prison failed and only 20 detainees were released or relocated in 2015;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital M g (new)

Mg. whereas EU Member States continue to sell arms and military material to Gulf States and other countries which violate human rights, both internally and in other places;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital M h (new)

Mh. whereas the European Parliament, in its resolution of 25 February 2016 on the humanitarian situation in Yemen, called for an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia on the basis of the serious allegations of ongoing breaches of international humanitarian law by Saudi Arabia in Yemen;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Recital M m (new)

Mm. whereas EU and Turkish leaders reached a "deal" or "statement" announced on 29 November 2015 and aimed at stemming the flow of refugees via Turkey to Europe and the EU promising Turkey €3 billion in aid as well as other measures in return;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital M n (new)

Mn. whereas the human rights situation in Turkey deteriorated exorbitantly following the parliamentary elections in June 2015;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Recital N

N. whereas justice is essential to advance respect for human rights, and the EU and its Member States have been unconditional supporters of the International Criminal Court (ICC) since its inception, while promoting the universality of the Rome Statute and defending its integrity with the purpose of strengthening the Court’s independence;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)

Oa. whereas 2015, however, saw a dramatic rise in the number of people executed - at least 1,634 according to Amnesty International, which is the highest recorded by the organisation since 1989 - with 90% of the executions carried out in Iran, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Recital O b (new)

Ob. whereas authorities in Egypt handed down hundreds of death sentences and long prison sentences to journalists, human rights defenders, political opposition leaders and activists after grossly unfair mass trials, and subjecting some to enforced disappearances; whereas Egypt enacted a draconian new antiterrorism law and NGO law;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Recital P

P. whereas gender equality is at the very heart of human rights and United Nations' values, and at the core of European values and enshrined within the EU’s legal and political framework;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital R

R. whereas violence against and unlawful prosecution of LGBTI people continues in many places around the world, and discrimination in health care, education, employment and other sectors is widespread;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital S

S. whereas reports of violations of civil and political, economic, social and cultural rights ~~resulting from corporate behaviour~~as well as environmental damage resulting from malpractices by some private sector actors continue to be heard from around the world;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital T a (new)

Ta. whereas in October 2015, the European Commission released its new trade strategy 'Trade for All', in which the Commission sets out its aim to use trade as a means to strengthen human rights in third countries;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Recital T b (new)

Tb. whereas in 2015, the European Union started working on legislation to tackle the trade in minerals which fuels conflict;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Recital T c (new)

Tc. whereas the hacking of Italian spyware firm Hacking Team in July 2015 demonstrated that there is an urgent need to reform European dual-use export legislation to make sure that technologies, which can be used against the EU's strategic interests and for human rights violations, do not fall into the wrong hands;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Urges the EU and the Member States to take a strong stance and condemn all regimes that bluntly violate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. ~~Calls on~~Urges all the EU institutions and the Member States to act on their commitments to promote, protect and realise human rights and fundamental freedoms, by using all necessary peaceful instruments, and to place human rights at the centre of the EU’s relations with all third countries – including its strategic partners – and at all levels;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Reiterates its call on the EU Member States to lead by example, by speaking with one voice in support of the indivisibility and universality of human rights and, in particular, by ratifying all international human rights instruments set up by the UN; calls on the EU Member States to never compromise when the universality of human rights is in question;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Draws attention to its long-term commitment to promote human rights and advance democratic values, as reflected, inter alia, in the annual award of the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, in the work of the Subcommittee on Human Rights, and in the monthly plenary debates and resolutions on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law; and the many parliamentary delegations;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the EU to denounce, systematically and unequivocally, the killings of human rights defenders, to condemn regimes who do or tolerate such atrocities, and to step up its public diplomacy in open and clear support of human rights defenders, also when it comes to their testimony in multilateral fora;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 d (new)

16d. Regrets that the work and the impact of the EUSR can only be partially assessed through the a review of the Annual Report on Human Rights, his Twitter account and available speeches; calls for a more systematic exchange of information on his activities, visits and plans;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26

26. Recalls the EU’s commitment to mainstream human rights and gender aspects in common security and defence policy missions, in line with the landmark UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820 on women, peace and security, and the recently adopted UN Security Council resolution 2242 making women a central component in all efforts to address global challenges; reiterates, in this context, its call on the EU and its Member States to support, in the process of building sustainable reconciliation, the systematic participation of women as a vital component of peace processes; calls, in this regard, on the EU to support, at the international level, the recognition of the added value of women’s participation in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, as well as in peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance and post-conflict reconstruction;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)

26a. Stresses that the CSDP is an instrument that not only ensures European security, but is part of the EU's foreign policy instruments and must therefore be used towards the strengthening of furthering human rights and democracy in third countries;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)

26b. Calls for further European military integration to improve European armed forces' readiness and flexibility, to respond to threats and in cases of grave violations of human rights, genocide or ethnic cleansing; stresses, in this regard, that the concept of 'Responsibility to Protect' should be consolidated into international law and that the EU, as a community of values, should lead initiatives and meaningful actions to protect civilians also when they are threatened by their own state;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)

30a. Underlines the need for EU leadership to push for reforms of the UN with the goal of strengthening the impact and the strength of the rules-based multilateral system, and of ensuring more efficient human rights protection and the advancing of international law;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 b (new)

30b. Condemns that seats on the UNHRC are often occupied by countries with proven track record of grave human rights violations; calls on the EU to intensify its efforts to improve the credibility and effectiveness of the UNHRC;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31

31. Condemns the dramatic number of deaths at sea in the Mediterranean; is extremely concerned about the growing numbers of human rights abuses against migrants and asylum seekers on their route to Europe; ~~highlight~~deplores the weaknesses and systematic incoherence of the policies of the EU and the Member States in this area and stresses the need for a holistic approach to find long-term solutions;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31

31. Condemns the dramatic number of deaths at sea in the Mediterranean; is extremely concerned about the growing numbers of human rights abuses against migrants and asylum seekers on their route to Europe; highlights the weaknesses and systematic incoherence of the policies of the EU and the Member States in this area and stresses the need for a holistic approach to find long-term solutions; recalls that migrants and asylum seekers need to respect the rule of law of the EU countries and that illegal migration should be discouraged;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31 f (new)

31f. Calls on the EU to increase efforts to support Lebanon and Jordan, which shelter unprecedented numbers of refugees, who often face multiple threats to the respect for their human rights;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34

34. Calls on the Member States to respect and fully implement the adopted EU common asylum package and the common migration legislation, particularly to safeguard vulnerable asylum seekers, such as LGBTI people, against violence and discrimination during the asylum process; calls on the Member States to participate in resettlement programmes, giving access to family reunification and granting humanitarian visas;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 j (new)

35j. Recognises that LGBTI asylum seekers are often at risk of additional danger during their journey and upon arrival in the country where they seek asylum, which can take the form of harassment, exclusion, sexual violence, or other forms of violence; recalls that a number of countries deemed 'safe' for asylum seekers discriminate against LGBTI people or even criminalise homosexuality, and are therefore not 'safe' for this group; emphasises that vulnerable groups require additional safeguards and calls on states to ensure that LGBTI refugees are protected as required by international humanitarian law;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 l (new)

36l. Condemns the human rights abuses faced by refugees and asylum- seekers when being sheltered 'in the region'; calls for more scrutiny of the situation of refugees in Turkey as the government negotiated a migration deal with the EU, while individuals face arbitrary detention, documented refugees are denied entry into Turkey at the Syrian border, violence and forced returns to the country of origin take place, which are illegal practices under Turkish and international law;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 m (new)

36m. Is concerned about the negative impact of the migration deal with Turkey on sheltering refugees, warns against managing migration through deals with third countries; calls on the EU to take its responsibility to protect its borders and to shelter asylum seekers, in accordance with our commitment to international law;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40

40. Notes the persistent financing gap with regard to humanitarian aid and the shortcomings in the World Food programme resulting in cutting food; calls on the member states of the United Nations, and on the European Union and its Member States to, at ~~a minimum, to~~ the very least, honour their financial pledges;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42

42. Reaffirms the urgent need to act in a continuous, effective and coherent manner at all levels, including national, European and international, in order to effectively to address human rights abuses by international corporations when they ~~appea~~occur, and to address the legal problems resulting from the extra-territorial dimension of companies and their conduct;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46 a (new)

46a. Welcomes the adoption of the Commission's new trade strategy 'Trade for All', in which it aims to mainstream human rights in trade policy and use the EU's position as a trading bloc to leverage human rights in third countries; stresses that this will need full convergence and complementarity of trade and foreign policy initiatives, including close cooperation between the different DGs, the EEAS and Member State authorities;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46 d (new)

46d. Notes the Commission's plans to strengthen European economic diplomacy; warns, in this regard, that economic diplomacy must not substitute the Union's long-standing policy to link market access and trade promotion and facilitation with other foreign policy goals such as respect for human rights and democratisation; stresses that the goal of trade policy must not only be economic opportunity for European businesses, but also sustainable growth in third countries;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48 a (new)

