Activities of Wajid KHAN
Plenary speeches (41)
Iran, notably the case of human rights defenders
Egypt, notably the situation of human rights defenders
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2017 and the European Union’s policy on the matter (debate)
Defence of academic freedom in the EU's external action (debate)
Defence of academic freedom in the EU's external action (debate)
Vietnam, notably the situation of political prisoners
The human rights situation in Bangladesh
Response to the caravan of Central American migrants at the Mexican border (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
The UAE, notably the situation of human rights defender Ahmed Mansoor
Mass arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Kazakhs in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region
Myanmar, notably the case of journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo
Somalia (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Situation of Rohingyas refugees, in particular the plight of children
Presentation of the annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2017 and the EU's policy on the matter (debate)
Situation of imprisoned EU-Iranian dual nationals in Iran
Women's rights defenders in Saudi Arabia
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Situation in Syria (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Situation in the Maldives
Situation in Syria (debate)
Current human rights situation in Turkey - Situation in Afrin, Syria (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Implementation of the Youth Employment Initiative in the Member States (debate)
El Salvador: the cases of women prosecuted for miscarriage
Situation of the Rohingya people (debate)
US President Trump’s announcement to recognise Jerusalem as capital of Israel (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Terrorist attacks in Somalia
Combating sexual harassment and abuse in the EU (debate)
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens (debate)
Minimum income policies as a tool for fighting poverty (short presentation)
Situation in Maldives
Ending child marriage (debate)
Women’s economic empowerment in the private and public sectors in the EU (short presentation)
Myanmar, in particular the situation of Rohingyas
Fire safety in buildings (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Reports (1)
REPORT on a European Parliament recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on Defence of academic freedom in the EU’s external action PDF (374 KB) DOC (55 KB)
Shadow reports (1)
REPORT on EU Guidelines and the mandate of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU PDF (363 KB) DOC (59 KB)
Institutional motions (8)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Iran, notably the case of human rights defenders PDF (150 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of Rohingya refugees, in particular the plight of children PDF (291 KB) DOC (59 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Rohingyas refugees, in particular the plight of children PDF (347 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Maldives PDF (166 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Situation in the Maldives PDF (262 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the rule of law in Malta PDF (255 KB) DOC (44 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Maldives PDF (287 KB) DOC (56 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Maldives PDF (262 KB) DOC (51 KB)
Oral questions (4)
10th anniversary of the Horizontal Directive proposal PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Major interpellation - VP/HR - EU response to sexual misconduct in aid organisations PDF (193 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Guardianship for people with intellectual disabilities PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Guardianship for people with intellectual disabilities PDF (198 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Written explanations (15)
2016 Report on Turkey (A8-0234/2017 - Kati Piri)
. ‒ Today, Labour MEPs voted in favour of suspending accession with Turkey if it goes ahead with constitutional reforms that threaten the rule of law and separation of powers. Importantly, this report makes it clear that if accession talks are suspended, any accession funding that the EU currently provides should go directly to the NGOs and civil-society organisations that are under threat in an increasingly authoritarian Turkey.
EU action for sustainability (A8-0239/2017 - Seb Dance)
EU-Kosovo Framework Agreement on the general principles for the participation of Kosovo in Union programmes (A8-0207/2017 - Ulrike Lunacek)
European standards for the 21st century (A8-0213/2017 - Marlene Mizzi)
I voted in favour of this report because it rightfully points out that the successful transition to a digital society requires a strategic approach to standardisation. Europe needs an agile, sustainable and inclusive standardisation system, with the participation and contributions of not only big industry and public authorities, but those of SMEs, consumers and citizens as well.
Towards a pan-European covered bonds framework (A8-0235/2017 - Bernd Lucke)
Due to the divergences in the national system, it is important to ensure, through EU legislation, that all covered bonds in the EU are of high quality, close to risk-free and sustainable in the long run. With this report, we called on the Commission to come forward with a proposal for a more integrated framework of national systems.
The role of fisheries-related tourism in the diversification of fisheries (A8-0221/2017 - Renata Briano)
This report aims to get the European Commission to look at ways of supporting fishers benefit from tourism to coastal communities, and will bring economic and social benefits to fishing villages. I supported this report because when actions are taken on encouraging fisheries-related tourism, employment opportunities will also grow.
Common minimum standards of civil procedure (A8-0210/2017 - Emil Radev)
As many EU citizens today reside or travel abroad, it is increasingly common for a citizen to come into contact with the justice system of another Member State. I supported this report because it aims at establishing minimum standards across the EU by strengthening the mutual recognition of judgements, cooperation between competent authorities and the judicial protection of individual rights.
Macro-financial assistance to Moldova (A8-0185/2017 - Sorin Moisă)
A longer lifetime for products: benefits for consumers and companies (A8-0214/2017 - Pascal Durand)
I voted in favour because this report rightfully points out that the modern ‘use-and-dispose’ culture is not sustainable: we must move to more environmentally friendly economic models, and extending product lifetimes could have a key role to play. Our Group strongly supports the call to move towards more sustainable production and consumption of goods.
Addressing human rights violations in the context of war crimes, and crimes against humanity, including genocide (A8-0222/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
Labour MEPs voted in favour of the report, which addresses human rights violations in context of war crimes, genocide and gender-based violence. The report reaffirms the support for the International Criminal Court, as well as urging the EU to engage more with third countries to stop human rights violations. We will now scrutinise the Commission in how it acts as a result of this report.
Working conditions and precarious employment (A8-0224/2017 - Neoklis Sylikiotis)
I voted in favour of this report because it calls for better working conditions and for policies that encourage more stable forms of employment. It defines ‘decent work’ as work that provides a living wage, respect of collective bargaining, workers’ participation in company matters, equal treatment of workers, workplace health and safety, social security protection for workers and their dependents, provisions on working and rest time, protection against dismissal, access to training and lifelong learning and support to work-life balance for all workers.
