1032 Amendments of Thomas WAITZ
Amendment 5 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Presidency Conclusions of the European Council in Copenhagen of 21-22 June 1993, also known as the Copenhagen Criteria,
Amendment 5 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Presidency Conclusions of the European Council in Copenhagen of 21-22 June 1993, also known as the Copenhagen Criteria,
Amendment 8 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to the conclusions of the General Affairs Council of 29-30 April 1997 on the application of conditionality with a view to developing a coherent EU strategy for relations with the countries in the Western Balkan region,
Amendment 8 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to the conclusions of the General Affairs Council of 29-30 April 1997 on the application of conditionality with a view to developing a coherent EU strategy for relations with the countries in the Western Balkan region,
Amendment 13 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the European Commission strategy for 'A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans' of February 2018,
Amendment 13 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the European Commission strategy for 'A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans' of February 2018,
Amendment 16 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to its previous resolutions on the matter, in particular that of 24 October 2019 on opening accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania, its recommendation of 19 June 2020 to the Council, the Commission and the Vice- President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the Western Balkans, following the 2020 summit and its resolutions on the 2022 Commission reports on Kosovo, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro,
Amendment 16 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to its previous resolutions on the matter, in particular that of 24 October 2019 on opening accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania, its recommendation of 19 June 2020 to the Council, the Commission and the Vice- President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the Western Balkans, following the 2020 summit and its resolutions on the 2022 Commission reports on Kosovo, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro,
Amendment 18 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 c (new)
Citation 3 c (new)
– having regard to the Commission communication of 5 February 2020 entitled ‘Enhancing the accession process – A credible EU perspective for the Western Balkans’ (COM(2020)0057),
Amendment 18 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 c (new)
Citation 3 c (new)
– having regard to the Commission communication of 5 February 2020 entitled ‘Enhancing the accession process – A credible EU perspective for the Western Balkans’ (COM(2020)0057),
Amendment 19 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 d (new)
Citation 3 d (new)
– having regard to the Council conclusions of July 2020 “Promoting values and rules-based pan-European co- operation and supporting a reinvigorated Council of Europe”,
Amendment 19 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 d (new)
Citation 3 d (new)
– having regard to the Council conclusions of July 2020 “Promoting values and rules-based pan-European co- operation and supporting a reinvigorated Council of Europe”,
Amendment 20 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 e (new)
Citation 3 e (new)
– having regard to the Regulation (EU) 2021/1529 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 September 2021 establishing the Instrument for Pre-Accession assistance (IPA III),
Amendment 20 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 e (new)
Citation 3 e (new)
– having regard to the Regulation (EU) 2021/1529 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 September 2021 establishing the Instrument for Pre-Accession assistance (IPA III),
Amendment 21 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 f (new)
Citation 3 f (new)
– having regard to the European Court of Auditors special report 01/2022 of 10 January 2022 entitled ‘EU support for the rule of law in the Western Balkans: despite efforts, fundamental problems persist’,
Amendment 21 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 f (new)
Citation 3 f (new)
– having regard to the European Court of Auditors special report 01/2022 of 10 January 2022 entitled ‘EU support for the rule of law in the Western Balkans: despite efforts, fundamental problems persist’,
Amendment 61 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas eight out of the ten countries (Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey, Moldova and Ukraine) currently aspiring to join the EU have candidate status, some of them since many years ago; whereas thoseKosovo and Georgia are considered ‘potential candidates’; whereas candidate countries find themselves at various stages of the accession process and negotiations; whereas the countries of the Western Balkans have for decades stated their determination to join the EU; whereas candidate status hwas also recently been granted to Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova by the European Council on 23-24 June 2022; whereas on 15 December 2022, the European Council decided to grant EU candidate status to Bosnia and Herzegovina;
Amendment 61 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas eight out of the ten countries (Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey, Moldova and Ukraine) currently aspiring to join the EU have candidate status, some of them since many years ago; whereas thoseKosovo and Georgia are considered ‘potential candidates’; whereas candidate countries find themselves at various stages of the accession process and negotiations; whereas the countries of the Western Balkans have for decades stated their determination to join the EU; whereas candidate status hwas also recently been granted to Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova by the European Council on 23-24 June 2022; whereas on 15 December 2022, the European Council decided to grant EU candidate status to Bosnia and Herzegovina;
Amendment 70 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas, on 8 November 2023, during the presentation of the Enlargement Package, the President of the European Commission announced that the Commission would recommend the Council to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, to grant candidate status to Georgia and to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina “once the necessary degree of compliance with the membership criteria is achieved”;
Amendment 70 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas, on 8 November 2023, during the presentation of the Enlargement Package, the President of the European Commission announced that the Commission would recommend the Council to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, to grant candidate status to Georgia and to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina “once the necessary degree of compliance with the membership criteria is achieved”;
Amendment 76 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas enlargement has been the most effective EU’s foreign policy instrument and one of the EU’s most successful policies, but its effectiveness has considerably decreased over the last years due to a failure from the EU side, notably from the Council, to live up to its promises; whereas unfair delays, obstacles and vetoes in the Council have considerably undermined the EU’s credibility and capacity to drive political transformation in the enlargement countries; whereas a new impetus, commitment and vision are urgently needed to re-energise the enlargement process, ensuring its continuity, consistency, credibility and impact;
Amendment 76 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas enlargement has been the most effective EU’s foreign policy instrument and one of the EU’s most successful policies, but its effectiveness has considerably decreased over the last years due to a failure from the EU side, notably from the Council, to live up to its promises; whereas unfair delays, obstacles and vetoes in the Council have considerably undermined the EU’s credibility and capacity to drive political transformation in the enlargement countries; whereas a new impetus, commitment and vision are urgently needed to re-energise the enlargement process, ensuring its continuity, consistency, credibility and impact;
Amendment 83 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has given a new geostrategic meaning to the enlargement of the European Union; whereas genuine commitment to enlargement is a strategic geopolitical investment in the future, whichstability, security, unity and prosperity on the European continent; whereas enlargement can be mutually beneficial for both existing and future Member States if the proper conditions are met; whereas past developments such as Russia’s aggression against Ukraine have shown that non-enlargement has a massive strategic cost and can undermine security and stability on our continent;
Amendment 83 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has given a new geostrategic meaning to the enlargement of the European Union; whereas genuine commitment to enlargement is a strategic geopolitical investment in the future, whichstability, security, unity and prosperity on the European continent; whereas enlargement can be mutually beneficial for both existing and future Member States if the proper conditions are met; whereas past developments such as Russia’s aggression against Ukraine have shown that non-enlargement has a massive strategic cost and can undermine security and stability on our continent;
Amendment 103 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas accession to the EU must always be a merit-based procedure whereby each applicant is assessed on their own merits in fulfilling the Copenhagen criteria, in particular those of ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and, the rule of law and respect for and protection of minorities; whereas positive outcomes should be sought as quickly as possible, while avoiding fast-tracking or counterproductive fixed deadlines;
Amendment 103 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas accession to the EU must always be a merit-based procedure whereby each applicant is assessed on their own merits in fulfilling the Copenhagen criteria, in particular those of ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and, the rule of law and respect for and protection of minorities; whereas positive outcomes should be sought as quickly as possible, while avoiding fast-tracking or counterproductive fixed deadlines;
Amendment 116 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the parallel processes of widening and deepening the Union must go hand in hand; whereas the institutional reform of the EU in a way that will enhance its capacity to act, as well as its democratic legitimacy and accountability, is already a pressing necessity;
Amendment 116 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the parallel processes of widening and deepening the Union must go hand in hand; whereas the institutional reform of the EU in a way that will enhance its capacity to act, as well as its democratic legitimacy and accountability, is already a pressing necessity;
Amendment 133 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
E a. whereas in the past years, the Council has grossly failed the enlargement countries by blocking the accession process and not delivering on the EU’s long outstanding promises towards the Western Balkans; whereas the delays in the start of accession negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia, as well as with the visa liberalisation agreement for Kosovo, have considerably damaged the EU’s credibility in its enlargement policy; whereas this lack of engagement and credibility during the past years has created a vacuum, thus opening the space for Russia and China and other harmful third actors;
Amendment 133 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
E a. whereas in the past years, the Council has grossly failed the enlargement countries by blocking the accession process and not delivering on the EU’s long outstanding promises towards the Western Balkans; whereas the delays in the start of accession negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia, as well as with the visa liberalisation agreement for Kosovo, have considerably damaged the EU’s credibility in its enlargement policy; whereas this lack of engagement and credibility during the past years has created a vacuum, thus opening the space for Russia and China and other harmful third actors;
Amendment 135 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
E b. whereas a lack of genuine political will by some of the leaders in the enlargement countries to advance fundamental reforms has also damaged the EU’s enlargement policy; whereas the level of political will proven by the political leaders of the enlargement countries to make meaningful progress on reforms does not always correlate with the level of progress in the accession process of the different countries;
Amendment 135 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
E b. whereas a lack of genuine political will by some of the leaders in the enlargement countries to advance fundamental reforms has also damaged the EU’s enlargement policy; whereas the level of political will proven by the political leaders of the enlargement countries to make meaningful progress on reforms does not always correlate with the level of progress in the accession process of the different countries;
Amendment 136 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
E c. whereas 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the Thessaloniki Summit when the EU first publicly committed to the European perspective for the Western Balkans;
Amendment 136 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
E c. whereas 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the Thessaloniki Summit when the EU first publicly committed to the European perspective for the Western Balkans;
Amendment 137 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
E d. whereas some of the enlargement countries display a great potential for destabilisation, thus further threatening the security and stability on the continent; whereas exploitation of this potential by third countries is already ongoing in many enlargement countries; whereas stability, security and democratic resilience of the Western Balkans and the Eastern Neighbourhood are inextricably linked to the EU’s own security, stability and democratic resilience;
Amendment 137 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
E d. whereas some of the enlargement countries display a great potential for destabilisation, thus further threatening the security and stability on the continent; whereas exploitation of this potential by third countries is already ongoing in many enlargement countries; whereas stability, security and democratic resilience of the Western Balkans and the Eastern Neighbourhood are inextricably linked to the EU’s own security, stability and democratic resilience;
Amendment 138 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E e (new)
Recital E e (new)
E e. whereas there is no place in the EU or in the countries aspiring to become Member States for inflammatory rhetoric, genocide denial or glorification of war criminals from any side; whereas coming to terms with the past is the only way to warrant genuine reconciliation, which is crucial for prosperous societies and a successful integration;
Amendment 138 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E e (new)
Recital E e (new)
E e. whereas there is no place in the EU or in the countries aspiring to become Member States for inflammatory rhetoric, genocide denial or glorification of war criminals from any side; whereas coming to terms with the past is the only way to warrant genuine reconciliation, which is crucial for prosperous societies and a successful integration;
Amendment 145 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the role of the European Parliament should be strengthen throughout the entire enlargement process; is extremely limited and should be strengthened; whereas the European Parliament is undoubtedly the most supportive EU institution when it comes to enlargement process;
Amendment 145 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the role of the European Parliament should be strengthen throughout the entire enlargement process; is extremely limited and should be strengthened; whereas the European Parliament is undoubtedly the most supportive EU institution when it comes to enlargement process;
Amendment 164 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas under the current institutional framework, the EU already faces considerable challenges in crisis management and, strategic decision- making, democratic legitimacy and accountability; whereas it is clear that the EU institutions and decision-making mechanisms were not designed for a Union that could be composed of up to 37 Member States; whereas before the next substantial enlargement takes place, significant pre- enlargement reforms are needed to guarantee that the EU is able to respond properly to the many challenges it currently faces, to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration; whereas a serious debate on these issues would add to the credibility of the enlargement process; whereas this implies significant changes in the EU’s institutional framework, including to decision-making procedures, and the possible introduction of differentiated integration solutions; whereas in order to achieve this, the EU should take full advantage of the flexibility afforded by the Treaty of Lisbon and consider the possibility of treaty changemmit to the revision of the Treaties, including via adaptations introduced by the accession treaties;
Amendment 164 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas under the current institutional framework, the EU already faces considerable challenges in crisis management and, strategic decision- making, democratic legitimacy and accountability; whereas it is clear that the EU institutions and decision-making mechanisms were not designed for a Union that could be composed of up to 37 Member States; whereas before the next substantial enlargement takes place, significant pre- enlargement reforms are needed to guarantee that the EU is able to respond properly to the many challenges it currently faces, to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration; whereas a serious debate on these issues would add to the credibility of the enlargement process; whereas this implies significant changes in the EU’s institutional framework, including to decision-making procedures, and the possible introduction of differentiated integration solutions; whereas in order to achieve this, the EU should take full advantage of the flexibility afforded by the Treaty of Lisbon and consider the possibility of treaty changemmit to the revision of the Treaties, including via adaptations introduced by the accession treaties;
Amendment 182 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Union’s credibility and ability to act in a timely and effective manner depends on efficient decision- making, and even more so in an enlarged EU of 30 or more Member States; whereas efficient decision-making leading to timely and coordinated internal and external action is vital for safeguarding the EU’s interests and its global geopolitical leadership; whereas reform of the EU’s institutional framework and governance structures, with simplified, more effective and democratic decision-making procedures, must be discussed and adopted in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations;
Amendment 182 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Union’s credibility and ability to act in a timely and effective manner depends on efficient decision- making, and even more so in an enlarged EU of 30 or more Member States; whereas efficient decision-making leading to timely and coordinated internal and external action is vital for safeguarding the EU’s interests and its global geopolitical leadership; whereas reform of the EU’s institutional framework and governance structures, with simplified, more effective and democratic decision-making procedures, must be discussed and adopted in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations;
Amendment 205 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas enlargement is also a major challenge for EU’s financial sustainability, in particular regarding cohesion and agriculture policies; whereas the current and the next multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable and underpin substantial EU enlargement; whereas this financial groundwork must be in place before substantial enlargement takes place;
Amendment 205 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas enlargement is also a major challenge for EU’s financial sustainability, in particular regarding cohesion and agriculture policies; whereas the current and the next multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable and underpin substantial EU enlargement; whereas this financial groundwork must be in place before substantial enlargement takes place;
Amendment 230 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the interest and the political will to join the EU shown by so many countries, and acknowledges the ser; welcomes the Commission’s recommendations to open accession negotiatiouns efforts made by candidate countries to meet the requirements for membershipwith Ukraine, Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as to grant candidate status to Georgia; notes, however, that in some instances, these assessments are based on the current geopolitical situation rather than on tangible and concrete progress and reforms undertaken by the candidate countries;
Amendment 230 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the interest and the political will to join the EU shown by so many countries, and acknowledges the ser; welcomes the Commission’s recommendations to open accession negotiatiouns efforts made by candidate countries to meet the requirements for membershipwith Ukraine, Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as to grant candidate status to Georgia; notes, however, that in some instances, these assessments are based on the current geopolitical situation rather than on tangible and concrete progress and reforms undertaken by the candidate countries;
Amendment 240 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Acknowledges the limited efforts made by many candidate countries to meet the requirements for membership; in this context, regrets the serious and worrisome lack of progress -and even backsliding- made by some candidate countries in their EU’s accession path;
Amendment 240 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Acknowledges the limited efforts made by many candidate countries to meet the requirements for membership; in this context, regrets the serious and worrisome lack of progress -and even backsliding- made by some candidate countries in their EU’s accession path;
Amendment 258 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that enlargement is of the utmost strategic importance for the EU, and all the more so in the face of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; stresses that an enhanced enlargement policy hascan become one of the strongest geopolitical tools at the EU’s disposal; points out that enlargement is a strategic investment in peace, security and prosperity, as well as a driver for democracy and European values on the continent;
Amendment 258 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that enlargement is of the utmost strategic importance for the EU, and all the more so in the face of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; stresses that an enhanced enlargement policy hascan become one of the strongest geopolitical tools at the EU’s disposal; points out that enlargement is a strategic investment in peace, security and prosperity, as well as a driver for democracy and European values on the continent;
Amendment 266 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Considers the Commission’s new methodology as a long-term policy framework, which should guide the enlargement process; against this background, encourages the Commission to update this communication to take into consideration the accession processes of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia;
Amendment 266 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Considers the Commission’s new methodology as a long-term policy framework, which should guide the enlargement process; against this background, encourages the Commission to update this communication to take into consideration the accession processes of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia;
Amendment 268 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Calls to thoroughly evaluate the EU’s enlargement strategy, both in content and in substance; against this background, calls for an evaluation assessing the reasons why the progress made by the enlargement countries is so limited, particularly in the areas of the rule of law, human rights and democracy; in this context, calls on the EU delegations on the ground to apply a more credible and merit-based approach based on the rule of law and the protection of human rights;
Amendment 268 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Calls to thoroughly evaluate the EU’s enlargement strategy, both in content and in substance; against this background, calls for an evaluation assessing the reasons why the progress made by the enlargement countries is so limited, particularly in the areas of the rule of law, human rights and democracy; in this context, calls on the EU delegations on the ground to apply a more credible and merit-based approach based on the rule of law and the protection of human rights;
Amendment 278 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Acknowledges the historic challenge facing the EU of meeting its commitments to the countries inand the peoples of the Western Balkans and tof Ukraine, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova;
Amendment 278 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Acknowledges the historic challenge facing the EU of meeting its commitments to the countries inand the peoples of the Western Balkans and tof Ukraine, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova;
Amendment 297 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that accession to the EU must always be a merit-based procedure and that each applicant must be assessed on their own merits in fulfilling the Copenhagen criteria and in ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and, the rule of law and respect for and protection of minorities; stresses that while positive outcomes should be sought as quickly as possible, there should be no fast-track or fixed deadlines for membership; underscores that there can be no short-cuts on fundamental values; points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membershiplines, however, that the EU should set concrete timelines and roadmaps for each accession country; underscores that there can be no short-cuts on fundamental values;
Amendment 297 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that accession to the EU must always be a merit-based procedure and that each applicant must be assessed on their own merits in fulfilling the Copenhagen criteria and in ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and, the rule of law and respect for and protection of minorities; stresses that while positive outcomes should be sought as quickly as possible, there should be no fast-track or fixed deadlines for membership; underscores that there can be no short-cuts on fundamental values; points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membershiplines, however, that the EU should set concrete timelines and roadmaps for each accession country; underscores that there can be no short-cuts on fundamental values;
Amendment 300 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membership; in this context, highlights the need to ensure that EU funds provided to enlargement countries are in line with the EU’s own strategic goals and interests;
Amendment 300 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membership; in this context, highlights the need to ensure that EU funds provided to enlargement countries are in line with the EU’s own strategic goals and interests;
Amendment 303 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Urges the Council to refrain from blocking the candidate countries’ accession processes by reference to bilateral issues, in line with Article 24 of the TEU, the conclusions of the 2003rd Council meeting and the 2016 Vienna declaration on bilateral disputes of the Western Balkan states; calls, in this context, to amend the treaties to apply qualified majority voting in the Council for the interim steps and decisions during the accession process while keeping unanimity only for the final step of accession; against this background, calls on the Council to exert greater political pressure against those Member States that misuse the accession process by vetoing candidate countries with the objective to solve bilateral disputes that are unrelated with the Copenhagen criteria; regrets that these obstacles imposed by some Member States have considerably fuelled Euroscepticism, heightened inter-ethnic tensions and provided impetus to authoritarian tendencies; deplores the resurgence of anachronic historical demands by some Member States, which hinder the EU path of some candidate countries;
Amendment 303 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Urges the Council to refrain from blocking the candidate countries’ accession processes by reference to bilateral issues, in line with Article 24 of the TEU, the conclusions of the 2003rd Council meeting and the 2016 Vienna declaration on bilateral disputes of the Western Balkan states; calls, in this context, to amend the treaties to apply qualified majority voting in the Council for the interim steps and decisions during the accession process while keeping unanimity only for the final step of accession; against this background, calls on the Council to exert greater political pressure against those Member States that misuse the accession process by vetoing candidate countries with the objective to solve bilateral disputes that are unrelated with the Copenhagen criteria; regrets that these obstacles imposed by some Member States have considerably fuelled Euroscepticism, heightened inter-ethnic tensions and provided impetus to authoritarian tendencies; deplores the resurgence of anachronic historical demands by some Member States, which hinder the EU path of some candidate countries;
Amendment 304 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Reiterates its concerns about reports that the Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi deliberately seeks to circumvent and undermine the centrality of democratic and rule of law reforms in the EU accession countries; urges the Commission to initiate an independent and impartial investigation into whether the conduct engaged in and policies furthered by the Commissioner constitute a breach of the Code of Conduct for the Members of the Commission and of the Commissioner’s obligations under the Treaties; calls on the Commission to report the results of this investigation to the Parliament and the Council;
Amendment 304 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Reiterates its concerns about reports that the Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi deliberately seeks to circumvent and undermine the centrality of democratic and rule of law reforms in the EU accession countries; urges the Commission to initiate an independent and impartial investigation into whether the conduct engaged in and policies furthered by the Commissioner constitute a breach of the Code of Conduct for the Members of the Commission and of the Commissioner’s obligations under the Treaties; calls on the Commission to report the results of this investigation to the Parliament and the Council;
Amendment 306 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for afurther robust monitoring mechanisms for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries, in addition to the yearly Commission’s Enlargement Package; in this context, underlines the need to include in the regular reporting also the issue of non- progress or reversal of progress in a systematic and transparent manner; against this background, highlights the need to clarify the conditions and the indicators to assess any serious or prolonged stagnation or backsliding on which sanctions against accession countries would be based; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activatings a pre- accession cooperation and verification mechanisms;
Amendment 306 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for afurther robust monitoring mechanisms for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries, in addition to the yearly Commission’s Enlargement Package; in this context, underlines the need to include in the regular reporting also the issue of non- progress or reversal of progress in a systematic and transparent manner; against this background, highlights the need to clarify the conditions and the indicators to assess any serious or prolonged stagnation or backsliding on which sanctions against accession countries would be based; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activatings a pre- accession cooperation and verification mechanisms;
Amendment 318 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Underlines that in view of the new candidate status granted to Ukraine and Moldova, as well as the potential candidate status granted to Georgia, the Eastern Partnership (EaP) framework should be readjusted; calls to list these three countries as beneficiaries to the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) Regulation, without prejudice to the scope of the new Ukraine Facility; underlines that the inclusion of new beneficiaries should under no circumstances reduce the available resources for the current beneficiaries of IPA III funding; calls on the Commission to effectively use conditionality mechanisms vis-à-vis the enlargement countries, including in the communication strategy around the funding;
Amendment 318 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Underlines that in view of the new candidate status granted to Ukraine and Moldova, as well as the potential candidate status granted to Georgia, the Eastern Partnership (EaP) framework should be readjusted; calls to list these three countries as beneficiaries to the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) Regulation, without prejudice to the scope of the new Ukraine Facility; underlines that the inclusion of new beneficiaries should under no circumstances reduce the available resources for the current beneficiaries of IPA III funding; calls on the Commission to effectively use conditionality mechanisms vis-à-vis the enlargement countries, including in the communication strategy around the funding;
Amendment 319 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Reiterates its call on the Commission to implement the recommendations of the European Court of Auditors Special Report 01/2022 in order to ensure an effective impact of EU financial assistance in support for the rule of law in the Western Balkans, in particular by developing guidelines on the application of IPA III provisions on modulation and conditionality;
Amendment 319 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Reiterates its call on the Commission to implement the recommendations of the European Court of Auditors Special Report 01/2022 in order to ensure an effective impact of EU financial assistance in support for the rule of law in the Western Balkans, in particular by developing guidelines on the application of IPA III provisions on modulation and conditionality;
Amendment 320 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Calls to establish a framework for fruitful cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the accession countries, in order to ensure that the EPPO can effectively exert its competencies in the area of EU funds, in particular regarding IPA III funds, including through the secondment of national liaison officers to the EPPO;
Amendment 320 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Calls to establish a framework for fruitful cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the accession countries, in order to ensure that the EPPO can effectively exert its competencies in the area of EU funds, in particular regarding IPA III funds, including through the secondment of national liaison officers to the EPPO;
Amendment 321 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5 d. Welcomes the new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans announced by the European Commission during the presentation of the 2023 Enlargement Package; calls on the Commission to apply strict conditionality and disburse funds only to those enlargement countries that deliver tangible results and implement reforms in the areas of the rule of law, democracy and human rights; against this background, calls on the Commission to support financially only those accession countries that genuinely work towards good neighbourly relations and sustainable reconciliation, including but not limited to the prosecution of war criminals and ensuring access to truth, justice and effective reparations to victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide;
Amendment 321 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5 d. Welcomes the new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans announced by the European Commission during the presentation of the 2023 Enlargement Package; calls on the Commission to apply strict conditionality and disburse funds only to those enlargement countries that deliver tangible results and implement reforms in the areas of the rule of law, democracy and human rights; against this background, calls on the Commission to support financially only those accession countries that genuinely work towards good neighbourly relations and sustainable reconciliation, including but not limited to the prosecution of war criminals and ensuring access to truth, justice and effective reparations to victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide;
Amendment 322 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5 e. Encourages the accession countries to participate in inclusive regional cooperation schemes based on EU standards and rules; in this context, expresses its reservations towards non- inclusive regional cooperation initiatives such as the Open Balkans;
Amendment 322 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5 e. Encourages the accession countries to participate in inclusive regional cooperation schemes based on EU standards and rules; in this context, expresses its reservations towards non- inclusive regional cooperation initiatives such as the Open Balkans;
Amendment 323 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 f (new)
Paragraph 5 f (new)
5 f. Calls on the Council, the Commission and the EEAS to strengthen strategic communication on the benefits of enlargement both in the accession countries and in the Member States, with a special focus on countering disinformation and increasing the fight against foreign interference;
Amendment 323 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 f (new)
Paragraph 5 f (new)
5 f. Calls on the Council, the Commission and the EEAS to strengthen strategic communication on the benefits of enlargement both in the accession countries and in the Member States, with a special focus on countering disinformation and increasing the fight against foreign interference;
Amendment 324 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 g (new)
Paragraph 5 g (new)
5 g. Highlights the need to step up citizen participation and the involvement of civil society in the enlargement process; in this context, calls on the EU to allocate additional resources to civil society actors dedicated to EU values and principles, democracy, peacebuilding and people-to-people contacts; against this background, underlines the need to mainstream gender equality, the protection of minorities (including the Roma, the LGBTIQ+ community and persons with disabilities) and fully implement the principle of non- discrimination throughout the accession process;
Amendment 324 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 g (new)
Paragraph 5 g (new)
5 g. Highlights the need to step up citizen participation and the involvement of civil society in the enlargement process; in this context, calls on the EU to allocate additional resources to civil society actors dedicated to EU values and principles, democracy, peacebuilding and people-to-people contacts; against this background, underlines the need to mainstream gender equality, the protection of minorities (including the Roma, the LGBTIQ+ community and persons with disabilities) and fully implement the principle of non- discrimination throughout the accession process;
Amendment 325 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Paragraph 5 h (new)
5 h. Encourages the EU to continue its cooperation with the Council of Europe to support the enlargement countries in carrying out essential reforms and training with a view to preparing these countries for their future accession to the EU;
Amendment 325 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Paragraph 5 h (new)
5 h. Encourages the EU to continue its cooperation with the Council of Europe to support the enlargement countries in carrying out essential reforms and training with a view to preparing these countries for their future accession to the EU;
Amendment 326 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 i (new)
Paragraph 5 i (new)
5 i. Highlights the importance of advancing in the clean energy transition, as well as in energy efficiency, connectivity, the diversification and security of energy supply and sustainable development, in line with the EU acquis;
Amendment 326 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 i (new)
Paragraph 5 i (new)
5 i. Highlights the importance of advancing in the clean energy transition, as well as in energy efficiency, connectivity, the diversification and security of energy supply and sustainable development, in line with the EU acquis;
Amendment 332 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that there is a need for stronger parliamentary oversight of the EU’s enlargement policy; insists on strengthening the role of Parliament throughout the entire accession process, including allowing it to scrutinise fully the progress made by the candidate countries across policy fields; underlines that regular dialogue and cooperation between the European Parliament and the national parliaments of candidate countries should be encouraged and should serve as a model to sustain and expand the role of national parliaments in overseeing their own countries' processes of integration;
Amendment 332 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that there is a need for stronger parliamentary oversight of the EU’s enlargement policy; insists on strengthening the role of Parliament throughout the entire accession process, including allowing it to scrutinise fully the progress made by the candidate countries across policy fields; underlines that regular dialogue and cooperation between the European Parliament and the national parliaments of candidate countries should be encouraged and should serve as a model to sustain and expand the role of national parliaments in overseeing their own countries' processes of integration;
Amendment 342 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that the challenge of a bigger Union requires an enhanced enlargement policy putting in place a clear incremental pathway towards EU membership, including gradual integration into common policies; believes that countries that have made substantial progress on EU-related reforms should be gradually integrated in the EU single market, thus being able to benefit from the four freedoms; notes that this pathway should be accompanied by increased technical and conditional financial assistance with a special focus on the implementation and enforcement of laws under negotiating chapters 23, 24, 30 and 31; invites the Commission to present detailed proposals on the incremental accession methodology; underlines that the phasing-in of candidate countries into selected policy areas is by no means an alternative to fully-fledged membership; against this background, stresses that initiatives like the European Political Community are not alternatives to substitute enlargement as this would risk undermining the EU’s commitment to enlargement and would dash the legitimate aspirations of countries that seek to become Member States of the EU;
Amendment 342 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that the challenge of a bigger Union requires an enhanced enlargement policy putting in place a clear incremental pathway towards EU membership, including gradual integration into common policies; believes that countries that have made substantial progress on EU-related reforms should be gradually integrated in the EU single market, thus being able to benefit from the four freedoms; notes that this pathway should be accompanied by increased technical and conditional financial assistance with a special focus on the implementation and enforcement of laws under negotiating chapters 23, 24, 30 and 31; invites the Commission to present detailed proposals on the incremental accession methodology; underlines that the phasing-in of candidate countries into selected policy areas is by no means an alternative to fully-fledged membership; against this background, stresses that initiatives like the European Political Community are not alternatives to substitute enlargement as this would risk undermining the EU’s commitment to enlargement and would dash the legitimate aspirations of countries that seek to become Member States of the EU;
Amendment 356 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that European institutional and financial reforms to promote good governance, functionality and sustainability are needed, accountability, democratic legitimacy and sustainability are needed to face the current challenges and are inevitable to ensure the EU’s capacity to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration;
Amendment 356 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that European institutional and financial reforms to promote good governance, functionality and sustainability are needed, accountability, democratic legitimacy and sustainability are needed to face the current challenges and are inevitable to ensure the EU’s capacity to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration;
Amendment 372 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Points outStrongly believes that European institutional reforms must include simplified, more effective and democratic decision-making procedures, moving away from unanimity and replacing it with qualified majority voting provisions in areas such as the protection of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, tax policy, own resources, multiannual financial framework, sanctions and relevant foreign policy decisions, including enlargement;
Amendment 372 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Points outStrongly believes that European institutional reforms must include simplified, more effective and democratic decision-making procedures, moving away from unanimity and replacing it with qualified majority voting provisions in areas such as the protection of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, tax policy, own resources, multiannual financial framework, sanctions and relevant foreign policy decisions, including enlargement;