48a. Further recommends that, whenever a gross breach of human rights occurs by a partner country with which an agreement has been concluded, the EU takes more effective steps in carrying out the appropriate sanctions as stipulated in the human rights clauses of the agreement, including (temporary) suspension of the agreement;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a (new)

50a. Welcomes the Commission's proposal to update the EU's dual-use export control legislation; stresses that human rights as a criteria for export licences is a priority for Parliament and calls on the Member States to finally agree to move towards a more modern, flexible and human rights-based export policy;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 b (new)

50b. Calls on the Member States to exercise stricter and more human rights- based arms export controls, especially when it comes to countries with proven track records of violent internal repression and human rights violations;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 56

56. Stresses the importance of not undermining the acquis of the Beijing Platform for Action regarding access to education and health as a basic human right, and the protection of sexual and reproductive rights, and to ensure that all necessary safe medical assistance is provided to female war rape victims - including abortion, as foreseen under international humanitarian law; points out that family planning, maternal health, easy access to contraception and safe abortion are important elements in saving women’s lives, and highlights the need to place these policies at the core of development cooperation with third countries;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63

63. Firmly condemns the recent increase in discriminatory laws and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity, including in Egypt where LGBTI people were prosecuted on charges of "debauchery";

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63 a (new)

63a. Strongly condemns increasing restrictions on freedom of assembly and association of LGBTI groups, events and protests, such as Pride marches, in some cases with violent responses from authorities against protesters; calls on EU delegations and relevant institutions to actively promote these rights and fundamental freedoms in line with human rights standards;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64

64. ~~Requests that the EEAS prioritise its actions in situations where the death penalty is in force~~Is deeply concerned by the increase in violence and discrimination against LGBTI people; requests that the EEAS prioritise its actions in countries with prevalent violence and discrimination against LGBTI people, including 76 countries which still criminalise homosexuality and 20 countries which still criminalise transgender identities, and/or where LGBTI people are subjected to torture and ill- treatment, by condemning these practices in accordance with the EU Guidelines on the Death Penalty and the EU Guidelines on Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and by continuing to work with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in this field;

2016/10/12
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68 b (new)

68b. Welcomes the declaration issued by Ukraine accepting the jurisdiction of the ICC for crimes committed in the country since 20 February 2014, as this declaration paves the way for the ICC prosecutor to consider whether the court could investigate abuses committed during the armed conflict, even though Ukraine is not yet an ICC member country;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 71 b (new)

71b. Reiterates its condemnation, in the harshest terms, of the crimes perpetrated by the Syrian regime against its population, including the use of chemical and incendiary weapons against civilians, mass arbitrary detention and its siege strategy to starve the population into submission; calls for more EU leadership towards a negotiated end to violence, and in ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Hilde VAUTMANS, Jozo RADOŠ, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 b (new)

72b. Calls for the establishment of a dedicated fund which can help finance initiatives that preserve evidence, digital and otherwise, of suspected crimes against humanity in war crimes with the aim of bringing perpetrators to justice;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Ivo VAJGL, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 p (new)

72p. Reiterates its call on the VP/HR to launch an initiative aimed at imposing an EU arms embargo against Saudi Arabia, given the serious allegations of breaches of international humanitarian law by Saudi Arabia in Yemen and the fact that the continued licensing of weapons sales to Saudi Arabia would therefore be in breach of Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP of 8 December 2008;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 q (new)

72q. Calls on the Member States to be prepared to accept Guantanamo inmates in the EU in case the US requests this; emphasizes the need to close the Guantanamo Bay prison as soon as possible;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74

74. Stresses that the rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief ~~is a~~are fundamental ~~human~~ rights, interrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms and encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, the right to manifest or not to manifest any religion or belief, adhering to separation of religion and state, and the right to adopt, change and abandon or return to a belief of one’s choice, as enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75

75. Calls on the EU and its Member States to ensure that religious minorities are respected worldwide, including in the Middle East, where Yazidis, Christians and Muslim minorities are being persecuted by ISIS and other terrorist groups; calls on the EU and its Member States to promote secularism worldwide as an instrument to fight religious discrimination and protect universal human rights;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75 c (new)

75c. Requests concrete actions to protect religious minorities, non-believers and atheists that are victims of blasphemy laws and calls on the EU and Member States to engage in political discussions to repeal such laws;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79 b (new)

79b. Strongly condemns the issuing of travel bans by authorities as a tool to intimidate and silence independent voices of human rights defenders and activists, as well as lawyers and journalists, and emphasises that these measures are often taken arbitrarily and without judicial grounds;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79 d (new)

79d. Strongly condemns the "Foreign Agent Law" and law on "undesirable organisations" adopted by the Russian Federation, which cripple civil society and lead to arbitrary application with punishments including imprisonment, asset freezes and access bans for non- Russian staff members;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80 a (new)

80a. Calls on the VP/HR, the EEAS and/or the EUSR to adopt a policy to systematically condemn the killings of human rights defenders, and issue guidelines on this to all Delegations; emphasizes that this adds consistency to the EU's current priorities as set out in the EU Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders, on Freedom of Expression and on the Death Penalty;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 a (new)

81a. Calls on the VP/HR, the EEAS and/or the EUSR to step up its public response to assaults by the Egyptian regime against human rights defenders and other voices of dissent;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 86

86. Highlights the importance of promoting unrestricted access to the internet in all forms of contact with third countries, including in accession negotiations, trade negotiations, human rights dialogues and diplomatic contacts, to make information about human rights and democracy as accessible as possible to people all around the world;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 87

87. Condemns all restrictions on digital communication, including the closing down of websites and the blocking of personal accounts; calls on the EU and its Member States to publicly condemn regimes which restrict the digital communication of their critics and opposition;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 87 a (new)

87a. Strongly condemns the increasing number of human rights defenders facing digital threats, including compromised data through confiscation of equipment, remote surveillance and data leakages; condemns the practice of online surveillance and hacking to gather information which can be used in legal cases or defamation campaigns, as with the defamation trial in Azerbaijan against investigative journalist Khadija Ismayilova;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Hilde VAUTMANS, Javier NART, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 87 b (new)

87b. Expresses its serious concern at the proliferation and spread of monitoring, surveillance, censoring and filtering technologies, which represent a growing threat to human rights and democracy activists in autocratic countries;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 87 d (new)

87d. Strongly condemns the unprecedented pressure by the Turkish government on the media, causing freedom of expression online and offline to suffer immensely;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 87 e (new)

87e. Strongly condemns the Chinese authorities' control over the internet, media and academia, and the increased intimidation, harassment and arbitrary arrests that human rights defenders, lawyers and journalists face;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 101 a (new)

101a. Notes the conclusion of an agreement to update the EU's export controls with regard to goods that could be used for torture or capital punishment; calls on the European Commission and Member States, in this regard, to move towards full implementation as soon as possible and to promote this unilateral policy in international fora and to look for possibilities to cooperate further with third countries to stop trade in these products;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Urmas PAET, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 103 a (new)

103a. Strongly condemns the human rights situation in Turkey, where cases of excessive use of force by police and ill- treatment of detainees increased, impunity for human rights abuses persisted, and the independence of the judiciary further eroded;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2219(INI)

Marietje SCHAAKE, Javier NART, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Jozo RADOŠ, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Urmas PAET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 106

106. Calls on the VP/HR, the Member States and the Council to include armed drones and fully autonomous weapons in relevant European and international disarmament and arms control mechanisms;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2195(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)

4 a. Points out that to ensure the proper deployment of SESAR, and in the interest of achieving global interoperability, a specific and ambitious budget, other than the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) budget, should be allocated for its implementation;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2195(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 8

8. Welcomes the successful delivery of the work mandated by the European Commission concerning the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) Definition phase; underlines the importance of a preliminary agreement with the wider Aviation industry on prerequisites for the safe integration of drones into civilian air space; notes also that a “"Drones outlook study”", intended to form the basis for the proper coverage of RPAS activities in the ATM Master Plan was kicked off in December 2015;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2173(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Highlights the Agency's vital role in ensuring the highest possible level of aviation safety throughout Europe; stresses that a ~~proper coordinated alert system and information structure~~common European assessment and alerting system is needed in Europe, in particular in the context of flights over conflict zones; stresses that, in the context of a fast-developing civil aviation sector, the Agency should be given the necessary financial, material and human resources to perform its regulatory and executive tasks successfully, in the fields of safety and environmental protection, without compromising its independence and impartiality;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2172(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Welcomes the adoption by the Administrative Board of a Fraud prevention and detection strategy, based on the methodology and guidance of OLAF and on the Anti-fraud strategy of DG MOVE, and expects it to be fully and speedily implemented;