Major interpellations (1)
VP/HR - EU response to sexual misconduct in aid organisations PDF (193 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Written questions (12)
VP/HR - Domestic workers in Saudi Arabia PDF (42 KB) DOC (16 KB)
VP/HR - eSwatini PDF (44 KB) DOC (17 KB)
VP/HR - Human rights situation in the Maldives PDF (102 KB) DOC (17 KB)
EU trade with Israeli settlements PDF (101 KB) DOC (18 KB)
VP/HR - Follow-up on the Council's conclusions on Myanmar of 26 February 2018 and its decision 2018/655 PDF (199 KB) DOC (19 KB)
VP/HR - Human rights violations in the Chittagong Hills Tracts (CHT) PDF (101 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Detention of unaccompanied children in police station cells in Greece PDF (200 KB) DOC (19 KB)
VP/HR - The arrest and prosecution of Reuters journalists in Myanmar PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
EU development projects and humanitarian aid in Myanmar - red lines PDF (100 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Persecution of Rohingya civilians in Myanmar PDF (102 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Sexual violence against Rohingya women and girls in Myanmar PDF (99 KB) DOC (18 KB)
VP/HR - The case of Palestinian human rights defender Issa Amro and the Palestinian Cyber Crime Law PDF (193 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Amendments (164)
Amendment 65 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas new areas of tension between the EU and Russia have arisen since 2015, including: Russian intervention in Syria; large-scale military exercises (Zapad 2017); russian interference aimed at influencing elections and referenda, stoking tensions in European societies; restrictions on fundamental freedoms and extensive human rights violations in Russia, including the systemic targeting of human rights defenders and civil society in Russia, discrimination against the Tatar minority in occupied Crimea, and the politically motivated persecution of Alexei Navalny and many others; cyber attacks and assassinations on European soil carried out by Russian intelligence agents using chemical weapons; the intimidation, arrest and imprisonment of foreign citizens in Russia in breach of international law, including Oleg Sentsov and many others; the organisation of illegal and illegitimate elections in the Donbas; flawed presidential elections lacking any real choice and with restrictions on fundamental freedoms; violations of arms control agreements;
Amendment 171 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Believes, however, that the Skripal case andhemical weapons attack in Salisbury and the NotPetya cyber attacks orchestrated by the Russian intelligence services show an interest onboth constitute international wrongful acts and show that the Russian side seeks to further increase tensions in relations with the EU and its Member States;
Amendment 178 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Believes that Russian state actors interfered in the Brexit referendum campaign using overt and covert means including social media and potentially illegal financial support, currently under investigation by UK authorities;
Amendment 225 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Condemns Russia’s violation of the territorial integrity of neighbouring countries through the illegal kidnapping of citizens of those countries so that they can be charged before a Russian court; further condemns Russia's abuse of Interpol by issuing 'wanted person alerts' - so called "red notices" to persecute political opponents;
Amendment 25 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas FoRB implies the right of the individual to choose what to believetheir beliefs or lack of them, the right to leave or change one’s religion and convictions without any constraints, and the right to practise and manifest the religion of one’s choice, whether individually or in community and whether in private or in public; whereas the manifestation of religion or belief can be expressed in worship, teaching, practice and observance; whereas FoRB entails the right of believers’ communities to preserve their ethos and to act in accordance with it, and the entitlement for their religious organisations to have recognised legal personality; whereas protecting individuals adhering to any religion or none and effectively addressing violations of FoRB, such as discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief, are primordial conditions to ensure that individuals may enjoy FoRB on an equal basis;
Amendment 27 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas theistic, non-theistic and atheistic beliefs, as well as the right not to profess any religion or belief are also protected under Article 18 ICCPR, whereas holding or not holding a religion or belief is an absolute right and may not be limited under any circumstances;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas FoRB is indivisible, is interdependent on and interrelated to fundamental freedomsreedom of expression and other human rights, and is a cornerstone human right that protects the core of human dignitytogether they play an important role in the fight against all forms of intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief;
Amendment 33 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the unfettered exercise of FoRB directly contributes to democracy, development, the rule of law, peace and stability; whereas violations of FoRB are increasingly widespread, affect people in all parts of the world and may exacerbate intolerance, often constituting early indicators of potential violence and conflicts;
Amendment 38 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas states have a primary role in ensuring FoRB, and must ensure that their legal system provide adequate and effective guarantees of freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief to all, and that these provisions are properly enforced; whereas states must exercise due diligence to prevent, investigate and punish acts of violence, or the threat thereof, against persons based on their religion or belief, as well as ensure accountability in case such violations occur;
Amendment 41 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas religious restrictions and hostilities, imposed by governments or societies, still persist in many countries; whereas certain religious minorities have faced heightened threat and persecution from state and non-state actors; whereas human rights defenders around the world fighting for FoRB are coming under increasing threat and attacks;
Amendment 49 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that religion or belief is an important undeniable pillar of human identityfreedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief is a universal human right, greatly impacting all individuals and societies, and is therefore a realityprinciple that must not be neglected or denied in policies but requires proper recognition and addressing;
Amendment 59 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Affirms that the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, commonly referred as freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), as a fundamental human right and a founding value of the EU, has to be duly protected, promoted and safeguarded by all actoreverywhere, including in EU member states; underscores the duty of states to guarantee FoRB and treat all individuals equally, without discrimination on the basis of their religion or belief; including persons holding non-theistic or atheistic beliefs, religious minorities and indigenous people; in order to preserve peaceful, democratic and pluralistic societies that are respectful of diversity and beliefs;
Amendment 101 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Deplores the fact that some countries have, enforce or seek to introduce penal laws providing punishment for blasphemy, conversion or apostasy, including the death penalty; deplores the fact that such laws are often used as a form of anti-minority oppression, as well as political oppression, also draws attention to the situation of some other countries facing or being at risk of conflicts of a religious dimension; calls for the EU to prioritise in its foreign policy efforts towards all the countries concerned with a view to the repeal of such discriminatory laws;
Amendment 111 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the fact that the Special Envoy has developed effective working networks within the Commission, the Council, and the European Parliament, as well as with other stakeholders; deploregrets, however, the fact that the Special Envoy’s mandate was not established and consolidated with sufficient human and financial resources;
Amendment 119 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Council and the Commission to strengthen the Special Envoy’s institutional mandate and capacity, by earmarking funding and human resources adequate to the Envoy’s duties, developing a systemic institutionalisation of working networks established by the Special Envoy within all relevant EU institutions or establishing the position of the EU Special Representative for FoRB;
Amendment 125 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – introductory part
Paragraph 12 – introductory part
12. Calls on the Council and the Commission to reflect on creating the EU Special Representative for FoRB; considers that the competences andSuggests that the role of the Special Envoy should be expanded to include competences such as enhancing the visibility, effectiveness, coherence and accountability of the EU’s FoRB policy outside the EU, providing the European Parliament, the Council, the Vice- President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Commission with an annual progress report and a comprehensive implementation report on the mandate ofat this Special Representative should include:e end thereof and working in close cooperation with the Council Working Group on Human Rights (COHOM);
Amendment 128 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – point a
Paragraph 12 – point a
Amendment 129 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – point b
Paragraph 12 – point b
Amendment 131 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – point c
Paragraph 12 – point c
Amendment 133 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – point d
Paragraph 12 – point d
Amendment 134 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – point e
Paragraph 12 – point e
Amendment 143 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for the term of office of the Special Envoy to be extended to a multi- year term, corresponding to the term of the Commission, subject to a mid-term review;
Amendment 151 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 179 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Commends, in this respect, the efforts made to date by the EEAS and the Commission to provide training on religious literacy to EU officials and national diplomats; stresses, however, the need for broader and more systematic training programmes which would raise awareness of and increase the use of the EU Guidelines among the EU’s and Member States’ officials and diplomats and strengthen cooperation with the Special Envoy; asks for churches and religious communities and associations, as well as non-confessional organisations, human rights and civil society organisations to be involved in this training process; calls on the Commission and the Council to earmark resources for establishingprovide adequate resources to such training programmes;
Amendment 190 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Underlines the responsibilities fulfilled by human rights focal points within all EU Delegations and CSDP Missions; calls for the designating of FoRB-specific focal points in every EU Delegation and CSDP Mission; calls for more resources to be allocated to EU Delegations and CSDP Missions so as to allow them to carry out their work of promoting FoRBmonitoring, assessing and reporting situations of concern with regard to respect for FoRB in third countries;