Amendment 384 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the mechanism to protect the rule of law and the EU’s fundamental principles and values, and the monitoring capacity to ensure compliance, to be strengthened ahead of the next enlargement; proposes, in particular, to strengthen and reform the procedure in Article 7 of the TEU by ending unanimity in Council decisions, introducing a clear timeframe and making the Court of Justice the arbiter of violations;
Amendment 384 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the mechanism to protect the rule of law and the EU’s fundamental principles and values, and the monitoring capacity to ensure compliance, to be strengthened ahead of the next enlargement; proposes, in particular, to strengthen and reform the procedure in Article 7 of the TEU by ending unanimity in Council decisions, introducing a clear timeframe and making the Court of Justice the arbiter of violations;
Amendment 397 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Believes that differentiated integration is part of the solutionmight be one of the ways forward for an efficient and deepened enlarged EU; underlines, however, that respect for the Union’s values as set out in Article 2 TEU should notever be subject to any derogations or opt-outs; considers also that a broad area of European common ground must always be ensured, covering areas such as the Customs Union, the single market and its four freedoms, the core social acquis, and agricultural, competition and trade policies; notes that beyond this common ground, Member States willing to move European integration forward should be allowed to do so; underlines that under such a system of differentiated integration, while all Member States would take part in decisions about issues in the area of common ground, only Member States willing to participate in areas of deepened integration would take part in the decisions concerned; notes that differentiated integration also implies differentiated financial arrangements and that membership of the Union should require strong commitment to respect all Union’s law;
Amendment 397 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Believes that differentiated integration is part of the solutionmight be one of the ways forward for an efficient and deepened enlarged EU; underlines, however, that respect for the Union’s values as set out in Article 2 TEU should notever be subject to any derogations or opt-outs; considers also that a broad area of European common ground must always be ensured, covering areas such as the Customs Union, the single market and its four freedoms, the core social acquis, and agricultural, competition and trade policies; notes that beyond this common ground, Member States willing to move European integration forward should be allowed to do so; underlines that under such a system of differentiated integration, while all Member States would take part in decisions about issues in the area of common ground, only Member States willing to participate in areas of deepened integration would take part in the decisions concerned; notes that differentiated integration also implies differentiated financial arrangements and that membership of the Union should require strong commitment to respect all Union’s law;
Amendment 409 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for the full use of the flexibility provided for in the Treaty of Lisbon ahead of a more in-depth reform in the context of a possible revision of the treaties; recalls that a number of flexibility solutions, such as passerelle clauses, enhanced cooperation, constructive abstention, Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) and opt- out mechanisms are already possible under the current EU legal framework, as the experience of the Schengen area and the euro area clearly shows; recalls that phasing-in solutions, temporary derogations and transition periods can be negotiated in the context of accession procedures; points out that the use of theseany flexibility mechanisms should not prevent constructive discussions on treaty revision, as proposed by Parliament;
Amendment 409 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for the full use of the flexibility provided for in the Treaty of Lisbon ahead of a more in-depth reform in the context of a possible revision of the treaties; recalls that a number of flexibility solutions, such as passerelle clauses, enhanced cooperation, constructive abstention, Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) and opt- out mechanisms are already possible under the current EU legal framework, as the experience of the Schengen area and the euro area clearly shows; recalls that phasing-in solutions, temporary derogations and transition periods can be negotiated in the context of accession procedures; points out that the use of theseany flexibility mechanisms should not prevent constructive discussions on treaty revision, as proposed by Parliament;
Amendment 419 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that institutional pre- enlargement reforms must also address the implications of enlargement on the composition of Parliament; recalls that the European Parliament is already one of the largest parliaments in the world and underlines that in any case it must remain at a workable scale; points out, however, that a reasonable increase in the size ofthe allocation of additional seats in the Parliament cannot be ruled out in order to ensure sufficient democratic representativeness in case of substantial enlargement; insists on a new system for seat allocation based on a permanent mathematical formula, which is objective, fair, transparent and durable;
Amendment 419 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that institutional pre- enlargement reforms must also address the implications of enlargement on the composition of Parliament; recalls that the European Parliament is already one of the largest parliaments in the world and underlines that in any case it must remain at a workable scale; points out, however, that a reasonable increase in the size ofthe allocation of additional seats in the Parliament cannot be ruled out in order to ensure sufficient democratic representativeness in case of substantial enlargement; insists on a new system for seat allocation based on a permanent mathematical formula, which is objective, fair, transparent and durable;
Amendment 426 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Reiterates its call for Parliament to gain the right of initiative for legislation, in particular the right to introduce, amend, or repeal EU law;
Amendment 426 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Reiterates its call for Parliament to gain the right of initiative for legislation, in particular the right to introduce, amend, or repeal EU law;
Amendment 434 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Points out that the functioning of the Council should also be reviewed in view of enlargement, in particular the system of rotating presidencies of the Council of the European Union; notes that the calculation of qualified majority voting thresholds should also be reconsideredvoting mechanism in the Council should also be reconsidered; notes that transparency of the Council should be increased and that Parliament and Council should be empowered to strengthen the transparency and integrity of their decision-making by creating a new legal basis in the Treaties;
Amendment 434 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Points out that the functioning of the Council should also be reviewed in view of enlargement, in particular the system of rotating presidencies of the Council of the European Union; notes that the calculation of qualified majority voting thresholds should also be reconsideredvoting mechanism in the Council should also be reconsidered; notes that transparency of the Council should be increased and that Parliament and Council should be empowered to strengthen the transparency and integrity of their decision-making by creating a new legal basis in the Treaties;
Amendment 440 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes that the composition of the Commission mustshould take into account enlargement and recalls in this regard the flexibility provided for in the Treaty of Lisbon; calls on the next College of Commissioners to nominate a separate Commissioner for Enlargement, as well as to create a separate Directorate- General on Enlargement;
Amendment 440 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes that the composition of the Commission mustshould take into account enlargement and recalls in this regard the flexibility provided for in the Treaty of Lisbon; calls on the next College of Commissioners to nominate a separate Commissioner for Enlargement, as well as to create a separate Directorate- General on Enlargement;
Amendment 443 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Reiterates its call for the strengthening of the instruments for citizens’ participation in the EU decision- making process;
Amendment 443 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Reiterates its call for the strengthening of the instruments for citizens’ participation in the EU decision- making process;
Amendment 448 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that enlargement is a major financial challenge for the EUwill entail a major reform of the EU budget, in particular regarding cohesion and agriculture policies; points out that this challenge cannot be met without a larger EU budget and sufficientin terms of GNI share and sufficient, new and genuine own resources; notes that this adds to growing demands on EU funding in the fields of financial stability, health, energy, decarbonisation and climate and environmental policies, digital, research and defence and security; underlines that such financial reformsthe new budget must be discussed in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations and adopted before enlargement takes place; defends its position that the current and future multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable EU enlargement, and that thiemphasises the importance of setting in advance appropriate control mechanisms in order to prevent potential frauds and misuse of EU funds, and a necessary capacity building of local administrations financial groundwork must be in candidate countries through shared plrace before enlargement takes placetices to strengthen their role in implementing cohesion policy;
Amendment 448 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that enlargement is a major financial challenge for the EUwill entail a major reform of the EU budget, in particular regarding cohesion and agriculture policies; points out that this challenge cannot be met without a larger EU budget and sufficientin terms of GNI share and sufficient, new and genuine own resources; notes that this adds to growing demands on EU funding in the fields of financial stability, health, energy, decarbonisation and climate and environmental policies, digital, research and defence and security; underlines that such financial reformsthe new budget must be discussed in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations and adopted before enlargement takes place; defends its position that the current and future multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable EU enlargement, and that thiemphasises the importance of setting in advance appropriate control mechanisms in order to prevent potential frauds and misuse of EU funds, and a necessary capacity building of local administrations financial groundwork must be in candidate countries through shared plrace before enlargement takes placetices to strengthen their role in implementing cohesion policy;
Amendment 457 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Stresses that enlargement constitutes both an opportunity and a need for a fundamental overhaul of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) including capping area-based payments and moving towards a stronger rewarding of ecological and societal services rendered as well as of labour intensive agro-ecological practices;
Amendment 457 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Stresses that enlargement constitutes both an opportunity and a need for a fundamental overhaul of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) including capping area-based payments and moving towards a stronger rewarding of ecological and societal services rendered as well as of labour intensive agro-ecological practices;
Amendment 471 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Points out that the reconstruction and post-war recovery of Ukraine is an additional financial challenge to be addressed in the wider context of an international effort; calls, in this regard, also for the swift adoption of the Regulation establishing the Ukraine Facility, which will support Ukraine on its path towards accession in a way that is connected to its sustainable, inclusive and transparent reconstruction and recovery;
Amendment 471 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Points out that the reconstruction and post-war recovery of Ukraine is an additional financial challenge to be addressed in the wider context of an international effort; calls, in this regard, also for the swift adoption of the Regulation establishing the Ukraine Facility, which will support Ukraine on its path towards accession in a way that is connected to its sustainable, inclusive and transparent reconstruction and recovery;
Amendment 4 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
– having regard to the Integrated Approach to External Conflicts and Crises as adopted by the Council on 22 January 2018,
Amendment 6 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
– having regard to the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security of 31 October 2000,
Amendment 7 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 23 October 2020 on Gender Equality in EU’s foreign and security policy (2019/2167(INI)),
Amendment 8 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 18 April 2023 on the implementation of civilian CSDP and other EU civilian security assistance (2022/2196(INI)),
Amendment 9 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
– having regard to the Opinion on EU Climate Diplomacy of 6 October 2023,
Amendment 12 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas a changing geopolitical context stemming from emerging powers confronting traditional playelong-dominant actors, attacks on the multilateral system, violence resurging in previously protracted conflicts, emerging technologies, the climate changeand biodiversity crises, unprecedented global levels of economic inequality, the reversal of rights, notably for women, persistent and systematic exclusion of and discrimination against entire social groups, global backsliding on human rights and democracy, food security issues and migration are among the factors contributing to the spread of conflicts around the world;
Amendment 22 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the multilateral, rules- based order is being reshaped and some former alliances are beginning to re- emergechallenged, which makes it imperative that the EU responds to international conflict situations based on its proclaimed values of human rights, equality, freedom, democracy, rule of law, and human dignity in order not to further weaken support of multilateralism;
Amendment 38 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the EU still does not have the necessary confidenceresources or is not considered unbiased by one or more of the warring parties in order to initiate mediation in areas of strategic importance;
Amendment 53 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine is a wake-up call for the EU, as it presents an immediate threat to the European and global security order and to the security of the EU and, its Member States, its candidates and potential candidates; whereas Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has galvanised the momentum towards achieving a geopolitical redefinition of the EU’s foreign policy, including a reconsideration of its preventive diplomacy toolbox, and triggered public calls for the EU to act in a consistent manner in response to international conflicts;
Amendment 58 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas preventive diplomacy is defined by the United Nations as diplomatic action taken to prevent disputes from escalating into conflicts and to limit the spread of conflicts when they occur;
Amendment 60 #
2023/2050(INI)
H b. whereas climate diplomacy frames climate change as an element of external action policy and highlights the need to integrate climate objectives and address climate risks at the highest diplomatic level and across all policy areas;
Amendment 61 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H c (new)
Recital H c (new)
H c. whereas research shows that women and men experience, engage in and are affected by violent armed conflict differently and have a different understanding of peace 1a; _________________ 1a Gendered impacts of armed conflict and implications for the application of IHL, Humanitarian Law & Policy ICRC, June 30, 2022. https://blogs.icrc.org/law-and- policy/2022/06/30/gendered-impacts-of- armed-conflict-and-implications-for-the- application-of-ihl/
Amendment 66 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the main obstacle to the EU’s global leadership in preventive diplomacy is the lack of will on the part of the Member States to step away from their individual interests in external relations in order to build joint capacity together is one of the main obstacles to the EU’s global leadership in preventive diplomacy;
Amendment 72 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
J a. whereas, within the NDICI Global Europe instrument, there is a thematic programme on peace, stability and conflict prevention; whereas the Commission has published a Multi- Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) which allocates EUR 870.970.044 for the period of 2021-2027 to this thematic area of which only 13%-18% will be allocated to conflict prevention;
Amendment 76 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
J b. whereas funding for conflict prevention and peacebuilding is globally at a 15-year low2a; _________________ 2a OECD DAC report of October 2023: https://www.oecd.org/dac/peace-official- development-assistance.pdf
Amendment 91 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) adapt the EU’s conflict prevention tools to the changing nature of conflicts, including as a result of climate change, the rise of new technologies, rising inequalities across the world and food scarcity;
Amendment 97 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(b a) adopt a human rights-based approach to all its preventive diplomacy efforts;
Amendment 100 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) fully use the means at their disposal to prevent conflict, alignfurther develop the EU’s prevention tools withto strengthen its prolitical agendae as a value-based mediator and act as a caretakersuch during global tragediescrisis and conflict;
Amendment 108 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(d a) ensure consistency concerning the mandates of the different EU high-level officials;
Amendment 110 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
Amendment 118 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) improve the EU’s understanding of local, historical, political, social, religious, economic, environmental and cultural contexts and invest in cultivating the necessary skills among EEAS staff working on conflict prevention;
Amendment 121 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) tailor state-building assistance to the cultural, historical, local, socio- economic, environmental and political context of the relevant country receiving it and continuously update it in response to conditions on the ground through rigorous and detailed political analysis for a common strategic response;
Amendment 124 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
(g a) strengthen the EU’s engagement with all parts of society in the relevant country, in particular with civil society organisations;
Amendment 126 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point g b (new)
(g b) develop and integrate gender- responsive conflict analysis that is sensitive to the local context and recognizes gender drivers and gendered impact of conflict into all planning assumptions in order to strengthen preventative efforts and mitigate risks of relapse to conflict;
Amendment 138 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subheading 2 – point j a (new)
Paragraph 1 – subheading 2 – point j a (new)
(j a) establish close cooperation with relevant UN offices and agencies and other international actors on the ground to pool information in the context of early warning efforts;
Amendment 140 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subheading 2 – point j b (new)
Paragraph 1 – subheading 2 – point j b (new)
(j b) include women’s participation and gender-responsive indicators in all early- warning processes, conflict prevention and early-response efforts;
Amendment 144 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) consider local, cultural and historical background when appointing special representatives and envoys in order to avoid sparking controversy in conflict regions should the appointment come from a Member State with historical ties to the region concerned that could threaten their perception as honest broker;
Amendment 146 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) thoroughly assess what initiatives EU special representatives and envoys have undertaken and how they are contributing to preventive diplomacy, as well as conflict resolution process or implementation of EU-brokered ceasefire agreements, where relevant;
Amendment 156 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) draw onconduct a study into the lessons learnt from the EU’s missed opportunities for preventive diplomacy and its achievements in Africafor example Africa, including Western Sahara and Mali, the Western Balkans, Nagorno-Karabakh, Cyprus, Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, Middle East, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine;
Amendment 161 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) prevent, in the future, the possible negative consequences of the premature suspension of EU missions in conflict regions, such asas well the cone in Mali, which left a vacuum in the country’s security that was filled by the Wagner Grouptinuation of highly ineffective missions or those which have the potential to have negative political and security effects;
Amendment 168 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – point s
(s) enhance the EU’s ability to rigorously and continuously analyse the political and security situation in crisis regions and adapt the EU’s response to shifting realities on the ground, including by ensuring there is a responsible focal point for conflict analysis in every EU Delegation;
Amendment 170 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point t
Paragraph 1 – point t
(t) assess what was lacking in the EU’s preventive diplomacy efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to avert the increasing tensions due to electoral law issues, recurring inflammatory rhetoric and secessionist acts, which are undermining the Dayton Peace Agreement; adopt a new, innovative and balanced approach vis-à-vis BiH, particularly in view of the fragile security situation in the country; take the lead to ensure the swift and full compliance of the judgements of the European Court of Human Rights, in line with EU standards and BiH's EU accession path; ensure that neighbouring countries, including EU Member States, do not interfere in BiH's internal affairs;
Amendment 173 #
2023/2050(INI)
(u) set up a mechanism to verify and to ensure the implementation of all agreements reached between Serbia and Kosovo so far and to report to Parliament periodically in order to ensure that further tensions are averted and to provide more effective mediation between the partiesand facilitation efforts between the parties, including by allocating more resources to the Belgrade-Pristina EU-facilitated dialogue and making the dialogue process more citizen-oriented, with the goal of overcoming the current stalemate;
Amendment 174 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v
Paragraph 1 – point v
(v) aim to come up with lessons learnt from failed preventive diplomacy efforts in Nagorno-Karabakhbetween Armenia and Azerbaijan in order to avoid future escalations like the one that occurred on 19 September 2023 in Nagorno-Karabakh and situations similar to the one during and after the 2020 war when the EU’s passive stance gave other regional actors, such as Russia, Iran and Türkiye, the opportunity to continue exerting their influence in the region; , after the OSCE international dialogue framework had failed, the EU’s passive stance was insufficient to prevent the return to violent conflict and left the EU less impactful than other regional actors, such as Russia, Iran and Türkiye, who also continue exerting their influence in the region; prepare and communicate a set of credible measures to deter any attempts by Azerbaijan to illegally occupy parts of Armenia with the aim of cutting a land bridge to its exclave of Nakhchivan; respond to the instability in the wider South Caucasus region and strengthen the EU's diplomatic efforts in the context of the Geneva International Discussions and otherwise with the aim to ensure that Russia fulfils its obligations under the EU-brokered ceasefire agreement of August 12, 2008, in particular to withdraw its occupying forces from the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia;
Amendment 179 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point v a (new)
(v a) ensure that its external sectoral policies, notably trade and energy, contribute rather than undermine international efforts for peace mediation and conflict prevention; consider in this respect, the negative impact of EU trade, aviation and fisheries agreements in relation to Western Sahara with the occupying power Morocco which were struck down by the EU Court of Justice as contrary to international and European law and which ran against UN peace efforts, as a counterexample to avoid;
Amendment 183 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point v b (new)
(v b) calls on the HR/VP and the European Member States to address the root causes of the long-standing Israeli- Palestinian conflict and in coordination with its partners in the region and the international community intensify efforts for the negotiated two-state solution, in the internationally shared understanding that this offers the best chance for a viable peace settlement, with the aim of ending the recurring violence and enabling people on the Israeli and Palestinian sides to live in security, freedom, dignity and with equal rights;
Amendment 189 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subheading 5 a (new)
Paragraph 1 – subheading 5 a (new)
Preventive diplomacy and vulnerable or at-risk groups (ab a) recognise the specific vulnerabilities in conflict situations of at- risk groups including women, children, people with disabilities, people in jail - in particular political prisoners - human rights defenders, journalists, LGBTI people; (ab b) ensure that the EU’s preventive diplomatic efforts are sufficiently sensitised to these vulnerabilities and address the particular concerns and needs of at-risk groups; (ab c ) recognise the specific vulnerabilities in conflict situations faced by NGOs on the ground, especially the ones working with population at risks and on sexual and reproductive rights;
Amendment 193 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) strengthen partnerships and coordination on preventive diplomacy with international, regional and sub-regional actors, such as the UN, the Organization for Security and Co- operation in Europe (OSCE), the African Union, the Organization of American States, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations;
Amendment 202 #
2023/2050(INI)
(z) empower national actors to serve as key players in effective preventionrecognise the role of and empower an inclusive variety of national actors as well as civil society and other non- governmental actors, as key players in effective prevention and mediation, including women and youth;
Amendment 211 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ab a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ab a (new)
(ab a) use the EU’s representation at the UN Headquarters in New York, Vienna, Geneva and Nairobi to actively engage with other UN Member States to promote and protect the diplomatic rules-based international order founded on the UN Charter along with a well-functioning, reformed multilateral system with an inclusive and effective UN at its core;
Amendment 216 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ac
Paragraph 1 – point ac
(ac) enhance the EU’s strategic autonomycapacity to act for situations where there are no partners in order to increase its standing and geopolitical leverage in conflict prevention;
Amendment 219 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ac a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ac a (new)
(ac a) triple funds available for conflict prevention within the NDICI thematic programme for the period until 2027 and double relevant administrative capacities (ISP.2) as this would reflect the profound changes to the security environment, in particular since February 2022;
Amendment 223 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ad a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ad a (new)
(ad a) recognise the role of EU climate diplomacy in achieving the EU’s ambition for preventive diplomacy; invest more in supporting communities globally that are on the front lines of the climate emergency and prepare for the now unavoidable increase in extreme weather events in order to mitigate the consequent increase in the pre-conditions for conflict and violence; address the role of climate related resource scarcity and natural disaster response in exacerbating conflict, and provide inclusive solutions to climate and resource-related insecurity; use the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), and in particular the inclusion of ‘Peace’ as a theme for the first time this year, as an opportunity to lead the international community in integrating and aligning diplomacy for peace and climate;
Amendment 224 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ae
Paragraph 1 – point ae
Amendment 233 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point af
Paragraph 1 – point af
(af) adopt an istrengthen and update the EU’s 2018 Integrated aApproach to External Conflicts and Crises with a special attention to conflict prevention that combines humanitarian, development, peacebuilding and security assistance and diplomatic engagement, fully addressing all aspects of the conflict, including in partnership with local and international partners if necessary;
Amendment 241 #
2023/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ag
Paragraph 1 – point ag
(ag) step up communication efforts in order to ensure that the EU is seen as a key stakeholder’s efforts in preventive diplomacy may be visible and that its actions and success stories are not undermined by false narratives spread or claimed by other global powers present in conflict regions;
Amendment 5 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is one of the mostre inclusive and sustainable trade deals ever signed;
Amendment 9 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the agricultural sector and the trade in agricultural goods are at the same time suffering from and significantly contributing to the climate crisis;
Amendment 11 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas the EU has an existing surplus of meat and dairy production, and the intensive production in these sectors causes considerable environmental damage;
Amendment 15 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction the considerable increase in bilateral trade in food and agricultural products between the EU and Canada and the 26 % increase in exports of EU agricultural products to Canada since the start of the provisional application of CETA;
Amendment 19 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the importance of recognising the system of geographical indications (GIs) as a key component of the agreement; underlines the need for further effective enforcement of GI protection for EU rights holders in CanadaGI producers in Canada; recalls that a differing level of protection of GI foodstuffs' translated names can arise depending on their process of registration, therefore leading to coexistence of comparable products with a translated name of the GI foodstuff;
Amendment 28 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with concern that the existing Canadian tariff rate quota (TRQ) management system is undermining the competitiveness of EU dairy producersaims to provide fair prices for Canadian dairy producers through market regulation; notes with concern that the lack of cost coverage is undermining the livelihoods of the Union dairy producers; notes that, in contrast, milk prices within the EU are often below the production costs, and urges the Commission to examine the Canadian model and to seek stronger market regulation; urges the Commission to keep up its efforts with the Canadian authorities to increase the transparency of how the operation of its TRQ system is monitored;
Amendment 35 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the series of joint initiatives within the framework of the EU- Canada dialogue on sustainability, environmental stewardship and climate action in agriculture; stresses the importance of increased sharing of best practices in the fields of agricultural productivity, organic farming, animal welfare, carbon sequestration, soil health and protection of natural environments and invites the Commission to pursue these exchanges in the future.; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of updating the dialogue in line with the latest review; calls for the ex-post evaluation of the agreement to also examine the extent to which CETA is compatible with the Farm to Fork Strategy;
Amendment 38 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Notes with concern that Canada frequently uses pesticides, including neonicotinoides, that have been banned in the EU due to their toxicity and/or impact on pollinators and environment, and that products containing residues thereof could enter the EU despite the ban on their use in the Union; highlights that it is also appropriate for the EU to require, under WTO rules, that imported agricultural products comply with certain production requirements to ensure the effectiveness of EU health protection, animal welfare, environmental and biodiversity protection standards applicable to the Union agricultural products;
Amendment 44 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Notes with concern that the Union’s imports of fertilizers from Canada have increased by 225% between 2017 and 2022, which is contrary to the EU’s goal of achieving autonomy in fertilizing products and improved soil health;
Amendment 48 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Notes with concern Canada’s repeated attempts to undermine the EU’s precautionary principle, as seen for example in its contestation before the WTO, as shown during the fifth meeting of the joint management committee on SPS measures; calls on the Commission to prevent any weakening of this basic principle enshrined in the treaties and protecting European farmers and citizens;
Amendment 51 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5d. Calls on the parties to ensure better integration of small-scale farmers and consumers in Domestic Advisory Groups in the context of the renewal of these groups;
Amendment 52 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5e. Regrets the lack of improvement in the field of animal welfare in the EU, as well as in Canada, and calls on the parties to take decisive steps to overcome these shortcomings; regrets the lack of attention given to safeguards for animal welfare standards in CETA, as well as the lack of mirror clauses in this area, which could lead to an uneven playing field for animal welfare standards, particularly in the light of the upcoming EU animal welfare review;
Amendment 53 #
2023/2001(INI)
5f. Recalls the 41% increase in greenhouse gas emissions from Canadian agriculture since 1990 and the stagnation of reductions in Union agricultural emissions since 2000; in this context, calls on the Commission to ensure that agriculture and agri-trade contribute to significant reduction in emissions;
Amendment 54 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 g (new)
Paragraph 5 g (new)
5g. Notes with concern that the control and traceability system for hormone treated beef holds various flaws and that measures and recommendations resulting from audits have not or not effectively been implemented; urges the Commission to increase efforts with the Canadian authorities towards remedying these shortcomings;
Amendment 55 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Amendment 30 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27 a (new)
Recital 27 a (new)
(27 a) Furthermore, existing exceptions from the requirement of a plant passport, for direct supply to final users, under Article 81, should also apply in cases where the purpose of sale is for conservation. For purpose of conservation, seed is often shared at no profit to the sharer, or at cost-recovery pricing, and such transactions occur at small volumes. Seed conservation often happens in a decentralised way, and, rather than in monocultures, it is usually undertaken in agroecological systems with a high diversity of plants and (beneficial) animals, with seeds often shared in a limited local or regional context. This context has a reduced risk of pests and risk of spread of pests. In this case, the exception should apply regardless of the means of sale, including where the sale is made by distance selling.
Amendment 30 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27 a (new)
Recital 27 a (new)
(27 a) Furthermore, existing exceptions from the requirement of a plant passport, for direct supply to final users, under Article 81, should also apply in cases where the purpose of sale is for conservation. For purpose of conservation, seed is often shared at no profit to the sharer, or at cost-recovery pricing, and such transactions occur at small volumes. Seed conservation often happens in a decentralised way, and, rather than in monocultures, it is usually undertaken in agroecological systems with a high diversity of plants and (beneficial) animals, with seeds often shared in a limited local or regional context. This context has a reduced risk of pests and risk of spread of pests. In this case, the exception should apply regardless of the means of sale, including where the sale is made by distance selling.
Amendment 32 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – first subparagraph
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – first subparagraph
Member States shall report to the Commission and the other Member States, by 30 April of each year, the results of the surveys referred to in paragraph 1 which were carried out in the preceding calendar year. Those reports shall include information on where the surveys were conducted, the timing of the surveys, the pests and the plants, plant products or other objects concerned, the number of inspections and samples taken, and the finding of each pest concerned. Those reports shall be submitted to the electronic system for the submission of notifications and reports referred to in Article 103, established by the Commission for that purpose; Where Union quarantine pests, and those provisionally qualifying as such, occur or are expected to occur in territories that are part of one or more Member States, the appropriate Member State authorities shall co-operate in implementing paragraphs 1 and 2 of this article, to develop joint or complementary surveys. Reporting obligations outlined in paragraph 3 of this article may also therefore be submitted jointly by the respective Member States.
Amendment 32 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – first subparagraph
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – first subparagraph
Member States shall report to the Commission and the other Member States, by 30 April of each year, the results of the surveys referred to in paragraph 1 which were carried out in the preceding calendar year. Those reports shall include information on where the surveys were conducted, the timing of the surveys, the pests and the plants, plant products or other objects concerned, the number of inspections and samples taken, and the finding of each pest concerned. Those reports shall be submitted to the electronic system for the submission of notifications and reports referred to in Article 103, established by the Commission for that purpose; Where Union quarantine pests, and those provisionally qualifying as such, occur or are expected to occur in territories that are part of one or more Member States, the appropriate Member State authorities shall co-operate in implementing paragraphs 1 and 2 of this article, to develop joint or complementary surveys. Reporting obligations outlined in paragraph 3 of this article may also therefore be submitted jointly by the respective Member States.
Amendment 33 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point a
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
The multiannual survey programmes shall be established for a period of 10 years, and shall be prolonged and as necessaryfive to ten years. The programmes shall be reviewed and updated on thereafter for further consecutiv basis of the applicable rules and the phytosanitary situation of the pteriods of 10 years. The first period shall expire on 14 December 2029.ritory concerned, with prolongation as necessary based on the presence of the pests in question; Member States may co-operate in planning, implementing and reporting on survey programmes, as far as and where appropriate. ;
Amendment 33 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point a
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
The multiannual survey programmes shall be established for a period of 10 years, and shall be prolonged and as necessaryfive to ten years. The programmes shall be reviewed and updated on thereafter for further consecutiv basis of the applicable rules and the phytosanitary situation of the pteriods of 10 years. The first period shall expire on 14 December 2029.ritory concerned, with prolongation as necessary based on the presence of the pests in question; Member States may co-operate in planning, implementing and reporting on survey programmes, as far as and where appropriate. ;
Amendment 34 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 25 – parapraph 2 – point j a (new)
Article 25 – parapraph 2 – point j a (new)
(4 a) In Article 25, paragraph 2, point ja (new) is added after point j and the last paragraph, as follows: "ja Preventative measures and strategy for rehabilitation of cropping systems post-outbreak and following phytosanitary intervention."
Amendment 34 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 25 – parapraph 2 – point j a (new)
Article 25 – parapraph 2 – point j a (new)
(4 a) In Article 25, paragraph 2, point ja (new) is added after point j and the last paragraph, as follows: "ja Preventative measures and strategy for rehabilitation of cropping systems post-outbreak and following phytosanitary intervention."
Amendment 35 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 b (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 25 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 25 – paragraph 3 a (new)
(4 b) An additional sentence is added to Article 25 point 3: "Similarly, Member States may co- operate to synchronise plans for certain species, where appropriate for priority pest species of similar biology and overlapping or adjoining ranges."
Amendment 35 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 b (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 25 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 25 – paragraph 3 a (new)
(4 b) An additional sentence is added to Article 25 point 3: "Similarly, Member States may co- operate to synchronise plans for certain species, where appropriate for priority pest species of similar biology and overlapping or adjoining ranges."
Amendment 36 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 c (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 c (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 25 – paragraph 4 – third subparagraph
Article 25 – paragraph 4 – third subparagraph
(4 c) Article 25, paragraph 4, third subparagraph is replaced by: "Member States shall regularly review and update their contingency plans, co- operating in concertation between each other, where appropriate."
Amendment 36 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 c (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 c (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 25 – paragraph 4 – third subparagraph
Article 25 – paragraph 4 – third subparagraph
(4 c) Article 25, paragraph 4, third subparagraph is replaced by: "Member States shall regularly review and update their contingency plans, co- operating in concertation between each other, where appropriate."
Amendment 37 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 d (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 d (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
(4 d) Article 26, paragraph 1, third subparagraph is replaced with : "Those exercises shall not be required where the Member State concerned has recently taken effective measures for the eradication of the priority pest or pests concerned." ;
Amendment 37 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 d (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 d (new)
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – third subparagraph
(4 d) Article 26, paragraph 1, third subparagraph is replaced with : "Those exercises shall not be required where the Member State concerned has recently taken effective measures for the eradication of the priority pest or pests concerned." ;
Amendment 39 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 e (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 e (new)
Reg. (EU) 2016/2031
Article 27 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
(4e) In Article 27, the following paragraph is added: (2 a) Member States shall include in their action plans post-outbreak rehabilitation strategies that encourage resilience to pests, in particular when replanting permanent crops. These strategies shall endeavour to ensure system resilience where re-stocking or re- planting of crop plants takes place, to avoid future susceptibility to pests. Elements may include new phytosanitary practices, multi-species agro-ecosystems and inherent biological control from beneficial species, introduced biological control, resistant varieties, high genetic diversity crop systems, and healthy soil communities.
Amendment 39 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 e (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 e (new)
Reg. (EU) 2016/2031
Article 27 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
(4e) In Article 27, the following paragraph is added: (2 a) Member States shall include in their action plans post-outbreak rehabilitation strategies that encourage resilience to pests, in particular when replanting permanent crops. These strategies shall endeavour to ensure system resilience where re-stocking or re- planting of crop plants takes place, to avoid future susceptibility to pests. Elements may include new phytosanitary practices, multi-species agro-ecosystems and inherent biological control from beneficial species, introduced biological control, resistant varieties, high genetic diversity crop systems, and healthy soil communities.