2017/02/03
Committee: TRAN

2016/2151(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5

5. Deplores that the creation of the EFSI and of the Guarantee Fund with a 50% target rate has limited the budgetary flexibility in the 2014-2020 MFF by reducing the unallocated margins under the MFF expenditure ceiling and that the planned budget for CEF has been reduced; ~~is concerned with the proposal of~~considers as irresponsible that the Commission proposes to prolong EFSI without any impact assessment nor a thorough and convincing evaluation regarding this instrument;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2151(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Points out that the EIB’'s evaluation report notes geographical imbalances and sectoral concentrations in the Infrastructure and Innovation Window portfolio (IIW) and that financing under the IIW is concentrated (63%) in three Member States; calls on the Commission to urgently assess the impact of EFSI for the Union as a whole; regrets that EFSI is not sufficiently used for the financing of in~~frastructure for more sustainable modes, such as for rail, sustainable inland waterways, cycling and walking~~novative transport projects in all modes of transport, for instance to promote sustainable means of transport or to further encourage the digitalisation process as well as barrier-free accessibility;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2151(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7

7. Regrets that the Commission (DG MOVE) has not yet established a formalised consolidated strategic document for the supervision on the TEN-T core network corridors development; encourages the Commission to adopt such strategic document regarding supervision activities~~; further encourages the Commission to focus in this regard on transparency for large projects with a cost of more than 1 billion euros and to guaran~~ and transparency; recalls that transparency and consultation with all stakeholders contributee t~~he participation of representative citizens’ organisations in decision making~~o the success of transport projects;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2151(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 9

9. Points out that transport projects in 2014-2020 will be financed from several sources, including the CEF, the Cohesion Fund, the European Fund for Regional Development and the EFSI; calls on the Commission, therefore, to develop synergies that will enable these different sources of funding to allocate the funds available more efficiently, as well as the blending of these resources; calls on the Commission to annually deliver and publish, inter alia on its websites, easily accessible lists of transport, including modal share percentages, and tourism projects, that are co-financed through the mentioned funds;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2151(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 15

15. Takes the view that the Commission should ~~ensure total~~further improve transparency in the management of funds, ensuring that the public interest is protected and always, in all circumstances, takes precedent over any private interest; insists that Public Private Partnerships should not lead to privatising profits whilst socialising losses;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2151(DEC)

Pavel TELIČKA, Dominique RIQUET, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Draft opinion
Paragraph 16

16. Regrets that appropriations for ~~sustainable and accessible~~ tourism are not yet adequate ~~to support the development of the sector, also with a view~~, in particular to promote the development of sustainable and accessible tourism projects, and to support SMEs ~~and~~, micro-enterprises as well as ~~the new sharing~~developments in the collaborative econom~~ies~~y;

2017/02/06
Committee: TRAN

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Congratulates Ms Emily O’ Reilly for her excellent work and for her untiring efforts to improve the quality of service offered to citizens by the European administration; acknowledges the importance of transparency as a core element of gaining trust and of good administration, something that is also underlined by the high percentage of complaints concerning transparency (22.4 %), giving this subject matter the highest ranking of all; acknowledges the role of strategic enquiries conducted by the European Ombudsman’s office in this domain;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Welcomes the continued efforts of the European Ombudsman to increase transparency in the TTIP negotiations through proposals to the European Commission; commends the resulting publication by the Commission of numerous TTIP documents and the inclusion of transparency as one of the three pillars of the Commission’s new trade strategy; notes the continuing concerns of citizens with regard to these negotiations; regrets the unnecessary level of secrecy surrounding negotiations on TTIP; encourages increased transparency in the negotiations on other international agreements;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Recognises the need for transparency in EU decision-making, and supports the investigation by the European Ombudsmen into informal negotiations between the three main EU institutions (‘trilogues’); commends the awareness- raising actions by the Ombudsman on the matter; supports the timely publishing of key ‘trilogue’ documents;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Approves of the Ombudsman’s investigation into the make-up and transparency of the work of the Commission’s expert groups; notes the Commission’s efforts to open up these groups to the public, and calls for further actions in this direction;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Supports the Ombudsman’s efforts in making lobbying more transparent; regrets the Commission’s reluctance to publish detailed information on meetings with tobacco lobbyists; urges the Commission to make its workings more open to the public in order to gain more trust in its work;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Welcomes the introduction of a complaints mechanism for potential fundamental human rights infringements in Frontex, following an ongoing Ombudsman investigation into practices employed by Frontex and Member States in joint forced returns of illegal migrants; commends the inclusion of the same mechanism in the new European Border and Coast Guard;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Acknowledges that the right of citizens to have a say in EU policy-making is now more important than ever; welcomes the guidelines proposed by the Ombudsman for improving the functioning of the European Citizens’ Initiative, especially where solid reasoning by the Commission in ECI rejections is concerned; asserts that the greater inclusion of citizens in the creation of EU policies will increase the credibility of the European institutions;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2150(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. ~~Notes~~Points out the concern of citizens in relation to the handling of infringement complaints by the Commission, to the potential initiation of an infringement procedure before the CJEU and to the transparency of the relevant procedures; welcomes the resulting strategic enquiry by the European Ombudsman on the systemic issues encountered in the EU pilot;

2016/09/28
Committee: PETI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas cohesion policy is confronted in the current period with many political and economic challenges, deriving both from the financial crisis, leading to a decrease in public investment in many Member States, leaving the ESI funds and co-financing by the Member States as the main tool for public investment in many Member States, and from the migration crisis;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Notes that Europe has been going through a difficult phase in both economic and political terms, so that a ~~decent~~fully fledged investment policy that is oriented towards economic growth and employment, and close to citizens, is needed more than ever;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Notes that cohesion policy 2014- 2020 has been thoroughly reworked, requiring a change in mentality and working methods at all levels of governance, but that it is often perceived as a traditional expenditure policy rather than an development and investment policy;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Welcomes thematic concentration, as it has turned out to be a good tool for creating a focused policy and the resulting greater effectiveness for the EU priorities and the EU 2020 strategy;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Considers that the results and benefits of cohesion policy need to be put across more effectively, not least in order to restore confidence in the European project;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Insists that cohesion policy should continue to have thematic focus, while allowing for some degree of flexibility in order to take on board the specific needs of each region, as well as the specific needs of the least developed regions in less developed Member States;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Underlines, in particular, that consideration should be given to the circumstances of the distinctively urban or rural regions, the so-called ‘lagging regions’ and regions with permanent natural or geographical handicaps (northernmost regions with very low population density, and cross-border, insular, mountainous or outermost regions), which without cohesion policy would hardly be able to catch up with developed countries; recalls in this context that it is important to support new policy challenges, such as immigration, as well as the broadly understood digital dimension of cohesion policy (including ICT and broadband access issues, which are linked to the completion of the Digital Single Market); points to the Energy Union Strategy, as the ESI Funds have an important role to play in its delivery;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Supports the shift from a focus on infrastructure-related projects towards a focus on stimulating the knowledge economy, innovation and social inclusion, taking into account the specific features of less developed regions;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Points out that the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) is presented as a success story when it comes to fast implementation, and against this background asks the Commission to come forward with learning points ~~for~~to enable the ESI Funds ~~for~~to be put to use more successfully in the new programming period;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Acknowledges that simplification is an important factor in better access to funding;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)

23a. Recommends that standard procedures be established for drawing up operational programmes and for management, especially where the numerous territorial cooperation programmes are concerned;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28

28. Highlights – especially from the point of view of reducing disparities between border regions – the European added value of ETC, which should be reflected in an increased level of appropriations for this cohesion policy objective, to be introduced as soon as practicable;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)

32a. Supports the Commission’s new approach of setting up special working groups, that is to say, project teams intended to ensure better management of ESI Funds in Member States, and calls for this approach to be developed further;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2148(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)

38a. Points out that in some Member States there are still regions whose development is lagging significantly behind and that their specific needs must be taken into account when preparing for the future programming period;

2016/09/19
Committee: REGI

2016/2140(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Notes that the ~~garment industry is one of the most precarious for workers~~re are many cases of precarious forms of work in the garment industry both within and outside Europe; calls on the flagship initiative, therefore, to put ratification and implementation of ILO conventions and the Decent Work Agenda at its core, with particular focus on those most vulnerable to exploitation;

2016/12/13
Committee: EMPL

2016/2140(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Notes that in many cases voluntary initiatives are not adequately addressing issues such as health and safety, wages, social security and working time;

2016/12/13
Committee: EMPL

2016/2140(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Encourages the EU initiative to promote skills training and lifelong learning, which contributes to economic and social development and women’s empowerment; encourages the EU to use initiatives to promote the education of workers in the field of labour rights, as well as to raise awareness of legal assistance mechanisms for when those rights are violated;

2016/12/13
Committee: EMPL

2016/2140(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 8

8. Notes that price is still the determining factor in the buying practices of brands and retailers, often at the expense of workers’ welfare; calls for the EU to work with stakeholders to develop a fair and stable ~~pricing~~ mechanism which guarantees th~~at a decent proportion of sales revenue is paid to the worker~~e regular payment of workers’ salaries in the form of a living wage;

2016/12/13
Committee: EMPL

2016/2099(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Encourages the EIB to continue to support sustainable, safe, climate-friendly and innovative transport; underlines that it is the European Parliament’s priority to provide sufficient funding for projects with European added value, including the cross- border transport links, and not only the TEN-T corridor;