Amendment 202 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 217 #
2018/2155(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Stresses that the EU’s policies in the fields of peace, security and conflict prevention and development and cooperation face challenges, for which solutions can be devised with the participation of churches, religious leaders, academics, religious communities and associations or faith-based organisations, as well as non-confessional organisations, and human rights organisations that are a critical part of civil society; acknowledges the importance of being mindful of the diversity of churches, religious communities and associations and faith-basedfferent religious identities of the organisations which perform actual development and humanitarian work for and with communities; calls on the Council and the Commission to incorporate, where relevant, objectives and activities relating to the promotion and protection of FoRB into the programming of funding instruments linked to those policies, namely the EDF, the DCI, the ENI, the IcSP and the IPA;
Amendment 35 #
2018/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is concerned about the marked slowdown in the pace of reforms due to disagreements between parties and the pre- electoral campaign that started very early; stresses that the declared commitment of the BiH authorities to the European path must be matched by consistent implementation of reforms stemming from the Reform Agenda and translated into concrete results including alignment on CFSP, to the benefit of citizens; regrets that, apart from the adoption of the countrywide strategies in the field of the environment and rural development, and of some important reform measures, such as the Law on Excise Duties, no substantial progress has been achieved;
Amendment 79 #
2018/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Renews its call for the adoption of a countrywide strategy on human rights; underlines that amendments to the Ombudsman Law should be adopted as soon as possible, in order to ensure compliance with the Paris Principles; urges once more the authorities in Republika Srpska to repeal the provision on the death penalty from the entity’s constitution; reiterates the need to ensure non- discriminatory access to justice throughout the country through a harmonised and sustainable system of free legal aid; urges in political parties BiH to do more to ensure women are represented at all levels of the political system;
Amendment 141 #
2018/2148(INI)
14. Urges that action be taken to significantly improve track records in the area of prevention and repression of corruption, including measures to impose effective and deterrent sanctions, including the confiscation of assets criminally gained; stresses that particular attention should be given to conducting effective checks on the financing of political parties and electoral campaigns and to improving public access to and oversight over the asset declarations of public officials, including those standing for election; calls for the GRECO recommendations to be addresses, notably those on political party financing and conflicts of interest; deems it essential for BiH to adopt a law on conflicts of interest in accordance with European and international standards;
Amendment 176 #
2018/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Acknowledges that some progress has been made by BiH regarding economic development and competitiveness, but notes that the country is still at an early stage of establishing a functioning market economy; strongly believes that advancing socio-economic reforms, together with trade unions, should be a high priority up to the elections and beyond;
Amendment 42 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that the thorough implementation of reforms and policies remains 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; warns against the consequences of inadequate transposition of important EU laws on the alignment with the acquis;
Amendment 52 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
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 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; underlines thatis concerned about the impact of the restructuring and privatisation of state- owned enterprises has partially advancedon workers and the weak labour market as a whole; stresses the paramount importance to Serbia’s economy of small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) and calls for a more transparent and less burdensome business environment that will further encourage private investments;
Amendment 56 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Acknowledges the slight decrease of the risk-of-poverty rate but raises concern about persistent unemployment, especially among the young, one of the most vulnerable sections of Serbian society; stresses the importance of investments in education and training, including by addressing the gap between skills and labour demand, in preventing brain drain and the proliferation of precarious jobs. Similarly, there is little progress as regards women's position, who enjoy lower employment and productivity rates, as well as lower salaries compared to men;
Amendment 62 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Takes note of the presidential elections on 2 April 2017; welcomes the general conduct of the elections; calls on the authorities to fully address the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission; and calls on the authorities to ensure that procedures and laws for free and fair elections are in line with international standards; calls on the authorities to fully address the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission and to engage in a 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;
Amendment 78 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Recognises Serbia’s commitment to military neutrality; in that context welcomes Serbia’s efforts to foster dialogue and cooperation with NATO; welcomes Serbia’s involvement in the EU’s EUNAVFOR CSDP mission;
Amendment 89 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
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, to reduce delays in court decisions and to establish a free legal aid system ensuring the broad range of free legal aid providers, including civil society organisations;
Amendment 94 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Reiterates the importance of intensifying the fight against corruption and urges Serbia to show a clear commitment to tackle this issuecreate a culture of accountability on all levels of society; welcomes the adoption of the amendments made in the economic crimes section of the country’s criminal code and encourages Serbia to amend criminal offences provisions set in other laws; 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 and existing legislation and policies; 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; urges Serbia to adopt or change other necessary anti- corruption legislation, as identified in the Action Plan for chapter 23 of negotiations and recommendations of GRECO and ODIHR; 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; underlines the importance that the members of the Anti-Corruption Agency are elected according to the principles of transparency and the absence of conflict of interest or the existing political affiliation and invites Serbian Parliament to finalize election process of the Agency Board members in a transparent and democratic manner; calls on the authorities to fill all open positions in the Agency; calls on Serbia to further improve its track record on investigations, indictments and final convictions in high-level corruption cases; , to publish related statistics and elaborated information about results of investigations in all publicly known cases of alleged corruption of public officials on regular basis;
Amendment 101 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Welcomes Serbia's progress on the fight against corruption and organised crime; encourages Serbia to improve its system of non-conviction based forfeiture of assets on the basis of civil law in line with the EU acquis;
Amendment 117 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
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; calls for additional measures to ensure cross-party dialogue, and effective involvement of civil society in the work of the parliament and the government; 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; urges the Serbian Parliament to address recommendations of the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO), in particular with regard to corruption prevention and conflicts of interest, and to adopt the Code of Conduct; stresses that the role of independent regulatory bodies, including the country’s Ombudsman, needs to be fully acknowledged and supported;
Amendment 123 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Is concerned that important laws continue to be adopted by emergency procedure, and calls on the government to have a proper and regular consultation with interested parties, acritical element of a functional democratic society;
Amendment 137 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Welcomes Serbia’s progress in reforming its public administration, notably through the adoption of several new laws on public service salaries and employment relations, on local government and autonomous province salaries, and on the national training academy; stresses that political influence on senior managerial appointments remains an issue of concern; welcomes the creation of a Ministry for European Integration, incorporating the structures of the former Serbian European Integration Office, which has continued to provide political guidance for European integration; urges Serbia to do more to demonstrate the local benefits that Serbian citizens enjoy from the EU's IPA II funding;
Amendment 146 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
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 the 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; calls on Serbia to actively pursue investigations, prosecutions and convictions of hate- motivated crimes; underlines that the legislative and institutional framework for upholding human rights of children and adults with disabilities has shortcomings.;
Amendment 153 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Welcomes Serbia's ratification of the Istanbul Convention and recent law on domestic violence; however, serious gaps remain in the law which need addressing and urges Serbia to quickly implement all recommendations which will follow from its first state report on the implementation of the Istanbul Convention;
Amendment 161 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
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; notes, in this regard, that while several cases have been solved and some criminal charges have been filed, convictions are still rare; calls upon the highest state officials to be consistent in public condemnation of any form of intimidation of journalists, national judiciary to react in accordance with the law and of state officials at all levels to refrain from such behaviour; welcomes the effort of the Standing working group that was established through the Agreement on Cooperation and Measures for Increasing the Safety of Journalists and calls upon the authorities to demonstrate full commitment to investigate and prosecute any cases of attacks against journalists and media outlets calls on the authorities to investigate and prosecute any cases of attacks against journalists and media outlets; calls for the full implementation of media laws and the strengthening of the independence of the country’s Regulatory Body for Electronic Media; welcomes the renewed efforts to adopt a media strategy to createstrengthen a pluralistic media environment, and calls on Serbian authorities to take action against disinformation; 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;
Amendment 178 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 195 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