Amendment 42 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 42 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 42 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) the preparation of the resepective evidence, including EFSA contributions, for the assessment of the high risk plants, plant plant products and other objects;
Amendment 42 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 42 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 42 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) the preparation of the resepective evidence, including EFSA contributions, for the assessment of the high risk plants, plant plant products and other objects;
Amendment 44 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 42 a (new) – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 42 a (new) – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) the actions to be taken following the reception of those requests and dossiers, including the consultation and involvement of EFSA in assessing the phytosanitary risk of a requested temporary derogation, and in analysing the measures referenced in the respective request of the third countries concerned ;
Amendment 44 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 42 a (new) – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 42 a (new) – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) the actions to be taken following the reception of those requests and dossiers, including the consultation and involvement of EFSA in assessing the phytosanitary risk of a requested temporary derogation, and in analysing the measures referenced in the respective request of the third countries concerned ;
Amendment 46 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 a (new)Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 a (new)Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 81 – paragraph 1 – point a
(11 a) In Article 81, paragraph 1, point (a) is replaced by the following: "(a) final users receiving those plants, plant products or other objects by means of sales through distance contracts, unless the purpose of sale is for conservation;"
Amendment 46 #
2023/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 a (new)Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 a (new)Regulation (EU) 2016/2031
Article 81 – paragraph 1 – point a
(11 a) In Article 81, paragraph 1, point (a) is replaced by the following: "(a) final users receiving those plants, plant products or other objects by means of sales through distance contracts, unless the purpose of sale is for conservation;"
Amendment 3 #
2023/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
–
–
The Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development calls on the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, as the committee responsible, to propose rejection of Commission proposal.
Amendment 28 #
Amendment 1 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
– having regard to the Sofia Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans signed by Montenegro on 10 November 2020,
Amendment 2 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
– having regard to the Special Report 01/2022 of the European Court of Auditors: EU support for the Rule of Law in the Western Balkans: despite efforts, fundamental problems persist, of 10 January 2022,
Amendment 4 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 b (new)
Citation 17 b (new)
– having regard to Montenegro’s status as a Contracting Party of the Energy Community Treaty since 1 January 2007,
Amendment 6 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas enlargement ishas historically been the EU’s most effective foreign policy instrument to incentivise and encourage fundamental reforms, including in the area of rule of law, and a strategic and future-oriented geopolitical investment in peace, stability, democracy and security throughout the continent;
Amendment 9 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the enlargement policy’s effectiveness has considerably decreased over the last years due to a failure from the EU side to live up to its promises, as well as due to a lack of genuine political will to advance fundamental reforms by some of the political leaders of the enlargement countries;
Amendment 12 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas the political leaders in all Member States, as well as in the enlargement countries, need to prove their genuine commitment to enlargement based on the Copenhagen criteria with concrete steps and progress in order to re- energise the whole process, ensuring its continuity, consistency, credibility and impact;
Amendment 13 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
Ac. whereas recent developments, in particular the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, have shown that non- enlargement has a massive strategic cost and can undermine security and stability on our continent;
Amendment 14 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A d (new)
Recital A d (new)
Ad. whereas the new enlargement momentum sparked by the changed geopolitical reality after the start of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and the applications for EU membership by some Eastern Partnership countries has prompted the EU to accelerate the long-overdue deliveries to the Western Balkans;
Amendment 15 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the EU has reiterated its full and unequivocal commitment to the EU membership perspective of Montenegro and that the future of the country and its citizens lies within the EU; whereas nearly 80 % of Montenegrin citizens support future EU membership;
Amendment 38 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Regrets the fact that high political tensions and polarisation, the failure to build consensus on matters of national interest and a lack of cross-party dialogue have stalled progress on EU-related reforms and plunged Montenegro into a deep political and institutional crisis, thus missing an important momentum to make significant progress on the EU accession path;
Amendment 46 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note of the results of the presidential elections held in March 2023 and the early parliamentary elections held in June 2023; is concerned about the decreasing number of women among the Members of Parliament; encourages the President, the new parliament and the government to focus on the key reforms needed for the country to make progress in EU integration, and remains ready to cooperate with all political actors to support the country in maintaining its strategic course;
Amendment 63 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Remains seriously concerned by malign foreign interference, destabilisation efforts, hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns by foreign actors in Montenegro; notes that religious institutions can bare used as a tool for external influence and strongly condemns Serbian interference in this regard;
Amendment 78 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the EU to enhance its dialogue with civil society and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate anti- disinformation efforts in the region, with an emphasis on research and analysis and the inclusion of regional expertise; calls on the Commission to build up the infrastructure required to produce evidence-based responses to disinformation threats in the Western Balkans; calls on the EEAS to expand StratCom monitoring to focus on cross- border disinformation threats emanating from Russia and China towards the Western Balkan countries and their neighbours;
Amendment 91 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the appointment of three new Constitutional Court judges as a step towards resolving the constitutional crisis; regrets the fact that the Constitutional Court was left without a quorum since September 2022; calls on the new parliament to finalise judicial appointments as a matter of utmost priority, notably the Supreme State Prosecutor and three members of the Judicial Council;
Amendment 97 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Regrets that the election reform is still pending and that many issues still need to be addressed, including but not limited to the transparency of the financing of political parties and their election campaigns, the misuse of state funds, the institutional advantage used by the ruling parties for political gains and the concerns about the accuracy of the voters' registry;
Amendment 100 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reiterates its call for local-level elections to be held on the same day; welcomes the fact that elections in 14 municipalities were held on the same day in October 2022; calls for a robust legislative framework in this regard, with a particular focus on achieving gender balance among the elected representatives and improving and enforcing existing internal rules in this regard;
Amendment 107 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. UCalls on the authorities to swiftly adopt a National Strategy for the Fight Against High-Level Corruption and Organised Crime; urges Montenegro to put in place a credible and effective criminal justice response to corruption; notes the improvement in the prevention of corruption and the positive trend in the work of the Agency for Prevention of Corruption; calls on the authorities to criminalise illicit enrichment;
Amendment 113 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes the efforts being made in the fight against organised crime through legislative changes and the arrest of key figures; notes the rising numbers of final convictions, but remains concerned by the lengthy trials and frequent adjournments; calls on Montenegro to improve its track record on corruption, particularly on cases of high-level corruption; calls for further alignment with the EU acquis on asset confiscation;
Amendment 123 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on Montenegro to step up its efforts to combat hate speech, and online harassment, which disproportionately affect women and human rights defenders, as well as politically biased reporting and foreign influence in the Montenegrin media;
Amendment 133 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes some positive steps, such as the introduction of tougher penalties for attacks and threats against journalists, and the establishment of the ad hoc commission for monitoring violence against the media and calls to urgently renew its mandate; reiterates, however, the need for the effective implementation of its findings and recommendations; calls for more transparency regarding classified files of attacks against women journalists; emphasises the need to review the investigation of the murder of the journalist Duško Jovanović and to engage with foreign experts to secure a full and effective investigation of the case;
Amendment 140 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Expresses concerns over the lack of independence of the national broadcast service (National Radio-Television of Montenegro) and the election of its director general in violation of the final court decision;
Amendment 144 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Urges Montenegro to conduct the population and housing census by the end of this year in line with EU and international standards and urges to avoid any politicisation of the process;
Amendment 147 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes the country’s multi- ethnic identity and calls for the further promotion of and respect for all languages, cultural heritage and traditions of local communities; regrets the fact that societal polarisation and divisions have intensified; emphasises the need to protect the rights of all minorities and urges for strengthened, applied and implemented institutional and legal frameworks in this regard, particularly regarding the Roma community, including a new anti- discrimination law; calls against this background on the authorities to tackle the intersectional discrimination that minorities face through a systemic and effective institutional approach;
Amendment 154 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Deplores the growing violence and hate speech against the LGBTI+ community; calls against this backdrop on Montenegro to adopt a Law on Legal Gender Recognition based on Self- Determination, a new LGBTI+ Strategy and the necessary amendments for the full implementation of the Law on Same- Sex Partnerships;
Amendment 162 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on Montenegro to improve access to justice and to ensure better follow-up and enforcement of rights in proceedings on domestic violence, as well as enhanced protection, particularly of women and children; calls on the Montenegrin authorities to comply with their responsibilities and positive obligations under international human rights law by establishing regular monitoring mechanisms to oversee the effectiveness of family justice systems for victims of domestic abuse; calls on Montenegro to introduce monitoring mechanisms to assess the specific impact of policies and procedures relating to family justice on marginalised groups of women; expresses concerns about the lack of progress and the conflicts of interest in the process of drafting amendments to the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence;
Amendment 173 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Notes with concern the signing of the Fundamental Agreement with the Serbian Orthodox Church amid criticism by civil society and political disagreements; condemns Russia’s efforts to exploit ethnic tensions in the Western Balkans in order to inflame conflicts and divide communities, which could lead to the destabilisation of the whole region; is concerned about the attempts by the Orthodox Church in countries such as Serbia and Montenegro to promote Russia as a protector of so-called traditional family values and fortify relations between the state and the church;
Amendment 176 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Underlines the key role of civil society organisations in functioning democracies and the need to involve them in a meaningful, transparent and effective way in key reforms, including those related to the EU reform agenda; deplores attacks by State officials against civil society organisations that are critical of the government;
Amendment 180 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Calls on Montenegro to urgently and fully implement the recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) from 2018, the Committee Against Torture (CAT) from 2022 and the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) from 2022 with a view to combatting the climate of impunity in the country; in this context, urges Montenegro to prohibit the statute of limitations for criminal offences of torture and other forms of ill-treatment and to amend the definition of torture in accordance with the UN Convention Against Torture; against this background, calls on the authorities to secure prompt and effective investigations of cases of police violence and torture against detainees and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice;
Amendment 184 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 4
Subheading 4
Reconciliation, regional cooperation and good neighbourly relations
Amendment 185 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Notes Montenegro’s active participation in regional cooperation; recalls its hesitationsemphasises, however, that all regional economic cooperation schemes in the Western Balkans should be inclusive and acceptable to all six countries, establishing cooperation on an equal footing among them, while strengthening further alignment with EU standards and acquis; recalls against this background its scepticism about the Open Balkan initiative and noteregrets Montenegro’s participation in the June and September summits as an observer;
Amendment 194 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Calls on Montenegro to proactively investigate all war crimes allegations and raise issues of command responsibility, aiding and abetting; in this context, calls for effective regional cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of persons indicted for war crimes; urges Montenegro to review old cases that were not prosecuted in line with international humanitarian law, as well as domestic law, and to ensure that all victims and their family members obtain redress and/or administrative compensation for their suffering;
Amendment 207 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Notes the decrease in Montenegro’s public debt, but remains highly concerned by debt-related vulnerabilities, in particular to China and calls on the authorities to reduce this economic dependence on China; calls on Montenegro to take further steps towards the sustainability of public finances and to develop measures to reduce the informal economy;
Amendment 210 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Regrets against this background Montenegro’s participation in the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative and calls on the country to continue making use of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans and the EU Global Gateway Initiative with a view to finding greener and transparent alternatives for financing infrastructure projects;
Amendment 217 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Welcomes Montenegro’s decision to terminate its citizenship by investment programme on 31 December 2022; regrets, however, that between 2019 and 2022, more than 70% of these so-called “golden passports” were granted to Russian citizens and calls on the authorities to review past decisions, especially in light of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; emphasises, furthermore, the need for further alignment with EU visa policy;
Amendment 221 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Encourages Montenegro to make the best use of the EU funds available under the IPA III and the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, including the Youth Guarantee in the Western Balkans and the Erasmus+ programme;
Amendment 224 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32a. Calls on the EU and the Western Balkan countries to establish a framework for effective cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the accession countries; encourages the Western Balkan countries to swiftly conclude bilateral working arrangements with the EPPO in order to facilitate close cooperation and the prosecution of the misuse of EU funds, including through the secondment of national liaison officers to the EPPO;
Amendment 226 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 b (new)
Paragraph 32 b (new)
32b. Reiterates its call to the Commission to implement the recommendations of the special report 01/2022 of the European Court of Auditors, thus adapting its rule of law- related investments in the Western Balkans, including in Montenegro;
Amendment 227 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6
Subheading 6
Energy, the environment, biodiversity, sustainable development and connectivity
Amendment 229 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Welcomes the Commission’s energy support package for the Western Balkans and underlines the utmost importance of designating emergency support package funds to relieve the effects of the energy crisis and support Montenegro’s transition towards an energy-efficient and renewable energy- based economy, in line with the REpowerEU plan; in this context, urges the national authorities to adopt appropriate measures on energy efficiency and savings, in conjunction with facilitating the deployment of renewable energy with a view to addressing the energy crisis and transitioning away from fossil fuels;
Amendment 233 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Calls on Montenegro to accelerate its sustainable energy transition, in line with the Paris Agreements and the EU decarbonisation goals; underlines that all new renewable energy projects must comply with the EU acquis on concessions, State aid and the environment; highlights the need to effectively transpose and implement the revised Clean Energy for all Europeans Package;
Amendment 235 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Expresses deep concerns about the changes introduced to the Law on Industrial Emissions, which sets a dangerous precedent by allowing the Pljevlja coal-fired thermal power plant to continue operating for more than two years, despite the breach of the Large Combustion Plant Directive under the Energy Community Treaty (ECT); calls on Montenegro to remedy this serious breach without delay;
Amendment 238 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Calls on Montenegro to step up the development and adoption of tha coherent and credible National Energy and Climate Plan in line with the Governance Regulation and the Energy Community timeline; calls on Montenegro to improve waste management practices and to protect water quality;
Amendment 241 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35a. Encourages Montenegro to adopt the amendments to the Law on Protection against the Negative Impacts of Climate Change in order to accelerate the approximation with the EU and the Energy Community acquis;
Amendment 242 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 b (new)
Paragraph 35 b (new)
35b. Calls on the authorities to speed up the process of the development of the Montenegro General Spatial Plan since the previous plan expired in 2020; recalls that this new plan should be developed based on the public interest in a transparent manner and apply to all new energy projects;
Amendment 244 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 c (new)
Paragraph 35 c (new)
35c. Reiterates its call on Montenegro to take urgent measures to effectively conserve protected areas, and encourages it to continue identifying potential Natura 2000 sites; underlines the need to undertake appropriate assessments and ensure compliance with the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive when undertaking new investments that may affect potential Natura 2000 or Emerald sites, including Lake Skadar, Sinjajevina, Komarnica and others, or may result in a deterioration of the status of water bodies; shares serious concerns expressed by Montenegrin citizens and civic activists that one of the most precious among them, the Komarnica River Canyon, might be irreversibly devastated by the construction of a dam for a hydropower plant in violation of the Bern Convention and calls on the authorities to conduct a detailed cost benefit analysis on its viability, including of existing alternatives based on more cost-effective and less harmful options such as solar and wind power;
Amendment 245 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 d (new)
Paragraph 35 d (new)
35d. Deeply regrets the damage to the Tara River Basin Biosphere Reserve and the Durmitor National Park UNESCO heritage site linked to the building of the Bar-Boljare highway; reiterates its calls on Montenegro to implement riverbed revitalisation measures and closely monitor the environmental impact of transport infrastructure construction; reiterates its concerns that the cost of the Bar-Boljare highway was largely underestimated and that no action has been taken despite unclear public procurement procedures, the lack of planning documentation and ecological concerns;
Amendment 246 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 e (new)
Paragraph 35 e (new)
35e. Encourages Montenegro to step up action on institutional and legislative reforms regarding hunting and fishing, with a particular focus on protected areas and protected species;
Amendment 247 #
2022/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 f (new)
Paragraph 35 f (new)
35f. Against this backdrop, urges the Montenegrin authorities to enforce effective, dissuasive and proportionate penalties for all environmental offences and to root out corruption in this sector;
Amendment 7 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 31 a (new)
Citation 31 a (new)
— having regard to the Transparency International 2022 Corruption Perception Index ranking Albania 101st among 180 countries,
Amendment 8 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 31 b (new)
Citation 31 b (new)
— having regard to the Reporters without Borders 2022 edition of the World Press Freedom Index, ranking Albania 103rd among 180 countries,
Amendment 13 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas enlargement ishas historically been the most effective EU foreign policy instrument to incentivise and encourage fundamental reforms, including in the area of rule of law, and represents a geostrategic investment in long-term peace, democracy, stability and security throughout the continent;
Amendment 15 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the enlargement policy’s effectiveness has considerably decreased over the last years due to a failure from the EU side to live up to its promises, including the long-overdue start of accession negotiations with Albania, as well as due to a lack of genuine political will to advance fundamental reforms by some of the political leaders of the enlargement countries;
Amendment 18 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas recent developments, in particular the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, have shown that non- enlargement has a massive strategic cost and can undermine security and stability on our continent;
Amendment 26 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the new enlargement momentum sparked by the changed geopolitical reality after the start of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and the applications for EU membership by some Eastern Partnership countries has prompted the EU to accelerate the long-overdue deliveries to the Western Balkans by starting accession talks with North Macedonia and Albania, and granting the candidate status to Bosnia and Herzegovina;
Amendment 33 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas democratic transformation, the rule of law, and reconciliationdherence to EU rules, values and standards, as well as socio- economic reforms play a central role in the EU accession process;
Amendment 45 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the long-overdue start of accession negotiations marks a new phase in EU-Albania relations and demands a united commitment in order to prepare for EU membership;
Amendment 80 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Commends Albania’s commitment to completing its comprehensive justice reform and the good progress achieved, in particular through continued implementation and consolidation of the comprehensive justice reform; encourages the country to intensify steps aimed at finalising the vetting process and ensuring universal justice through cross-cutting measures; calls on the authorities to further increase efforts to mitigate the side effects of the vetting process; notes the approval by the Council of Ministers of a new judicial map, while highlighting that such reforms and their implementation need to take into consideration the socio-economic conditions of vulnerable groups, as well as increase citizens’ access to justice and reduce costs while fully respecting the right to due legal process;
Amendment 90 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Deplores the enduring political confrontation and, disruptive actions and inflammatory rhetoric by high-level politicians and officials; underlines a joint political and social responsibility for reforms; inviturges political actors to treat matters of public interest with political maturity, to step up their commitment to dialogue and to strengthen democratic institutions and procedures through constructive engagement, inclusive consultations and transparent decision- making; recalls the need to strengthen parliamentary oversight;
Amendment 95 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. CRegrets that the main political parties failed to reach an agreement on the electoral reform and calls on the Albanian authorities to urgently address the outstanding electoral and party financing recommendations well ahead of the 2025 parliamentary elections;
Amendment 121 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Calls for the EU and the Western Balkan countries to establish a framework for effective cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the accession countries; encourages the Western Balkan countries to swiftly conclude bilateral working arrangements with the EPPO in order to facilitate close cooperation and the prosecution of the misuse of EU funds, including through the secondment of national liaison officers to the EPPO;
Amendment 125 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for continued action to reduce unfounded asylum claims by Albanian nationals, while tacklinge criminal trafficking networks and increasinge cooperation with the EU’s justice and home affairs agencies; welcomes successful international investigations and police operations to combat the trafficking of people, narcotics and firearms, and online fraud;
Amendment 136 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Condemns malign foreign interference and hybrid attacks, including disinformation, espionage, incitement to all forms of radicalisation and cyberattacks by Iranian hackers against Albanian citizens and critical infrastructure; invites the authoritireminds the authorities, however, that when dealing with national security concerns, they need to take into consideration the protection of human rights, notably data protection; calls on the authorities to urgently take measures to prevent data leaks byand to considerably strengthening cybersecurity;
Amendment 139 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Welcomes the ratification of the Protocol (CETS No. 223) for the modernisation of the Convention "On the protection of individuals from automatic processing of personal data" and of the Convention 205/2009 “On access to official documents”; condemns, however, the irresponsible use of the private data of citizens by the ruling party; calls on the authorities to accelerate efforts to align its legislation with the EU acquis on personal data protection;
Amendment 140 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Regrets the submission by the Ministry of Justice of an amendment to the law for the right to information, which would allow public authorities to refuse to respond to requests for information if they consider them abusive; calls on the government to withdraw this amendment;
Amendment 141 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes the legal steps taken to eliminate discrimination against minorities, and calls for practical steps in order to ensure their inclusion, namely the inclusion of LGBTI+, Roma and Egyptian minorities; recalls the needurges the authorities to step up their work to combat gender-based violence, step up child protection, adopt and implement legislation on minority rights, strengthen property rights and conduct a population census; against this background, calls on the authorities to tackle the intersectional discrimination that minorities face through a systemic and effective institutional approach, involving civil society organisations, especially those working on the rights of minorities; underlines the importance of removing barriers to the socioeconomic inclusion of persons with disabilities;
Amendment 151 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Notes that there has been an increase in the number of successful discrimination complaints by Roma and Egyptian CSOs before the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination; strongly condemns, however, the failure of the authorities to implement the case- law of the European Court of Human Rights, which condemned Albania for not implementing swift and comprehensive desegregation measures in a school that was attended almost exclusively by Roma and Egyptian children; urges the authorities to immediately eliminate segregated classrooms;
Amendment 161 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Welcomes the adoption of an Action Plan for the LGBTI People in Albania (2021-2027) in 2021 and calls for its implementation; welcomes the success of the 11th Tirana Pride in 2022 and looks forward to its 12th edition; calls on the authorities to adopt the necessary legislation on the recognition of gender identity and sex characteristics, as well as on same-sex partnerships and/or marriages;
Amendment 168 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Expresses its concern withStrongly regrets the lack of progress on achieving institutional transparency, and the deteriorating situation of freedom of expression and media freedom and, which is also reflected in Albania’s significant downgrading in the Reporters without Borders Press Freedom Index from rank 83 to 103; stresses the role of political leaders in creating an enabling environment for the pursuit of these freedoms; condemns attempts to discredit reporters and arbitrarily withhold public information, as well as the failure to ensure the safety of journalists; urges the authorities to take immediate action against political and economic interference in the media and intimidation against reportersto stop verbal attacks, smear campaigns, intimidation, and (self)- censorship against journalists, especially those reporting on the rule of law, corruption and justice; calls on the authorities to adopt a legal framework that protects journalists, human rights defenders and other stakeholders from Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs); welcomes the withdrawal of the draft anti- defamation legislation; urges the government to ensure the independence of the public broadcaster and media regulator and the transparency of media ownership, financing and public advertising; is concerned with the decisions of Prime Minister Edi Rama to ban journalists from attending government press conferences;
Amendment 179 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Is highly alerted that Albania and the rest of the EU accession countries in the Western Balkans are being hit particularly hard by attacks in the form of foreign interference and disinformation campaigns stemming from Russia and China; calls on the EU to enhance its dialogue with civil society and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate anti- disinformation efforts in Albania and the rest of the region, with an emphasis on research and analysis and the inclusion of regional expertise; calls on the Commission to build up the infrastructure required to produce evidence-based responses to both short-term and long- term disinformation threats in the Western Balkans; calls on the EEAS to take a more proactive stance, focusing on building the EU’s credibility in the region, rather than defending it, in expanding StratCom monitoring to focus on cross- border disinformation threats emanating from Western Balkan countries and their neighbours;
Amendment 180 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15b. Recalls the need to effectively ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly without applying different standards; notes the importance of addressing allegations of police misconduct and disproportionate use of force, with a view to bringing its perpetrators to justice;
Amendment 181 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 c (new)
Paragraph 15 c (new)
15c. Strongly condemns threats and attacks against human rights defenders; in this context, urges all political actors to stop and condemn hate speech, smear campaigns and harassment of independent civil society organisations; calls on the authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice;
Amendment 185 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines the importance of an inclusive framework for meaningful civil society engagement in decision-making processes, both at the local and national level; urges the authorities to implement the roadmap for the government policy towards a more enabling environment for civil society development (2019-2023); regrets the failure of multi-stakeholder forums for discussion between CSOs and the government such as the National Council for Civil Society and the Open Government Partnership and calls on the government to improve the effectiveness of these platforms; welcomes the adoption of a Code of Standard for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in Albania as a useful self-regulatory mechanism;
Amendment 189 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Deeply regrets the adoption of the 2021 Law on Registration of Non-Profit Organisations, which violates the rights to freedom of expression and association, and calls for its revision; is particularly concerned by the highly disproportionate fines for administrative violations by NPOs and the lack of a procedure for the deregistration of NPOs under this new law;
Amendment 191 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Acknowledges the progress achieved in implementing the Istanbul Convention and calls on authorities to step up the prevention of and responses to sexual and gender-based violence and femicide, as well as to enhance support to survivors, to provide sufficient resources, for example for specialised and reintegration services for victims and more legal aid free of charge for victims, support to women’s NGOs working with victims of gender-based violence, and to advance the prosecution of cases of harassment, domestic violence and violence against children, including through increasing the number of well- trained and gender-sensitive law enforcement officers and judges; urges Albania to further increase efforts aimed at gender equality and women’s rights, including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society, in particular women’s organisations;
Amendment 193 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 4
Subheading 4
Reconciligional cooperation and good neighbourly relations
Amendment 194 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Commends Albania’s constructive engagement in inclusive regional and cross-border cooperation initiatives; welcomes the tangible progress reached in the context of the Berlin Process and the EU–Western Balkans summit in Tiranaon the Freedom of Movement with Identity Cards, on the Recognition of Higher Education Qualifications, and on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications for Doctors of Medicine, Dentists and Architects and calls on all Western Balkan countries to speed up their implementation; commends the progress reached in the context of the EU–Western Balkans summit in Tirana, the first-ever EU-Western Balkans Summit in the region;
Amendment 202 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Calls on the lawmakers in Albania to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision- making positions, and welcomes, against this background, the first majority-women cabinet of the current government; calls on the authorities to further address the lack of implementation of women workers’ rights, as well as gender stereotyping, gender imbalance, and the gender pay gap in the labour force; points to significant gender differences such as the lower participation of women in the labour market, the worse working conditions, the insufficient action on sexual harassment in the workplace, the discrimination in legal provisions related to maternity leave, and the lack of childcare and pre-school capacity;
Amendment 204 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Calls on the authorities to reduce the risk of social exclusion and poverty by improving the access to social, education and healthcare services, in particular for people from the Roma, Egyptian and LGBTQI+ communities, as well as other minorities and vulnerable groups; reiterates its call to set a minimum standard of living as a way to reduce the risk of poverty;
Amendment 208 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6
Subheading 6
Energy, the environment, biodiversity, sustainable development and connectivity
Amendment 210 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes steps in accelerating the energy transition and energy diversification towards wind and solar power; applauds, in this regard, the EU energy support package for the Western Balkans andcalls on the Albanian authorities to further diversify the energy production and to minimise the impact on biodiversity by stopping hydropower developments in protected areas; applauds, in this regard, the EU energy support package of €1 billion in EU grants for the Western Balkans to help them overcome the energy crisis, including immediate budgetary support of €80 million to Albania; calls on the authorities to make the best use of this assistance in order to build a resilient and environmentally friendly energy market, in line with the REPowerEU plan;
Amendment 214 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls for thoroughly planned measures on biodiversity, water, air, climate, regional waste management and industrial pollution; stresses the need to increase efforts and strengthen the country’s resilience againsto the impacts of climate change; notes the initial steps taken to establish a Vjosa National P, including an update of the National Strategy on Climate Change, mainstreaming climate change in sectoral strategies and plans as well as increasing capacity building in this regarkd;
Amendment 216 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Warmly welcomes the decision of the Albanian government to declare the Vjosa river and its free-flowing tributaries a National Park, making it the first wild river national park in Europe; considers this decision a positive step to achieve the target agreed upon at the COP 15 to protect 30% of nature of the planet by 2030; commends the extraordinary work of environmental NGOs that campaigned for decades to achieve this objective and calls on the authorities to take into serious consideration the concerns raised by civil society during the process of revision and delineation of boundaries of the network on protected areas in Albania;
Amendment 218 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22b. Calls on the government to urgently halt the ongoing illegal construction of the Vlorë International Airport inside the Vjosa-Narta Protected Area, in line with the request of the Bern Convention Standing Committee; stresses that the construction of this airport contravenes domestic and international law, including the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, and threatens one of the most biodiverse areas in the country;
Amendment 220 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls for improved transparency, conduct, enforcement and monitoring of environmental and strategic environmental impact assessments, especially on projects with large environmental and socioeconomic repercussions, such as the planned hydropower plant Skavica along the Black Drin river; expresses concern with the economic and environmental impact of non-competitive foreign-funded development projects; calls on the authorities to take urgent action to fight environmental crime; urges the government to step up efforts to improve air quality and reduce air pollution, in particular in urban areas; notes with huge concern that in 2019, around 10% of all deaths in Albania (2.527 people) were caused by air pollution, according to the World Bank Report 2022;
Amendment 223 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Calls on the Albanian authorities to step up their efforts to protect biodiversity, including the protection of critically endangered species, such as the Balkan lynx; calls on the government to enforce the logging moratorium and work on a sustainable wildlife management legislation;
Amendment 224 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23b. Is deeply concerned with the status of Lake Ohrid, which is dangerously threatened by thousands of tons of mining waste; calls on the authorities to urgently implement the UNESCO recommendations on preserving the heritage status of the Ohrid region; in this context, urges the authorities to remove the exploitation permits to the private companies that are still carrying out mining activities on the shores; urges the local and national authorities to step up their efforts to protect the biodiversity of the Ohrid region, in close cooperation with the Macedonian authorities;
Amendment 225 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 c (new)
Paragraph 23 c (new)
23c. Calls for further efforts in the field of agriculture and rural development; is of the view that it is important to establish a solid system for consultations between policymakers and various interest groups in rural areas; stresses the need to develop a modern, ecological, climate-friendly small- and medium-scale agriculture that ensures the livelihood of farmers and protection of Albania’s natural resources, as well as the biodiversity of the country;
Amendment 3 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital -A (new)
Recital -A (new)
-A. whereas the agri-food sector is of strategic importance for outermost regions in terms of using natural resources more sustainably; whereas the new representative concentration pathway (RCP) climate scenario RCP4.5 forecasts acute future problems for agriculture, the ecological balance, water availability and food security;
Amendment 5 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital -A a (new)
Recital -A a (new)
-Aa. whereas agriculture holdings in outermost regions are challenged by their remote location, a limited diversity of production due to local and climatic conditions and historical developments, a high dependence on local markets, the climate crisis, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and a lack of energy, and often a lack of fresh and clean water;
Amendment 7 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital -A b (new)
Recital -A b (new)
-Ab. whereas outermost regions contain 80% of the European Biodiversity, harbouring many of the EU's endemic species, and encompass very rare, primary ecosystems; whereas outermost regions are also among the most ecologically vulnerable territories of the Union, as their small size, isolation and high level of endemic biodiversity, make them particularly exposed to anthropogenic and climate-change induced dynamics threatening natural ecosystems on a global scale and the communities which rely on them;
Amendment 9 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital -A c (new)
Recital -A c (new)
-Ac. whereas most outermost regions are highly vulnerable in the face of climate change and extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, aggravated by the fact they are located further away from the continents, in vast ocean basins;
Amendment 10 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital -A d (new)
Recital -A d (new)
-Ad. whereas it is important to note the principles set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights, including its contribution to eliminate inequalities and to promote gender equality and gender mainstreaming;
Amendment 40 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the Commission to maintain appropriate funding for the outermost regions, in order to support sustainable farming practices by providing schemes which are supporting sustainable management of natural resources and support balanced territorial development;
Amendment 45 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the EU biodiversity strategy’s targets should not hinder the sustainable development ofbe implemented in the outermost regions in a way that takes into account their geographical and meteorological specificities; Stresses that targeted regional policies and actions to protect and restore the unique biodiversity of outermost regions are required to safeguard their agricultural sectors in the outermost regions (ORs); productivity and natural resources and livelihoods; for this reason, strongly advises against any weakening of environmental regulations in outermost regions and calls on the Commission and member states to prefer instead a strengthened support of farmers towards agro-ecological, biodiversity friendly practices, including through higher funding and co-financing rates; calls in particular on Member states to make the best use of the funds available under the LIFE program;
Amendment 52 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Highlights the dire economic situation of some outermost regions, notably the lack of employment opportunities, lower salaries and higher prices, in particular of food products; notes in particular the high level of unemployment of young people in the outermost regions, 10 to 20% higher than the EU average; calls on the member states to facilitate the access to land for young farmers; highlights that the Farm to Fork Strategy, by aiming at developing a sustainable, regionalised and climate friendly food and farming sector, could be a chance for these regions;
Amendment 63 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Notes the difficulty to access certain food products and agricultural inputs in some outermost regions, especially environmentally-friendly ones; calls on the Member States to use all available tools under cohesion policy to reinforce the self-sustainability of outermost regions and make them an integral part of the transition towards sustainable food systems, thus turning geographical handicaps into opportunities;
Amendment 64 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Highlights the need to adapt as much as possible to climate change, notably in the food and farming sector; stresses that a resilient agriculture using locally adapted and sourced, non-GM crops has better chances to withstand the effects of climate change and to reduce agriculture’s water consumption; calls on the Member states to make the best use of funds available, and notably of the cohesion funds to support farmers in making the necessary changes in that regard; notes that this necessitates a reinforced and tailored advisory system and the facilitation of the exchange of best practices between farmers;
Amendment 65 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Stresses the need to support remunerative and environmentally friendly short supply chains and the development of a farming and food processing sector geared towards local consumption, as opposed to the situation in most outermost regions where the farming sector is mainly producing commodities for commercialisation on the mainland;
Amendment 66 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4d. Regrets the exceptionally high concentration of the food retail sector in some outermost regions, impacting the food prices and the possibilities of diversifying local farming, its source of income and marketing options; calls the attention of the Commission and Member states on the effects this concentration has on the distribution of public funds, notably from the POSEI;
Amendment 67 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4e. Stresses the importance of ensuring a reliable access to clean water in outermost regions, both for consumption and for agriculture; highlights in particular the dire situation in Martinique where the pollution with chlordécone has reduced drastically the availability of clean water and soils and the situation in French Guiana where gold mining is altering the quality of water streams due to the massive discharge of fine particles and pollutants; recalls that agriculture is one of the main consumers of water resources, especially for water intensive crops often sold to the mainland;
Amendment 68 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 f (new)
Paragraph 4 f (new)
4f. Highlights the lack of sustainable solutions for transporting agricultural products between most outermost regions and the mainland and for exporting and importing agricultural products from and towards outermost regions, and urges the Commission and the Member States to factor the need to develop greener connections into their development plans for these regions; points in particular to the need of reducing transport of live animals, in line with the conclusions of the ANIT committee;
Amendment 69 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 g (new)
Paragraph 4 g (new)
4g. Calls on member States to improve their POSEI programming and to ensure that POSEI-financed actions are coherent with their CAP strategic plans, notably concerning environmental and social objectives, and diversification of production; notes the opportunities under the EAFRD and the LEADER program for the outermost regions and calls on the Member states to make the best use of those resources;
Amendment 70 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 h (new)
Paragraph 4 h (new)
4h. Notes that outermost regions are particularly suited to produce solar and wind energies; Calls on the Member states to prioritise the development of these forms of energies in the outermost regions, without encroaching on the existing agricultural land;
Amendment 71 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 i (new)
Paragraph 4 i (new)
4i. Notes that low levels of anthropization were linked to harsh vertebrate biodiversity declines in Amazonia1a, and that the part of Amazonian forest situated on the EU territory should therefore be appropriately protected; notes that deforestation is mainly happening in French Guiana under the pressure of legal and illegal mining projects, but that farmed surfaces are also increasing; calls on the Commission and the concerned Member states to stop supporting any project leading to deforestation in the Amazonian forest, and to any project leading to high impact land use change in all outermost regions, including mining, farming or energy production; _________________ 1a Cantera, I., Coutant, O., Jézéquel, C. et al. Low level of anthropization linked to harsh vertebrate biodiversity declines in Amazonia. Nat Commun 13, 3290 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022- 30842-2
Amendment 78 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to establish a separate chapter dedicated to the ORs in its impact assessments of the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies;
Amendment 80 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Believes that cohesion policy should offer more benefits to women living in outermost regions, notably in the agri-food sector, and should promote gender equality and effective implementation of the EU Gender Equality Strategy in the ORs;
Amendment 81 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 103 #
2022/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls for the Commission to exercise the utmost vigilance in the liberalisation of the EU market and the proliferation of trade agreements between the EU and partner countries and to take into account their specific impacts on the outermost regions;
Amendment 1 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
— having regard to the Presidency Conclusions of the European Council in Copenhagen of 21-22 June 1993, also known as the Copenhagen Criteria,
Amendment 2 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
— having regard to the conclusions of the General Affairs Council of 29/30 April 1997 on the application of conditionality with a view to developing a coherent EU strategy for relations with the countries in the Western Balkan region,
Amendment 3 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
— having regard to its previous resolutions on the matter, in particular that of 24 October 2019 on opening accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania1 , its recommendation of 19 June 2020 to the Council, the Commission and the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the Western Balkans, following the 2020 summit2 , and its resolutions on 2021 Commission reports on enlargement countries and on Candidate status of Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia of 23 June 2022, _________________ 1 OJ C 202, 28.5.2021, p. 86. 2 OJ C 362, 8.9.2021, p. 129.