2016/10/17
Committee: TRAN

2016/2099(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Underlines the importance of geographical balance in investments with EIB involvement, and expects the EIB and the Commission to deliver appropriate technical and administrative assistance to project preparation in countries that need it; stresses the importance of including local and regional authorities in this process;

2016/10/17
Committee: TRAN

2016/2099(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Stresses the importance in combating climate change of the goals set by COP 21 with regard to transport; underlines that the financial means should be available to bring about a modal shift from road to rail and waterborne and inland waterway transport; insists also that attention should be paid to investment in clean power for transport; emphasises the use of sea corridors;

2016/10/17
Committee: TRAN

2016/2099(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7

7. Calls on the Commission and the EIB to support investment in sustainable urban mobility in order to reduce the air pollution and congestion in European cities; calls, in this sense, on the local and regional authorities to develop urban and interurban mobility;

2016/10/17
Committee: TRAN

2016/2094(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)

Ba. whereas development policy is a crucial aspect of the European Union’s external policy; whereas the Union is the largest development donor in the world and, together with its Member States, it provides more than half of official development assistance globally;

2016/12/09
Committee: DEVE

2016/2094(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)

26a. Stresses the need for the better integration of partner countries into financial allocation and planning processes;

2016/12/09
Committee: DEVE

2016/2094(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 a (new)

41a. Recalls the growing role played by sports in development and peace through the promotion of tolerance and a culture of mutual respect, as well as the contribution sports make to empowering women and young people, individuals and communities, as well as to health, education and social inclusion;

2016/12/09
Committee: DEVE

2016/2094(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 b (new)

41b. Stresses that sports must play a stronger role in development policies and that greater investment must be made in sports programmes and infrastructure in developing countries;

2016/12/09
Committee: DEVE

2016/2079(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3 a. Highlights the importance of coherence between fisheries, development and trade policies, and environmental protection standards;

2017/02/06
Committee: PECH

2016/2079(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14 a. Stresses the importance of small- scale coastal fishing in view of its contribution to food security, local economies and employment of both men and women;

2017/02/06
Committee: PECH

2016/2079(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)

14 b. Stresses the importance of including women in the fisheries sector and secondary supporting industries;

2017/02/06
Committee: PECH

2016/2079(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15 a. Points out that small-scale fishermen constitute the most socially vulnerable group in the fisheries sector and that for this reason — as well as for their contribution to preserving fishing traditions and cultural heritage ― a special approach must be taken to them;

2017/02/06
Committee: PECH

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Notes that the EU’s security environment has deteriorated considerably, becoming more fluid, more dangerous and less predictable; notes that threats are both conventional and hybrid, generated by both state and non-state actors, and coming from the South and the East, and ~~that~~although they are common threats they affect the Member States differently, thus preventing a more common approach; is firmly convinced that EU's vulnerability is direct outcome of the lack of integration as well as lack of coordination;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Considers that Europe is now compelled to react to an arch of increasingly complex crises: from West Africa, through the Sahel, the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, to the Caucasus; and should prepare towards profound change of international security landscape as societal, economic, technological and geopolitical trends point to the growing vulnerability of the world’s population to shocks and stresses, including: interstate conflicts, natural disasters, extreme weather events, water crises, state collapse and cyber-attacks;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Is firmly convinced that, as a result, a thorough and substantial revision of the CSDP is needed; emphasises practical and financial benefits of further integrations of European defence capabilities and notes various ongoing initiatives which should be placed into a wider frame to establish a smart roadmap that will lead to a European Defence Union; calls on the Member States to follow through with concrete measures as a matter of urgency;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Underlines that, as Europe is no longer in control of its security environment and has lost the luxury of choosing the time and place of action, the CSDP, which has, until now, focused mainly on crisis management operations, should complement these operations with crisis prevention and crisis resolution, and truly ensure the common security and defence of the entire area of freedom, security and justice; is of opinion that to do so CSDP’s paramount objective must be strengthening the EU’s resilience;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Underlines, equally, that the CSDP should be based on a strong collective defence principle, efficient financing and ~~full~~ coordination with NATO;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Welcomes the presentation by the VP/HR of the Global Strategy for the European Union’s Foreign and Security Policy (EUGS) as a necessary and positive development for the institutional framework in which the CFSP and the CSDP will operate and develop; ~~stresses that further work is needed to ensure the~~urges rapid implementation of the EUGS’s political level of ambition, priorities and comprehensive approach;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Supports the development of a sectoral strategy as a follow-up to the EUGS, to be agreed by the Council, that should further specify the civil-military level of ambition, tasks, requirements and capability priorities; reiterates its previous calls for the development of a European Defence White Book and ~~expresses hope that the~~urges Council ~~will~~to assign the task of drafting this document without delay;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Ivo VAJGL, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Observes that, to this effect, cooperation with similar NATO activities ~~and~~is needed; emphasises that an increased exchange of intelligence and information between the Member States ~~are indispensable~~is indispensable and to that goal urges formation of European Intelligence Agency with the mission and capability to implement a de facto transversal intelligence network within the Member States allowing the European Union to react in a comprehensive and coordinated way to emerging threats;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Observes as the building resilience should be one of the main goals of CFSP it requires comprehensive approach of different sectors which challenge traditional approaches to foreign and security policy with use of wide range of diplomatic, security, defence, economic, trade, development and humanitarian instruments;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Underlines that all Council decisions on future missions and operations should prioritise engagements in conflicts directly affecting EU security, making sure it does not affect ongoing operations; considers that the decision to engage should be based on a common analysis and understanding of the strategic environment and on shared strategic interests of the Member States; considers that CSDP capacity-building missions must be coordinated with security sector and rule of law work by the Commission;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Is convinced that enhancing the EU’s status as a global security provider needs adequate, sufficient capabilities and a competitive defence industry ensuring a sustainable supply chain; notes that the European defence sector is characterised by fragmentation and duplication, which need gradual elimination through a process providing incentives and rewards to all national components; emphasises on development of European capabilities and an integrated defence market;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Welcomes the European Defence Agency’s (EDA) increasing role in coordinating capability-driven programmes, projects and activities, indispensable to an efficient CSDP; however notes that EDA's results are still far from being satisfactory as it still did not succeed in reaching benchmarks for common investment set in November 2007 on the Ministerial Steering Board (equipment procurement, including R&D/R&T, to 20% of total defence spending; European collaborative equipment procurement to 35% of total equipment spending; defence R&T to 2% of total defence spending; European collaborative defence R&T to 20% of total defence R&T spending); calls on the Council to urge Member States to work in collaboration to reach these benchmarks; welcomes the EDA’s Capability Development Plan and stresses the need for further commitments to ensure its full implementation; notes that EDA's increasing new roles and responsibilities should be followed and by increase of budget;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2067(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ilhan KYUCHYUK, Petras AUŠTREVIČIUS, Hilde VAUTMANS, Nedzhmi ALI, Javier NART

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22a. Urges the Council to resolve standing problems with financing hybrid missions and to initiate establishment of start-up fond for the urgent financing of the initial phases of military operations; calls for more flexibility in the EU's financial rules in order to support its ability to respond to crises and for the implementation of existing Lisbon Treaty provisions; calls for a reform of the Athena mechanism to extend its scope for all costs related, first to rapid reaction operations, deployment of the EU Battlegroups, then to all military operations;

2016/09/15
Committee: AFET

2016/2064(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1

1. Acknowledges the initial results of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) to mobilise private investments; recalls that the EFSI must also contribute to economic, social and territorial cohesion and that efforts are needed to enhance synergies and complementarity between the EFSI and European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs) and other EU programmes; underlines the importance of ensuring additionality of the EFSI with respect to other EIB initiatives and EU- funded programs;

2016/09/16
Committee: REGI

2016/2064(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Welcomes the publication of the Commission’s new guidelines of 22 of February 2016 on combining ESIFs and the EFSI; takes note, however, that the number of existing synergies between EFSI and ESIFs funds is still extremely low and calls on the Commission, the EIB, the national promotional banks and institutions (NPBI), national governments and the managing authorities to accelerate the design and implementation of further synergies;

2016/09/16
Committee: REGI

2016/2064(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Considers that the Commission, the EIB, the Committee of the Regions, national governments and the managing authorities, including those at regional level, should better cooperate to ensure that more integrated ESIF-EFSI projects are put forward to boost territorial development and cohesion policies;

2016/09/16
Committee: REGI

2016/2064(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Considers that it is essential to ensure a geographical balance of EFSI projects, taking account of the different economic development of the regions and the territorial diversity of the Member States; highlights the importance of also developing cross-border projects that could deliver a high European added value and cohesion;

2016/09/16
Committee: REGI

2016/2064(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Believes that the selection of EFSI financing operations and the managing of projects should be more transparent, accountable, based on defined criteria and involve local and regional stakeholders at an early stage; stresses that the European Investment Advisory Hub (EIAH) and the EFSI investment committee should use the expertise of regional and local authorities in order to promote integrated ESIF-EFSI projects; with a view to this, the EIAH should play an active role in enabling even more local and regional authorities to make the most of the EFSI;