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; highlights the importance of formulating policies that will combat discrimination against Roma;
Amendment 198 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
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; welcomes the strategy's recognition that Roma women face particular discrimination as a result of both gender and Roma discrimination; calls for full implementation of the new strategy for Roma inclusion and the action plan;
Amendment 209 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the adoption of a national strategy for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes; welcomes the appointment in May 2017 of a new war crimes prosecutor; reiterates its call for the implementation of this 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 cooperate fully with its regional partners in war crime 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, 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;
Amendment 233 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Welcomes Serbia's efforts to prioritise infrastructure investments and underlines the importance of increased connectivity within the Western Balkans, as well as between the Western Balkans and the European Union, a key factor for growth and jobs which will bring clear benefits for the region’s economies and citizens. Recalls also that the adoption of technical standards and the implementation of soft measures such as aligning and simplifying border crossing procedures, railway reforms, information systems, road safety and maintenance schemes, third party access and strengthening the capacity of social partners are equally important to the economy but also for improving public services;
Amendment 237 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6 a (new)
Subheading 6 a (new)
Social dialogue, trade union rights and labour relations
Amendment 238 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6 b (new)
Subheading 6 b (new)
Recalls that one of the pillars of the European social model is social dialogue, a fundamental tool for advocating the rights of all citizens, and that trade union rights including the right to strike should be respected in line with international standards. Regular consultation between the government and social partners is instrumental in the prevention of social tension and conflict, particularly during economic crisis and transformation processes, as well as for advancing the technology and workers qualification necessary for the socio-economic development of any European community;
Amendment 239 #
2018/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6 c (new)
Subheading 6 c (new)
Underlines that it is essential for social dialogue to go beyond the exchange of information, and interested parties should be consulted on important laws before they enter parliamentary procedure. Therefore, calls on the Serbian authorities to strengthen the capacity of social partners and make full use of the problem-solving potential of social dialogue, facilitate joint meetings and foster a culture of mutual understanding; recalls that labour market policies will have to tackle persistent unemployment, the rise of atypical and precarious jobs and the integration of employees of former state-owned companies; regrettably, the trade union movement in Serbia is fragmented, often confined to the public sector only, and its members face a number of difficulties in negotiating and concluding collective agreements with employers;
Amendment 33 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the efforts made to improve the transparency of public administration, and information sharing but would encourage steps towards establishing a more citizen-friendly, professional and de-politicised public administration and criminal justice system; calls for improved regulatory impact assessments and inclusive public consultations;
Amendment 41 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
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 including the use of non-conviction based asset forfeiture;
Amendment 73 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
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; urges Montenegro to better demonstrate to citizens how IPA II funding has benefited Montenegrin citizens;
Amendment 79 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Urges improvement in the enforcement and monitoring mechanisms for human rights protection, including bywelcomes however efforts taken so far on the implementation of the Istanbul Convention but believes more can be done to tacklinge violence against women and children;
Amendment 96 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes the progress made by Montenegro in ensuring macroeconomic stability and fiscal consolidation, and calls for further improvements to its public debt ratio, budget transparency, employment and business environment; stresses that corruption, the informal economy, rule-of- law deficiencies and cumbersome regulatory procedures continue to deter growth and investment; stresses that the European social model requires dialogue with all economic stakeholders including trade unions;
Amendment 106 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Welcomes regulatory changes in the field of education; urges the authorities to address the high long-term unemployment rate among youth and women, including through gender impact assessments prior to all regulatory changes;
Amendment 141 #
2018/2144(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Recalls the strategic importance of Montenegro’s NATO accession for ensuring stability and peace in the Western Balkans; reiterates that NATO's Article 5 commitment remains unwavering regardless of statements made by the US President;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas this definition must be grounded in core democratic and higher education values, including equitable access and anti-discrimination principles, accountability, institutional autonomy and social responsibility;
Amendment 26 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas every year hundreds of attacks on universmembers of higher education communities are reported around the world, including killings, violence, and disappearances, wrongful imprisonment/detention, wrongful prosecution, loss of position and travel restrictionswrongful dismissal/loss of position/expulsion from study, restrictions on travel or movement, and other extreme or systemic threats; whereas these types of threat are frequent and widespread;
Amendment 31 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the attempts to control or silence higher education institutions or their scholars, students and staff extend well beyond the individuals and institutions directly targeted and affect society at large by shrinking the space for the inclusive democratic participation and empowerment of all citizens and depriving future generations of high-quality academics and researchers;
Amendment 38 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas it is important to identify attacks on academic freedom as part of global phenomena, and to encourage the recognition of academics and students being targeted not only as individuals whose rights are being violated, but also as human rights defenders who are being attacked; whereas a robust response is needed at the international and national levels, from within higher education itself as well as civil society and the public at large;
Amendment 47 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas funding limitations restrict the actions of organisations and universities in the EU that already support students and scholars who are at risk or flee their countries as a result of the threat of persecution for their academic engagement; whereas these organisations and universities require more assistance for their actions and initiatives;
Amendment 66 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) demonstrate support for the institutions, academicsstaff and students that are at risk or have been the victims of coercion or violent attacks, and publicly condemn such attacks, by raising the issue at all levels, including through statements, visits, invitations to public appearances and trial and prison monitoring and specific references to individual cases of members of higher education communities at risk;
Amendment 74 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(d a) encourage all states to endorse and implement the Safe Schools Declaration and its accompanying Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use during Armed Conflict, as most EU Member States have already done, which is a guidance on the responsibility to protect core values, especially academic freedom and institutional autonomy, in the context of violent and coercive attacks on higher education;
Amendment 79 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
(e a) engage and encourage regular dialogue with university communities as well as organisations whose mission is to protect higher education communities and promote academic freedom, in order to develop the best policy frameworks, initiatives and advocacy strategies for academic freedom;
Amendment 81 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) foster work on research and advocacy aimed at reforming legislation and regulations imposing undue restrictions on academic freedom or the academic autonomy of higher education institutions, and to promote institutional autonomy as one of the best ways of protecting systems of higher education from state interference or attacks and preserving higher education against politicisation and ideological manipulation;
Amendment 84 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) step up diplomatic efforts with partner countries through bilateral and multilateral engagement in relation to incidents of concern involving threats or attacks on academic freedom, particularly violent attacks on institutions and members of the higher education community, also including discriminatory policies or practices, undue restrictions on research or expression, wrongful prosecution or detention; encourage partner countries to set a framework for academic freedom and institutional autonomy and to monitor the implementation of these fundamental rights; ensure that any international cooperation agreements with partner countries respect these principles;
Amendment 89 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) revisit existing support and protection mechanisms for human rights defenders in order to develop the capacity to identify and assistprovide assistance, including emergency protection and support, in cases involving attacks on academic freedom, including through physical protection, legal and visa support, medical support, trial and prison monitoring, advocacy and lobbying, and long-term support during exile;
Amendment 90 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) review existing programmes and resources for academic mobility and other forms of education and research cooperation, including their criteria, application procedures, requirements, timeframes, and schedules, for the purpose of eliminating obstacles which might preclude otherwise qualified at-risk academics or students from being able to obtain access to programme opportunities, placements or other resources; promote the existing projects financed by the EU, such as the 'Academic Refuge', which strive to raise greater awareness of the importance of academic freedom in the higher education sector and the consequences for society at large when this freedom is repressed;
Amendment 96 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) create new initiatives within existing programmes, such as Horizon 2020, Erasmus+ and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions of new EU- funded programmeactions to support the placement of at-risk academics and, researchers and full degree students with international protection status at European higher education and research institutions, potentially developed and funded in synergies with funding from non- education and research budgets and funds of the Union;