Amendment 4 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
— having regard to the European Commission strategy for 'A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans' of February 2018,
Amendment 22 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
— having regard to the European Court of Auditors Special Report of 10 January 2022 entitled ‘EU support for the rule of law in the Western Balkans: despite efforts, fundamental problems persist’,
Amendment 26 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusion of July 2020 “Promoting values and rules-based pan-European co- operation and supporting a reinvigorated Council of Europe”,
Amendment 37 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas enlargement ishas been the most effective EU foreign policy instrument and one of the Union’s most successful policies, and it remains a strategic investment in stability and prosperity on the European continentbut its effectiveness has considerably decreased over the last years due to a failure from the EU side to live up to its promises;
Amendment 42 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas genuine commitment to enlargement remains a strategic investment in stability, security, unity and prosperity on the European continent;
Amendment 56 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas a new impetus is, commitment and vision is urgently needed to reenergise the enlargement process, ensuring its continuity, consistency, credibility and impact;
Amendment 60 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas in the past years the Council has grossly failed the enlargement countries by blocking the accession process and not delivering on the EU’s long outstanding promises, notably the start of accession talks with Albania and North Macedonia, as well as visa liberalisation for Kosovo, despite the enlargement countries consistently fulfilling the required benchmarks as confirmed by the Commission;
Amendment 62 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
B b. whereas another reason for the limited progress has been a lack of genuine political will to advance fundamental reforms by some of the political leaders in the enlargement countries;
Amendment 63 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
B c. whereas the level of political will proven by the respective political leaders to make meaningful progress on reforms do not always correlate with the level of progress in the accession process of the different countries;
Amendment 74 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Recital B d (new)
B d. whereas the EU’s lack of engagement and credibility of the past years has created a vacuum, thus opening the space for Russia and China and other harmful third actors;
Amendment 76 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the Russian invasion ofwar of aggression against Ukraine has prompted three countries with EU Association Agreements – Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova – to submit membership applications;
Amendment 80 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. whereas past developments have shown that non-enlargement has a massive strategic cost and can undermine security and stability on our continent; whereas the membership applications of Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia express their peoples’ wish to live in free and democratic countries, firmly anchored in the European family;
Amendment 81 #
2022/2064(INI)
C c. whereas, on 17 June, the Commission published its opinions on the membership applications of Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia, recommending to the Council that all three countries should be given the perspective to become a member of the European Union, as well as to grant candidate status to Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, and to grant candidate status to Georgia after the country fulfils certain criteria;
Amendment 85 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
C d. whereas the European Council at its meeting on 23 and 24 June 2022 decided to follow the Commission’s recommendations and granted candidate status to Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova;
Amendment 91 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
C b. whereas some of the countries in the Western Balkan region display a great potential for destabilisation, thus further threatening the security and stability on the continent; whereas exploitation of this potential by third countries is already ongoing in many enlargement countries; whereas stability, security and democratic resilience of the Western Balkans are inextricably linked to the EU’s own security, stability and democratic resilience;
Amendment 94 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C e (new)
Recital C e (new)
C e. whereas during the 23/24 June meeting the European Council created another major disappointment for the Western Balkan countries and their citizens by failing to greenlight any of the issues in the currently blocked accession process despite the dramatic geopolitical situation during this watershed moment for Europe; whereas the European Parliament expresses again its full solidarity and heartfelt sympathies with the countries’ citizens while deploring the EU’s failure to deliver on its promises and stresses again that this delay is leading to a significant decrease of the positive public attitude towards the EU, thus undermining the positive transformative power of the enlargement policy, while playing into the hands of Russia and other harmful third actors;
Amendment 96 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C f (new)
Recital C f (new)
C f. whereas Turkey is a candidate country for EU accession; whereas an analysis of the EU’s reports in recent years reveals that Turkey remains vastly distant from the EU’s values and normative framework, a gap that is actually growing in fundamental areas, such as respect for international law, the rule of law, human rights, individual liberties, civil rights and freedom of expression, as well as good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation;
Amendment 105 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Amendment 107 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
D b. whereas there is no place in the EU or in countries aspiring to become Member States for inflammatory rhetoric, genocide denial, or glorification of war criminals from any side; whereas coming to terms with the past is the only way to warrant genuine reconciliation, which is crucial for prosperous societies and a successful integration;
Amendment 111 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) recognise that the EU’s prosperity and security rests on its ability - to defend democracy, human rights and the rules- based multilateral orderconsolidate and support democracy, the rule of law, human rights including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and the principles of international law, - to safeguard its values, fundamental interests, independence and integrity, - to preserve peace, prevent conflicts, manage crises and strengthen international security and thereby upholding its foundational values;
Amendment 132 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) retain the geostrategic relevance and credibility of the EU by enhancing integration in the areas of common foreign, security and defence policies, and by streamlining its decision-making processes; change therefore the unanimity rules in the Council in order to take decisions by qualified majority on foreign policy issues, including enlargement;
Amendment 158 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(d a) to acknowledge and anchor in its enlargement strategy that rule of law, strong independent democratic institutions, media freedom and a vibrant civil society are inextricably linked to democratic resilience, in particular against malicious interference by third countries or actors;
Amendment 180 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) avoid using unresolved bilateral disputes to block candidate courefrain from blocking candidate countries’ accession processes by reference to bilateral issues, in line with Article 24 of the TEU, the conclusions of the 2003rd Council meeting and the 2016 Vienna declaration on bilateral disputes of the Western Balkan states, as well as ensure that such blockages cannot happen in the future by applying qualified majority decision for interies’ accession prom steps and decisions during the process while applying unanimity only for the step of final accessesion;
Amendment 188 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Amendment 194 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) strengthen strategic communication on the benefits of enlargement both in the accession countries and in the Member States, with a special focus on countering disinformation and increase the fight against foreign interference;
Amendment 199 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
(g a) step up communication towards the citizens of enlargement countries, as well as to the citizens within the EU on the benefits of enlargement, to further increase support and better understanding for and throughout the accession process;
Amendment 211 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) overcome the enlargement gridlock by revamping the accession process both as a political goal and in terms of itseffectively implementing the Commission’s revised methodology;
Amendment 223 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) accelerate the integration of countries that demonstrate strategic orientation and unwavering commitment to EU-related reforms, democratic consolidation and foreign policy alignment; ensure therefore that each country is assessed on its own merits, and that each country’s progress on the path to accession happens at a rate dependent on its progress in adopting reforms and implementing the EU acquis;
Amendment 229 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
Amendment 234 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) establish clear, transparent and consistent performance benchmarks including timelines, improve the measuring of progress and ensure continued political and technical support throughout the accession process;
Amendment 237 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
(k a) include in the regular reporting also the issue of non-progress or reversal of progress made in the past in a systematic and transparent manner and therefore, clarify the conditions to assess and indicators to measure ‘any serious or prolonged stagnation or backsliding’ on which sanctions on accession countries will be based in order to afford them more clarity in the process;
Amendment 246 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) reward progress with a wider phasing-in of candidate countries into respective EU policies and initiatives, including participation in Council meetings, inclusion in EU programmes and gradual integration in the EU single market, while sanctioning any backtracking;
Amendment 253 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)
(m a) provide additional resources, as well as increased technical assistance and political support, in order to assist accession countries on their path towards EU membership and to promote their integration;
Amendment 270 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) assissupport Bosnia and Herzegovina to improve its legislative and institutional framework to ensure meaningful progress in addressing the 14 key priorities, as a precondition for obtaining candidate statuidentified by the Commission on 29 May 2019 for obtaining official candidate status and opening of accession negotiations, after the country has held its elections in October 2022 and once the institutions are fully functional and not anymore blocked by ethno-nationalistic parties; ensure that the relevant ECtHR verdicts are always the basis of EU policy towards BiH and the implementation of these is not an issue to compromise on; calls on the EU Delegation to closely involve the Venice Commission in any negotiations on constitutional or electoral law changes and publicly reject any proposals that are not fully in line with the ECtHR verdicts;
Amendment 278 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) encourage the acceleration of Montenegro’s accession process, as the most advanced candidate country, including by giving Montenegro the closing benchmarks for all negotiating chapters;
Amendment 290 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) recognise the threat created by Russia’s war of aggression by immediately granting EU candidate status to Ukraine committedly and intensively assisting Ukraine and Moldova to advance on their accession path and continuing to provide political and technical support to Moldova and Georgia with a view to enabling them to reach this important milestone as soon as possiblegranting EU candidate status to the country, as a clear political signal of support to the people of these countries, and a means to accelerate internal reform processes;
Amendment 297 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
(q a) focus in particular on the conditions on an independent judiciary, the fight against corruption, democratic oversight, human rights and de- oligarchisation, as set out in the Commission’s 17 June 2022 opinions, in the EU’s engagement with Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia;
Amendment 301 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point q b (new)
(q b) ensure in particular, when adding Ukraine, Moldova and eventually Georgia to the beneficiaries under IPA III, that the overall IPA III financial envelope will be sufficiently increased, so that there will not be a cut in funds for current IPA III beneficiaries;
Amendment 308 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – point r
(r) step up the EU’s constructive engagement with the authorities of both Serbia and Kosovo to achieve a comprehensive legally binding normalisation agreement based on mutual recognition between the two in the framework of the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue;
Amendment 316 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – point s
(s) prioritise the alignment of accession countries with the EU’s common foreign and security policy and continueprogress on accession negotiations with Serbia only if the country aligns with EU sanctions against Russia and makes significant progress on needed reforms in order to join the Union; reconsider any EU funds for Serbia in this light, in particular any projects financed under the Western Balkan Economic and Investment Plan, in order to ensure that all EU expenditures are fully in line with the EU’s own strategic goals and interests and not contradictory to them;
Amendment 338 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u
Paragraph 1 – point u
Amendment 359 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point v a (new)
(v a) ensure at the highest level that these standards are not undermined or downplayed from within the EU institutions;
Amendment 361 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point v b (new)
(v b) thoroughly evaluate the enlargement strategy and work of the EU, EEAS and local EU delegations, in particular in Serbia and BiH, with a view to applying a more credible, merit-based approach based on the rule of law, improving their reputation and to assess, why the results and progress, in particular in the area of rule of law, remain so weak;
Amendment 363 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) improve the consistency, efficiency, visibility and transparency of pre-accession assistance and clearly reflect the priorities in the area of the so-called fundamentals also in the allocation of IPA III funding;
Amendment 373 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y
Paragraph 1 – point y
(y) strategically apply targetedapply conditionality based on clear progress benchmarks, rewarding reforms and sanctioning regression or a persistent lack of progress;
Amendment 377 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point y a (new)
(y a) implement the recommendations of the European Court of Auditors Special Report 01/2022, in order to ensure an effective impact of EU financial assistance in support to the rule of law in the Western Balkans, in particular by developing guidelines on the application of IPA III provisions on modulation/ conditionality;
Amendment 379 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point y b (new)
(y b) establish a framework for a fruitful cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the Western Balkan countries, in order to ensure that the EPPO can effectively exert its competences in the area of EU funds, in particular in the area of IPA III funds in the Western Balkan countries;
Amendment 384 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point z a (new)
(z a) ensure that next to the conditionality throughout the accession procedure, compliance to the Union’s common values for future as well as current Member States is enforced, by applying and strengthening internal procedures to decisively tackle existing Rule of Law related problems such as budget conditionality, infringement procedures and ultimately the Article 7 procedure;
Amendment 390 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ab
Paragraph 1 – point ab
(ab) foster electorfundamental reforms, democratic pluralism, intra-party democracy, transparency of party and media funding, and judicial and media independence and freedom;
Amendment 395 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ab a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ab a (new)
(ab a) continue its cooperation with the Council of Europe to support the countries in carrying out essential reforms and training, regarding justice, the fight against corruption, the promotion of human rights, and the role of free and independent media and civil society;
Amendment 397 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ac
Paragraph 1 – point ac
(ac) uphold democratic accountability, increase transparency and inclusiveness and enhance the parliamentary dimension of the accession process;
Amendment 412 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ae
Paragraph 1 – point ae
(ae) considerably reinforce efforts towards sustainable reconciliation, including effective and impartial prosecution of war crimes, ensuring access to truth, justice and effective and non-selective reparations, including to survivors of sexual violence, as well as increase efforts towards good neighbourly relations, inclusive regional cooperation and solidarity;
Amendment 417 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ae a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ae a (new)
(ae a) help to refocus on and advance the Berlin process, as suitable format for an inclusive regional economic cooperation scheme, which is acceptable to all six countries, establishing cooperation on an equal footing among all six countries, while strengthening further alignment with EU standards and acquis, and express clear reservations against any regional economic cooperation initiative, that is not encompassing all six countries and not based on EU rules, namely the Open Balkan initiative, since this could have a negative impact on the EU integration processes;
Amendment 419 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ae b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ae b (new)
(ae b) update the Eastern Partnership as the framework for regional cooperation among the countries of the EU’s Eastern neighbourhood;
Amendment 421 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ae a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point ae a (new)
(ae a) mainstream gender equality and women’s and girls’ rights, empower women and youth and invest in them, step up the fight against gender-based violence and focus on the protection of minorities, including Roma, LGBTIQ+ persons and persons with disabilities, and fully implement the principle of non- discrimination;
Amendment 429 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point af
Paragraph 1 – point af
(af) step up citizen participation and, the involvement of civil society in the enlargement process and invest in the youth and intraregional mobilicrease cooperation with and support for a vibrant civil society;
Amendment 436 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point af a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point af a (new)
(af a) invest in intraregional mobility, with a particular focus on youth; reinforce and, where possible, increase the EU’s and Western Balkan countries’ common efforts on people-to-people contacts and exchanges in order to build mutually positive images of each other among the population;
Amendment 441 #
2022/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ag
Paragraph 1 – point ag
(ag) advance energy efficiency, connectivity and the transition to renewable energiesthe clean energy transition, as well as energy efficiency, connectivity, increasing the diversification and security of energy supply, as well as sustainable development;
Amendment 22 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 a (new)
Citation 24 a (new)
— having regard to the report "Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability" of the Working group II of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),
Amendment 23 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 b (new)
Citation 24 b (new)
— having regard to the Global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
Amendment 24 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU has set the binding targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 % by 2030 and reaching climate neutrality by 2050; whereas the EU is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement; whereas forests and forest-based industries will play a major role in achieving these SDGs and Paris Agreement targets, while also being major hosts of biodiversity;
Amendment 33 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas Europe’s forests are of immense value in terms of climate mitigation; whereas forest ecosystems store the equivalent of around 10 % of Europe's greenhouse gas emissions 1a; whereas this storage potential can be increased; whereas, however, in many cases these sinks are deteriorating, and some forests have even become net emitters; _________________ 1a 2016 EEA report on 'European forest ecosystems -state and trends'
Amendment 35 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas in order to help tackle the biodiversity loss and climate crises, it is essential that forests are protected, restored and managed in such a way as to maximise their capacity for carbon storage, mitigation of extreme climate events and biodiversity protection;
Amendment 51 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the TFEU makes no reference to a common EU forest policy; whereas Article 4 TFEU provides for a shared competence on environmental policy; whereas due to the specific diversity of the EU’s forests with regard to bio-geography, structure, size, biodiversity and ownership patterns, where environmental policy touches upon forests, it is necessary to duly apply the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality in the development and implementation of the new EU forest strategy (the strategy) and relevant EU legislation;
Amendment 55 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the principle of the European Green Deal as a cross-cutting approach to tackle the climate and environmental challenges, ensuring nature and biodiversity can be protected, in a way that creates sustainable growth and jobs in a resource-efficient, emission-free, circular and competitive economy should guide the implementation of the strategy in managing trade-offs, creating synergies and finding the right balance between the multiple functions of forests including the socioeconomic, environmental and climate functions;
Amendment 70 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas about 60 % of the EU’s forests are owned by 16 million private forest owners, of whom a significant share are small-holders; whereas few forest owners concentrate a significant share of forest surfaces, some of them owning the main EU wood processing plants; whereas involving and motivating these owners through a comprehensive policy and legislative framework, based on the recognition of their property rights, experience as managers and specific challenges, will be key to achieving the strategy’s targets, including the provision of climate and other ecosystem services;
Amendment 84 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas most recent data gathered under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive indicates that only 4915 % of forests habitats have a good conservation status1a; whereas focusing solely on aggregated data might be insufficient to identify and address key information on the most urgent issues and it is therefore necessary to consult more specific indicators on trends in condition and pressures; whereas these indicators do not support an overall negative assessment of the state of the EU’s forests, but show both positive and negative tr; whereas forestry and agriculture activities represendts that require nuancede main causes of degradation of forests habitat; _________________ 1a EEA, 2020, State of nature in the EU - Results from responses; rting under the nature directives 2013-2018,
Amendment 93 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Amendment 100 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
E b. whereas, according to the European Environment Agency's report on 'The European Environment - state and outlook 2020', long term trends in bird populations, including common forest birds, demonstrate that Europe has experienced a massive decline in biodiversity, of which intensive forest management is one of the drivers;
Amendment 106 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
E c. whereas data available on forests at EU level is incomplete and of varying quality, which hampers EU and Member State coordination of forest management and conservation; Whereas in particular, there needs to be a better monitoring of forest ecosystems status, as well as of the impacts on biodiversity and climate of forestry measures;
Amendment 134 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the new EU forest strategy and its ambition to increase the balanced contribution of multi-functional forests to the targets of the Green Deal, and in particular of the EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy, and of achieving a circular economy and climate neutrality by 2050;
Amendment 155 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Recognises that climate change is altering the growth capacity of forests in some areas, and increasing the frequency and seriousness of drought, floods and fires as well as fostering the development of new pests and diseases which affect forests; notes that intact ecosystems have greater capability to overcome environmental stressors, including changes to climate, than degraded ones as they have inherent properties that enable them to maximize their adaptive capacity;
Amendment 173 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that the EU’s forests are characterised by diverse natural conditions, ownership patterns, forms of governance, challenges and opportunities, and that they have been formed by centuries ofmost of them are characterised by centuries of human intervention and management; stresses that primary forests and old-growth forests are forested areas that have developed through natural processes with little or no human intervention and management;
Amendment 185 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recognises the complexity of assessing the state of forests, as well as the uneven availability and quality of data and therefore stresses the need for continuous policy and, scientific dialogue and increased financing at all levels to improve data collection and harmonisation;
Amendment 197 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that the strategy must align withnotably take into account the work undertaken in international forums, such as FOREST EUROPE and the Food and Agriculture Organization, and should avoid duplicating work; further believes that, given the EU’s strong commitment to protecting biodiversity and carbon sinks and promoting the sustainable use of resources globally, the strategy should be implemented in such a way as to monitor ongoing actions nationally and to serve as a model of best practices;
Amendment 202 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that to deliver on its various objectives, the implementation of the strategy must be fit-for-purpose at the regional and local levels, including by adapting the implementation to local conditions and experiences, and by providing stakeholders with necessary skills; notes that it must be based on the full recognition of propertthe polluters pay prightsnciple and of an economically viable forestry sector, as key contributors to providing forests’ various services and improving resilience;
Amendment 208 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recognises the key role of forests in protecting the climate and biodiversity; underlines that the multi-functional role of forests, which only close to nature management can fulfil, comprises multiple socioeconomic functions, such as the provision of raw materialson top of storing and sequestrating carbon and hosting biodiversity, such as the provision of raw materials as well as non extractive economic activities including sustainable eco-tourism, which leads to jobs and economic growth in rural areas, the provision of clean water and air, protection against natural hazards and recreational value; stresses that the implementation of the strategy must ensure a balanced provision of all services and maintain competitiveness and innovation; underlines that the successful provision of services requires sustainable active management;
Amendment 222 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that forests contribute to climate change mitigation via carbon sequestration, carbon storage and the substitution of wood and wood products for fossil fuels and derived products;, notes that the strategy has aably for long-lived products; welcomes the particular focus of the strategy on storage in the construction sector and believes its implementation should support a broader use of different options for substitution, in line with the goals of the bioeconomy strategy; other options for substitution should only be supported if they are in line with the cascading principle and the waste hierarchy1a, in line with the goals of the bioeconomy strategy; stresses the need to reduce the EU's consumption in general, and also of wood and wood-based products by promoting a more circular economy; welcomes the establishment of a methodology to quantify the climate benefits of wood construction; _________________ 1a Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives
Amendment 242 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Highlights that for wood-based products to contribute optimally to climate change mitigation and a circular economy requires that they be used in the most efficient and sustainable way; believes that the cascading principle8 is a good guideline for efficient use, but must not use a static approach and therefore must be adjusted regularly to reflect innovative uses; stresses that a well- functioning, un- distorted market can incentivises the efficient and sustainable use of wood-based resources with the right regulations to ensure the protection of the environment; _________________ 8 As outlined in the Commission’s ‘Guidance on cascading use of biomass with selected good practice examples on woody biomass’.