2016/09/16
Committee: REGI

2016/2064(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Draft opinion
Paragraph 7

7. Emphasises the need to strengthen the national and regional platform to support the coordination and synergies between EU funds and other programmes;

2016/09/16
Committee: REGI

2016/2062(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)

- having regard to the Commission proposal of 7 December 2015 on common rules in the field of civil aviation and establishing a European Union Aviation Safety Agency, and repealing Regulation (EC) No 216/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council,

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)

Aa. whereas the EU Single Aviation market is the most successful example of regional liberalisation of air transport that strongly contributed to unprecedented levels of air connectivity by broadening travel opportunities within and outside Europe while lowering prices;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas the aviation sector is a fundamental part of the European transport network, indispensable to ensure connectivity and regional cohesion within the EU and worldwide, and a driver with multiplier effect for growth and jobs creation;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Welcomes the Commission’'s Communication on an Aviation Strategy for Europe and its effort to identify sources to boost the sector by finding new market opportunities and dismantling barriers, and for its proposals to meet and anticipate new challenges by developing modern regulatory frameworks (e.g. revised Basic Regulation for common rules in the field of civil aviation safety); believes that, in a longer-term perspective, a further holistic and ambitious approach should be embraced;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Calls on the Commission to rethink on-going initiatives and propose alternatives to remove the deficiencies of the aviation sector resulting from the late and incomplete implementation of EU legislation such as the Single European Sky (SES); ~~urges the Member States finally to make progress on other essential dossiers such as~~stresses that to provide legal clarity and certainty, although helpful, the publication of guidelines does not substitute the proper revision of existing regulations, in this respect urges the Council and the Member States finally to make progress on other essential dossiers such as the Recast of the Regulation on the Implementation of the Single European Sky and the revision of the Slot Regulation and the Passenger Rights Regulations;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Gesine MEISSNER, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. ~~Believes that the European aviation sector can fit into a competitive global environment by further building on and developing its assets;~~Welcomes the Commission's proposal to revise Regulation 868/2004 addressing unfair practices and to issue guidelines on ownership and control; stresses however that nor arising protectionism nor measures to ensure fair competition alone will guarantee the competitiveness of the EU aviation sector; believes that the European aviation sector can fit into a competitive global environment by further building on and developing its assets, such as, for example high safety standards, the role of EASA, geographical positioning, innovative industry, social and environmental goals; strongly believes that competition from third countries, if fair, should be seen as an opportunity to develop further a European aviation model that has the potential to provide a unique and competitive response to the specificities of competitors;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Welcomes the initiative to negotiate at EU-level air transport agreements and bilateral aviation safety agreements with third countries representing emerging and strategic markets (China, Japan, ASEAN, Turkey, Qatar, the UAE, Armenia, Mexico, China, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi- Arabia) and encourages fast negotiations; calls on the Commission and the Council, in respect of Article 218 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to fully involve and inform the European Parliament at all stages of negotiations;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Recalls that air space is also part of the EU single market, and that any fragmentation resulting from diverging national practices (e.g.: taxes, levies, etc.) has an impact on the rest of the market and hampers EU competitiveness;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Strongly believes that the aviation sector should fully rely on European satellite-based technologies, such as EGNOS and Galileo, which allow safer and more efficient navigation and approach procedures while enabling the full deployment of SESAR; Therefore insists on the need for a wide implementation of these technologies;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Urmas PAET, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. ~~Believes that many of the limits to growth, both in the air and on the ground~~Acknowledges the existing connectivity gap within the EU and the importance of regional connectivity; Believes that many of the limits to growth, both in the air and on the ground (e.g. capacity crunch, under and over utilization of infrastructures, different ANSP or limited investments), can be addressed by taking connectivity as the main indicator when assessing and planning actions in the sector;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Gesine MEISSNER, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Considers that connectivity should not only be limited to number, frequency and quality of air transport services, but should also be assessed within an integrated transport network and extended to other criteria, such as time, network integration increases, affordability and environmental cost, in order to reflect the actual added value of a route; calls, therefore, on the Commission to explore the possibility of developing an EU indicator based on other existing indices and the exploratory work already carried out by Eurocontrol and the Airport Observatory;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Gesine MEISSNER, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Believes that such a type of connectivity index, without undermining the EU objective of territorial cohesion to be enhanced by the forthcoming interpretative guidelines on the Public Service Obligations' rules, can serve the overall strategic planning by distinguishing economically viable opportunities from unprofitable projects, in order to favour for instance profitable specialisation of airports and to avoid ghost airports, and by identifying intermodal and cost- efficient solutions;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Reiterates that the TEN-T corridors are the backbone for the development of multimodal options where airports are core hubs; regrets that multimodal initiatives across Europe are fragmented and limited in number; calls on both the Commission and the Member States to give greater priority to the multimodal objective within the TEN-T corridors while removing bottlenecks; calls on the Commission promptly to present its proposal for a multimodal approach to transport, with the aviation sector fully integrated;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Considers that the Commission's evaluation of the Airport Charges Directive should help clarifying whether the current provisions are an effective tool to promote competition against the risk of abuse of monopoly power and to further the interests of European consumers and promote competition, or whether a reform is needed;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Believes that the whole aviation value chain has the potential to be a strategic sector for investments, which needs to be further exploited by setting long-term objectives and by granting incentives to smart initiatives fulfilling those objectives such as greener airports or aircrafts, noise reduction, connection between airport facilities and public transport; invites the Commission and the Member States to look into further measures to promote such initiatives, including through the use of the European Fund for Strategic Investments, and to continue promoting and financing programmes such as Clean Sky and SESAR;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Takes note of the CO2 emissions generated by the aviation sector; stresses the wide range of actions already taken to achieve carbon neutral growth from 2020, both technically by developing alternative fuels and lighter aircraft, and politically by abiding to international agreements; welcomes the Commission’'s intention to review EU measures to reduce CO2 emissions from aviation in light of the outcome of the 39th Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO); is of the opinion that, in view also of the Commission’'s Circular Economy Package, further initiatives aiming at increasing environmental capacity and at reducing emissions ofand noise from operational activities from, to and within airports should be encouraged, for example by labelling "green airport" and "green way-to-airports" and by achieving the most efficient logistics management;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Urmas PAET, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Acknowledges the substantial costs spent on security measures; stresses that security challenges, including cybersecurity, posed to the aviation sector will only be greater in the future, requiring an immediate shift to a more intelligence- based and reactive security system, and an improvement of the security of airports’' facilities so that they can adapt to evolving threats without requiring constant updates, in this respect welcomes the Commission's proposal for a EU certification system for aviation security screening equipment; insist on the need for a consistent implementation of the existing regulation regarding staff recruitment and training; calls on the Commission to look into the possibility of deepening the one-stop security concept, and of developing a EU pre-check system allowing pre-registered EU travellers to go through a lighter and faster screening; urges the Member States to commit to share intelligence systematically and to exchange best practices on airport security systems; also underlines that security concerns arising from non-cooperative military flights with no active transponders and from conflict zones overflight must continue to be addressed;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2062(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Notes that relative to other transport modes, the aviation sector is already well ahead in putting the benefits of digitalisation, information and communication technologies, and open data to use, and encourages the sector to continue to take a lead in this process, while ensuring interoperability of systems and neutrality and transparency of access to information for consumers; welcomes the Commission’'s proposal for an aviation big data project and asks for clarification on its implementation;

2016/10/13
Committee: TRAN

2016/2059(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, José Inácio FARIA, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4

4. Calls on the Member States to ensure implementation of Directive 2014/94/EU on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure, within the prescribed time limits, in particular as regards the establishment of LNG refuelling points, at least along the existing TEN-T Core Network, to ensure that LNG heavy-duty motor vehicles can circulate throughout the Union, and at maritime and inland ports to enable LNG inland waterway vessels or sea-going ships to circulate throughout the TEN-T Core Network; recalls that Member States should assess, in their national policy frameworks, in close cooperation with their regional authorities, the need to install refuelling points for LNG in ports outside the TEN-T Core Network; calls on the Commission to design a financial instrument for supporting the construction of LNG refuelling points inside and outside the TEN-T Core Network;

2016/06/22
Committee: TRAN

2016/2059(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, José Inácio FARIA

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Welcomes the fact that important LNG projects (e.g. North-South corridor) are being defined as projects of common interest; calls on the Commission to fully include Balkan countries when planning the further reconstruction of gas pipeline and TEN-E network to ensure a key role of the EU energy sector in the region;

2016/06/22
Committee: TRAN

2016/2059(INI)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, José Inácio FARIA

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to present cost-effective solutions for the distribution and storage of LNG in the Union’s outermost regions and for adequate financing; stresses the need to look at all existing solutions for the storage and distribution of LNG, in particular in island regions, taking into consideration the potential evolution in demand for that fuel; calls on the Commission to encourage a process of identifying the storages of regional importance; in order to provide security, affordability and sustainability of these storages, the Commission is called upon to ensure the necessary financial help to member states to develop the necessary infrastructure and improve their existing capacity in a timely manner;