Amendment 110 #
2018/2115(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph h
Paragraph h
h) to regulate, together with the Member States, the actions of social media companies and ensure their full transparency and accountability, in particular making it possibleclear to uncovsers the identity and location not only of the authors, but also the sponsors of the submitted political content stressing that social media companies have a responsibility to speedily take down systemic fake news;
Amendment 258 #
2018/2115(INI)
za) to propose legislation to address data use in election campaigning, following the exposure of data misuse by Cambridge Analytica in the 2016 UK referendum campaign, in order to further safeguard future election campaigns from undue influence;
Amendment 178 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Reaffirms that freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief, and the rights to apostasy, to change one's religion or belief and to espouse atheistic views, must be enhanced unconditionally through interreligious and intercultural dialogue; condemns the discrimination based on religion or belief, the persecution of and attacks against ethnic and religious groups in 2017; deplores the attempts by state actors to limit freedom of religion and belief and freedom of expression by adopting and implementing blasphemy laws, among other means; requests that further action be taken to protect religious minorities, non-believers and atheists, including the victims of blasphemy laws, and calls for the EU and its Member States to increase their engagement in political discussions to repeal such laws; supports the EU’s efforts to implement the Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief;
Amendment 230 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the EU’s signature of the Istanbul Convention and urges all Member States to enforce and implement it without a delay; stresses the need to combat by all means violence against women, including domestic violence; supports, in this connection, the joint EU- UN Spotlight Initiative; urges countries to step up their legislation in order to tackle, at the earliest possible stage, gender-based violence, female genital mutilation and sexual violence, while promoting gender equality; reminds that violence against women is deeply rooted in gender inequality, therefore needs to be addressed comprehensively; stresses that reliable statistics on the prevalence, causes and consequences of all types of violence against women are essential to develop effective legislation and strategies to combat gender-based violence; calls therefore on the EU to help countries improve data collection in this area and meet international legal obligations; asks the EU to work with other countries to step up funding and programming for the prevention of and response to sexual and gender-based violence worldwide; condemns the frequent violation of women’s sexual and reproductive rights; emphasises that proper, affordable healthcare and universal respect for and access to sexual and reproductive rights and education should be guaranteed for all women;
Amendment 244 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Urges the Commission to lead in tackling sexual exploitation and abuse in the humanitarian and development aid sectors, as the sectors should have the highest standards of responsibility and accountability for their work; calls upon the Commission to work with EU humanitarian actors, governments, international donors, and in dialogue with civil society, to review and reinforce safeguarding procedures and rules of engagement, focusing on prevention, reporting, whistleblowing, complaint mechanisms and sanctions;
Amendment 317 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Encourages all countries, including the Member States, and the EU to engage in the negotiations to adopt a legally binding international human rights instrument for transnational corporations and other companies with respect to human rights, through active participation in the UN-established open-ended intergovernmental working group; welcomes the adoption of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and calls for their universal application; recognises the major importance of the UN Global Compact and the National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights; encourages companies, including EU-based companies, to exercise due diligence; calls on all countries to swiftly implement the UNGPs and guarantee that businesses in their jurisdictions abide by human rights and social labour standards; encourages all countries to tackle companies which use raw materials or other commodities originating from conflict zones; reiterates its call to include the rules of corporate liability for human rights violations into trade and investment agreements; emphasises that the victims of business- related human rights abuses should be guaranteed effective access to remedies;
Amendment 324 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Considers GSP+ trade schemes to be one of the main EU trade policy instruments for promoting human rights and environmental standards with third countries; calls on the Commission to review and better monitor GSP+ schemes in order to ensure that human rights standards are upheld by beneficiary countries; insists also to strengthen civil society participation in the implementation and monitoring of the GSP schemes;
Amendment 348 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Urges the governments of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, to stop the discriminatory measures taken since June 2017 against Qatari nationals, in particular those affecting mixed families, students, property owners, and pilgrims banned from travelling to Mecca for Hajj; praises the efforts made by the Qatari National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in supporting the victims of these violations; calls on the European Union to encourage all diplomatic efforts in resolving the situation;
Amendment 351 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Paragraph 29 b (new)
29b. Highlights the recent UN OHCHR report on human rights in Kashmir; asks the EU to push at the UN Human Rights Council to consider the establishment of a commission of inquiry to conduct a comprehensive independent international investigation into allegations of human rights violations in Kashmir, as recommended in the report; deplores the means used by the Indian security forces, including the use of pellet guns, to control expression of dissent on the part of ordinary citizens, which have resulted in numerous fatalities and permanent injuries; believes that such methods have no place in law enforcement and calls for the EU to pressure India to ensure that these methods are banned immediately;
Amendment 354 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 c (new)
Paragraph 29 c (new)
29c. Strongly condemns the Israeli government's disproportionate approach to protests; urges Israel to respect the principle of proportionality, to respect the right to peaceful protest and to act with utmost restraint in all future situations where civilian lives are at risk; calls upon the EU to work for a two-state solution by encouraging the resumption of talks between the two parties;
Amendment 385 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Takes the view that sport can play a positive role in the promotion of human rights; regrets the fact, however, that there is a specific correlation between certain human rights abuses and major sporting events in host or candidate countries, abuses such as evictions, the silencing of civil society and human rights defenders and the exploitation of workers for the construction of large sporting facilities; calls on international and domestic sporting bodies and organisations and the host countries of major events to commit to good governance and human rights practiceto ensure environmental protection, protection of human rights, including labour rights and media freedom, and to implement anti- corruption measures in the lead-up to and during major sport events;
Amendment 46 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the EU’s aspirational global leadership has been undermined as a result of the financial crisis, rising Euroscepticism, the proliferation of crises on our doorstep and rising scepticism of European public opinion on the projection of force abroad, which has givengiving rise to a tendency to respond to events rather than to shape them, nonetheless the EU remains the world leader in regulatory standards;
Amendment 55 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
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 Russiaexerting economic power or Russia using hybrid threats;
Amendment 60 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal and impose secondary sanctions on European companies doing business with Iran has shown the limits of European economic sovereignty, particularly reliance on the dollar trading system;
Amendment 76 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the time has come for the European Union to take its destiny into its own hands; takes the view that the EU should embrace its role as a fully-fledged, sovereign political and economic power in international relations that helps to resolve conflicts worldwide and shapes global governance;
Amendment 88 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is convinced that no single EU Member State can respond effectively to today’s global challenges on its own; believes that, by pulling their weight together within the EU, the Member States can exert an influence on the world stage that they would not otherwise possess; is convinced that 28 Member States together, representing 500 million citizens, have more leverage in international negotiations and in setting international regulations and standards; believes, moreover, that under the protection of the EU's social model, globalisation can represent an opportunity for EU citizens and not a threat;
Amendment 90 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is convinced that no single EU Member State can respond effectively to today’s global challenges on its own; believes that, by pulling their weight together within the EU, the Member States can exert an influence on the world stage that they would not otherwise possess; is convinced that 28 Member States together, representing 500 million citizens, have more leverage in international negotiations, in promoting human rights and accountability, and in setting international regulations and standards; believes, moreover, that under the protection of the EU, globalisation can represent an opportunity for EU citizens and not a threat;
Amendment 111 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that, taking the 28 Member States as a whole, the EU is the world’s largest economy with more than half a billion people, the Euro is the second most important reserve currency; stresses that the EU is also the world’s leading development aid donor;
Amendment 142 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
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; notes that the wealth of corrupt foreign officials and oligarchs is often stored in the EU and calls on the EU and Member States to adopt Unexplained Wealth Orders to tackle corruption in third countries;
Amendment 144 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
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; and the use of EU's instruments to stop human rights violations in third countries has been successful; urges stepping up efforts to make best use of trade instruments as leverage to demand concrete improvements in partner countries' human rights record, ensuring that no trade agreement is ratified until human rights benchmarks are met and robust progress in human rights records is demonstrated;