Amendment 256 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the importance of a reliable and sustainable supply of wood, wood-based products and sustainable forest-based biomass, used and produced respecting the cascading principle, to achieve the EU’s sustainability goals and notes that the demand is expected to continue to grow; believes that the EU’s forestry sector can provide the most sustainably sourced raw materials using closer to nature approaches; calls on the Commission to consider displacement effects and monitor any effects on the availability of wood following the implementation of measures under the strategy;
Amendment 267 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Recalls that 2.1 million people work in the forest-based sector, while the extended forest-based value chain supports 4 million jobs in the green economy; calls on the Commission and the Member States to assess the effects of a shift in the balance of forest functions on the overall employment situationnotes that employment in the forestry sector declined by 33% between 2000 and 2015 mainly due to mechanisation, while wood extraction was increasing; calls on the Commission and the Member States to assess the economic benefits of a closer to nature approach including the direct and indirect jobs it can create;
Amendment 279 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Takes note ofWelcomes the Commission’s announcement on developing additional voluntary indicators and threshold values for sustainable forest management; underlines the need to align the Commission’s work with that of FOREST EUROPE andindicators and threshold values for sustainable forest management; whereas these indicators and thresholds should clearly indicate, at forest stand level or at least at landscape level, whether a forest is being managed sustainably or not, thereby allowing comparisons between different management approaches, their impact and the overall state of EU forests, allowing a distinction to be made between healthy forests and degraded ones, and to determine which restoration efforts have been successful; calls for the development of the SFM criteria to include concrete benchmarks and thresholds on, for example, the amount of dead wood, the amount of forests managed in accordance with close-to-nature forestry and, in general, the use of low impact silviculture; underlines the need for the Commission’s work to build on the existing work of stakeholders, including the Food and Agriculture Organization, as well as to engage with the Member States to ensure that indicators and value ranges are fit-for-purpose for their application at the local level under specific bio- geographic conditions;
Amendment 301 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Highlights that pressure on forests from natural disasters and other disturbances is being increasingly intensified by climate change and that strengthening forests’ resilience is a matter of urgency; notes the role that restoration and afproforestation can play in strengthening resilience and enhancing biodiversity; notes that sustainable forest management consists of a broad array of actions and adaptive practices, many of which can play a key role in climate mitigation in particular supporting forests in becoming old-growths;
Amendment 325 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Takes note ofWelcomes the ongoing work on guidance for ‘closer-to-nature’ forestry guidelines by the Working Group on Forests and Nature; urges that these guidelines set a high standard for ecosystem-based forestry practices that the EU can award with a quality label similar to the organic label whilst ensuring that there is no risk of greenwashing existing practices that undermine the EU's climate and biodiversity objectives; believes that to ensure added value, guidanceelines on this concept should incorporate results- oriented, scientifically and locally proven sustainable forest management practices to give managers the tools to yield connections and cooperation on better integrating biodiversity protection with improved management practices; tools and instruments to support managers in better integrating biodiversity protection into sustainable forest management and to foster multifunctional and resilient forests;
Amendment 348 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Recognises that almost all primary forests have been lost and expresses concern at illegal logging, including in protected zones such as Natura 2000 areas, in the EU; recognises that not only are forests at threat, but that there has been violence towards forest rangers, local communities in connection with illegal logging; urges the Commission and the Member States to take urgent action on these issues through close monitoring and through the enforcement of existing EU laws and the introduction of new measures to prevent illegal logging, to hold those responsible to account, and to end the oppression of rangers;
Amendment 360 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Amendment 362 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 c (new)
Paragraph 16 c (new)
16c. Highlights that some forests are more at risk than others due to their specific bio-geographic conditions; highlights that forests should not be drained as it is a disaster both for biodiversity and for the Climate; insists furthermore that no wetlands or peatlands should be drained for afforestation; points out additionally the particular care that needs to be taken to avoid erosion in forests situated in mountainous areas;
Amendment 365 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 d (new)
Paragraph 16 d (new)
16d. Notes that multi-age, multi-species forests with a continuous cover which are managed according to biodiversity protection criteria are more resilient to climate impacts such as fires, droughts, and unseasonal weather events, and as such are an important investment for the future, not only for communities and nature, but also for forest economies further notes that there is evidence that they produce more, higher quality and more economically valuable wood; Insists that mono-cultures, which are less resilient to pests and diseases as well as to drought, wind, storms and fires, should not be supported by EU funds;
Amendment 368 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 e (new)
Paragraph 16 e (new)
16e. Welcomes that the Commission will review, complement and update the Taxonomy Climate Delegate Act technical screening criteria for forestry and bioenergy to reflect developments under the Forest Strategy; calls for problematic forest management practices, such as large and medium clear-cuts or uprooting of roots or the use of heavy, soil- compacting and -degrading machinery to be listed as harmful in the Taxonomy;
Amendment 385 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Notes that the European agricultural fund for rural development is the main source of support for forestry measures; further notes that between 2014 and 2020, Member States only spent 49 % of the available funds, and that the Commission has identified administrative burden, insufficient attractiveness of the premiums and a lack of advisory services as reasons for this low usage; urges the Commission to ensure that Member States provide for Payment for Ecosystem Services schemes related to forest ecosystems (air, carbon removal, climate change adaptation, water, wellbeing of local population, etc.) in their CAP strategic plans and in the operational programmes under the relevant funds(rural development and cohesion); emphasises that such funds should not allow for continued emissions in other sectors;
Amendment 406 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Points out that the forestry sector operates primarily as a market-based sector; stresses that putting a stronger emphasis on other ecosystem services should not lead to an increased dependency on subsidies and encourages the Commission and Member States to further pursue the development of market- based payment for ecosystem services schemes, such as carbon farmbe managed both through appropriate subsidies and the development of payment schemes for work that supports biodiversity objectives, such as data collection and monitoring;
Amendment 411 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Acknowledges the important contribution of existing certification schemes to the further uptake of sustainable forest management; takes note ofwelcomes the Commission’s announcement on developing a ‘closer-to-nature’ certification scheme; encourages the Commission to cooperate with and learn from existing certification schemes and believes that to create added value, the certification must offer foresters a price premium for the provision of ecosystem services; reward higher ambitions for biodiversity protection and ensuring multifunctionality and resilience of forests; underlines however that current private certification systems do not necessarily provide a guarantee that forests are managed sustainably, as shown by the recent decision by the Finnish regional control authorities (ELY) to leave the working group on private certification due to the inability of the certification scheme to ensure sustainable forestry; notes that voluntary certification can only be a step towards the development of a more sustainable forest management in the EU and that the most harmful management practices should be excluded from all EU schemes and policies;
Amendment 428 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Highlights that to unlock the full potential of forests to contribute to climate and circular economy targets, and align with biodiversity objectives, further research and development in the field of bio-based alternatives to fossil-basednon-fuel, long-living and carbon-storing products are required and should be incentivised; underlines that a predictable regulatory environment is a precondition to attracting investments;
Amendment 433 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Believes that to improve the coordinated provision of environmental, social, societal and economic forest services, relevant EU framework programmes must be better aligned;
Amendment 437 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Stresses that the implementation of the strategy must focus on enabling small- holders to deliver on the multiple forest functions and calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure that support programmes, payment for ecosystem services schemes and research funding are attractive and easily accessible to small- holders but suggests a capping or degressive scheme for larger actors;
Amendment 446 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Underlines the importance of the forestry sector as a provider of jobs in rural communities and notes with concern the steady decline in employment and the high number of accidents in the sector; calls on the Commission and the Member States to monitor the effects of measures taken under the strategy on employment and work safety and highlights the importance of making this type of employment attractive and the opportunities of a more sustainable forest management toward this aim, taking measures to increase the safety of work and adequately training workers;
Amendment 462 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses the importance of accurate, integrated and up-to-date data on Europe’s forests and takes note ofwelcomes the initiative for a legislative proposal for a framework on forest observation, reporting and data collection; welcomes also, as part of the Forest Information System for Europe (FISE), on the basis of improved Copernicus products, other remote- sensing data and ground-based monitoring, that existing monitoring of climate effects and other natural or human-induced disturbances on forests will be strengthened; underlines that the broad availability, high quality and transparency of data are preconditions to meeting the goals of the strategy and believes that to deliver added value the framework must build on existing mechanisms and processes through a bottom-up approach toand to make the best use of the expertise and experience present in the Member States;
Amendment 472 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Believes that in order to ensure the availability of high-quality data, remote sensing technologies must be combined with data acquired by ground-based monitoring and must be interpreted in close cooperation with scientists and independent local experts;
Amendment 475 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Notes that there needs to be more precision in the definition of the different types of forests. Forests can have very diverse levels of biodiversity and carbon storage/sinking capacity depending on the intensity of management, machinery used, the state of the soil, the level of parasite and illness intensity, etc.; points out that some forests are now releasing more carbon than they are absorbing; calls on the Commission to use the newly available data in order to establish a more precise taxonomy of forests depending on their state and the ecosystem services they render;
Amendment 477 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 b (new)
Paragraph 25 b (new)
25b. Re-iterates its call for the Commission and the Member States to harmonise existing data, to fill in the gaps regarding the location of primary and old- growth forests and to create a database of all potential sites fulfilling the criteria for old-growth and primary forests retroactively in the year 2020;
Amendment 486 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Takes note ofWelcomes the idea to introduce strategic plans for forests under the framework on forest observation, reporting and data collection; further notes that several Member States already have national strategies for forests in place; and these should be further updated to better align with EU objectives;
Amendment 500 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Highlights the importance of the Standing Forestry Committee as a forum for discussing EU policies that impact the forestry sector; believes that to achieve policy alignment, the Commission should increase dialogue between the Standing Forestry Committee and other expert groups, notably the Civil Dialogue Group on Forestry and Cork and the CGBN sub- working group on Nature and Forest;
Amendment 513 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Notes the extensive overlap among policies and legislation that impact forests and the forestry sector and stresses the importance of alignensuring themir coherence;
Amendment 514 #
2022/2016(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Expresses its concern about reports of illegal logging, including in state forests, and calls on the Commission and the Member States to increase their efforts to effectively implement relevant national and EU legislation in particular increase spending on enforcement; stresses that logging in violation of nature protection also constitutes “illegal logging”; deplores the length of time taken by the Commission in pursuing infringement cases with a great risk that illegal logging continues and that it will be too late to reverse and repair the huge damage of logging to primary and other forests of ecological importance;
Amendment 3 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
— having regard to the Sofia Summit of 10 November 2020, including the Declaration on the Common Regional Market and the Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans,
Amendment 4 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
— having regard to the Special Report 01/2022 of the European Court of Auditors: EU support for the Rule of Law in the Western Balkans: despite efforts, fundamental problems persist, of 10 January 2022,
Amendment 6 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas each enlargement country is judged on its own merits, and the implementation of necessary reforms, in particular in the area of rule of law, determines the timetable and progress of accession;
Amendment 28 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes the vote of no confidence in the government on 4 February 2022 and the ensuing dismissal of the Parliament’s speaker; callsurges the responsible stakeholders to stop blocking the Parliament and allow for the formation of a new government as soon as possible and the election of a new speaker in line with the constitution, democratic norms and the pro-European aspirations of an overwhelming majority of Montenegro’s citizens; invites political parties and their elected representatives to express their protest within institutionalised democratic procedures in the Parliament instead of calling people to the streets in order to escalate tensions;
Amendment 33 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Notes that URA party leader Dritan Abazović has obtained the mandate from the President of Montenegro to form a new government composed of pro-European parties, which is highly welcomed especially in light of the recent Russian invasion in Ukraine and the continuous influence of pro- Russian political parties and narratives in the country;
Amendment 36 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes the protests against possible minority government organised by the Democratic Front and strongly condemns the support expressed for the Russian Federation on the day of the start of Russian aggression against Ukraine; is seriously worried about links between high-level representatives of the Democratic Front and the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service; recalls Russia’s persistent interest in destabilising the country;
Amendment 53 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes Montenegro’s continued and full alignment with EU Common Foreign and Security Policy, including its announcement of support for the latest EU sanctions against Russia, and its active participation in EU Common Security and Defence Policy missions and operations; welcomes the readiness to implement the EU sanctions against Russian propaganda outlets, RT-Russia Today and Sputnik, in accordance with applicable national legal procedures and encourages the government to take the necessary steps to provide the legal basis to enable the competent national authorities to take the necessary decisions;
Amendment 62 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Encourages Montenegro to make best use of the EU funds available under the Pre-Accession Instrument (IPA III) and the Economic and Investment plan for the Western Balkans, while highlighting that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and EU decarbonisation targets;
Amendment 76 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Urges the Commission to seriously consider the special report 01/2022 of the European Court of Auditors and implement its recommendations, thus adapting its Rule of Law related investments in the Western Balkans, including in Montenegro;
Amendment 77 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10 b. Calls upon the EU and the Western Balkan countries to establish a framework for a fruitful cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the Western Balkan countries, in order to ensure that the EPPO can effectively exert its competences in the area of EU funds, in particular in the area of IPA III funds in the Western Balkan countries;
Amendment 80 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates its strong recommendation that Montenegro should hold local elections simultaneously across the country; regrets that progress for achieving a comprehensive electoral reform has been slow and more efforts are needed to harmonise the electoral legal framework and regulate all key aspects of elections, through an inclusive process, well in advance of the next elections;
Amendment 86 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Is worried about widespread corruption and urges Montenegro to boost the criminal justice response to high-level corruption and create conditions for the effective and independent functioning of judicial institutions and independent bodies dealing with corruption; welcomes that the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) under new management demonstrated a more proactive approach, especially in stepping up its communication and outreach activities towards the general public, media and civil society and in addressing the caseload pending from previous years; regrets, however, that challenges related to the Agency’s independence, priority- setting, selective approach and the quality of its decisions remain and require sustained efforts in this respect;
Amendment 100 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Encourages further strengthening civil society participation in reforms and ensuring functional consultation and cooperation mechanisms, and in particular to guarantee the meaningful involvement of independent experts, civil society and local stakeholders when it comes to key legislation;
Amendment 104 #
2021/2247(INI)
15. Welcomes the first Citizens’ Assembly organised on 4 November 2021 by the Parliament of Montenegro in cooperation with the European Parliament; encourages the Montenegrin authorities to implement the conclusions of the Citizens' Assembly regarding the fight against corruption and stresses the importance of continuing this successful exercise in the future;
Amendment 107 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes the limited progress on freedom of expression; encourages Montenegro to step up its efforts to fight disinformation, hate speech, online harassment, politically-biased reporting and foreign influence in the Montenegrin media; reiterates its support to the government’s readiness to implement EU sanctions against Russian propaganda outlets;
Amendment 110 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Is highly alerted that the EU accession countries in the Western Balkans are being hit particularly hard by attacks in the form of foreign interference and disinformation campaigns stemming from Russia and China;
Amendment 111 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16 b. Recommends convening dialogues with Western Balkan civil society and the private sector to coordinate anti- disinformation efforts in the region, with an emphasis on research and analysis and the inclusion of regional expertise; calls on the Commission to build up the infrastructure required to produce evidence-based responses to both short- term and long-term disinformation threats in the Western Balkans; calls on the EEAS to pivot to a more proactive stance, focusing on building the EU’s credibility in the region, rather than defending it, in expanding StratCom monitoring to focus on cross-border disinformation threats emanating from Western Balkan countries and their neighbours;
Amendment 112 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Amendment 127 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes some positive steps, such as an ad hoc commission for monitoring violence against the media, the revision of laws on media and on the public broadcaster RTCG, and public consultations on a media strategy for 2021- 2025; calls for further efforts to transform the RTCG into a real public service and in general to improve access to information;
Amendment 130 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Condemns all violent acts during the demonstrations in Cetinje linked to the inauguration of the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church; condemns Serbian interference in this regard; condemns Russia’s efforts to exploit ethnic tensions in the Western Balkans in order to inflame conflicts and divide communities, which could lead to the destabilisation of the whole region; is concerned about the attempts by the Orthodox Church in countries such as Serbia and Montenegro to promote Russia as a protector of traditional family values and fortify relations between state and church;
Amendment 137 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Notes that the population and housing census is likely to take place this year, and expects it to be conducted in line with EU and international standards and urges to avoid any politicisation of the process;
Amendment 144 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Welcomes the adoption of the strategy for the inclusion of Roma and Egyptians 2021-2025 which is paying special attention to antigypsyism for the first time; encourages authorities to further increase efforts to fight discrimination, to ensure fair access to education, justice, housing, healthcare and labour market, as well as to take effective measures against hate speech;
Amendment 145 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Notes that gender-based violence and violence against children is still of serious concern; regrets the shrinking space for CSOs providing specialised support services for women and disadvantaged groups and calls on Montenegro to provide adequate funding; urges the authorities to ensure a thorough implementation of the Istanbul Convention standards, to launch public awareness-raising campaigns, to encourage the reporting of domestic violence, to increase the number of well- trained and gender-sensitive law enforcement officers and judges as to ensure the proper investigation and prosecution of such crimes, and to introduce effective measures against sexual harassment, including at the work place; calls for the adoption of the necessary legal and policy measures to strengthen parliamentary representation and promote political participation of women;
Amendment 157 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Welcomes progress on the protection and promotion of LGBTIQ rights and the first same-sex marriage in July 2021; calls upon the lawmakers to advance the harmonisation of further pieces of legislation in the area of social benefits and residence, in order to make the same-sex law fully applicable, as well as to finally form the working group for drafting the Law on legal gender recognition based on self-determination; points to the need for further measures to substantially improve the life of the LGBTIQ community with regard to homophobic incidents, threats and discriminations, and in terms of access to health care, justice, employment and housing;
Amendment 161 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Amendment 171 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25 a. Emphasizes that all regional economic cooperation schemes in the Western Balkans should be inclusive and acceptable to all six countries, establishing cooperation on an equal footing among all six countries, while strengthening further alignment with EU standards and acquis; expresses, in this context, its scepticism towards the Open Balkan Initiative, while pointing to the danger that a regional economic cooperation initiative not encompassing all six countries and not being based on EU rules could have a negative impact on the EU integration processes;
Amendment 188 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28 a. Encourages authorities to improve the participation of women in the labour market and to urgently address issues such as gender gap in employment and pay and affordable childcare;
Amendment 211 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Urges Montenegro to take more action to prevent money laundering, strongly condemns the so-called ‘golden passport’ scheme and regrets its extension until December 2022 despite previous announcements to phase-out the scheme; stresses that citizenship by investment carries security risks and potential for corruption, money laundering and tax evasion;
Amendment 214 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Welcomes the adoption of a national climate change adaptation plan and encourages Montenegro to speed up reforms in line with the EU’s 2020 climate and energy policy framework; and the clean energy package as adopted by the Energy Community Ministerial Council in November 2021; encourages authorities to progress with drafting its National Energy and Climate Plan focussing on sustainable renewable energy sources and avoiding new investments in fossil gas and coal-based infrastructure and to submit it to the Energy Community Secretariat for its recommendations; calls in this context on Montenegro to increase efforts to cut its electricity distribution network losses and save electricity by encouraging investments inefficient heat pumps and solar thermal water heating;
Amendment 220 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35 a. Encourages Montenegro to considerably increase its efforts to diversify its renewable sources and reduce its reliance on climate-vulnerable hydropower generation, also bearing in mind the harmful effects on nature and environment of hydropower plants, in particular in protected areas;
Amendment 221 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 b (new)
Paragraph 35 b (new)
35 b. Reiterates its urgent call to the Montenegrin authorities to immediately bring the Pljevlja coal powerplant into compliance with the Energy Community Treaty; calls on the authorities to publish the feasibility study for the planned modernisation project and publish the outcomes of the public prosecutor’s investigation into the tender process; expresses its concern on the lack of progress on monitoring and air quality improvements in polluted areas such as Pljevlja and urges the authorities to improve monitoring and implementation of air quality measures especially in polluted areas such as Pljevlja;
Amendment 223 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Reiterates its call on Montenegro to take urgent measures to preeffectively conserve protected areas, and encourages to continue identifying potential Natura 2000 sites; underlines the need to undertake appropriate assessments and ensure compliance with the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive when undertaking new investments that may affect potential Natura 2000 or Emerald sites, including Lake Skadar, Sinjajevina, Komarnica and others, or may result in a deterioration of the status of water bodies; shares serious concerns expressed by Montenegrin citizen and civic activists that one of the most precious among them, the Komarnica River Canyon, might be irreversibly devastated by construction of a dam for a hydropower plant in violation of the Bern Convention and calls on the authorities to conduct a detailed cost benefit analysis on its viability, including of existing alternatives based on more cost effective and less harmful solar and wind power; regrets the lack of proper ex-ante public consultations procedures and that despite initial progress the Sinjajevina issue is still not solved; calls in this context on authorities to duly take into account the independent scientific expertise available and the local protests and urges to definitely cancel the plans for the military training ground with a view to permanently protecting the pastoral landscape and local pastoralism;
Amendment 230 #
2021/2247(INI)
37. Notes with regret the damage to the Tara River and the Durmitor National Park UNESCO Heritage Site linked to building the Bar- Boljare highway; calls on Montenegro to implement riverbed revitalisation measures and closely monitor the environmental impact of transport infrastructure construction; calls in this context on Montenegrin authorities to halt any further development of the port of Virpazar until the adoption of the Spatial Plan for Special Purposes for the Skadar Lake area;
Amendment 233 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Calls on Montenegro to address illegal waste disposal and to improve planning procedures for waste water treatment facilities, with a view to speeding up their construction;
Amendment 235 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38 a. Encourages Montenegro to step up action on institutional and legislative reforms regarding hunting and fishing, with a particular focus on protected areas and protected species;
Amendment 236 #
2021/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 b (new)
Paragraph 38 b (new)
38 b. Against this backdrop, urges Montenegrin authorities to enforce effective, dissuasive and proportionate penalties for all environmental offences and to root out corruption in this sector;
Amendment 1 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 15 a (new)
Citation 15 a (new)
— having regard to the Council of Europe’s report ‘Beyond Definitions: a call for action against hate speech in Albania – a comprehensive study’, published in November 2021;1a _________________ 1a https://rm.coe.int/beyond-definitions- eng/1680a464b2
Amendment 2 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 a (new)
Citation 19 a (new)
— having regard to the Sofia Summit of 10 November 2020, including the Declaration on the Common Regional Market and the Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans,
Amendment 5 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 23 a (new)
Citation 23 a (new)
— having regard to the Special Report 01/2022 of the European Court of Auditors: EU support for the Rule of Law in the Western Balkans: despite efforts, fundamental problems persist, of 10 January 2022,
Amendment 16 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas Albania has been a candidate country since 2014 andfor which the Commission has been recommending to start accession talks since 2018 and finally submitted a draft negotiating framework for Albania on 1 July 2020;
Amendment 19 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the EU must provide a clear and reliable pathway for countries seeking to join the EU;
Amendment 48 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 55 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls the needUrges the Council to uphold the pace and credibility of European integration by promptly opening accession negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia, as continuously recommended by the Commission, given that both countries have fulfilled the conditions and deliver sustained results across fundamental areas;
Amendment 63 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underscores that the pace of EU accession is determined by the progress on the due functioning of all institutions and is grounded in the rule of law, good governance and fundamental rights; urges Albania to sustain and intensify efforts to reinforce the functioning of the judiciary, strengthen the rule of law, counter corruption and organised crime, and ensure media freedom; recalls in this context that the transformation of a candidate country towards an EU Member State takes place during accession negotiations, which last as long as needed to implement the necessary reforms;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes all efforts to reduce polarisation ahead of the 2021 general elections, which brought the opposition parties back into the political process; underlines that political parties should be characterized by political maturity in treating matters of public interest and be in a position to solve internal party problems through proper democratic internal processes and procedures;
Amendment 80 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recalls the need to keep addressing the remaining electoral shortcomings by further improving the accessibility and integrity of elections, including through digitalisation, data protection, equitable access to media and revised legislation and rules on political party financing and functioning;
Amendment 87 #
2021/2244(INI)
8. Expresses concern over the enduring inflammatory rhetoric, including by high-level politicians, public officials and other public figures, which fuels the culture of intimidation, smear campaigns, violence and rioting;
Amendment 92 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Encourages the government to accelerate administrative preparations for the upcoming accession negotiations; stresses the importance of having in place coherent government structures to effectively coordinate EU integration matters, including by involving civil society and other relevant stakeholders and ensuring transparency towards the general public; underlines the need to improve intra-service coordination, evaluation and monitoring of EU-related reforms, to advance decentralisation, country-wide modernisation and depoliticisation of the civil service and to enable conditions to conduct the upcoming population census;
Amendment 106 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the need for further progressgent improvement onf freedom of expression, media independence and pluralism; urges political figures to stop verbal attacks, smear campaigns and acts of intimidation against journalists, including defamation lawsuits; requests authorities to take decisive action against the marginalisation of and intimidation against independent media outlets and reporters, including provisions against strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP); repeats its calls to improve the working conditions of journalists and to adopt regulations enhancing transparency around media ownership, funding and public advertising;
Amendment 123 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Recalls the need to strengthen investigative journalism, fact-checking and media literacy as means to tackle hate speech, disinformation and fake news; encourages support for self-regulatory mechanism of media and stresses the need to ensure an impartial regulatory functioning of the Audiovisual Media Authority;
Amendment 132 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Urges the relevant bodies to systematically and proactively prevent and prosecute all instances of hate speech, hate crimes and intimidation, particularly those directed at members of minorities;
Amendment 138 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality, property rights, data protection, rights of people with disabilities and minority rights; requests from the authorities to ensure equal treatment for LGBTI+ and Roma minorities and tackle multiple discrimination that these groups face through a systemic and effective institutional approach;
Amendment 139 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality, property rights, data protection, rights of people with disabilities and minority rights, including especially the rights of Roma and LGBTI persons, who are exposed to multiple discrimination;
Amendment 149 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Commends the adoption of the new LGBTI National Action Plan 2021- 2027 and encourages full implementation and proper budgeting via a coordination and monitoring body which shall oversee it;
Amendment 160 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Acknowledges the progress achieved in implementing the Istanbul Convention and calls on authorities to step up the prevention and responses to gender- based violence and femicide, to enhance support to survivors and to advance the prosecution of cases of harassment, domestic violence and violence against children, to provide sufficient resources for e.g. specialised and reintegration services for victims and more legal aid free of charge for victims, support to women’s NGOs working with victims of GBV, and to advance the prosecution of cases of harassment, domestic violence and violence against children, including through increasing the number of well-trained and gender- sensitive law enforcement officers and judges;
Amendment 167 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Recalls the need to effectively ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly without applying different standards and notes the importance of addressing allegations of police misconduct and disproportionate use of force, with a view to bringing perpetrators to justice;
Amendment 182 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Urges the Commission to seriously consider the special report 01/2022 of the European Court of Auditors and implement its recommendations, thus adapting its Rule of Law related investments in the Western Balkans and Albania;
Amendment 184 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Commends the steady progress in implementing a comprehensive justice reform, underpinned by the unprecedented vetting process, followed by a restored functionality of relevant courts; however, expresses concern for some of its side- effects, such as the length of proceedings, low clearance rate and high backlog especially in the High Court and Administrative Court of Appeal; calls on the competent authorities to implement the necessary measures to facilitate the backlog reduction and speed up judicial proceedings;
Amendment 200 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Urges all sides to ensure the completion of the vetting proWarmly welcomes the recent extension of the vetting bodies’ mandate where the Parliament showed strong cross-party resolve to move forward on EU accession;
Amendment 204 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Welcomes the adoption of 10 laws aiming to further strengthen the efficiency of the judicial system and underlines the importance of additional measures such as the implementation of the judicial map, a new integrated case management system and a strengthened legal education system; highlights that such reforms and their implementation need to take into consideration the socio-economic conditions of vulnerable groups, increase citizens’ access and reduce costs while fully respecting the right to due legal process;
Amendment 217 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Welcomes the renewed constructive US engagement in the Western Balkans, including their focus on the fight against corruption; highlights in this context the US Executive Order sanctioning persons contributing to the destabilising situation in the Western Balkans, as well as the US action targeting individuals and entities for their significant acts of corruption; calls on the EU to thoroughly assess a possible alignment to such actions;
Amendment 233 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Encourages the Albanian authorities to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion by improving access to social, education and healthcare services, especially for disadvantaged populations, such as the Roma and Egyptian communities, people with disabilities and people suffering from poverty; urges the approval of the minimum standard of living, as a means to reduce the risk of poverty;
Amendment 237 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32a. Urges Albania to increase efforts aimed at gender equality and women’s rights, including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society, in particular women’s organisations
Amendment 239 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 b (new)
Paragraph 32 b (new)
32b. Calls on lawmakers in Albania to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision- making positions, and to further address the lack of implementation of women workers’ rights, gender stereotyping, gender imbalance, and gender pay gap in the labour force; welcomes in this regard the first majority-women cabinet of the current government; points to significant gender differences in participation and quality of work, insufficient action on sexual harassment in the workplace, discrimination in legal provisions related to maternity leave, and the lack of childcare and pre-school capacity;
Amendment 242 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Recalls the conditionality of the EU funding under the IPA III and the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, while highlighting that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and EU decarbonisation targets;
Amendment 243 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33a. Stresses that the EU’s Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III) foresees a strong conditionality and funding must be modulated or even suspended in the case of significant regression or persistent lack of progress in the area of the so-called “fundamentals”, notably in the field of the rule of law and fundamental rights, including fight against corruption and organised crime, as well as media freedom; stresses that it is in the EU’s own security interests and its responsibility to guarantee that EU funds do not become counterproductive by strengthening clientelistic networks of corrupt politicians and privileged businesses; calls in this context upon the EU and the Western Balkan countries to establish a framework for a fruitful cooperation between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the Western Balkan countries, in order to ensure that the EPPO can effectively exert its competences in the area of EU funds, in particular in the area of IPA III funds in the Western Balkan countries;