2016/06/22
Committee: TRAN

2016/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)

Aa. whereas the uncontrolled and excessive use of wild animal and plant species represents the second most serious threat to their survival in the wild, immediately following the destruction of habitats;

2016/12/09
Committee: INTA

2016/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)

Ab. whereas according to estimates, the illegal trade in wild flora and fauna is the fourth most profitable area of criminal activity, with an estimated turnover of as much as EUR 20 billion;

2016/12/09
Committee: INTA

2016/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)

1a. Expresses concern at the fact that it is the EU which, alongside the USA, makes up the greatest marketplace for illegal products of the trade in protected flora and fauna;

2016/12/09
Committee: INTA

2016/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Welcomes the positive role played by non-governmental organisations in the fight against the illegal trade in wild flora and fauna, both in the EU and on the territory of the third countries in which those wild flora and fauna originate;

2016/12/09
Committee: INTA

2016/2054(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)

19a. Recommends that the Member States ban, with no exceptions, the trade in objects made from illegal wild flora and fauna; notes that in France, trading in ivory objects made earlier than 1975 is authorised, which leaves lots of room for manoeuvre for the falsification of documents for newly produced objects;

2016/12/09
Committee: INTA

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)

1a. Considers that while strong political alliances based on common interests and shared values should continue to be the basis of the ACP partnership, a further cooperation on global issues should be strengthened and the adequate mechanisms created so as to effectively tackle better the global challenges of today, such as climate change and water, energy, food security, migration flows, terrorism, extremism, international criminality, biodiversity, health and financial issues among others;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2

2. Emphasises the negative effects of association agreements on the economies of ACP countries; takes the view that the new partnership will need to be based on developing the countries’ productive capacities, completingBelieves that the future EU-ACP relations should as far as possible, be based on the most advantageous regional integration processes, protecting traditional agriculture, and combating land grabbing, the privatisation of national natural resources and public services, and over- exploitation;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Highlights that the future partnership framework should allow for a comprehensive approach to peace and security and that, in this regard, sufficient planning and coordination should be established so as to avoid existing and possible duplications between regional and national support by the EU member states and ACP countries;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)

2b. Considers that EU-ACP partnership should try to engage further with other partners at the global level (such as AU or UN) and other international powers wherever possible, and work on an enhanced coordination and cooperation, without duplicating work or missions in order to tackle the challenges of wars, internal conflicts, insecurity, fragility and transition;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 c (new)

2c. Believes that the provisions on peace and security should be strengthened further and that the future partnership should provide for a more effective joint action on conflict prevention, including early warning and mediation, peace- building and tackling transnational security challenges in order to confront the current trans-regional security threats related to terrorism and violent extremisms, all forms of trafficking, including of human beings, of weapons and of drugs, as well as piracy by which EU and ACP countries are affected;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 d (new)

2d. Recalls that the respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law, good governance as well as other essential elements that figure in article 9 of the Cotonou Agreement constitute the foundation of the ACP-EU partnership; highlights the necessity of the respect of human rights and the importance of part 2 of article 9 of the current Cotonou Agreement and the democratic clause in it established and further developed in article 96; reminds of the importance of fully implementing those articles when necessary;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 e (new)

2e. Stresses that different CPA mechanisms such as political dialogue, financial support, appropriate measures, suspension of development cooperation, among others should be further enhanced in order to effectively contribute to the improvement of human rights, democracy, rule of law and good governance, especially the fight against corruption;

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3

3. Invites ACP countries to audit their debts with a view to their complete elimination, and invites them to claim reparations for the spoliation of natural resources by foreign multinationals, and for the wars that have been sparked; supports the United Nations working group on an international framework for sovereign debt restructuring;deleted

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2053(INI)

Javier NART, Ivo VAJGL, Norica NICOLAI, Carolina PUNSET, Paavo VÄYRYNEN, María Teresa GIMÉNEZ BARBAT, Jozo RADOŠ

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6

6. Underlines the importance of putting an end to foreign interference in the internal affairs of ACP countries, and to neocolonial policies; supports the idea of dismantling all foreign military bases.deleted

2016/06/16
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the EU is now surrounded by an arc of instability, as large parts of the Middle East and North Africa are engulfed in ethno-religious conflicts and proxy wars and terrorist groups such as ~~ISIS~~Daesh and the Jabhat al-Nusra Front proliferate throughout the region, while an aggressive, revisionist Russia continues to violate its neighbours’ sovereignty and openly challenges the European security order;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)

Aa. whereas profound changes are happening in international security landscape as societal, economic, technological and geopolitical trends point to the growing vulnerability of the world's population to shocks and stresses, including: interstate conflicts, natural disasters, extreme weather events, water crises, state collapse and cyber-attacks;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas the recent terrorist acts in European cities committed by radical jihadists linked to ~~ISIS~~Daesh are part of that group’s comprehensive strategy, complementing a land war in Syria and Iraq, an economic war aimed at the tourism industry in North Africa, as well as online propaganda and cyber-attacks;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Considers that the current crisis is also an opportunity for the EU if it is used to make the EU work better; recalls that European citizens see an effective common foreign and security policy as a priority area of action for the EU and that this is one of the areas where European cooperation can yield most value added; emphasises, therefore, that Member States must change their mentality since nowadays thinking about foreign policy and security in a narrow minded national perspective is obsolete; is convinced that no single Member State alone is able to tackle any of the challenges we face today; is firmly convinced that EU's vulnerability is a direct outcome of the lack of integration as well as lack of coordination; urges Member States to finally show sufficient levels of political will and trust in one another to make it possible to use the tools at hand in a concerted manner in order to pursue our interests and values; reiterates that the EU can only be a strong global player on an equal footing with other major powers if all Member States speak with one voice and act together in the framework of a strong EU foreign and security policy;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Stresses that an effective implementation of the EU Global Strategy presented by the VP/HR in June 2016 is not possible without strong commitment, ownership, political will and leadership from the Member States; highlights that the appropriate resources need to be allocated to the implementation of this strategy, in particular in the crucial area of security and defence; emphasises practical and financial benefits of further integrations of European defence capabilities and notes various ongoing initiatives which should be placed into a wider frame to establish a smart roadmap that will lead to a European Defence Union; calls on the Member States to follow through with concrete measures as a matter of urgency;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Is of the opinion that the Global Strategy should be revised regularly, in synchrony with the electoral cycle and the entry into office of each new Commission, in order to check if its objectives and priorities ~~still fit with the challenges and th~~are in compliance with shared intereasts;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Highlights that EU external action needs to be based on the three pillars that could be defined as the ‘three Ds’: Defence, Development and Diplomacy; is of the opinion that its paramount objective must be strengthening the EU's resilience;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Emphasises that the EU must strengthen its security and defence capabilities, as it can only use its full potential as a global power if it combines its unrivalled soft power with hard power; recalls that stronger civilian and military capacities are key elements for the EU to fully respond to crises, build the resilience of partners and protect Europe; notes that since power politics is again dominating international relations, defence and deterrence capabilities are critical for our leverage in diplomatic talks; in this regard, reiterates that the Common Security and Defence Policy needs to be strengthened and an integrated defence market should be developed, as the only realistic way to strengthen our defence capabilities in a time of budgetary constraints is to increase synergies by stepping up defence cooperation;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9a. Urges Council to resolve standing problems with financing hybrid missions and to initiate establishment of start-up fond for the urgent financing of the initial phases of military operations; calls for more flexibility in the EU's financial rules in order to support its ability to respond to crises and for the implementation of existing Lisbon Treaty provisions; calls for a reform of the Athena mechanism to extend its scope for all costs related, first to rapid reaction operations, deployment of the EU Battlegroups, then to all military operations;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – introductory part

10. Takes the view that it is of crucial importance that the instruments provided by the Treaty of Lisbon be finally implemented, notably Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO); welcomes the joint paper by the defence ministers of France and Germany on the ‘renewal of the CSDP’, and fully supports its aim of taking a positive decision on the establishment of PESCO at the November 2016 Foreign Affairs and Defence Council; urges all Member States to involve actively in the implementation of offered instruments; calls on the VP/HR to take the lead on this initiative, as well as on other recent proposals for strengthening the CSDP with a view to paving the way for further ambitious decisions on the CSDP to be taken at the November Foreign Affairs and Defence Council and the December European Council, including the following:

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – indent 1

- creating a permanent civil-military headquarters, which would strengthen strategic and operational planning, enhance civil-military cooperation and improve the EU’s ability to react speedily to crises; the progressive installation of a single command for the integrated military forces and the display of an EU insignia;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – indent 3