Amendment 177 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the EEAS to invest in collective leadership and develop ‘issue- based coalitions’ with like-minded countries, to support a rules-based international order, multilateralism and free trade, and to pursue cooperative solutions to global challenges; calls on the EEAS to engage with emerging powers in the provision of global public goods such as peace and security, including by working together on crisis management operations around the world, defence and promotion of human rights, climate change mitigation, financial stability, and clean air and water;
Amendment 191 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the EU’s increasing role in post-conflict reconstruction as a means of securing peace recalling the increased success of conflict resolution when women have a formal role in the process;
Amendment 196 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Continue to make progress in including women’s voices in the field of security and post-conflict reconstruction and ensuring women’s participation in EU military and civilian missions and operations, as critical to shaping solutions for lasting peace; encourage third countries to fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and subsequent resolutions on gender-based violence, and to support greater gender diversity in political leadership and within security forces and their increased participation in peace processes;
Amendment 221 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
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, its attacks on the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other refusals to adhere to international rule of law;
Amendment 294 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Believes that, despite their importance, soft power and institution building alone are not sufficient to exert influence in a world where power politics and hard power are increasingly significant; believes that the effectiveness of the EU’s foreign policy will ultimately depend, to a large extent, on the resources and capabilities that support it, working with NATO and other like-minded countries;
Amendment 320 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
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, particularly in cyber defence, to defend their values and interests around the world; calls on the EEAS to work towards a treaty on fully autonomous weapons systems;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2090(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights the vital role of education, training and re-training that is available for all as the best investment in the EU’s future; strongly believes that digital transformation has a great impact on education systems; stresses that digital competencies are of growing importance for every individual and underlines that in the future, nearly all jobs will require digital skills;
Amendment 30 #
2018/2090(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that sufficient infrastructure offering high-quality and accessible connectivity for all citizens is of great importance; highlights the need to close the digital divide by creating an investment- friendly environment and fostering digital infrastructure such as high-capacity broadband networks;
Amendment 34 #
2018/2090(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the vital role of high- capacity broadband networks, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence as the backbone of future education and training schemes; underlines the importance of introducing coding classes in all schools, universities and colleges and encouraging schools to participate in the EU Code Week; emphasises the need for access to classes for vulnerable people and those who may not have access to these schemes through education systems;
Amendment 56 #
2018/2090(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Highlights the gap in access to education and digital skills for the most vulnerable in society; emphasises that equal access and the opportunity to learn digital skills for women and girls should be incorporated and encouraged.
Amendment 83 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas cyber defence is an important consideration at all stages of the planning process as well as requiring constant monitoring, and whereas adequate capabilities need to be available to mainstream it fully into mission planning and provide continuous critical support;
Amendment 92 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas different state actors – Russia, China 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, cyber-espionage, aiding disinformation campaigns and limiting access to the internet (such as Wannacry, NonPetyafor which North Korea is culpable and NotPetya, for which Russia is culpable); whereas such activities could constitute wrongful acts under international law and could lead to a joint EU response, such as using the EU cyber diplomacy toolbox;
Amendment 132 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
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 and that due to EU initiatives such as the digital single market, the EU is well placed to take a leading role in developing European cyber defence strategies;
Amendment 146 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Strongly emphasises, therefore, that, in the framework of the emerging European Defence Union, cyber defence capabilities of Member States should be closely integrated from the start to ensure maximum efficiency; urges, therefore, the Member States to cooperate closely in the development of their respective cyber commands and that therefore cyber defence should be at the forefront of the European Defence Union;
Amendment 166 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Emphasises that cyber defence should be considered an operational task for CSDP missions and operations, and that it should be included in all CSDP planning processes; ensuring cyber security is constantly considered throughout the planning process thereby reducing cyber vulnerability gaps;
Amendment 171 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recognises that planning a successful CSDP mission or operation requires substantial cyber defence expertise, both at operational headquarters and within the mission itself, to conduct a thorough threat assessment and provide adequate protection in the field; calls on the EEAS, and on the Member States providing headquarters for CSDP operations, to strengthen their cyber defence expertise to ensure the safety of the EU’s missions; notes that there is a limit to how well any CSDP mission can be prepared to protect itself from cyber attacks and that CSDP missions should anticipate operating in a contested cyberspace environment and may find themselves with limited access to information;
Amendment 181 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
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 officerspersonnel, of whatever level; stresses that there is a need for more experts in the cyber defence domain and; calls on the military academies to pay more attention to, and create more possibilities in, the field of cyber defence education as well as appropriate funding;
Amendment 200 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Believes that such initiatives contribute to improving the quality of education in the cyber defence field at EU level, in particular through the creation of wide-ranging technical platforms and the establishment of a community of EU experts; believes that European armed forces can broaden their appeal by providing comprehensive cyber defence training to attract and retain cyber talent;
Amendment 233 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes the arrangement between the EU’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the NATO Computer Incident Response Capability aimed at facilitating the exchange of information, logistical support and the sharing of best practices; stresses that it is important to encourage information exchanges between CERTs and to work towards increasing the level of trust; believes that there is an assumption that information held by CERT could be of use to cyber defence research and NATO and that this information should be shared providing full conformity with EU data protection legislation is applied;
Amendment 247 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Regrets that, after several months of negotiations, the UN Group of Governmental Experts failed to adopt a consensus report; recalls, however, that international law applies toin cyberspace and that the 2013 and 2015 UNGGE reports still provide relevant guidelines, in particular as regards the prohibition for states to conduct or knowingly support cyber activities contrary to their obligations under international rules;
Amendment 253 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
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 toin cyberspace; notes that it is now time for the Member States to start analysing and consider applying what the experts have stated in the Tallinn Manual in order to build international consensus on how to apply international law in cyberspace and to agree further voluntary norms of international behaviour;
Amendment 258 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
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 and draw up, together with NATO, EU-level criteria and definitions of what constitutes a cyber attack so as to improve the EU's ability to quickly come to a common position following an internationally wrongful act in the form of a cyber attack; strongly supports the development of voluntary, non-binding norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace;
Amendment 277 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Considers that cyber attacks such as NotPetya and WannaCry are either state directed or take place with the knowledge of the state and its approval; notes that these cyber attacks which cause serious and lasting economic damage as well as being a threat to life, are clear breaches of international law and legal norms; believes therefore that the case of NotPetya and WannaCry represent breaches of international law for which the Russian Federation and North Korea respectively are culpable and should face commensurate and appropriate responses from the EU and NATO;
Amendment 287 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls on all stakeholders to reinforce knowledge transfer partnerships, implement appropriate business models and develop trust between companies and defence and civilian end-users, as well as to improve the transfer of academic knowledge into practical solutions, in order to create synergies and port solutions between the civilian and military markets – in essence a single market for cybersecurity; notes the pivotal role that private cybersecurity firms play in early warning and attribution of cyber attacks;
Amendment 304 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Notes that the protection of civilian critical infrastructure assets is becoming a vital defence task that should form part of the remit of national cyber commands; stresses that this will require a level of trust, and the closest possible cooperation, between military actors and the affected industries, and urges all stakeholders to take this into account in their planning processes; urges more cross-border cooperation, whilst fully respecting EU data protection legislation, on law enforcement related to taking down malicious cyber activity;
Amendment 315 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Notes that cyber attacks such as NotPetya spread quickly, thereby causing indiscriminate damage, unless there is widespread resilience globally; believes that cyber defence training and education should form part of the EU’s external action and that building cyber resilience in third countries contributes to international peace and security ultimately making European citizens safer;
Amendment 338 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the European Council, the Council, the Commission, the VP/HR, the NATO Secretary-General, the EU agencies in the fields of defence and cyber security, and national parliaments of EU Member States and the NATO Secretary-General.