Amendment 246 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Warmly welcomes the designation of the Vjosa river as nature park (IUCN cat IV), while urging Albanian authorities to establish as soon as possible the Vjosa National Park (IUCN cat II) as the next step, extending the whole length of the river, including its free flowing tributaries;
Amendment 248 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 b (new)
Paragraph 34 b (new)
34b. Expresses deep concern about the revision of the Protected Areas network, since without proper consultation process the coastal protected areas have been substantially reduced affecting also the Narta lagoon in the Vjosa delta, one of the most important areas for biodiversity along the Adriatic coast, paving the way to build the Vlora airport in the protected area in contradiction with national laws and international biodiversity protection conventions that Albania has ratified; calls on the government to reconsider these plans; underlines that the Protected Area is a candidate for the Emerald site network, which provides shelter to more than 62 species of birds listed in the EU Birds directive, thus the obvious need to strongly protect the natural values of this area;
Amendment 251 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 c (new)
Paragraph 34 c (new)
34c. Underlines the need to improve environmental impact assessments, strategic environmental assessments and transparency of procedures across eco- sensitive sectors and to enhance an efficient and consequent prosecution of environmental crimes;
Amendment 252 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 d (new)
Paragraph 34 d (new)
Amendment 253 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 e (new)
Paragraph 34 e (new)
34e. Calls for further efforts in the field of agriculture and rural development; is of the view that it is important to establish a solid system for consultations between policymakers and various interest groups in rural areas; stresses the need to develop a modern, ecological, climate-friendly small- and medium-scale agriculture that ensures the livelihood of farmers and protection of Albania’s natural resources as well as biodiversity;
Amendment 258 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35a. Specifically encourages Albanian authorities to diversify its energy production and to minimize the impact on biodiversity by stopping hydropower developments in protected areas;
Amendment 265 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Commends the fact that Albania remains a reliable and committed external policy partner, fully aligning to the EU’s foreign, security and defence policy, and actively contributing to EU crisis- management missions and operations; warmly welcomes the recent speedy alignment to the sanctions against Russia following the Russian invasion in Ukraine;
Amendment 272 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37 a (new)
Paragraph 37 a (new)
37a. Considers that stability and unity on the European continent and Western Balkans is of crucial importance in this moment in history, with respect to the recent Russian invasion and atrocious developments in Ukraine; urges Member States to immediately start accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania considering the geopolitical importance of this decision, demonstrating crucial European unity, besides the fact that the countries fulfil all official criteria;
Amendment 274 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. WelcomesCalls on the Albanian Government’s to continued steps promoting good neighbourly relations and inclusive regional integration by developing a Regional Economic Area particular to refocus and increase efforts to work on an inclusive regional integration by implementing and developing the Common Regional Market, thus building on the achievements of the Regional Economic Area, agreed upon within the Berlin Process in 2017;
Amendment 277 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38a. Emphasizes that all regional economic cooperation schemes in the Western Balkans should be inclusive and acceptable to all six countries, establishing cooperation on an equal footing among all six countries, while strengthening further alignment with EU standards and acquis; expresses, in this context, its scepticism towards the Open Balkan Initiative, while pointing to the danger that a regional economic cooperation initiative not encompassing all six countries and not being based on EU rules could have a negative impact on the EU integration processes;
Amendment 1 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
— having regard to the Concept for an Integrated Approach on Climate Change and Security of 5 October 2021,
Amendment 5 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9
Citation 9
— having regard to the Council conclusions of 20 January 2020 and of 25 January 2021 on climate diplomacy,
Amendment 6 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10
Citation 10
— having regard to the Council conclusions of 17 June 2020 and of 10 May 2021 on security and defence,
Amendment 25 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas the climate crisis has generated effects on the international system where it has the potential to exacerbates geopolitical tensions, and to shift the balance between major powers;
Amendment 26 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the climate crisis affects both human and state security; whereas global warming intersects in various ways with political, ethnic and socio-economic dynamics, and is a direct driver of conflict in that it increases disaster risks and places additional pressure on ecosystems, thereby threatening people’s livelihoods, water and food security, and critical infrastructure, by, inter alia, instigating land-use change and environmental degradation;
Amendment 28 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. whereas climate change can affect people’s security differently depending on their gender, socio-economic status, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), (dis)ability, etc.; whereas marginalised groups in particular tend to be disproportionately negatively affected by climate change;
Amendment 30 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
C b. whereas links between climate change and conflict can be complex and concrete effects of climate change on conflict are mostly context-specific; whereas there is a need to support a more systematic and extensive exchange and cross-fertilisation between the scientific communities working on the climate- security nexus;
Amendment 40 #
2021/2102(INI)
E a. whereas in a recent study the 2019 carbon footprint of the military sector in Member States, including both national armed forces and military technology industries based in the EU, was estimated at approximately 24.8 million tCO2eq;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas, according to the European Defence Agency (EDA), transport fuels accounted for 52 % of the energy consumption of the 22 Member States which provided data for 2016 and 2017 (countries standing for 96,9% of EDA Member States’ overall defence expenditure); whereas, according to the same EDA survey, military infrastructure and buildings represent another large consumer of energy, with heating alone having accounted, on average, for 32 % of Member States’ armed forces’ energy consumption in 2017, 75 % of which was generated by oil fuels and natural gas;
Amendment 43 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the defence sector is not mentioned in the 2015 Paris Agreement, leaving it to national governments to decide whether to include mitigation efforts by the defence sector in their national commitments towards the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC); whereas all sectors must contribute to the reduction of emissions and at the same time adapt to climate change to reach the Union’s carbon neutrality objectives and to maintain operational effectiveness;
Amendment 46 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas, as a consequence, the Union’s external action must increasingly incorporate climate change and environmental considerations as a major security risk, and accordingly adapt strategies and concepts, procedures, civilian and military hardware and infrastructure, capability development including training and, where appropriate, its institutional framework and accountability mechanisms;
Amendment 48 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
G b. whereas the Union’s security and defence policy and its instruments should directly contribute to preventing and reducing the negative security effects of the climate crisis; whereas the full complement of governance and peace- building instruments must address the climate-security nexus;
Amendment 49 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G c (new)
Recital G c (new)
G c. whereas even a small nuclear exchange would have dramatic humanitarian consequences, and would also impact the climate in a very negative way inducing famines and the shortening of growing seasons for several years;
Amendment 55 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas the NDICI has a spending target of 30% of its EUR 80 Billion seven year budget to support climate actions, and between 7,5 and 10% annually for environmental protection and biodiversity objectives;
Amendment 64 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses the urgent need to accelerate and deepen the integration of conflict-sensitive climate mitigation and adaptation in the Union’s external, foreign, security, and defence policies, in particular its Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP);
Amendment 74 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) to make sure that climate change is mainstreamed in the Union’s external action, following the example of the NDICI regulation; calls for climate- specific strategies, policies, procedures, measures and capabilities to be developed; calls on the VP/HR to make sure that the development of a Union policy on climate security and defence entails the implementation of a human security approach which involves the participation of diverse members of the local population in all stages of planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and which includes environmental safeguarding, including protection of biodiversity and prevention of pollution;
Amendment 79 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for the development of concrete benchmarks to measure progress in addressing the links between climate change, on the one hand, and peace, conflict and the conflict and climate sensitivity of EU external action on the other; calls on the VP/HR to report on an annual basis to Parliament on progress made using and meeting these benchmarks and indicators;
Amendment 83 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the recent Commission, Council and EEAS initiatives in the field of climate diplomacy, security and defence, in particular the Climate Diplomacy Policy Framework, the Climate Change and Defence Roadmap (the ‘Roadmap’) and the Concept for an Integrated Approach on Climate Change and Security; calls on the VP/HR to make sure that all different concepts are well connected and harmonised in a coherent and consistent framework; stresses the need to make this a priority, and calls on the VP/HR to report on progress until June 2022;
Amendment 85 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the importance of addressing the links between climate change, security and defence in the forthcoming Strategic Compass, with a view to identifying clear goals and concrete measures for Member States to strengthen the energy efficiency of the armed forces and adapt to the comprehensive security effects of climate change in the medium to longer term, ranging from strategic foresight, training and innovation to capability development within the EU framework;
Amendment 89 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the Roadmap and calls on the EEAS to ensure, together with the relevant Commission services and the EDA, where appropriate, the comprehensive implementation of the three work strands – the operational dimension, capability development and partnerships; calls on the Member States to develop national structures in support of the objectives; urges all actors to treat this process as a priority and to develop and implement initiatives in line with the integrated approach; stresses the need to assessimportant role of the armed forces with respect to adaption but also mitigating the effect on climate change and the environment, including by comprehensively measuring and mapping the environmental footprint of armed forces, as proposed in the Roadmap; urges the VP/HR to propose to the Member States an immediate action programme which consists of prioritised actions presented in the Roadmap which can be implemented in the short term; calls for the timeframes for reviewing the Roadmap to be reconsidered and, in particular, for the overall objectives to be reviewed much earlier than 2030;
Amendment 92 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes in particular the Roadmap’s immediate and short-term impact measures for 2020-2021, in particular the development of a the light- touch reporting process – linked with the development of measurement capabilities - based on indicators of progress related to the environmental footprint, including energy, water, waste management, etc., of CSDP missions and operations; stresses the necessity to generate more detailed assessments by 2022; , taking into account lessons learned and best practices, by 2023 and to incorporate stronger requirements for appropriate technical specific actions as part of procurement to mitigate a life- cycle approach as included in the 2012 Military Concept on Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency for EU- led military operations; highlights the need to systematically include climate and environmental considerations into military technology, research, procurement and infrastructure;
Amendment 98 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Calls for strengthening the role of EDA, EDF and PESCO in supporting Member States, disseminating national best practices and organizing regular peer-to-peer exchanges on green defence and climate change mitigation;
Amendment 99 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. CIn order to lay the ground for contributing to climate mitigation, calls on the VP/HR to present, by mid-2022, an assessment of the carbon footprint and environmental impact of the EU’s external action; stresses the need to develop by 2022 a meaningful methodology to quantify the greenhouse gas emissions from all EU security and defence activities, including emissions from manufacturing, possession and dismantling also in order to address the current lack of reliable and internationally comparable data; underlines the need to agree with NATO on a common methodology as regards military activities and the measurement of its carbon footprint and to agree on precise reduction targets, pathways, and a timetable; believes that the Roadmap should be used to trigger clear national pledges to reduce military emissions, including mandatory military emissions reporting to the UNFCCC and national Parliaments, as without reporting and transparency, there will be no pressure to cut emissions and no means of determining the impact of any pledges;
Amendment 104 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Calls for the setting of voluntary targets to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions intensity of military missions and operations, and to engage onto a path towards climate neutrality by 2050, thereby further enhancing operational effectiveness;
Amendment 105 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 b (new)
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9 b. Proposes to launch a pilot project for measuring and mapping the greenhouse gas emissions of CSDP missions and operations; believes that EUFOR Althea would be a good choice in that respect;
Amendment 106 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Strongly welcomes the fact that the Union’s new Global Europe instrument (NDICI) reflects well the urgency and importance of swift, strong and extensive external climate action; welcomes in this regard that NDICI mainstreams climate action and will make sure that 30% of its EUR 80 Billion seven year budget will support climate actions; calls on the Commission to fully respect these targets and to include into its calculations only measures with a clear climate dimension; welcomes that investments in fossil fuels and measures having harmful or significant adverse effects on the environment and climate are excluded from funding; strongly welcomes the NDICI climate security policy (See subsection B.1.(d) of Annex III to the NDICI Regulation); calls on the Commission to prioritise actions seeking to achieve comprehensive and inclusive outcomes through linking climate mitigation and adaptation to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; stresseswelcomes NDICI’s environment and climate change programme while stressing the need to include greater support for fragile and conflict-affected states in environmental governance, including institution-building; demands that the full potential for environmental peacebuilding be unleashed under the NDICI peace, stability and conflict-prevention programme; believes that the NDICI’s approach to climate security should be a point of reference for all other Union external action and calls on the HR/VP to ensure that in particular CSDP is synchronised with that approach;
Amendment 109 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Calls on the HR/VP to launch a lessons learned process as regards past and ongoing missions, operations and actions, and to focus on the question under which political, institutional, but also socio-economic circumstances security and defence actions effectively support lasting peace-building and the strengthening of sustainable and democratic governance structures, and at what point an exit strategy can be implemented;
Amendment 110 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10 b. Believes that climate security should become fully integrated into the Union’s conflict prevention and crisis management toolbox in order to strengthen resilience of fragile states and affected populations;
Amendment 111 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the need to boost the Union’s strategic foresight, early-warning, situational awareness and conflict-analysis capacities using qualitative and quantitative data and innovative methods from various sources; underlines that, in addition to systematic cooperation with civil society organisations, the Union’s space programmes and the Joint Research Centre (JRC) should also contribute, SATCEN and INTCEN, the EEAS’s conflict prevention unit, national research centres, think tanks, national intelligence services and the Joint Research Centre (JRC) should also contribute to strategic foresight, peacebuilding, climate and conflict research; believes that it is of utmost importance that such knowledge is used to well design future missions, operations and actions taking into account parameters ranging from changing weather conditions to the local political context;
Amendment 114 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Underlines that the principle of data-driven policy and programmes must be central to climate security programmes; is mindful, at the same time, of the limitations of big data approaches and quantitative environmental stress indices with regard to conflict prediction, as they risk paying too little attention to the local societal context; recalls the non-availability of reliable data in some fragile countries, also as a result of corruption and weak governance structures, in which case proxy data should be used instead; believes that the knowledge and initiatives of local populations and civil society have a key role to play as part of the Union’s efforts to address the effects of climate change on conflict;
Amendment 117 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Calls on the EEAS and the Commission to ensure that early warning and conflict analysis are adequately connected to early action and responses, and that meaningful strategic foresight capability is in place; welcomes in this respect the ongoing conflict analysis of around 60 countries by EEAS; recalls that it is essential for climate actions to be conflict-sensitive to avoid inadvertently doing harm and to contribute to peace whenever possible;
Amendment 120 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Stresses that a case-by-case approach including regionally specific analyses and locally driven initiatives is needed which is adapted to the specific situation on the ground; stresses the importance of strengthening the resilience of communities, and that supporting local ownership and inclusive local governance structures is essential to ensure that efforts are sustainable; stresses that an inclusive and accountable approach towards local populations and which increases environmental protection and access to vital resources also increases the security of EU forces and personnel (mission security);
Amendment 124 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Believes that environmental peace building should be reinforced, as it generates sustainable and fair solutions addressing the effects of climate change and can also present opportunities to build peace, while fostering dialogue and cooperation at the local, national and international level (e.g. on natural resource management, access to land and water, environmental protection, disaster risk reduction, welcoming climate refugees, etc.) and presenting opportunities to adopt a transformational approach to address the root causes of conflict and structural drivers of marginalisation; stresses the need to increase pre-conflict mediation initiatives, including by means of higher levels of funding via NDICI; stresses the need to address the environment throughout the cycle of conflict, and to also address the post- conflict situation in an appropriate manner as it can leave populations more vulnerable to environmental risk or lead to a rise of environmental crime or devastation (e.g. deforestation) in ungoverned spaces;
Amendment 127 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Calls for the evaluation and monitoring of noise pollution caused by military marine activities on marine fauna, especially military sonars, which potentially contribute to biodiversity loss;
Amendment 133 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Proposes the nomination of an EU Special Representative on Climate, Peace and Conflict (EUSR CPC), who should coordinate the Union’s external action in this regard, support the mainstreaming of climate sensitivity across institutions, oversee the implementation of specific actions and promote the development of internal capacities, expertise and knowledge; underlines that the EUSR CPC should propose relevant initiatives to the VP/HR, the Commission and the Council, and should regularly brief Parliament; stresses the need to deploy climate security experts to EU delegations; and to the CSDP missions and operations, encouraging Member States to support this efforts by providing such experts; proposes to specifically task EU Delegations to enhance reporting about the governance of land and natural resources as well as connected socioeconomic and political developments; underlines the importance to also task the EUSR CPC with closely monitoring the situation in regions which are heavily affected by climate change and environmental degradation, such as the Sahel, the Horn of Africa and the Pacific, and with developing mechanisms to monitor, evaluate, document and communicate publicly on the impact, the lessons learned and the best practices of efforts to achieve comprehensive outcomes through linking climate adaptation and peacebuilding;
Amendment 139 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Strongly believes that there is an urgent needcy for Member States to mandate all CSDP missions and operations and all European Peace Facility (EPF) actions to contribute to the integrated approach for addressing climate security challenges, in particular in the Sahel and Horn of Africa regions, in order to raise the likelihood of successfully attaining the missions’ objectives;
Amendment 144 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Highlights that CSDP missions and operations and EPF actions can contribute to enhancing the climate resilience of their host countries and stresses that a positive legacy in terms of their local footprint should be included in particular in their exit strategies, without jeopardising mission effectiveness or the security of own personnel; underlines that reducing the operational dependency on fossil fuels brings benefits in operational efficiency and effectiveness, including enhancing the safety of mission personnel by reducing logistical supply chains, and strengthening the credibility of CSDP engagement in light of the EU’s global climate leadership;
Amendment 147 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Recalls that all civilian and military CSDP missions and operations and EPF actions should be part of a broader political strategy designed to contribute to human security, and seek to increase the local level of security and stability; stresses the need to integrate climate security and environmental peacebuilding in updated EU concepts on Security Sector Reform (SSR) and Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR);
Amendment 148 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18 b. Believes that there is the need to adapt CSDP mandates and EPF actions in order to raise the sustainability of such missions’ contributions to peace by prioritizing the security of all parts of the local population, strengthening the resilience of relevant local governance structures in particular as regards quality of security service, inclusivity (especially with regard to the participation and the rights of diverse women, young people and marginalised groups), accountability, and transparency;
Amendment 149 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. SCalls on the EEAS to guarantee that civilian and military missions and operations as well as other external action measures are climate-sensitive and gender-sensitive and conflict-sensitive by design; underlines the urgent need to prevent that Union activities in fragile third countries contribute to scarcity of resources, rising prices of vital resources, or environmental degradation and pollution; stresses the need to design mission infrastructure and a supply-chain that are climate- and environment-sensitive and as energy-optimised and carbon- neutral as possible, and that make use of new technology such as mobile solar systems, in particular for static features;
Amendment 154 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Proposes to establish a curriculum for an ESDC “train the trainer” course to mainstream climate and environmental issues into the ordinary military training system on tactical and the strategic level; believes that such courses should be mandatory pre-deployment training for climate security advisors for CSDP missions and operations as well as EU Delegations;
Amendment 157 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19 b. Underlines that the new European Peace Facility also presents many new opportunities and entry points for implementation of the Climate Change and Defence Roadmap;
Amendment 159 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 – introductory part
Paragraph 20 – introductory part
20. Stresses the need to strengthen the EU’s environmental peacebuilding and climate security by including tasks and support efforts relating to mediation, dialogue, the protection of civilians, conflict resolution and reconciliation in order to ease climate-induced tensions between different communities competing over scarce resources, such as farmland or water, and which easily strengthen violent armed and extremist groups or transform into armed conflicts or even inter-state wars; highlights the need to develop new missions and measures which complement and strengthen efforts carried out and supported through other instruments and aim at reducing tensions and conflict, also on the very local, community level; stresses, in this regard, that new missions should, inter alia, focus on integrated peacebuilding, environmental peacebuilding, and climate adaptation measures as well as boosting civilian conflict prevention capacities; proposes that new missions could focus on the following:
Amendment 163 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. States that all military capabilities and services used by the Union should contribute to reaching the EU’s climate targets and adapt to increasingly challenging climate conditions in order to be able, inter alia, to guarantee the fulfilment of their tasks at home and abroad; as regards climate adaptation, believes there is an urgent need for Member States’ armed forces to adapt their capabilities to increasingly challenging climate conditions;
Amendment 169 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Calls for evaluating the impact of climate change induced changing weather patterns and of more frequent extreme weather events on the operational effectiveness of armed forces and potentially resulting capability requirements;
Amendment 170 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Underlines that an increase in defence expenditure should not lead to an increase in emissions, and that part of defence spending should be dedicated to investments in instrumenttechnologies and capabilities that significantly reduce emissions underlining that climate and environmental considerations have become a key driving factor; recalls that EU and NATO military strategists and planners have been working on the question of how armed forces can reduce their carbon footprint for more than a decade; recalls that a reduced energy footprint and fuel demand has also a positive effect on mission security and efficiency; welcomes, in this respect, the EDA’s activities, in particular the Go Green policy it launched in 2012, its Military Green concept and, its wEnvironmental Working gGroup on the c, its Consultation Forum for Sustainable Energy in the Defence Sector and, and its Incubation Forum on Circular eEconomy, and in European Defence; calls for an acceleration and broadening of such projects and for an independent external evaluation thereof;
Amendment 176 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Notes that the EDA has concluded that the subsequent reduction in fossil fuel consumption cuts costs, decreases emissions and reduces dependencies on non-European sources, and that the number of casualties can be reduced significantly given that there are far fewer fuel convoys for adversaries to target, thereby freeing up resources that are used to protect convoys, and that overall capabilities are made more effective through enhanced endurance, mobility and autonomy; underlines that a high fossil fuel demand and long supply routes drive the costs for missions and operations and increase the security risk for mission personnel and contractors;
Amendment 179 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls on DG DEFIS, the Member States, the EEAS and the EDA to adopt an approach incorporating a low energy, carbon and environmental footprint by design when implementing relevant EU funds and to regularly report on progress; underlines that following a coordinated EU-level approach is particularly important when launching research, development, modernisation, or pooling and sharing initiatives in particular as regards military, and dual-use technology and capabilities; recalls that it is strategically important to develop all technological aspects and to address the whole life cost together with EU-level standardisation and certification to ensure that equipment is fit to tackle the effects of the climate crisis; welcomes, in this respect, the fact that 30 % of the European Defence Fund aims to contribute to climate action; welcomes the relevant investment of EUR 133 million provided for in the first annual work programme, but notes that this represents only 11 % of the overall annual EDF budget;
Amendment 185 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Underlines the need to significantly increase investments in ‘green’ defence, in particular by dedicating a higher share of military R&D funded from the EU budget to carbon-neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military aircraft, ships and other vehicles, in particular as regards future major weapons systems (e.g. the future combat air system (FCAS) and the European main battle tank (EMBT)); states that is imperative to start now by investing massively into research and development of carbon neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military vehicles on land, sea and air; underlines that, given the dual nature of such investments, they have strong positive spill-over effects in the civilian sector, in particular for the ailing civil aviation industry looking for less energy intensive and more cost-effective business models and technologies; believes that the electrification of military technology should be further promoted and extensively financed including via the EDF, in particular as regards weapons systems, but also in terms of housing, barracks and related heating or cooling systems, be it in Member States or as regards military camps when deployed;
Amendment 190 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25 a. Calls for mainstreaming energy efficiency criteria and circular economy principles into capability development programs and procurement guidelines, based on experience and lessons learnt by Member States and in the framework of EDA activities; asks Member States to work on process optimization, eco-friendly system design, construction and operation based on circularity principles in particular with regard to Operational Headquarters and field offices;
Amendment 191 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. CBelieves it is time to develop new permanent structured cooperation (PESCO) projects aiming at setting standards and benchmarks concerning energy efficiency, creating new capabilities or pooling and modernising existing ones; calls on the Member States to consider the feasibility of using PESCO for setting up a corps of military engineers to focus on addressing climate-induced natural disasters and the protection of critical infrastructure in fragile countries; stresses the importance of including periodical reviews for assessing progress of such projects and addressing shortcomings as early as possible;
Amendment 196 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28 a. Calls for the climate security nexus to be included as a new priority area for the UN-EU Strategic Partnership on Peace Operations and Crisis Management;
Amendment 198 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Welcomes the stated ambition of NATO Secretary-General StoltenbergHeads of State and Governments of 14June 2021 that NATO reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050; underlines the fact that 22 Member States are NATO members and calls on the VP/HR to make sure that emission reduction objectives, benchmarks and methodologies are synchronised, asbetween Member States as they have only a single set of forces and cannot afford to have different EU and NATO standards or the duplication of forces; believes that NATO and the EU should decide to treat climate security as a new; believes that NATO and the EU should decide to treat climate security as a new area for cooperation and concrete actions; call in this respect also for better anticipation of ‘green’ interoperability between Members States of both NATO and EU especially as concerns fuels for engines used by military vehicles; calls more specifically for climate change and security to be included as a new and very concrete area ofor cooperation and concrete actions; into the 3rd Joint Declaration of EU and NATO;
Amendment 202 #
2021/2102(INI)
29 a. Calls on all nuclear weapon states to fulfil their nuclear disarmament obligations under international law in order to prevent grave climate consequences; equally issues the same call on countries, which possess such weapons outside of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT);
Amendment 205 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Paragraph 29 b (new)
29 b. Calls for the universal ratification of the Environmental Modification Convention (ENMOD) and to call on all EU and NATO Member States to ratify it;
Amendment 1767 #
2021/0420(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex 2 - table - section AT
Annex 2 - table - section AT
Node Name: Klagenfurt Rail road terminals: comprehensivre (Villach -Fürnitz)
Amendment 271 #
2021/0218(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18 – point f
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18 – point f
Directive (EU) 2018/2001
Article 29 – paragraph 6 – point b – point iv
Article 29 – paragraph 6 – point b – point iv
(iv) that harvesting is carried out following ecosystem-based and close-to- nature principles that include considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts, in a way that avoids harvesting of stumps and roots, degradation of primary forests or their conversion into plantation forests, and harvesting on vulnerable soils; minimises large clear-cuts and ensures locally appropriate thresholds for deadwood extractiondelays harvesting to allow associated biodiversity to survive longer; avoids clear-cuts and ensures enough deadwood to sustain biodiversity and requirements to use logging systems that minimise impacts on soil quality, including soil compaction, and on biodiversity features and habitats:;
Amendment 273 #
2021/0218(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18 – point f a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18 – point f a (new)
Directive (EU) 2018/2001
Article 29 – paragraph 6 – point a a (new)
Article 29 – paragraph 6 – point a a (new)
(f a) (e a) In Article 29, paragraph (6), a new point (a a) is inserted after point (a): " ( a a ) The woody biomass is sourced from the same or neighbouring local administrative unit as the plant, furnace or boiler where it is used for heating production, and not more than 70km away. "
Amendment 127 #
2021/0201(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) 2018/841
Article 2 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 2 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. This Regulation also applies to emissions and removals of the greenhouse gases listed in Section A of Annex I, reported alongside associated land use practices in agriculture and forestry pursuant to Article 26(4) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 and occurring on the territories of Member States from 2031 and onwards, in any of the land categories listed in paragraph 2, points (a) to (j) and in any of the following sectors:
Amendment 159 #
2021/0201(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Regulation (EU) 2018/841
Article 4 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
4. The Union-wide greenhouse gas emissions in the sectors set out in Article 2(3), points (a) to (j), shall aim to be net zero by 2035 and the Union shall achieve negative emissions thereafter to respect the trajectory to 2050 in line with the Paris Agreement commitments. The Union and the Member States shall take the necessary measures to enable the collective achievement of the target for 2035. , while ensuring balanced achievement of the TFEU objectives in its Articles 11, 39 and Title XX, Articles 191 to 193, and prioritising reductions in direct and indirect fossil fuel dependencies.
Amendment 164 #
2021/0201(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Regulation (EU) 2018/841
Article 4 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Regular reviews by the Commission shall assess Member State progress to overall 2030 and 2050 targets and intermittent targets, and shall include reporting procedures for trends in sink function per land use practice or management approach, and fossil fuel dependency per sector. The reviews shall also consider unintended or unexpected impacts of the policy on the environment, biodiversity and therefore agro-ecosystem and so food production capacity as well as social impacts including income of land workers and associated businesses, to enable balanced achievement of the Union’s objectives in Articles 11, 39 and Title XX, Articles 191 to 193 TFEU. Those reviews shall be integrated with those of relevant sectoral policies, such as the CAP.
Amendment 171 #
2021/0201(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Regulation (EU) 2018/841
Article 9
Article 9
Amendment 8 #
2021/0055(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 a (new)
Recital 4 a (new)
Amendment 15 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 a (new)
Citation 24 a (new)
— having regard to the European Commission’s Green Paper entitled ‘Towards fair and efficient pricing in transport: policy options for internalising the external costs of transport in the European Union’(COM(1995) 691),
Amendment 18 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 b (new)
Citation 24 b (new)
— having regard to the European Commission's 2019 Handbook on the external costs of transport,
Amendment 24 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 clearly states that ‘no person shall transport animals or cause animals to be transported in a way likely to cause injury or undue suffering to them’ and recital 5 that ‘for reasons of animal welfare the transport of animals over long journeys [...] should be limited as far as possible’;
Amendment 40 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas a number of reasons exist are used to justify for the movement of live animals, including marketing, fattening, slaughter, rearing and breeding; whereas the Farm-to-Fork strategy recognises the call for shorter supply chains and aims to enhance the resilience of local and regional supply chains, by reducing dependence on long-haul transportation; whereas a focus on small farms and regional networks of slaughterhouses is needed to achieve the Farm to Fork’s goals of a resilient, sustainable food system, affording decent living standards to farmers;
Amendment 48 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
Ia. whereas the Farm to Fork Strategy recognises the importance of a more healthy nutrition and promoting a more plant-based diet, reducing EU average intakes of red and processed meat, both to reduce the risk of life threatening diseases as well as the environmental impact of the food system;
Amendment 50 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
Ib. whereas according to EFSA scientific opinion from 2011 transport of animals is considered a major risk for the spread of infectious animal diseases in the EU1a; _________________ 1a https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pd f/10.2903/j.efsa.2011.1966
Amendment 80 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the value of the intra-EU trade in live animals was EUR 8.6 billion in 2018, with bovine animals, pigs and poultry having the highest values; whereas the export of live animals represents around EUR 1.6 billion and provides around 60 000 direct jobs and 300 000 indirect jobs, especially in rural areas14 ; 14; whereas the overall trend characterising the meat processing industry in the EU is an increasing concentration in large companies and mass production, and a dramatic increase in live animals export, whereas the EU is now estimated to be responsible for over 80% of the global trade in live animals; whereas this concentration has been characterised by animal welfare, food safety and, on occasion, worker safety concerns; _________________ 14 At a Glance – ‘EU trade and transport of live animals’, European Parliament, Directorate-General for Parliamentary Research, Members’ Research Service, 7 February 2020.
Amendment 86 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the limits and weaknesses of globalised and intricate food supply chains, and has shown that over- specialisation and export-based agriculture system leaves farmers and countries more vulnerable to trade restrictions;
Amendment 95 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K b (new)
Recital K b (new)
Kb. whereas according to the European Commission's commissioned research and data, the external costs of road transport in the EU amount to around 720 billion euros annually, including environmental pollution costs (GHG emissions, local air pollution, noise, energy production, habitat damage), congestion costs and road accident costs, of which around 170bn of those external costs are attributed to road freight1a; _________________ 1a CE Delft (2019), ‘Handbook on the External Costs of Transport. Version 2019’. All figures in this section exclude UK.