- extending the common financing of CSDP operations, including through aurgent and thorough review of the Athena mechanism;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Welcomes the Roadmap and the commitments of the Bratislava summit; commends launch of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Welcomes the ongoing work on the European Defence Action Plan and the Commission’s efforts to maximise defence cooperation, including through incentives in areas such as research, transport, space, cyber, energy and industrial policies; notes the proposal by the French President for a European Security and Defence Fund, and supports the development of new and innovative financing and investment concepts, like establishment of start-up fund for the urgent financing of the initial phases of military operations, including through the European Investment Bank; supports the proposals for a ‘European Semester for Defence’ and calls on the VP/HR to present concrete proposals to this effect; commends the European Defence Agency’s role in fostering and coordinating capability development, and calls for its strengthening, notably by increasing its budget;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Recognises the increasing interdependence between internal and external security, and takes the view that the current security challenges require a profound overhaul of our security policies with a view to creating a consistent and unified policy covering both internal and external dimensions, including aspects such as counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, energy security, hybrid threats, strategic communication, and critical infrastructures; urges Member States’ security services to enhance coordination, and calls on all Member States to comply with their legal obligation to share intelligence with Europol and Eurojust in the fight against terrorism and organised crime, and to that goal urges formation of European Intelligence Agency with the mission and capability to implement a de facto transversal intelligence network within the Member States allowing the European Union to react in a comprehensive and coordinated way to emerging threats; urges the EU to further strengthen its cooperation with third countries in the fight against terrorism;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Emphasises that the security of EU Member States is undividable and that in line with Article 42(7) TEU all Member States must enjoy the same level of security, and therefore should provide and partake equally by its proportion in security of the EU, and should meet given commitments; believes it is crucial to strengthen the European security architecture, which is based on the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 and which has been severely damaged by Russia’s illegal military interventions in Crimea and eastern Ukraine;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Takes the view that it is time to define a new, more realistic strategy for the EU’s relations with Russia, based on credible deterrence but also on dialogue in areas of common interest; stresses that sanctions have proven to be the most effective means for deterring Russian aggression; recalls that the full implementation of the Minsk agreement is a prerequisite for the suspension of sanctions; insists that the EU should consider imposing further sanctions in case Russia continues to violate international law; believes it is in the common interest of the EU and Russia to achieve a better relationship, provided international law is applied; recalls that obeying international law without exceptions is of utmost importance for the EU;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)

20a. Observes as the building resilience should be one of the main goals of CFSP it requires comprehensive approach of different sectors which challenge traditional approaches to foreign and security policy with use of wide range of diplomatic, security, defence, economic, trade, development and humanitarian instruments;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2036(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Gesine MEISSNER, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24

24. Recognises Turkey’s role as an important partner in solving the Syrian conflict and the fight against Da’esh; strongly condemns the attempted military coup against the democratically elected government of Turkey as well as post-coup retaliations against liberal part of society; encourages the Turkish government to protect the constitutional order and principle of secularity, while underlining the importance of respect for the rule of law ~~and~~, independence of the judiciary and freedom of speech in the aftermath of the coup, in cooperation with the Council of Europe;

2016/10/18
Committee: AFET

2016/2010(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)

Ba. whereas the use of ICT has been continuously boosting the postal services sector by providing opportunities for innovation and allowing the market to expand;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2010(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. Believes that obligations of independence can only be fulfilled if NRAs’ regulatory functions are separated from activities associated with ownership or control of a postal operator; considers that senior NRA officials should not be permitted to work for the public postal operator or other interested parties ~~immediately~~within at least six months after leaving the NRA, with a view to preventing conflicts of interest;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2010(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Calls on the Member States to use ~~State aid tools~~, only in exceptional cases, State aid tools in accordance with State Aid Rules, in a transparent and non- discriminatory manner and to ensure that customers continue to have access to postal services, by maintaining a minimum number of services at the same access point;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2016/2010(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Hannu TAKKULA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Calls on the Commission to work on a harmonised definition of universal service which stipulates a minimum level of service for consumers; calls on the Member States to further harmonise licensing procedures in order to reduce unjustified barriers within the internal market, without creating any unnecessary administrative burden;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Gesine MEISSNER, Dominique RIQUET

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 6

COM(2016)0589
Article 2, paragraph 6

Projects duplicating already existing private or public offers ~~of similar characteristics, including quality,~~ in the same area shall not be covered.

2017/03/16
Committee: TRAN

2016/0287(COD)

Jozo RADOŠ, Ivan JAKOVČIĆ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Dominique RIQUET

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1

Where Union assistance is provided to the security sector actors, this may also include military actors under exceptional circumstances as provided for in Article 3a, in particular in the context of a wider security sector reform process and/or capacity building in support of security, resilience and development in third countries, in line with the overarching objective of achieving sustainable development and maintaining a stable global security landscape.

2017/05/11
Committee: AFET

2016/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2

Regulation (EU) No 230/2014
Article 3a – paragraph 2

2. Assistance may cover in particular the provision of capacity building programmes in support of security and development, including training, mentoring and advice, as well as the provision of equipment, ~~infrastructure improvements and provision of other services~~paying attention to the adopted provisions on dual-use items as defined in Article 2(1) of Council Regulation (EC) No 428/20091a, infrastructure improvements and provision of other services. ________________ 1aCouncil Regulation (EC) No 428/2009 of 5 May 2009 setting up a Community regime for the control of exports, transfer, brokering and transit of dual-use items (OJ L 134, 29.5.2009, p. 1).

2017/05/11
Committee: AFET

2016/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2

Regulation (EU) No 230/2014
Article 3a – paragraph 4 – point b a (new)

(ba) uncontrolled and unregulated dual-use items as defined in Article 2(1) of Regulation (EC) No 428/2009;

2017/05/11
Committee: AFET

2015/2350(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Believes that the integration of WPT into urban public transport networks could considerably enhance mobility efficiency, environmental performance, quality of life, affordability and comfort in cities; calls on the Commission to fully support investments in quality hinterland infrastructure which can contribute to decrease local traffic congestion and make sure that local people are not negatively affected;

2016/06/30
Committee: TRAN

2015/2350(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Invites the Commission to propose a clear framework allocating responsibilities and costs, with a view to improving security and safety in maritime and inland transport; urges the Commission, furthermore, to address additional staff training and education of local police and authorities;

2016/06/30
Committee: TRAN

2015/2350(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Stresses the importance of the WPT sector in developing sustainable tourism and overcoming the seasonality, in particular in remote regions of the Union such as coastal and island regions; considers, furthermore, that SMEs should be a focal point for the promotion of tourism services; calls on the Commission, Member states, local and regional authorities to make fullest possible use of EU funding opportunities for SMEs;

2016/06/30
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)

- having regard to the Commission communication of 16 February 2016 on an EU strategy for liquefied natural gas and gas storage (COM(2016)049)

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. Highlights the importance of ensuring free movement of persons, goods and services, including by an efficient and sustainable freight transport system, for the development of the internal market, prosperity and economic, social and territorial cohesion of the EU;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Considers that a ~~seamless~~n EU infrastructure system ~~will only~~that is seamlessly implemented and consistent with the TEN-T already adopted will deliver ~~its~~ benefits to the logistics sector ~~if the Union’s agreed legislation is properly transposed into national law, avoiding additional legal requirements tha~~; urges the Member States to transpose legislation correctly into national law without hampering the free exchange of goods; calls on the Member States to ~~refrain from introducing new barriers~~apply and abide by European legislation, and urges the Commission to bring to the Court of Justice Member States that delay the implementation of EU law;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3

3. IHighlights that the local acceptance and implementation of cross- border infrastructures projects has become increasingly vulnerable since 2015 ; is concerned about the negative impact on the logistics sector of closures of internal borders in connection with the ‘'refugee crisis’'; calls on the Member States and the Commission to take into account freight flows ~~into account~~and the implementation of cross-border infrastructure projects when adopting such measures;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – indent 4

- aimed at accelerating uptake of new technologies, particularly LNG that will strengthen the sector’s performance;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Stresses that the ~~further~~ implementation of the core TEN-T network ~~must serve to boost integrated multimodal freight transport in the EU, in particular its core network corridors to be completed by 2030~~within the time- frames laid down, completed by 2030, will eliminate bottlenecks, improve interoperability between the various modes of transport and national, regional and local infrastructure and will deliver integrated multimodal freight transport in the EU, and also ~~the~~ national planning ~~included in~~of the comprehensive network in line with the core network, which will have to be completed by 2050;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Matthijs van MILTENBURG, Jozo RADOŠ, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Regrets that too often Member States’ national infrastructure plans are decided without reference to the TEN-T objectives; urges the Commission to increase coordination between the two levels of planning and suggests adding to the European Semester a chapter on supervising its coherence with appropriate corrective measures; calls on the Commission ~~not to prioritise~~to avoid Member State projects that are not in line with the TEN-T programming; notes that a lack of harmonization, political will and cooperation between neighbouring member states may hamper cross-border projects; calls on the Commission to strictly monitor the implementation of cross-border transport projects, in particular those of common European interest ;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12