Amendment 154 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) To strengthen the rule of law, democracy, the respect of human rights, fundamental rights and international law, civil society, academic freedom and security as well as improve migration management including border management;
Amendment 392 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – paragraph 1 – point 10 a (new)
Annex IV – paragraph 1 – point 10 a (new)
10 a. The degree to which citizens in accession countries are informed of the Union's positive impact through IPA III (source European Commission)
Amendment 54 #
2017/2275(INI)
D. whereas early and forced marriages very often deprive the persons concerned of the possibility to continue their studies and hamper their economic opportunities, isolating them from society; whereas education is an effective way of preventing early and forced marriage, allowing girls to free themselves from any form of control adversely affecting their rights and to empower them; whereas investing in girls education and future can benefit communities at large;
Amendment 75 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas child marriages are a violation of the rights of the child and a form of violence against girls, and whereas, as such, they must be condemned; whereas early and forced marriages are often associated with domestic violence and sexuincrease the risk of gender-based violence and sexual, physical and psychological abuse;
Amendment 82 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the number of early and forced marriages increases significantly in situations of armed conflict and humanitarian disaster, which leave little scope for medical and psychological care; whereas during the recent migration crises, manysome parents, seeking to protect their daughters from sexual aggression, chosefeel they have no choice but to have them marry before the age of 18;
Amendment 97 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on legislators, both in the EU and in third countries, to set the minimum, uniform age for marriage at 18 years andin order to emphasize the importance of free, full and informed consent to marriage as a means of protecting the rights of women and children worldwide; calls on the legislators to provide themselves with the administrative, legal and financial means to be able to comply with this requirement; and for the EU to provide financial and technical assistance to achieve this commitment;
Amendment 114 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes it is important to tackle the multiple causes of early and forced marriage, including harmful age-old traditions having little regard for gender equality and, women’s affairsrights, health and wellbeing, the lack of educational opportunities, weak legal and policy responses, and, very often, the endemic poverty in the communities concerned;
Amendment 122 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises that a statutory ban on early and forced marriage by itself would not guarantee an end to this practice; believes therefore that a broader set of laws and policies is required to protect girls at risk of child marriage and support married girls;
Amendment 128 #
2017/2275(INI)
4. Notes that the lack of respect for girls and women in general is one ofgender inequality and low value accorded to girls are the biggest obstacles to combating early and forced marriage;
Amendment 166 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point b a (new)
Paragraph 8 – point b a (new)
ba. existing national laws preventing and prohibiting child marriage are strengthened and enforced in line with international human rights standards;
Amendment 167 #
2017/2275(INI)
bb. partner governments show sustained leadership and political will to end child marriage and develop comprehensive legal frameworks and action plans with clear milestones and timelines integrating child marriage prevention measures across different sectors; and calling for political, economic, social, cultural and civil environments that protect and empower women and girls and support gender equality;
Amendment 186 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point f
Paragraph 8 – point f
f. the implementation of these programmes builds on the relevant conventions and texts, as well as the specific goals adopted by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution of 25 September 2015 in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 3 (‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages’), Goal 4 (‘Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning’) and, Goal 5 (‘Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’), including access to all sexual and reproductive health services, in particular safe abortion for girls, and Goal 16 (‘Promote peaceful and inclusive societies’), especially ‘end abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children’;
Amendment 192 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 8 – point f a (new)
fa. progress to end child marriage is measured and monitoring mechanisms are put in place to collect data and evidence on related factors such as girls' health, age, frequency of childbearing, education, and income contributions;
Amendment 195 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point f b (new)
Paragraph 8 – point f b (new)
fb. barriers and constraints preventing effective enforcement of laws are identified and tackled through e.g. working and creating space for respectful dialogue with religious and community leaders to raise awareness of the existing law and explaining risks of child marriage and its negative impact on girls, families and communities; making birth and marriage registration mandatory; training local law enforcement authorities to be responsive to child marriage cases and gender-based violence; reviews of the national laws related to child marriage and gender equality to identify gaps and inconsistencies;
Amendment 205 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Believes it is crucial to engage within local communities with key stakeholders such as teachers, parents, community and religious leaders through community based programmes or informational campaigns to raise awareness about the negative impact of child marriage on children, families and communities, about the existing law on child marriage and gender inequality and how to access funding for addressing it;
Amendment 209 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 b (new)
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9b. Considers that the EU could play a leading role in ending child marriage by encouraging the exchange of best practice, sharing lessons learned and fostering political will through e.g. multilateral fora and regional / global networks;
Amendment 210 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 c (new)
Paragraph 9 c (new)
9c. Believes that the EU should invest and encourage the affected countries to invest in girls' education through e.g. funding education programmes, making primary and secondary schooling compulsory, integrating sexual and reproductive health education into schools' curricula, providing girls' families with financial incentives and /or assistance for school enrolment and completion;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
– having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2271/96 of 22 November 1996 protecting against the effects of the extra-territorial application of legislation adopted by a third country, and actions based thereon or resulting therefrom,
Amendment 167 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes note that other major world powers, such as Russia and China, have robust political and economic strategies, many of which may go against our values, and it is therefore essential to foster the EU-US partnership, to continue to promote our common values, including compliance with international law, and to set up a jointa dialogue on aligning sanctions policy;
Amendment 191 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses the importance of cooperation, coordination and synergy effects in the field of security and defence and insists that burden sharing should not be solely focused on the target ofincludes spending 2 % of GDP on defence as well as 0.7% of GDP on ODA; states that NATO is still crucial for the collective defence of Europe;
Amendment 219 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reiterates the need for the EU and the US to enhance their cooperation in the field of cybersecurity and defence to enhance mutual protection and joint abilities for cyber-attack attribution; to pursue the advancement of the application of international law and norms in cyberspace;
Amendment 239 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Emphasises that an important part of strengthening EU-US counter-terrorism efforts includes the protection of critical infrastructure as well as a comprehensive approach to fighting terrorism, also via coordination in global forums; reminds both parties that the fight against terrorism must comply with international law and democratic values, fully respecting civil liberties and fundamental human rights;
Amendment 243 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Is very concerned with the US administration's reported dismantling of the limited restrictions to the drone programme, that increases the risk of civilian casualties and unlawful killings, and the lack of transparency around both the US drone programme and the assistance being provided by some EU Member States; calls on the US and EU Member States to ensure that the use of armed drones complies with its obligations under international law, including international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and that robust binding standards to govern the provision of all forms of assistance for lethal drone operations are established;
Amendment 304 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Recalls that the EU is determined to preserve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran as a key pillar of the international non-proliferation architecture, with relevance also for the North Korean question, and as a crucial element for the security and stability of the region; reiterates the need to address more critically Iranian activities related to ballistic missiles and regional stability that are separate from the JCPOA, in the relevant formats and forums; stresses that transatlantic cooperation in addressing this issue is key; criticises strongly President Trump's decision to leave the JCPOA unilaterally and to put extraterritorial measures on EU companies which are active in Iran; commends the Commission's decision to reactivate the 'blocking regulation' whilst acknowledging that this does not prevent secondary sanctions applying to EU companies; believes that the EU must take action to help make the euro a genuine rival to the US dollar as a global currency and thereby allow the EU to achieve a truly independent sanctions policy;