Amendment 116 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises that transport is stressful for animals and can have a potentialhas a negative impact on their health and welfare, and that EU should therefore implement principles of reducing, refining and replacing live transport as much as possible;
Amendment 162 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Concludes that many of the problems in animal transport originate from unclear requirements and the lack of clear definitions in the current regulation, leaving room for uneveninterpretation and unharmonised application of the rules and for, creating increased risks for animals, and for unfair competition amongundermining the level playing field for operators in the sector, leaving companies which abide by the rules facing unfair competition from those which do not;
Amendment 168 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Welcomes the Commission fitness check of the EU legislation on the welfare of farmed animals proposed within the Farm to Fork Strategy, especially of the Regulation (EC) No 1/2005;
Amendment 173 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the fact that the Commission has mandated EFSA to assess the most recent scientific information available on the welfare of the main farm species during transport and on risks to their well-being; and the risk of spreading Antimicrobial Resistance(AMR) and other zoonotic diseases; highlights the lack of political leadership in the previous Commissions to properly enforce the Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 and update the Regulation (EC) No 1/2005to correspond to the most recent scientific advice and opinions by EFSA;
Amendment 181 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Regrets the lack of cooperation by several Member States to fill in the questionnaire sent by ANIT Committee, which lead to missing data regarding possible infringements happening on the ground;
Amendment 198 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls attention to the numerousrecurring audits, reports and information from citizens, NGOs and audit reportpublic authorities on animal welfare problems during transport and non- compliance with the regulation, in particular concerning long journeys and transport to third countries, compromisingduring which the European Union’s obligation is repeatedly failing to ensure the protection of animal welfare during transport;
Amendment 207 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Acknowledges the letters sent by the Commission, in the framework of the Farm to Fork strategy, asking Member States to ensure immediate and full compliance with EU requirements, including on animal welfare during transport, and expressing its determination to take legal action in the event of systematic non-compliance; notes that no infringements proceedings have been opened by the Commission against any Member Stateregrets the lack of follow-up investigations resulting from the information provided by NGOs; regrets that no infringements proceedings have been opened by the Commission against any Member State, even when proof of repeated breaches have been reported by NGOs and citizens; recalls the Commission’s closure of 13 reported cases, with no action undertaken, despite FVO support for the case content;
Amendment 223 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that the most frequently documented violations are linked to the lack of headroom, animals being unfit for transport, overcrowding, lack of water due to inappropriate watering devices or lack or water supply, transport during extreme temperatures and considerably prolonged journey duration;
Amendment 250 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes note of several reports of incorrect handling during animal loading and unloading, causing unnecessary stress and, great suffering; st, injuries and incresased mortality when it comes to particularly fragile species such as poultry or rabbits; stresses that proper animal handling results in shorter loading and unloading times, reduced weight loss, fewer injuries and wounds, and, ultimately, a better meat quality, a decrease in Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and reduced health risks;
Amendment 268 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that according to Regulation (EC) No 1/2005, the farmer, the driver and transport companies share equal responsibility for assessing whether animals are fit for transport, but that the division of responsibility is ill-defined in the regulation; notes that the most common breaches in this respect concern the transport of pregnant animals, animals more than 90 % of the way through gestation, which sometimes give birth on board, downers (with physiological weakness and/or wounds or a pathological condition), and animals with wounds or prolapses;
Amendment 269 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Highlights that relying solely on the voluntary uptake of guidelines1a on the protection of animals during transports, rather than updating legal provisions in order to fully implement those guideline standards, has proven insufficient to effectively protect animals during transport and has increased discrepancies between Member States and between companies; recalls that guidelines published by the Commission must be in line with and updated according to EFSA research and recommendations on animal welfare, as well as in line with the Regulation 1/2005; _________________ 1a http://www.animaltransportguides.eu/
Amendment 294 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Points out with concern that the inspection and certification procedures for livestock vessels are not harmonised and lack mandatory inspection criteria, which is aggravated by the fact that the results of these procedures are not communicated between Member States, leading to the real possibility ofcases where a vessel that has been rejected in one Member State beingis approved in another; notes that there is evidence that the authorities in some Member States have approved and/or permitted the use of vessels which do not comply with the EU rules on animal welfare; notes that the majority of EU vessels are approved by Romania (47 vessels), followed by France (11 vessels);
Amendment 298 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Takes note of the Commission’s findings that, with some exceptions, the systems in place for livestock vessel approval are insufficient to minimise the risks, mainly because the majority of the competent authorities inspecting livestock vessels do not have adequate procedures, or access to specific technical expertise, to verify vessels’ systems for water pumps, ventilation and drainage, all of which are critical for animal welfare during a journey on a livestock vessel and require sufficient controls; regrets that veterinary and maritime authorities usually work in an isolated way, when their knowledge and work are complementary for carrying proper checks of vessels;
Amendment 310 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Acknowledges the existence, in general, of well-developed national guidelines for the approval of livestock vehicles for road transport, but regrets that theya lack of harmonisation of these guidelines that are not always followed during the approval procedures, which keep them from being coherent and efficient;
Amendment 314 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Underlines that the insufficient definition of ‘place of destination’ creates significant loopholes, as in practice, it is difficult to distinguish between a real destination and a mere place of transfer, and as some journeys are sometimes approved with an obviously false final destination, such as a harbour;
Amendment 323 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Recalls that many livestock vessels are not primarily designed to transport animals and are poorly maintained, ageing, posing many risks for the safety of the animals during sea transport; reminds that, according to several NGOs, 54% of the vessels transporting animals from EU ports are licensed in countries black-listed in 2015 for poor performance under the Paris Memorandum of understanding (MoU), that are considered a high or very high risk in relation to maritime safety, and that only 24% of the listed vessels are flagged under the MoU white-list; considers that the risk of overloading such vessels with too many animals is significant;
Amendment 337 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Recalls that, while under the current legislation, the submission of contingency plans in the event of emergencies is a legal requirement to obtain transporter authorisations for long journeys, this is not the caseimplemented for each journey and the possible specific needs thereof; observes with concern that few competent authorities, road transport, when contingency plans are available, they do not covers and transport organisers have feasible contingency plans to respond to emergency situations broad enough range of scenarios and only a few of them are actually feasible and able to respond to emergency situations; notes that the crew’s knowledge of contingency plans is not verified;
Amendment 337 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Recalls that, while under the current legislation, the submission of contingency plans in the event of emergencies is a legal requirement to obtain transporter authorisations for long journeys, this is not the caseimplemented for each journey and the possible specific needs thereof; observes with concern that few competent authorities, road transport, when contingency plans are available, they do not covers and transport organisers have feasible contingency plans to respond to emergency situations broad enough range of scenarios and only a few of them are actually feasible and able to respond to emergency situations; notes that the crew’s knowledge of contingency plans is not verified;
Amendment 341 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Regrets the fact that training of staff involved in the transport of animals as well as their loading and unloading varies in quality in different Member States; recalls that transporters themselves have highlighted that the minimum requirements for driver training are insufficient, and they have to organise staff training by themselves;
Amendment 341 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Regrets the fact that training of staff involved in the transport of animals as well as their loading and unloading varies in quality in different Member States; recalls that transporters themselves have highlighted that the minimum requirements for driver training are insufficient, and they have to organise staff training by themselves;
Amendment 355 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. THighlights the importance of widespread access to the TRACES system, for interested stakeholders, such as actors cooperating with the competent authorities during official controls; takes note of the modifications to TRACES in place since January 2020, allowing Member States to see all journeys of the transports they have authorised and all journeys stopping at control posts located in their country; notes that TRACES update is not enabling monitoring of journeys passing through Member States territories;
Amendment 355 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. THighlights the importance of widespread access to the TRACES system, for interested stakeholders, such as actors cooperating with the competent authorities during official controls; takes note of the modifications to TRACES in place since January 2020, allowing Member States to see all journeys of the transports they have authorised and all journeys stopping at control posts located in their country; notes that TRACES update is not enabling monitoring of journeys passing through Member States territories;
Amendment 356 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Notes that further improvements to data collection systems and to TRACES can be made in the current legislative framework, to help harmonise procedures between Member States’ competent authorities; recalls that the development of software for competent authorities to handle long and cross-border transports is still ongoing, but could, if applied EU- wide, largely harmonise clearance and the underlying plausibility check to verify route planning and weather conditions; reminds that any of the aspects to be monitored for the plausibility check can be digitalised or are already available in digitized form;
Amendment 356 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Notes that further improvements to data collection systems and to TRACES can be made in the current legislative framework, to help harmonise procedures between Member States’ competent authorities; recalls that the development of software for competent authorities to handle long and cross-border transports is still ongoing, but could, if applied EU- wide, largely harmonise clearance and the underlying plausibility check to verify route planning and weather conditions; reminds that any of the aspects to be monitored for the plausibility check can be digitalised or are already available in digitized form;
Amendment 362 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Expresses concern that the Member States are not required to record data on the transport of animals directly exported from their territories to outside the EU in TRACES; expresses concern over the absence of EU-wide data collection of transport data, leading to a lack of data in Member States as well as the European Commission; regrets that the collected data in the Member states and in the TRACES system has not yet been centralised making it impossible to follow up on systemic breaches of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005; regrets that no progress has been made on a harmonised system of sanctions, nor on a list of bad conduct of operators perpetrating repeated breaches of the Regulation, despite the Parliament’s call to the Commission in its 2019 resolution;
Amendment 362 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Expresses concern that the Member States are not required to record data on the transport of animals directly exported from their territories to outside the EU in TRACES; expresses concern over the absence of EU-wide data collection of transport data, leading to a lack of data in Member States as well as the European Commission; regrets that the collected data in the Member states and in the TRACES system has not yet been centralised making it impossible to follow up on systemic breaches of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005; regrets that no progress has been made on a harmonised system of sanctions, nor on a list of bad conduct of operators perpetrating repeated breaches of the Regulation, despite the Parliament’s call to the Commission in its 2019 resolution;
Amendment 366 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Is aware that, despite the high level of non-compliance during animal transport, reporting of infringements between the Member States is poor and that effectivwhich makes monitoring of intra-EU cross-border transport very difficult; points out that effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions against those who violatebreach the regulation are still lacking, recalls that there is no EU-wide standard existing for the control and monitoring of long and cross-border animal transport by the competent authorities, especially outside EU borders;
Amendment 366 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Is aware that, despite the high level of non-compliance during animal transport, reporting of infringements between the Member States is poor and that effectivwhich makes monitoring of intra-EU cross-border transport very difficult; points out that effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions against those who violatebreach the regulation are still lacking, recalls that there is no EU-wide standard existing for the control and monitoring of long and cross-border animal transport by the competent authorities, especially outside EU borders;
Amendment 378 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Is awareExpresses concern over the fact that there are insufficient checks in someand of varying quality in Member States, in particular road checks and retrospective checks; stresses that some Member States conduct hardly any checks;
Amendment 378 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Is awareExpresses concern over the fact that there are insufficient checks in someand of varying quality in Member States, in particular road checks and retrospective checks; stresses that some Member States conduct hardly any checks;
Amendment 384 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37 a (new)
Paragraph 37 a (new)
37a. Notes that the level of training of police and the number of police trained to inspect animal transport varies greatly between Member States and is insufficient in several countries, highlights the lack of official veterinarians able of carrying out inspections of vehicles and vessels transporting animals is also insufficient;
Amendment 384 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37 a (new)
Paragraph 37 a (new)
37a. Notes that the level of training of police and the number of police trained to inspect animal transport varies greatly between Member States and is insufficient in several countries, highlights the lack of official veterinarians able of carrying out inspections of vehicles and vessels transporting animals is also insufficient;
Amendment 390 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Notes the Commission’s view that new technological advances in geolocation, electronic journey logs and tracing can allow for more data collection and analysis, thereby helping to improve risk analysis, targeted controls and inspections; insists nevertheless that road-side inspections of animal transport vehicles randomly picked out from the flow of traffic is essential and complementary;
Amendment 390 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Notes the Commission’s view that new technological advances in geolocation, electronic journey logs and tracing can allow for more data collection and analysis, thereby helping to improve risk analysis, targeted controls and inspections; insists nevertheless that road-side inspections of animal transport vehicles randomly picked out from the flow of traffic is essential and complementary;
Amendment 404 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Recalls that, according togrets the fact that, Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005, providing that all necessary arrangements shall be made in advance to minimise the length of the journey and meet the animals’ needs during the journey, is breached in a recurring way; recalls that the length of a journey is one of the main factors that increase the stress and suffering of animals during transport; recalls that the length of a journey increases both the probability of breaches of the legislation and their severity;
Amendment 404 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Recalls that, according togrets the fact that, Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005, providing that all necessary arrangements shall be made in advance to minimise the length of the journey and meet the animals’ needs during the journey, is breached in a recurring way; recalls that the length of a journey is one of the main factors that increase the stress and suffering of animals during transport; recalls that the length of a journey increases both the probability of breaches of the legislation and their severity;
Amendment 424 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 a (new)
Paragraph 41 a (new)
41a. Regrets the fact that control post facilities for unloading, watering, feeding and resting of animals during long journeys are not always identified on journey logs, as required, ordo not comply with EU standards; notes that certain Member States and regions have attempted to verify the suitability of control posts outside of the EU, but this effort is not harmonised and causes an unlevel playing field;
Amendment 424 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 a (new)
Paragraph 41 a (new)
41a. Regrets the fact that control post facilities for unloading, watering, feeding and resting of animals during long journeys are not always identified on journey logs, as required, ordo not comply with EU standards; notes that certain Member States and regions have attempted to verify the suitability of control posts outside of the EU, but this effort is not harmonised and causes an unlevel playing field;
Amendment 442 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Points out that exposure to temperatures outside the optimlegal range, between +5 and +30 degrees, and, in particular, to high temperatures, is one of the main causes of animal welfare problems and suffering during transport; regrets that the tolerance of +/-5 degrees granted by Regulation 1/2005 is often interpreted by transporters as a simple authorisation to transport animals between 0 and 35 degrees; notes furthermore that Annex I Chapter VI 3.1 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 defines 30 degrees as maximum temperature within the means of transport, making transport of animals impossible to comply with Regulation 1/2005 when the outside temperature exceeds 25 degrees due to the added body heat of the animals inside the means of transport;
Amendment 442 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Points out that exposure to temperatures outside the optimlegal range, between +5 and +30 degrees, and, in particular, to high temperatures, is one of the main causes of animal welfare problems and suffering during transport; regrets that the tolerance of +/-5 degrees granted by Regulation 1/2005 is often interpreted by transporters as a simple authorisation to transport animals between 0 and 35 degrees; notes furthermore that Annex I Chapter VI 3.1 of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 defines 30 degrees as maximum temperature within the means of transport, making transport of animals impossible to comply with Regulation 1/2005 when the outside temperature exceeds 25 degrees due to the added body heat of the animals inside the means of transport;
Amendment 457 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Recalls that the means of transport by road for long journeys must be fitted with a temperature monitoring and recording system, as well as with a means of recording such data, to be obligatorily provided to competent authorities, alike so that realistic checks for route plans can be executed in a fast and standardized manner; regrets the lack of mandatory requirements for such systems in livestock vehicles and vessels;
Amendment 457 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Recalls that the means of transport by road for long journeys must be fitted with a temperature monitoring and recording system, as well as with a means of recording such data, to be obligatorily provided to competent authorities, alike so that realistic checks for route plans can be executed in a fast and standardized manner; regrets the lack of mandatory requirements for such systems in livestock vehicles and vessels;
Amendment 478 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Stresses the vulnerability of unweaned animals and that the current minimum age for the transport of calves is too low; highlights that, according to various experts andnotes in this respect that veterinarians recommended a definition of unweaned calves as animals under12 weeks; points out that unweaned calves between 14 and 35 days of age experience a physiological weakness that excludes them former sub-group of the EU Animal Platform on Animal Welfare, more scientific evidence is needed to support good practices in the long-distance transport of unweaned animals and thatrom fitness for transport according to Annex I, Chapter I, paragraph 2, since their maternal antibodies are reducing and they have not yet gained their ability to develop antibodies in the required time of exposure to germs during transport and/or to the extent required; reminds that veterinarians and NGOs auditioned during ANIT committee hearings repeatedly underlined that unweaned calves, and unweaned animals more generally, could not be transported in conditions that guarantee their welfare and comply with Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 requirements; highlights that, according to various experts and the former sub-group of the EU Animal Platform on Animal Welfare, the current provisions of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 are not adapted to the needs of these animals;
Amendment 478 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Stresses the vulnerability of unweaned animals and that the current minimum age for the transport of calves is too low; highlights that, according to various experts andnotes in this respect that veterinarians recommended a definition of unweaned calves as animals under12 weeks; points out that unweaned calves between 14 and 35 days of age experience a physiological weakness that excludes them former sub-group of the EU Animal Platform on Animal Welfare, more scientific evidence is needed to support good practices in the long-distance transport of unweaned animals and thatrom fitness for transport according to Annex I, Chapter I, paragraph 2, since their maternal antibodies are reducing and they have not yet gained their ability to develop antibodies in the required time of exposure to germs during transport and/or to the extent required; reminds that veterinarians and NGOs auditioned during ANIT committee hearings repeatedly underlined that unweaned calves, and unweaned animals more generally, could not be transported in conditions that guarantee their welfare and comply with Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 requirements; highlights that, according to various experts and the former sub-group of the EU Animal Platform on Animal Welfare, the current provisions of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 are not adapted to the needs of these animals;
Amendment 497 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
49. Recallgrets that, although according to the regulation, watering devices shall function properly and be appropriately designed and positioned for the different categories of animals (size and species) to be watered on board the vehicle, water is often reported as not available to animals because the devices are inappropriate for the species, the devices are unhygienic, or the water supply is not switched on, or in the case of unweaned calves, they are unable to use the devices;
Amendment 497 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
49. Recallgrets that, although according to the regulation, watering devices shall function properly and be appropriately designed and positioned for the different categories of animals (size and species) to be watered on board the vehicle, water is often reported as not available to animals because the devices are inappropriate for the species, the devices are unhygienic, or the water supply is not switched on, or in the case of unweaned calves, they are unable to use the devices;
Amendment 503 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50
Paragraph 50
50. Recalls the Commission’s recommendations from 2009 to the competent authorities to ensure that unweaned animals are offered electrolytes or milk substitutes during the resting period and pointing out that metal nipples should not be considered suitable for unweaned calves; reminds that from a physiological point of view unweaned animals should be fed at least every 12hours, when in free range herds, calves would for example feed in intervals of2 to 8 hours; stresses that according to veterinarian experts, fed unweaned animals need a resting period for digestion before transport; notes that feeding unweaned animals during their journey in lorries is technically impracticable and that other innovative solutions are needed;
Amendment 503 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50
Paragraph 50
50. Recalls the Commission’s recommendations from 2009 to the competent authorities to ensure that unweaned animals are offered electrolytes or milk substitutes during the resting period and pointing out that metal nipples should not be considered suitable for unweaned calves; reminds that from a physiological point of view unweaned animals should be fed at least every 12hours, when in free range herds, calves would for example feed in intervals of2 to 8 hours; stresses that according to veterinarian experts, fed unweaned animals need a resting period for digestion before transport; notes that feeding unweaned animals during their journey in lorries is technically impracticable and that other innovative solutions are needed;
Amendment 508 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a (new)
Paragraph 50 a (new)
50a. Points out that animals at end of their productive life are also a vulnerable category, due to their age, and often deteriorated health or the presence of injuries; notes that these animals are also of lesser value to transporters, and may therefore be at higher risk of neglect;
Amendment 508 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a (new)
Paragraph 50 a (new)
50a. Points out that animals at end of their productive life are also a vulnerable category, due to their age, and often deteriorated health or the presence of injuries; notes that these animals are also of lesser value to transporters, and may therefore be at higher risk of neglect;
Amendment 511 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 b (new)
Paragraph 50 b (new)
50b. Highlights that the transport of fish and other aquatic animals has increased in the last years and is likely to keep increasing as the Farm To Fork Strategy foresees a growth of the aquaculture sector; notes no specific rules or guidelines have been designed for the live transport of fish and other aquatic animals;
Amendment 511 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 b (new)
Paragraph 50 b (new)
50b. Highlights that the transport of fish and other aquatic animals has increased in the last years and is likely to keep increasing as the Farm To Fork Strategy foresees a growth of the aquaculture sector; notes no specific rules or guidelines have been designed for the live transport of fish and other aquatic animals;
Amendment 514 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 c (new)
Paragraph 50 c (new)
50c. Recalls that recital 9 of the Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 foresees the adoption of specific provisions for poultry, cats and dogs following the relevant opinions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), highlights that the Commission did not make any proposal of legislation on the protection of poultry, cats and dogs during transport; regrets in particular the lack of official tools, such as guidelines and check lists, to support competent authorities in identifying unbroken horses from domestic ones when performing checks; highlights that this situation is enabling operators to transport unbroken horses over long distances in breach of the Regulation without being sanctioned;
Amendment 514 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 c (new)
Paragraph 50 c (new)
50c. Recalls that recital 9 of the Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 foresees the adoption of specific provisions for poultry, cats and dogs following the relevant opinions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), highlights that the Commission did not make any proposal of legislation on the protection of poultry, cats and dogs during transport; regrets in particular the lack of official tools, such as guidelines and check lists, to support competent authorities in identifying unbroken horses from domestic ones when performing checks; highlights that this situation is enabling operators to transport unbroken horses over long distances in breach of the Regulation without being sanctioned;
Amendment 525 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51
Paragraph 51
51. Highlights that, where proper infrastructure is lacking, the high number of animals moving quickly and simultaneously from trucks to vessels hinders the adequate inspection of individual animals; stresses that many ports of export are not equipped with facilities such as housing facilities where animals can be unloaded and rest, particularly in the event of delay, inspected and rest, or facilities to euthanise animals when injured, particularly in the event of delays; highlights that, when such housing facilities exist, they are often not used to allow animals to rest before being loaded on vessels;
Amendment 525 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51
Paragraph 51
51. Highlights that, where proper infrastructure is lacking, the high number of animals moving quickly and simultaneously from trucks to vessels hinders the adequate inspection of individual animals; stresses that many ports of export are not equipped with facilities such as housing facilities where animals can be unloaded and rest, particularly in the event of delay, inspected and rest, or facilities to euthanise animals when injured, particularly in the event of delays; highlights that, when such housing facilities exist, they are often not used to allow animals to rest before being loaded on vessels;
Amendment 527 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 a (new)
Paragraph 51 a (new)
51a. Recalls that journeys on sea vessels are not limited in time, and consequently records do not reflect the reality of animals’ journeys; reminds that this allows for transport of many days, weeks or even longer, possibly in extremely rough conditions, including extreme meteorological events with few obligations for transporters, especially in the case of export to third countries; stresses that, according to experts, transport on sea means similar stress levels for the animals as transport on road;
Amendment 527 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 a (new)
Paragraph 51 a (new)
51a. Recalls that journeys on sea vessels are not limited in time, and consequently records do not reflect the reality of animals’ journeys; reminds that this allows for transport of many days, weeks or even longer, possibly in extremely rough conditions, including extreme meteorological events with few obligations for transporters, especially in the case of export to third countries; stresses that, according to experts, transport on sea means similar stress levels for the animals as transport on road;
Amendment 529 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Stresses the lack of clarity of the provisions in the Animal Transport Regulation on the identification of the organiser and the transporter on the sea journey leg, particularly when the operation involves several consignments with different origins, but also of the person responsible for animals on-board also in the case of transport on roll-on roll-off ferries; notes that DG SANTE audits found a majority of approved journey logs had not identified the authorised transporter and livestock vessel, causing legal uncertainty on the accountability for animal welfare;
Amendment 529 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Stresses the lack of clarity of the provisions in the Animal Transport Regulation on the identification of the organiser and the transporter on the sea journey leg, particularly when the operation involves several consignments with different origins, but also of the person responsible for animals on-board also in the case of transport on roll-on roll-off ferries; notes that DG SANTE audits found a majority of approved journey logs had not identified the authorised transporter and livestock vessel, causing legal uncertainty on the accountability for animal welfare;
Amendment 531 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52 a (new)
Paragraph 52 a (new)
52a. Notes the absence of emergency slaughter facilities onboard livestock vessels; notes the current absence of data collection on the number of livestock deceased during transport, and the need to observe Marpol Convention on marine litter, which according to Marpol definition includes animal carcasses; notes that there are indications from ship captains and NGOs, that carcasses have been disposed of in the Mediterranean, in contravention of the Marpol Convention Annex V which classifies the Mediterranean as a marine protected area;
Amendment 531 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52 a (new)
Paragraph 52 a (new)
52a. Notes the absence of emergency slaughter facilities onboard livestock vessels; notes the current absence of data collection on the number of livestock deceased during transport, and the need to observe Marpol Convention on marine litter, which according to Marpol definition includes animal carcasses; notes that there are indications from ship captains and NGOs, that carcasses have been disposed of in the Mediterranean, in contravention of the Marpol Convention Annex V which classifies the Mediterranean as a marine protected area;
Amendment 537 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. Considers that the presence of a veterinarians, proportionate to the number of animals on board, is necessary for the leg of the journey at sea to provide support for sick or injured animals on vessels constitutes good practiceshould be made mandatory;
Amendment 537 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. Considers that the presence of a veterinarians, proportionate to the number of animals on board, is necessary for the leg of the journey at sea to provide support for sick or injured animals on vessels constitutes good practiceshould be made mandatory;
Amendment 541 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 a (new)
Paragraph 53 a (new)
53a. Notes that, according to the questionnaire sent by the Portuguese Presidency, crew training and competence on sea vessels is identified by a majority of Member States as difficult to enforce; notes in particular that, in the last 2 years, most EU-approved vessels were found to have deficiencies under the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, mostly concerning life-savings appliances or working-living conditions;
Amendment 541 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 a (new)
Paragraph 53 a (new)
53a. Notes that, according to the questionnaire sent by the Portuguese Presidency, crew training and competence on sea vessels is identified by a majority of Member States as difficult to enforce; notes in particular that, in the last 2 years, most EU-approved vessels were found to have deficiencies under the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, mostly concerning life-savings appliances or working-living conditions;
Amendment 567 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Notes that once livestock crosses the EU border, respect for animal welfare standards may be difficult to guaranteis impossible to enforce, both en route and on arrival, and controls have never been attempted by authorities, as third countries are not bound by EU legislation; recalls the judgement of the Court of Justice of the European Union, which states that EU welfare rules are binding until the final place of destination in third countries; regrets that only a few regions within certain Member States have attempted to follow the ruling of the ECJ, by stopping authorisations of exports to third countries; recalls that Member States may suspend exports where they see that animal welfare standards are not or cannot be complied with;
Amendment 567 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Notes that once livestock crosses the EU border, respect for animal welfare standards may be difficult to guaranteis impossible to enforce, both en route and on arrival, and controls have never been attempted by authorities, as third countries are not bound by EU legislation; recalls the judgement of the Court of Justice of the European Union, which states that EU welfare rules are binding until the final place of destination in third countries; regrets that only a few regions within certain Member States have attempted to follow the ruling of the ECJ, by stopping authorisations of exports to third countries; recalls that Member States may suspend exports where they see that animal welfare standards are not or cannot be complied with;
Amendment 601 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Agrees with the Commission that the presence of a qualified veterinarian during loading for long journeys to non-EU countries constitutes good practice16 ; who re-assesses the fitness for transport16 should be made mandatory; _________________ 16 Final report of an audit carried out in the Netherlands from 20 February 2017 to 24 February 2017 in order to evaluate animal welfare during transport to non-EU countries, European Commission, Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety, 2017.
Amendment 601 #
2020/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Agrees with the Commission that the presence of a qualified veterinarian during loading for long journeys to non-EU countries constitutes good practice16 ; who re-assesses the fitness for transport16 should be made mandatory; _________________ 16 Final report of an audit carried out in the Netherlands from 20 February 2017 to 24 February 2017 in order to evaluate animal welfare during transport to non-EU countries, European Commission, Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety, 2017.
Amendment 146 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 36 a (new)
Citation 36 a (new)
- having regard to the 2020 report commissioned by the European Parliament’s Committee on Petitions, entitled “Ending the Cage Age: Looking for Alternatives”,
Amendment 245 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas European citizens are increasingly concerned about the welfare of animals in the agricultural sector and expect the EU to transition away from intensive farming practices, like caged farming; whereas the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) “End the Cage Age”, which calls on the EU to phase-out the use of cages in animal farming, has collected nearly 1.4 million certified signatures, qualifying as one of the few successful ECIs; whereas the European Committee of the Regions committed to the objective of ending caged farming and many EU member states already adopted national legislation which goes beyond the minimum EU standards, increasing the urgency for legislative action, at the EU level, to end this inhumane practice and ensuring a level-playing field for farmers across the EU;
Amendment 289 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the European model of a multifunctional agricultural sector, driven by family farms, continues to ensure quality food production, local supply chains, good agriculture practices, high environmental standards and vibrant rural areas throughout the EU; whereas this agricultural model is endangered by the ongoing takeover of production capacities by industrial and multinational companies that rely on large-scale, automated and cage-based production methods;
Amendment 1039 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Recalls that each years, in the EU alone, over 300 million farmed animals spend all, or a significant part, of their lives imprisoned in cages; stresses that this practice causes tremendous suffering, as these sentient beings cannot perform most of their natural behaviours, resulting in physical and psychological illness; calls on the Commission to put forward, without delay, a legislative proposal to phase-out the use of cages for all farmed animals, while ensuring, together with Member States, appropriate measures to assist farmers in this transition;
Amendment 1440 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for primary producers to be supported in making the transition to greater sustainability, including cage-free animal farming, through the encouragement of cooperation and collective actions as well as through competition rules and the enhancement of possibilities for cooperation within the common market organisations for agricultural, fishery and aquaculture products, and thus for farmers’ and fishers’ position in the supply chain to be strengthened in order to enable them to capture a fair share of the added value of sustainable production;
Amendment 11 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas according to Article 42(2) of the TEU, the common security and defence policy (CSDP) includes the progressive framing of a common EU defence policy, which could lead to common defence being put in placeen the European Council, acting unanimously, so decides;
Amendment 19 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the three-foldmilitary level of ambition under the EU Global Strategy confirmed the military tasks as laid down in EU primary law (Article 43(1) TEU) in the field of security and defence, covers securing external borders, countering hybrid threats and fighting against terrorism; whereas no Member State can protect itself alone, since security and defence threats faced by the EU, and which are targeted against its citizens and tering out-of-area operations such as joint disarmament operations, humanitarian and rescue tasks, military advice and assistance tasks, conflict prevention and peace-keeping tasks, tasks of combat forces in crisis management, including peace-making, post-conflict stabilisation and fighting against terrorism; whereas no Member State can effectively contribute to international and regional peace, and in this sense indirectly protect itself alone, since security and defence threats, risks and challenges affecting international, regional and European securitory, are a joint threat and challenge and cannot be addressed by one single Member State on its own; whereas an effective EU system for addressing burden-sharing would be advantageous for the EU’s overall level of security and defenceas regards military CSDP operations would be advantageous for the EU’s ability to become an effective security provider;
Amendment 29 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the main actors of PESCO are the participating Member States (pMS), which provide the capabilities for implementing CSDP (Article 42(1) and Article 42(3) TEU), and which deploy them in missions abroad where the Council tasks them to do so (Article 42 (1) (4), and(5), Article 43 and Article 44 TEU), that develop their defence capabilities, inter alia, within the framework of the European Defence Agency (Article 42(3) and Article 45 TEU);
Amendment 31 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas PESCO’s long-term vision is to achieve a coherent full-spectrum force package available to the Member States for military CSDP operations; whereas PESCO should enhance the EU’s capacity to act as an international security provider in order to contribute effectively and credibly to international, regional and European security, also by preventing the import of insecurity and therefore indirectly protect EU citizens and, inter alia, maximise the effectiveness of defence spending; whereas the cost of non-Europe in security and defence is estimated to be more than EUR 100 billion per year;
Amendment 49 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the consequences of the EU not having enough competence when it comes to health care; whereas, by the same analogy, it would make sense to establish an EU common defence strategy in order to be able to respond to an attack on the EU’s borders and territories; whereas PESCO constitutes an important step towards achieving the objective of a common defence, it is long overdue to establish an EU common defence strategy in the form of an EU Security and Defence White Book which outlines in which way the Member States and the EU intent to operationalise the military tasks of Article 43(1) TEU including by developing concrete scenarios for military operations in order to be able to contribute effectively to international, regional and European security, peace and stability; whereas PESCO constitutes an important step towards achieving the necessary military capacities for realising the objective of a common security and defence policy;
Amendment 68 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas according to Council decision 2017/2315, establishing PESCO enhanced defence capabilities of the Member States will also benefit NATO, while strengthening the European pillar within the alliance and responding to repeated calls for stronger transatlantic burden-sharingprovide military CSDP with the necessary capabilities to conduct military operations while at the same time reinforcing the EU’s ability to autonomously decide and act also in the domain of military crisis management;
Amendment 70 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas also civilian CSDP faces multiple capability challenges as regards the availability of sufficient numbers of police, judges, prosecutors, other justice and civilian security sector experts; whereas there is an urgent need to further develop instruments aimed at increasing quantity and quality of capabilities for civilian CSDP, whether in the context of the Civilian Compact or another civilian PESCO-type of format;
Amendment 77 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas PESCO creates a binding framework between the pMS, which committed themselves to jointly investing, planning, developing and operating defence capabilities within Union framework in a permanent and structured manner by subscribing to 20 binding commitments in five areas set by the TEU; whereas these commitments should constitute a move from mere defence cooperation towards the integdeep, sustainable, reliable and permanent cooperation of Member States’ defence forces; whereas despite these binding commitments, no effective compliance mechanism for PESCO is in place;
Amendment 107 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L a (new)
Recital L a (new)
La. whereas there seems to be no overarching common logic between the 47 PESCO projects;
Amendment 108 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L b (new)
Recital L b (new)
Lb. whereas some of the 47 PESCO projects seem to directly contribute to the objective of closing the identified capability gaps for possible future CSDP operations, while others seem to follow a purely industrial or research agenda totally disconnected from gaps identified in the context of CDP, CARD including the High Capability Impact Goals;
Amendment 109 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L c (new)
Recital L c (new)
Lc. whereas the main objective of PESCO should be to raise the operational readiness and effectiveness as regards military CSDP operations;
Amendment 115 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M a (new)
Recital M a (new)
Ma. whereas there is the need to assess PESCO projects and commitments in light of the many recommendations produced with regards to the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women and security and to develop a plan on how, in the future, PESCO can contribute in that context;
Amendment 119 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas major European defence projects such as the Future Air Combat System (FCAS) and the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) currently remain outside the scope of PESCO; whereas their integration within the remit of PESCO would provide for sufficient strategic focus;
Amendment 124 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas it is crucial to prioritize and fill the capability gaps identified in the Capability Development Plan (CDP), and by the Coordinated Annual Defence on Review (CARD);
Amendment 134 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R
Recital R
R. whereas the NATO Defence Planning Process (NDPP) drives defence national planning processes in most cas21 EU NATO Member States;
Amendment 146 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas interactions between Member States’ national priorities, EU priorities and NATO priorities should be better synchronised at the earliest possible convenience; whereas PESCO can be an effective tool in order to achieve EU and NATO targets simultaneouslycapability targets;
Amendment 187 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AA
Recital AA
AA. whereas Parliament should, jointly with the Council, exercise legislative and budgetary functions, as well as exercise functions of political control and consultation as laid down in the Treaties regarding military CSDP;
Amendment 218 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
Amendment 232 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) ensure that PESCO is effectively used as an instrument to reach deep, sustainable, efficient and permanent EU defence integcooperation as a common goal, in line with the ambition for greater EU Strategic Autonomysovereignty in EU decision-making and operational action;
Amendment 246 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) ensure that PESCO is treated as a Union institutions sui generis, as is the case with the European External Action Service (EEAS), which would require amending the Financial Regulation8 in order to include PESCO, with a specific section in the Union budget; recognise that Parliament, jointly with the Council, exercises legislative and budgetary functions, as well as functions of political control and consultation as laid down in the Treaties; _________________ 8well- financed in an efficient manner by contributing Member States according to the provisions of the TEU; OJ L 193, 30.7.2018, p. 1.
Amendment 252 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
Amendment 258 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) focus PESCO efforts on projects with a strategic and integrative dimension, such as EUFOR CROC, and link those to other PESCO projects in order to create additional synergies and effects of scale aiming at systematically strengthening military CSDP;
Amendment 266 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) ensure that parts of key capabilities such as future key land, sea, air and other platforms for the armed forces of the Member States are brought under PESCO or are at least closely connected to it in order to increase the operational readiness of military CSDP;
Amendment 279 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) consider, as part of the reform of the EU Battlegroup system, to bring it under PESCO in order to increase its operational capacity, modularity and agility by establishing permanent multinational units dedicated to fulfil Article 43 (1) TEU military tasks;
Amendment 54 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Paris Agreement sets out a long-term goal to pursue efforts to keep the global temperature increase to well below 21.5 °C above pre-industrial levels23, and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1.5 °C above pre- industrial levels23 , and stresses the importance ofstresses the importance of adapting to the adverse impacts of climate change24, particularly in agriculture where agroecological solutions need to be applied, not only to mitigate and adapting to the adverse impacts of climate change24 and making finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development25 . climate change but also to maintain productivity and profitability while strengthening resilience and EU food security, as well as of making finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development25. As the overall framework for the Union taking its fair share of the global effort to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C, the European Climate Law should ensure that both the Union and the Member States fully contribute to achieve those three long-term objectives of the Paris Agreement. _________________ 23 Article 2.1.a of the Paris Agreement. 24 Article 2.1.b of the Paris Agreement. 25 Article 2.1.c of the Paris Agreement.
Amendment 70 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Achieving climate neutrality shouldDelivering on the objectives of the Paris Agreement, in particular by achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2040 at the latest, requires a contribution from all economic ll economic sectors to rapidly reduce their emissions to as closec tors zero as possible. In light of the importance of energy production and consumption on greenhouse gas emissions, the transition to a sustainable, affordable and secure energy system relying on a well-functioning internal energy market is essential. The transformation and decarbonisation of the Union's transport and food systems and of its energy supply and industries, as well as digital transformation, technological innovation, and research and development are also important drivers for achieving the climate- neutrality objective. Notably high emissions in the agriculture and forestry sectors include direct and indirect land use change destroying carbon sinks as a result of embedded deforestation associated with soya used for feeding the Union's livestock, and palm oil or wood used for energy in the Union. Although some GHG emissions from the agricultural sector are inevitable, the Union should reduce its GHG footprint as far as possible by adapting the scale of its livestock sector, to adapt to the available resources of home-grown fodder and pasture and to the needs of the Union's food security. The Union and the Member States will need to adopt ambitious and coherent regulatory frameworks to ensure the contribution of all sectors of the economy to the Union's climate objectives. Any mainstreamed technological solutions must be sustainable, following the precautionary principle without negative social or environmental impacts nor creating input or financial dependencies.
Amendment 80 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The Union has been pursuing an ambitious policy on climate action and has put in place a regulatory framework to achieve its 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target. The legislation implementing this target consists, inter alia, of Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council26 , which establishes a system for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Union, Regulation (EU) 2018/842 of the European Parliament and of the Council27 , which introduced national targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and Regulation (EU) 2018/841 of the European Parliament and of the Council28 , which requires Member States to balance greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry. By 30 June 2021 at the latest, the Commission should revise that legislation, together with all relevant sectoral legislation, as well as the Union's external action and the Union's budget, to take into account the Union's GHG budget, the Union's increased 2030 climate target and the net zero GHG emissions objective set out in this Regulation. _________________ 26Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 October 2003 establishing a system for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Union and amending Council Directive 96/61/EC (OJ L 275 of 25 October 2003, p. 32). 27Regulation (EU) 2018/842 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018 on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by Member States from 2021 to 2030 contributing to climate action to meet commitments under the Paris Agreement and amending Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 (OJ L 156, 19.6.2018, p. 26). 28 Regulation (EU) 2018/841 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018 on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry in the 2030 climate and energy framework, and amending Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 and Decision No 529/2013/EU (OJ L 156, 19.6.2018, p. 1).