12. Urges the Commission to propose a digital framework for electronic information exchange and transport management in multimodal transport (e- freight) in order to facilitate a simplified, paperless, seamless, transparent information flow among businesses and authorities;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Underlines the importance of innovation in the use of new technologies, such as digitalisation, access to data and data exchange as enablers for more efficient transport and logistics solutions, provided interoperability and equal and non- discriminatory access are ensured;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Highlights the need to further develop information and communication systems, fully deploying Galileo and related traffic management and information systems in all modes, providing access to all available financial tools to encourage private investment;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Highlights that EU funding targets large projects while too little attention is paid to cross-border infrastructure and facilities, particularly railway cross- border regional links; notes the projects on the comprehensive network that have significant importance for the EU are often not eligible for (co-)funding; in this regard it is important to assess the need to bridge missing links and to identify alternative possibilities for financing those projects in future; therefore highlights that cross-border infrastructure should not be neglected by the Commission and it should be as high on the European agenda as TEN-T;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Underlines the fact that soft measures such as interoperable rolling stock (low wagons, multi-gauge locomotives, etc.) can significantly alleviate interoperability constraints~~; urges~~, an aim that will be achieved through the application of the interoperability directive by all Member States; suggests that Shift 2Rail toshould analyse the EU market, as well as future developments, and toshould incentivise the availability of soft multi- operable infrastructure and rolling stock solutions to increase multimodal and combined transport;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Welcomes the Commission’s first steps to introduce fuel standards for heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) and CO2 limits; emphasizes the potential of LNG in freight transport that could contribute to the reduction of global emissions; is of the opinion that increased size of HCVs would entail a deep revision of the infrastructure and operational standards of the TEN-T network and that alternatives such as reducing ‘'empty returns’' could achieve greater efficiency gains with less impact on the infrastructure;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20

20. Considers that further measures are needed to make road transport more efficient and environmentally friendly in the logistics chain; calls for the possibility to be introduced in the core network corridors of allowing loaded HCVs running on clean alternative fuels compliant with the highest emissions, noise, safety and social standards to circulate without restrictions 365 days a year; calls on the Commission to support incentives aimed at wider use of LNG in freight transport, especially in maritime sector; insists that the core-network corridors be provided at least with alternative filling stations, LNG refuelling points and safe truck parking areas;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA, Ramon TREMOSA i BALCELLS, Pavel TELIČKA, Jozo RADOŠ, Dominique RIQUET, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Stresses the importance of improving the provision of and access to information on EU multimodal and logistics services, in particular to SMEs, transport businesses and start-ups that have limited access to this information; calls on the Commission, in cooperation with network operators, to present a handbook on multimodal transport in the EU that includes current agreements, tools, conventions, legislation and best practices;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2348(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Notes with concern that the logistics sector will face a shortage of workforce in the coming years and that slow adaptation of its workforce to new technologies, including digital technologies, could undermine the sector’s performance; calls on the Commission to identify training and learning needs at EU level, and working conditions, costs and barriers that discourage the workforce from entering the transport sector, and to propose as a matter of urgency measures to make it more attractive to young people and to future generations; regards this as an opportunity to increase the proportion of women and new entrants on the transport labour market, for example EU migrants;

2016/10/19
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)

Ba. whereas Central and Eastern Europe is an essential part of the European single market with potential to attract investment and contribute to economic growth in the entire EU;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas intensifying work on projects such as the Via Carpatia ~~and~~, Rail Baltica and the Adriatic-Ionian Corridor would provide an important stimulus for improving the connectivity and accessibility of the transport infrastructure in this part of the EU;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)

Ea. whereas Member States in Central and Eastern Europe, likewise in other part of the EU, have not always maximised their use of EU funding for various reasons, including insufficient preparation and efficiency;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Underlines the importance of coordinated project planning by Member States ~~based on~~taking into account as much as possible national master plans, while conducting realistic assessment of transport needs, cost-benefit analysis and stakeholder consultation;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. Welcomes the completion of the initial TEN-T core corridor work plans of 2015; stresses that the implementation of the core network should also stimulate the development of the comprehensive network, in particular for connections that have cross-border relevance and ~~effect~~have an impact on the consolidation of corridors;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Points out that enhancing the coherence of the economic development of the Member States in the western, central and eastern parts of the EU requires large investments; underlines that the coordination required at European level must take account of the specific challenges in the Member States ~~and the differences in their economies, social security systems and traditions~~;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Invites the Member States and the Commission to ensure synergies inand mutual complementarity of funding under the Connecting Europe Facility, the European Structural and Investment Funds and instruments of the EIB and EBRD when implementing transport infrastructure projects in the central and eastern EU~~; recalls the need to use~~ to significantly improve their utilisation and diversification; recalls the importance of using the means of the European Fund for Strategic Investments in a timely manner to advance ~~such projects in the short term~~commercially viable market- based projects;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Stresses that~~, following efforts to build up east-west transport infrastructure corridors, there is a need to boost the development of~~ equal attention should be paid to east-west and north-south transport corridors within the European TEN-T network, which can contribute to the economic development of the participating countries by creating new opportunities for employment in SMEs, start-ups, trade exchange, science, research and technologies;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Asks the Commission to further explore the integration of the Western Balkans accession countries into the TEN- T network and the cooperation on transport links with Ukraine and other neighbouring countries; welcomes the extension of TEN-T network on Western Balkans countries; calls on Western Balkan countries to continue working on six infrastructure projects and to swiftly implement "soft measures" (e.g. simplifying/aligning border crossing procedures, railway reforms, information systems) agreed during the 2015 WB Summit in Vienna; calls on the Commission to inform the European Parliament about the conclusion that will be taken during the WB 2016 Summit in France;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Asks the Commission to ~~further explo~~ensure the integration of the Western Balkans accession countries into the TEN- T network and the cooperation on transport links with Ukraine and other neighbouring countries;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Asks the Commission to further explore and propose the integration of the Western Balkans accession countries into the TEN- T network and the cooperation on transport links with Ukraine and other neighbouring countries;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10

10. Believes that improvements to the transport infrastructure and connectivity in the central and eastern EU are an important tool in strengthening the stability and security of the Union’'s eastern border and in the Western Balkans;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Stresses the importance of the Schengen system for an efficient transport system in the EU based on the free movement of goods, services and persons across open internal borders;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11a. Underlines that safety and sustainability of the transport sector are key priorities when developing infrastructures; Calls therefore on the Commission and the Member States to further encourage digitalisation and automation in all modes of transport;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. ~~Underlines the need to ensure fair road charg~~Invites the Commission to re- explore the advantages and difficulties of an integrated tolling systems in the EU~~; points out that flexibilities should be kept for Member States, owing to their particular characteristics, when establishing such systems~~ and eventually submit, on the basis of a thorough impact assessment, an appropriate proposal;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to address the urgent need to enhance the road infrastructure network ~~along the eastern border of the EU, starting in Estonia, passing through Latvia~~wherever it is underdeveloped, Lwith~~uania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and B~~ a particulgaria and ending in Greece; considers that such efforts should build on the long-standing planning done already under the Via Carpatia project; believes that the possibility of opening the Rhine-Danube corridor to the north of the EU through the Via Carpatia should be exploited attention to accessibility of cities;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Considers that efforts should build on the long-standing planning done already under the Via Carpatia project; believes that the possibility of opening the Rhine-Danube corridor to the north of the EU through the Via Carpatia should be exploited;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Calls on the Commission to complete the construction of the Adriatic- Ionian motorway in cooperation with the Member States of Slovenia, Croatia and Greece, and the western Balkan countries of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Notes a lack of road-rail connections to and from the ports; highlights that the most of the airports in Eastern Europe are located in the proximity of rail infrastructure and that integration is still technically possible; calls on the Commission to fully support further integration of multimodal transport connections (road-railway- airport) in Central and Eastern Europe;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17

17. Criticises the underinvestment in cross-border railway lines and the low level of passenger rail services in many border areas; calls on the Member States to (re-)establish missing connections and accelerate the deployment of ERTMS on the TEN-T core network corridors;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Izaskun BILBAO BARANDICA

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)

18a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to encourage cross-border projects of high speed railway connections throughout the TEN-T corridors;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Pavel TELIČKA, Martina DLABAJOVÁ, Jozo RADOŠ, Gesine MEISSNER

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Underscores the role of the Danube River as the key transport waterway in the Danube macro-region; notes that navigability of the Danube River is regulated by the obsolete Danube Convention (1946) which limits the optimal use of fleet and navigation rights; invites the riparian states to ensure the continuous navigability of the river and to implement their master plan for fairway rehabilitation and maintenance endorsed in 2014;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Encourages the Member States to increase their efforts ~~to restore and maintain~~upgrade and achieve class IV navigability of other inland waterway infrastructures, in particular river sections in the TEN-T core network; Stresses that an important upgrading of the Elbe River is needed to allow full navigability, which is essential for the Orient/East-Med corridor;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23

23. Underlines the potential for further developing attractive shipping to ports in the Baltic ~~and Black~~, Black and Adriatic Seas in the context of the ‘Motorways of the Sea’ concept; highlights the importance of expanding capacities in the energy sector and of ensuring efficient railway connections to port hinterlands;

2016/06/08
Committee: TRAN

2015/2347(INI)