Amendment 346 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Reiterates that we have shared interests in Africa where we must intensify our support for good governance, democracy, human rights an, the eradication of poverty, improved public health, and improved security issues;
Amendment 369 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Insists that migration issues should be addressed through cooperation, partnership and protection of human rights, but also by managing migration routes and pursuing a global approach at UN levels deeply concerned by the US administration's migration policies, especially over the zero tolerance policy introduced by the US to deter illegal immigration and its recent policy of separating families to control migration that goes against international human rights laws; insists that migration issues should be addressed through cooperation, partnership and protection of human rights, but also by managing migration routes and pursuing a global approach at UN level; encourages both parties to work with UN partners in shaping a global compact for safe, orderly and regular migration; believes that states can play a significant role in promoting positive perceptions about migrants, by using and promoting a positive, inclusive and facts-based narrative, including the contribution of migrants to social and economic development;
Amendment 378 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Is concerned with the regression in US administration's efforts to protect and promote a range of human rights, specifically rights of refugees and migrants, women, racial and religious minorities, and LGBTQI; stresses the importance of the values of good governance, accountability, transparency, and rule of law that underpin the defence of human rights; repeats its appeal for the abolition of the death penalty; calls on both partners to promote respect for human rights in the world in a coordinated and efficient way, within the framework of the United Nations and with respect of international human rights and humanitarian laws; underlines the need for cooperation in crisis prevention and peacebuilding, as well as in responding to humanitarian emergencies;
Amendment 90 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) To guide Member States and the Commission in the application of the Regulation, it is appropriate to provide a list of factors that may be taken into consideration when screening foreign direct investment on the grounds of security or public order. This list will also improve transparency of the screening process for investors considering making or having made foreign direct investments in the Union as well as providing a basis for the authority to respond to any potential judicial review of the screening. This list of factors that may affect security or public order should remain non- exhaustive.
Amendment 93 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order, Member States and the Commission should be able to consider all relevant factors, including the effects on critical infrastructure, implications for national defence and the European defence industry, critical technologies, including key enabling technologies, and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order, and the disruption, loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a Member State or in the Union. In that regard, Member States and the Commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor is controlled directly or indirectly (e.g. through significant funding, including subsidies) by the government of a third country. Effective control may also arise through the use of extended credit and lending by the government of a third country or a state-owned financial institution, or any other state-owned enterprise of a third country.
Amendment 100 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12 a (new)
Recital 12 a (new)
(12a) The authority should be able to assess the financial strength and stability of the undertaking carrying out the foreign investment so as to prevent the investing undertaking from asset stripping or funnelling income back to the parent company so as to endanger the financial health of the EU undertaking.
Amendment 106 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) A mechanism which enables Member States to cooperate and assist each other where a foreign direct investment in one Member State may affect the security or public order of other Member States should be set up. Member States should be able to provide comments to a Member State in which the investment is planned or has been completed, irrespective of whether the Member States providing comments or the Member States in which the investment is planned or has been completed maintain a screening mechanism or are screening the investment. The comments of Member States should also be forwarded to the Commission. The Commission should also have the possibility, where appropriate, to issue an opinion to the Member State in which the investment is planned or has been completed, irrespective of whether this Member State maintains a screening mechanism or is screening the investment and irrespective of whether other Member States have provided comments. The possibility of setting up voluntary cooperation agreements between the relevant national authorities and the Commission on the one hand and third countries with similar equivalent screening mechanisms should be included in the Economic and Partnership Agreements adopted as part of the Union’s external action.
Amendment 154 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. Member States mayshall maintain, amend or adopt mechanisms to screen foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order, under the conditions and in accordance with the terms set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 174 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 1
– critical infrastructure, including energy, energy security, transport, water, communications, public health provision, data storage, space or financial infrastructure, as well as sensitive facilities; and any security and defence infrastructure;
Amendment 182 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
– critical technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, technologies with potential dual use applications, cybersecurity, aerospace, defence, space or nuclear technology;
Amendment 185 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 3
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 3
– the security of supply of critical inputs; or, rare and strategic materials and food supply;
Amendment 187 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 3 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 3 a (new)
– the role that the undertaking plays in collaborative research and development projects and the access to technology, IPR and know-how associated with the research and development programme;
Amendment 189 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4
– access to sensitive national and European security and defence information or the ability to control sensitive security information.
Amendment 191 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 a (new)
– the defence industry, including undertakings in the supply chain for defence products and technologies, the risk of military technology being transferred to a country that poses a global or regional security threat including links to terrorism.
Amendment 193 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 b (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 b (new)
– defence infrastructure such as military bases and foreign direct investment in land and real estate that may affect use of that defence infrastructure.
Amendment 195 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 c (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 c (new)
– access to sensitive personal data of European citizens such as health data and private and public life as well as the ability to control sensitive public and private life such as through news providers, social networks and messaging services.
Amendment 200 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
In determining whether a foreign direct investment is likely to affect security or public order, Member States and the Commission may take into account whether the foreign investor is controlled by the government of a third country, including through significant funding, opaque ownership structures where the ultimate owner is not clear or any other form of leverage, in particular in third countries that do not meet European standards of democracy and the rule of law.
Amendment 209 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
In determining whether foreign direct investment in the defence industry is likely to affects security, the Member States and the Commission may take geopolitical factors into account including when foreign direct investment in the defence sector originates from an undertaking in a NATO member country.
Amendment 296 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 4
Article 9 – paragraph 4
4. The opinion of the Commission shall be communicated to the other Member States. Where the Commission has provided an opinion under this article, it shall inform the European Parliament as part of a structured dialogue on foreign direct investment that affects security and public order.
Amendment 320 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Each Member State shall appoint a foreign direct investment screening contact point ('FDI screening contact point') for the screening of foreign direct investment. The Commission and other Member States shall involve these FDI screening contact points on all issues related to implementation of this Regulation. The Commission and the Member States shall meet regularly to discuss best practice in investment screening and coordinate on factors for the purposes of Article 4 with a view to harmonising those factors.