Amendment 85 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The Union has, through the ‘Clean Energy for All Europeans’ package29 been pursuing an ambitious decarbonisation agenda notably by constructing a robust Energy Union, which includes 2030 goals for energy efficiency and deployment of renewable energy in Directives 2012/27/EU30 and (EU) 2018/200131 of the European Parliament and of the Council, and by reinforcing relevant legislation, including Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council32 . By 30 June 2021 at the latest, the Commission should revise that legislation to reflect the increased Union's climate ambition set out in this Regulation. _________________ 29COM(2016) 860 final of 30 November 2016. 30Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1) 31Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82). 32Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 May 2010 on the energy performance of buildings (OJ L 153, 18.6.2010, p. 13).
Amendment 105 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The Union should aim to achieve a balance between anthropogenic economy- wide emissions and removals, through natural and technological solutions, of greenhouse gases domestically within the Union by 2050. The Union-wide 2050 climate-neutrality objective should be pursued by all Member States collectively, and the Member States, the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission should take the necessary measures to enable its achievement. Measures at Union level will constitute an important part of the measures needed to achieve the objective. Notably it is important to find ways to measure and find accurate indicators for carbon sequestration in soils, the second largest (albeit temporary) reserve of carbon after the oceans.
Amendment 119 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In taking the relevant measures at Union and national level to achieve the climate-neutralitynet zero GHG emissions objective, Member States and the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission should take into account the contribution of the transition to climate neutrality to the well- being of citizens, the prosperity of society and the competitiveness of the economy; the environmental, social and economic costs of inaction and delayed climate action; maximising energy and resource efficiency; energy and food security of the Union and affordability of food for Union citizens; fairness and solidarity across and within Member States considering their economic capability, national circumstances and the need for convergence over time; the need to make the transition just and socially fair; best available scientific evidence, in particular the findings reported by the IPCC; the need to integrate climate change related risks into investment and planning decisions; cost-effectiveness and a "do no harm" technological neutralityapproach in achieving greenhouse gas emissions reductions and removals and increasing resilience; progression over time in environmental integrity and level of ambition.
Amendment 143 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The Commission, in its Communication ‘The European Green Deal’, announced its intention to assess and make proposals for increasing the Union’s greenhouse gas emission reduction target for 2030 to ensure its consistency with the climate-neutrality objective for 2050. In that Communication, the Commission underlined that all Union policies should contribute to the climate-neutrality objective and that all sectors should play their part. By September 2020In order to allow forward planning of net zero carbon economies, the Commission should by September 2020, based on a comprehensive impact assessment and taking into account its analysis of the integrated national energy and climate plans submitted to the Commission in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council36 , review the Union’s 2030 target for climate and explore options formake proposals to the European Parliament and to the Council to amend this Regulation with a new 2030 target of 50 to 55 70% emission reductions compared with 1990 levels. Where it considers necessary to amend the Union’s 2030 target, it should make proposals to the European Parliament and to the Council to amend this Regulation as appropriate. In addition, the Commission should, by 30 June 2021, assess how the Union legislation implementing that target would need to be amended in order to achieve emission reductions of 50 to 55 70% compared to 1990. _________________ 36 Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1).
Amendment 154 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The Commission should ensure a robust and objective assessment based on the most up to date scientific, technical and socio-economic findings, and representative of a broad range of independent expertise, and base its assessment on relevant information including information submitted and reported by Member States, reports of the European Environment Agency, best available scientific evidence, including the reports of the IPCC. Given that the Commission has committed to exploring how the EU taxonomy can be used in the context of the European Green Deal by the public sector, this should include information on environmentally sustainable investment, by the Union and Member States, consistent with Regulation (EU) 2020/… [Taxonomy Regulation] when such information becomes available. Any climate certification schemes for food /farming must be based on peer-reviewed science, and assessed and approved by the Commission as an impartial interlocutor. Any schemes must be publicly- funded, without conflict of interest and come under public scrutiny. The Commission should use European statistics and data where available and seek expert scrutiny. The European Environment Agency should assist the Commission, as appropriate and in accordance with its annual work programme.
Amendment 158 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) As citizens and communities have a powerful role to play in driving the transformation towards climate neutrality forward, strong public and social engagement on climate action should be facilitated at local, regional and national level in close cooperation with the local administration. The Commission should therefore engage with all parts of society in a fully transparent manner to enable and empower them to take action towards a socially just, gender balanced, climate- neutral and climate- resilient society, including through launching a European Climate Pact.
Amendment 180 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2
Article 1 – paragraph 2
This Regulation sets out a binding objective of climate neutralityestablishes a framework for the rapid and irreversible reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and enhancement of removals by natural sinks in the Union by 2050, in pursuit of the long-term temperature goal set out in Article 2 of the Paris Agreement, and provides a framework for achieving progress in pursuit of the global adaptation goal establishedof limiting the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre- industrial levels set out in Article 72 of the Paris Agreement.
Amendment 190 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph -1 (new)
Article 2 – paragraph -1 (new)
-1. Union-wide emissions of greenhouse gases regulated in Union law, including Union-related emissions from international aviation and shipping, shall not exceed 24-30 Gt CO2eq for the period between 2021 and 2050.
Amendment 194 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. Union-wide emissions, including Union-related emissions from international aviation and shipping, and removals of greenhouse gases regulated in Union law shall be balanced within the Union as early as possible and at the latest by 20540, thus reducing emissions to net zeroachieving net zero GHG emissions by that date.
Amendment 198 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. As from 1 January 2041, removals of greenhouse gases by natural sinks shall exceed anthropogenic emissions in the Union.
Amendment 201 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2
Article 2 – paragraph 2
2. The relevant Union institutions and the Member States shall take the necessary measures at Union and national level respectively, to enable the collective achievement of the climate-neutralityUnion's GHG budget set out in paragraph -1, and the collective and individual achievement of the net zero GHG emissions objective set out in paragraph 1 and of the post-2040 objective set out in paragraph 1a, taking into account the importance of promoting fairness and solidarity among Member States.
Amendment 210 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 (new)
The Commission shall ensure that Union agriculture becomes self-sufficient while ensuring food security for the Union's citizens.
Amendment 215 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 3
Article 2 – paragraph 3
3. By September 2020, the Commission shall reviewIn order for the Union’'s 2030 target for climate referred to in Article 2(11) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 in light of the climate-neutrality objectiveemissions to remain within the GHG budget set out in Article 2( (-1), and explore optthe Union's for a new 2030 target of 50 to 55% emission reductions compared to 1990. Where the Commission considers that it is necessary to amend that target, it shall make proposals to the European Parliament and to the Council as appropriateeconomy- wide GHG emissions shall be reduced domestically by at least 70% by 2030 compared to 1990.
Amendment 228 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 4
Article 2 – paragraph 4
4. By 30 June 2021, the Commission shall assess how all of the Union legislation implementingrelevant to the achievement of the Union’s GHG budget set out in paragraph -1, including sectoral legislation, the Union’'s 2030 tarexternal action and the Union's budget, would need to be amended in order to enable the achievement of 50 to 55 % emission reductions compared to 1990 and to achieve the climate-neutrality- objective set out in Article 2(1), and consider taking the necessary measures, including the adoption ofthat budget and of the Union's 2030 climate target set out in paragraph 3 and the net zero GHG emissions objective set out in paragraph 1, and, where appropriate, adopt legislative proposals, in accordance with the Treaties.
Amendment 253 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 9 to supplement this Regulation by setting out a trajectory at Union level to achieve the climate-neutrality objective set out in Article 2(1) until 2050. At the latest within six months after each global stocktake referred to in Article 14 of the Paris Agreement, the Commission shall review the trajectoryBy 31 December 2020, the Commission shall prepare and submit to the European Parliament and the Council under the ordinary legislative procedure a trajectory at Union level for the Union's emissions to remain within the GHG budget set out in Article 2 (-1), while achieving the Union's 2030 climate target set out in Article 2(3) and the net zero GHG emissions objective set out in Article 2(1).
Amendment 262 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. The trajectory shall start from the Union’s 2030 target for climate referred toreferred to in paragraph 1 shall start from 1 January 2021, include 2025 and 2035 interim points and aim at achieving the Union's GHG budget set out in Article 2 (-1), while achieving the Union's 2030 climate target set out in Article 2(3) and the net zero GHG emissions objective set out in Article 2(31).
Amendment 268 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point -a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point -a (new)
(-a) the best available and most recent scientific evidence, including the information reported by the IPCC, in particular on the remaining GHG budget to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels with no overshoot, the UNEP annual emissions and production gap reports, and other relevant information reported by the IPBES;
Amendment 270 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) cost-effectiveness and economic efficiency, taking account of the economic, social and environmental costs of inaction and delayed climate action;
Amendment 281 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) competiveness of the Union’s economy within the bounds of sustainability and the limits of global, Union and Member State resources;
Amendment 292 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)
(ca) the impact of carbon removal options on biodiversity, healthy and diverse ecosystems and EU food security for its citizens;
Amendment 294 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point d
(d) the "energy efficiency first" principle, energy affordability and security of supply, sustainability and security, in particular ensuring that alternatives to fossil fuels actually enhance carbon sinking, protect sink habitats, and have no direct or indirect carbon cost;
Amendment 297 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point d a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point d a (new)
(da) Union food security for its citizens, affordability of food but also farm profitability and farmers' livelihoods;
Amendment 307 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point f
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point f
(f) the need to ensure environmental effectiveness and progression over timeintegrity and to reflect the highest possible ambition and progression over time in accordance with Article 4(3) of the Paris Agreement;
Amendment 315 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point g
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point g
(g) investment needs and opportunities taking account of the risks of stranded assets;
Amendment 324 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point h a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point h a (new)
(ha) the Union's and Member States' commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and to reduce direct pressures on biodiversity;
Amendment 326 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point i a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point i a (new)
(ia) international solidarity and the Union's responsibility for its historic GHG emissions;
Amendment 329 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point j a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point j a (new)
Amendment 335 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 a (new)
Article 3 a (new)
Article 3a Union decarbonisation roadmap 1. By 30 June 2021 and every five years thereafter, the Commission shall adopt a Union roadmap for greenhouse gas emission reductions in all sectors and enhancement of removals by natural sinks in accordance with the Union's climate objectives set out in Article 2. 2. The Union decarbonisation roadmap shall cover emission reductions and enhancement of removals in individual sectors including: (a) energy; (b) buildings (residential and tertiary); (c) transport; (d) industry; (e) agriculture; (f) waste; (g) land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). 3. When setting the Union decarbonisation roadmap, the Commission shall consider the trajectory set up in Article 3, including the various elements referred to in Article 3(3).
Amendment 341 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. By 31 January 2021 and every 5 years thereafter, the Commission shall adopt an updated EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change.
Amendment 346 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. The relevant Union institutions and Member States shall recognise the importance of Union food security primarily for its citizens while allowing development of food security for third countries, and the critical exposure of the agriculture sector to the effects of climate change and its great potential to mitigate its climate impacts, notably through reducing energy intensive and financially costly inputs, especially addressing deforestation embodied in soya and palm oil imports as well as direct and indirect land use change for energy crops. The Union and Member States shall facilitate farmers’ adaptation to climate change and shall foster climate resilience and low input production systems with low greenhouse gas emissions and high carbon sequestration, notably through multifunctional agroecological approaches that also have beneficial biodiversity and social impacts.
Amendment 353 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 b (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Any carbon crediting schemes shall ensure that climate action measures have no negative impacts on biodiversity, environment or society and public health. Any climate certification schemes for food /farming must be based on peer-reviewed science, and assessed and approved by the Commission as an impartial interlocutor. Any schemes shall be publicly-funded, without conflict of interest and come under public scrutiny.
Amendment 357 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
By 30 September 2023, and every 52 years thereafter, the Commission shall assess, together with the assessment foreseen under Article 29(5) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999:
Amendment 363 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) the collective and individual progress made by all Member States towards the achievement of the climate-neutralityUnion's climate objectives set out in Article 2(1) as expressed by the trajectory referred to in Article 3(1);
Amendment 367 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) the collective and individual progress made by all Member States on adaptation as referred to in Article 4.
Amendment 372 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. By 30 September 2023, and every 52 years thereafter, the Commission shall review:
Amendment 375 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) the consistency of Union measures with the climate-neutralityand policies, including sectoral legislation, the Union's external action and the Union's budget, with the Union's climate objectives set out in Article 2(1) as expressed by the trajectory referred to in Article 3(1);
Amendment 380 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) the adequacy of Union measures and policies, including sectoral legislation, the Union's external action and the Union's budget, to ensure progress on adaptation as referred to in Article 4.
Amendment 392 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 4
Article 5 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall assess any draft measure or legislative proposal in light of the climate-neutralitythe consistency of any draft measure, including but not limited to any legislative and budgetary proposal, with the Union's climate objectives set out in Article 2(1) as expressed by the trajectory referred to in Article 3(1) before adoption, and include this analysis in any impact assessment accompanying these measures or proposals, and make the result of that assessment public at the time of adoptionat assessment and its results directly accessible to the public as soon as the assessment is finalised and, in any event, well before adoption of the associated measure or proposal.
Amendment 397 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
By 30 September 2023, and every 52 years, thereafter the Commission shall assess:
Amendment 408 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The Commission shall submitpublish and submit that assessment and the conclusions of that assessment, together with the State of the Energy Union Report prepared in the respective calendar year in accordance with Article 35 of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, to the European Parliament and to the Council.
Amendment 416 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) the Member State concerned shall, within six months of adoption of the recommendation, notify the Commission of the measures it intends to adopt in order to take due account of the recommendation in a spirit of solidarity between Member States and the Union and between Member States, pursuant to the principle of sincere cooperation;
Amendment 419 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) the Member State concerned shall set out, in its first progress report submitted in accordance with Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, in the year following the year in which the recommendation was issued, how it has taken due account of the recommendation. If the Member State concerned decides not to address a , and how the measures it has consequently adopted ensure commendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State shall provide the Commission its reasoningnsistency with the Union's climate objectives set out in Article 2;
Amendment 428 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) European statistics and data, including data on losses from adverse climate impacts and estimations on the costs of inaction or delayed action, and including data on employment gains as well as losses, where available; and
Amendment 432 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) best available scientific evidence, including the latest reports of the IPCC, UNEP, IPBES and ECCC; and
Amendment 466 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) No 2018/1999
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 7
(7) ‘projections’ means forecasts of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions by sources and removals by sinks or developments of the energy system, including at least quantitative estimates for a sequence of sixfour future years ending with 0 or 5 immediately following the reporting year;;
Amendment 469 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EU) No 2018/1999
Article 11 – Title
Article 11 – Title
Multilevel climate and energyand cross-sectoral climate change dialogue
Amendment 471 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EU) No 2018/1999
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Each Member State shall establish a multilevel climate and energyand cross-sectoral climate change dialogue pursuant to national rules, in which local authorities, civil society organisation, business community, investors and other relevant stakeholders and the general public are able actively to engage and discuss the achievement ofdifferent scenarios envisaged in the different sectors for 2030, 2040, 2050 and beyond, with a view to reaching the Union’'s climate-neutrality objectives set out in Article 2 of Regulation …/… [Climate Law] and the different scenarios envisaged for energy and climate policies, including for the long term, and review progress, unless it already has a structure which serves the same purpose. Integrated national energy and climate plans may be discussed within the framework of such a dialogue.;
Amendment 475 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 7 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 7 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 2018/1999
Annex IV – point 2.1.1
Annex IV – point 2.1.1
Amendment 476 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 7 b (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 7 b (new)
Regulation (EU) No 2018/1999
Annex IV – point 2.1.2
Annex IV – point 2.1.2
Amendment 477 #
2020/0036(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 7 c (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point 7 c (new)
Regulation (EU) No 2018/1999
Annex IV – point 2.1.4 (new)
Annex IV – point 2.1.4 (new)
Amendment 2 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18
Citation 18
— having regard to the statement of preliminary findings and conclusions of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) international election observation mission to the parliamentary elections of 30 August 2020 in Montenegro, issued on 311 AugustDecember 2020,
Amendment 4 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
— having regard to the fifth country monitoring report of the European Commission Against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI), published on September 20171a , and to the conclusions on Montenegro concerning the state of implementation of the 2017 recommendations, published on June 2020,1b __________________ 1a https://rm.coe.int/second-report-on- montenegro/16808b5942 1bhttps://rm.coe.int/ecri-conclusions-on- the-implementation-of-the- recommendations-in-respe/16809e8273
Amendment 5 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
— having regard to the Declaration of Western Balkans Partners on Roma Integration within the EU Enlargement Process of 5 July 2019 and the Strategy for Social Inclusion of Roma and Egyptians in Montenegro 2016–2020,
Amendment 9 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas despite these efforts over the past years, Montenegro has been showing clear symptoms and various degrees of state capture, and companies, institutions or powerful individuals use illegal practices to influence and shape policies, the legal environment and the economy to their own interests;
Amendment 11 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 August 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country, thus possibly being a step to overcome state capture;
Amendment 26 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G f (new)
Recital G f (new)
Gf. whereas the Copenhagen criteria establish that respect for and protection of minorities are a requisite for EU accession;
Amendment 30 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the opening of Chapter 8 (Competition policy) and Montenegro’s decision to accept the principles of the revised enlargement methodology; calls in particular for efficiently meeting the interim benchmarks for Chapters 23 and 24, which will be the next milestone; recalls that only three chapters have been provisionally closed since the opening of the first chapter in December 2012, and encourages a clear focus on working to address the closing benchmarks in all other chapters;
Amendment 33 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. NotWelcomes that the 30 August 2020 elections resulted in the first transition of power since the country’s independence, in full respect of democratic standards and Montenegro’s constitution; positively notes that the election results were not contested and that all elected Parliamentarians have actually resumed their duty;
Amendment 39 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the fact that on its first working day, the newly formed Montenegrin Government held an exchange of views with Members of the European Parliament and EU officials; encourages the new Government to use its mandate to accelerate EU-related reforms and accession negotiations; commends the Montenegrin government for their explicit commitment to further pursue EU integration and to strengthen the transatlantic alliance;
Amendment 42 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the need for cooperative and constructive cohabitation between the President and the new Government, as well as the new Parliament, with a view to enhancing Montenegro’s progress on its EU path; highlights that all elected representatives have the responsibility to make this relation operational;
Amendment 46 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Commends Montenegro’s progress in several areas of the accession negotiations, including international police cooperation and the fight against human trafficking; calls on the authorities to accelerate political and economic reforms, particularly on the rule of law and fundamental rights, the judiciary, media freedom and the fight against corruption, where further significant progress has to be made;
Amendment 50 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls for the active engagement and appropriate inclusion of the Western Balkans countries, including civil society as well as youth, in the Conference on the Future of Europe;
Amendment 60 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 c (new)
Paragraph 11 c (new)
11c. Expresses concern over the declining number of female MPs and calls for the adoption of the necessary legal and policy measures to strengthen parliamentary representation and promote political participation of women;
Amendment 62 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for Chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law, in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments; expresses concern for the fact that the working group on chapter 24 has not met over the past year and calls for the participation of representatives of the non-governmental sector in these working groups;
Amendment 63 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for Chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law and fundamental rights, in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments, as well as improving the work through conducting public and expert consultations concerning changes of key legislation;
Amendment 68 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. WelcomNotes the fact that some progress has been made in the fight against organised crime, in particular as regards stronger capacity and professionalism of the police; underlines that systemic deficiencies in the criminal justice system remain and need to be addressed as a matter of priority; urges the authorities to put in place concrete measures to limit the use of plea bargains to exceptional cases in order to enhance the transparency and the credibility of the judicial response to organised crime through a more deterrent and consistent sanctioning policy;
Amendment 70 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Is seriously concerned about the limited progress in the fight against corruption, and calls on the institutions responsible to, especially the prosecution, to significantly improve the country’s track record in the confiscation of criminal assets, prosecutions and final convictions, in particular for high-level cases, by substantially improving quality and independence of the criminal investigation and law enforcement;
Amendment 74 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Welcomes the efforts to implement public administration reform (PAR) and the results already achieved; is concerned by the findings that party membership still strongly influences employment in the Montenegrin public sector; calls on the Montenegrin authorities to continuredouble their efforts to create an efficient public administration and to retain expertise, in particular on the EU accession process, and in that respect welcomes transparent appointment procedures, such as the process of appointment of the acting director of the Police Directorate;
Amendment 78 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Welcomes the new government’s promises to significantly increase transparency in all areas, including public finances and encourages them to urgently develop and adopt an improved Law on free access to information;
Amendment 79 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Notes the upcoming population and housing census in Montenegro, and calls on the institutions responsible to hold it in line with European standards and international recommendations and urges to avoid any politicisation of the process;
Amendment 84 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Deplores the state of freedom of expression and media freedom, an area in which five successive Commission reports have noted ‘no progress’, especially when it comes to the work of the public broadcasting service RTCG; strongly condemns all types of attacks against the media and intimidation of journalists, and calls for the urgent and effective investigation of these, including past cases, in order to end impunity of crimes against journalists; urges Montenegro to provide conditions conducive to the effective exercise of freedom of expression, which is one of the EU’s fundamental values and a crucial element of Montenegro’s EU accession process;
Amendment 87 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Emphasises that while progress has been recorded in the advancement of the rights and social inclusion of Roma and Egyptians in Montenegro, increased and holistic efforts are needed to improve the quality and access to education and prevent and eliminate segregation, increase employment and employability, combat poverty and overcrowding in marginalised communities, and ensure access to personal documents and legal status to all Roma and Egyptians; measures should be developed and implemented with a strong gender equality and child rights perspective;
Amendment 88 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of European cooperation with Montenegro on addressing cyber threats; urges the EEAS to address disinformation, and cyber and hybrid threats; hybrid threats that seek to undermine the European perspective of the region by more strategically underscoring the EU’s relevance to citizens in the region; stresses the need to improve coordination in order to fight regional disinformation campaigns; reminds of the strong link between weaknesses in media freedom and opportunities for local and foreign actors to manipulate facts and spread disinformation; calls on the Commission and the EEAS to closely cooperate on those linkages and overlapping challenges, as well as to foster the creation of a Balkan-focused Centre of Excellence on disinformation;
Amendment 97 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities, especially in Pljevlja following the August 2020 parliamentary elections; urges Montenegrin authorities to thoroughly investigate all those incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice;
Amendment 100 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Takes note of the Law on Domestic Violence Protection and its current changes, and asks for its thorough implementation, including the allocation of sufficient resources, as gender-based, domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern, which has been exacerbated during the COVID 19 pandemic; urges the authorities to ensure a thorough implementation of the Istanbul Convention standards, to launch public awareness-raising campaigns to encourage the reporting of domestic violence, to increase the number of well- trained and gender-sensitive law enforcement officers and judges as to ensure the proper investigation and prosecution of such crimes, and to introduce effective measures against sexual harassment, including at the work place;
Amendment 108 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 e (new)
Paragraph 23 e (new)
23e. Regrets the lack of resources allocated for the implementation of the annual action plan for the implementation of the strategy for the social inclusion of Roma and Egyptians; urges authorities to significantly step up efforts to fight discrimination, to ensure fair access to education, justice and healthcare, as well as to take effective measures against hate speech;
Amendment 110 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes progress on the protection of LGBTI rightthe rights of LGBTI persons and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships and calls on authorities to ensure all necessary conditions for its adequate and timely implementation; stresses that the situation of transgender and non-binary persons needs to be improved; urges the collection of disaggregated data relating to hate speech and crime based on sexual orientation and gender identity as recommended by ECRI and calls for their effective sanctioning;
Amendment 142 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Commends Montenegro’s progress on and renewed commitment to international police cooperation, and encourages itMontenegro to continue its efforts to cope with the migratory pressure, by further developing itsraising its capacity to prosecute international coly operation on readmission and raising its capacity to prosecutng criminal networks, with a particular focus on the mfigrant-smuggling networksht against money laundering, human and drug trafficking;
Amendment 150 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Urges Montenegrin authorities to keep human rights and international law at the core of their migration and border policies, to ensure basic rights to all people on their territory regardless of their administrative status, and to not engage in any activities prohibited by international law such as refoulement; calls on Frontex/EBCG operations in Montenegrin territory to operate by these same standards;
Amendment 161 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Encourages authorities to improve the participation of women in the labour market and to urgently address issues such as gender gap in employment and pay and affordable childcare;
Amendment 163 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Notes with concern the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Montenegro’s economy; calls on the Government to carry on a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; encourages the authorities to make the best use of EU assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis, including developing and implementing targeted measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on marginalised communities and vulnerable people;
Amendment 173 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32a. Stresses the fact that the COVID- 19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on women and vulnerable groups, like Roma, Egyptians, LGBTIQ+ people and people with disabilities, by deepening inequality, exacerbating existing problems; calls on the Montenegrin government and authorities to take these issues into account in their responses to the pandemic;
Amendment 180 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Calls on the Commission and the Council to include Montenegro in joint EU procurement for vaccinations, and to allocate a sufficient amount of COVID-19 vaccines to the citizens ofpeople present in all Western Balkan countries;
Amendment 183 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Encourages Montenegro to make best use of the Commission’s Economic and Investment Plan forWelcomes the Commission’s efforts to invest more strategically in the Western Balkans through a dedicated Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) and encourages Montenegro to make the Wbestern Balkans use of it; recognises ithe EIP's importance in supporting sustainable connectivity, human capital, competitiveness and inclusive growth in the region, while stressing that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and EU decarbonisation targets;
Amendment 187 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Calls on the Commission to focus IPA III funds on the ongoing democratic transition of Montenegro, more so than infrastructure projects, especially in light of persistent problems with the investment climate, absorption capacity, and environmental standards in Montenegro;
Amendment 188 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 b (new)
Paragraph 34 b (new)
34b. Reiterates its call to conduct thorough and comprehensive ex-ante environmental and social impact assessments of infrastructure projects in line with European standards, including the consultation of citizens, civil society organisations and independent experts; reiterates its call to increase transparency and calls on the authorities to provide the public with all relevant information;
Amendment 189 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 b (new)
Paragraph 34 b (new)
34b. Recalls with satisfaction that according to Article 1 of its constitution Montenegro is an ecological state; calls on the authorities to better protect the most valuable areas in particular as regards biodiversity and to review in particular mass tourist infrastructure projects and the large number of small- scale hydropower plants;
Amendment 190 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 c (new)
Paragraph 34 c (new)
34c. Calls on the authorities to assess the effects of the construction of the highway at Tara river and to develop a remediation plan with concrete steps to limit the negative impact;
Amendment 191 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Welcomes Montenegro’s progress in diversifying its electricity production towards renewable sources, as well as its active participation in the Western Balkans Connectivity Agenda; and exceeding its overall 2020 renewables target and sectorial targets for electricity and heating and cooling, as well as its active participation in the Western Balkans Connectivity Agenda; invites Montenegro to introduce streamlined and simplified rules for facilitating the further deployment of renewable projects; commends Montenegro’s decision to discontinue financial support for small hydropower plants that do not follow appropriate environmental standards; invites Montenegro to comply with the Energy Community rules on the further operation of the Pljevlja coal power plant;
Amendment 201 #
2019/2173(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Welcomes the positive developments in further aligning Montenegro’s national environmental and climate change legislation with the acquis; commends Montenegro for protecting the Zeta river as a Nature Park; calls on the authorities to take urgent measures to better safeguardtruly protect and sustainably manage protected areas and potential Natura 2000 sites by designing and implementing Protected Area Management Plans and by providing adequate resources for their implementation; calls on the authorities to include local communities in the implementation of environmental, climate and energy policies in the country; recommends to implement the Protected Area plan for Sinjajevina highlands based on the EU-funded 2016 study of the Environment Protection Agency of Montenegro by including full participation of the local community;
Amendment 59 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Supports the convening of the first intergovernmental conference without further delay, following the adoption of the negotiating framework by the Council; reminds that Albania is a candidate country since 2014, and that since 2018 the Commission recommends starting accession talks;
Amendment 66 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Recalls that the transformation of a candidate country towards an EU Member State takes place during accession negotiations, which last as long as needed to implement the necessary reforms;
Amendment 67 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Recalls that the EU has promised all Western Balkan countries a fair chance to become EU Member States and urges it to not damage its credibility further by questioning the accession process; reminds that rival actors seek to undermine further Euro-Atlantic integration and political stability of Western Balkan countries; notes that the Commission aims to become a geopolitical Commission and the EU aims to develop an effective and coherent foreign and security policy;
Amendment 113 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Stresses the need to develop a more strategic approach to justice sector reform which addresses the increasing backlog of cases; underlines the need to improve the situation of appeal courts as regards human resources;
Amendment 134 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Expresses its support for inclusive policies and calls for progress to be made in adopting measures to effectively protect the fundamental freedoms and rights of all citizens, including LGBTQ and persons with disabilities;
Amendment 141 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the Ombudsman, the Anti-Discrimination Commissioner and the Commissioner for the Right to Information and Data Protection, and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; calls for ensuring high standards as regards transparency in the justice sector and to in particular re- activate tools such as online data-bases which have already been operational in the past;
Amendment 170 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Recalls that freedom of assembly is a fundamental right to which a balanced approach that respects the principle of proportionality is needed also in times of crisis; stresses the recommendations made by the Ombudsperson in this respect;
Amendment 188 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Underlines the need to improve the climate for the functioning of civil society and urges the authorities to ensure meaningful, timely and representative consultations, and to enhance the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector; stresses the need to improve conditions and an environment for accountability and scrutiny of public institutions, in particular cooperation with civil society and journalists, as well as their access to justice and legal certainty;
Amendment 192 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Recalls the importance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for the functioning of democracy and in tackling disinformation; urges the EEAS to address disinformation and hybrid threats that seek to undermine the European perspective of the region by more strategically underscoring the EU’s relevance to citizens in the region; stresses the need to improve coordination in order to fight regional disinformation campaigns; calls on the Commission to foster the creation of a Balkan-focused Centre of Excellence on disinformation;
Amendment 200 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Expresses grave concern about the proposed measures under the draft media law and welcomes the commitment to adopt amendments only if they are assessed as being fully in line with the Venice Commission’s recommendations; calls for revising the 2015 Law on Audio- visual Media, which currently does not contain limits to the ownership of broadcasting companies;
Amendment 202 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35a. Calls for amending the anti- defamation package and the Criminal Code with the aim of improving media freedom and the work environment of independent journalists in a transparent and inclusive manner, which makes sure that the voices and opinions of civil society, media and journalists are heard by lawmakers in hearings and other fora;
Amendment 219 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40 b (new)
Paragraph 40 b (new)
40b. Welcomes the Commission’s efforts to invest more strategically in the Western Balkans through a dedicated Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) and Albania’s inclusion in the EIP, in particular in terms of regional and cross- border cooperation; stresses that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and EU decarbonisation targets; calls on the Commission to focus IPA III funds on the ongoing democratic transition of Albania, more so than infrastructure projects, especially in light of persistent problems with the investment climate, absorption capacity, and environmental standards in Albania;
Amendment 222 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 a (new)
Paragraph 41 a (new)
41a. Expresses deep concern about certain economic projects that have led to grave environmental damage in protected areas, such as large-scale tourist resorts, Vlora Airport, and unregulated hydropower plants; underlines the need to significantly improve both, independent and objective environmental and socio- economic impact assessments, and transparency as regards relevant procedures across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; stresses the urgent need to fully take into account the views of the local population, civil society and independent experts prior to any decision- making as regards new hydropower plant construction and other infrastructure projects that impact the environment and socio-economic situation of local communities;
Amendment 224 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
42. Encourages the diversification of energy production, moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricstopping and preventing hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessmentstrongly supports the Albanian government’s announcement to stop all hydropower plant construction projects along the Vjosa River and to establish the Vjosa National Park covering the whole length of the river and its tributaries, which may serve, once implemented, as ac ross eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimele model for the Biodiversity Strategy within the framework of the European Green Deal; urges the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) to review their support for hydropower plant projects should they lack sound ex ante strategic environmental assessments and environmental impact assessments;
Amendment 235 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43 a (new)
Paragraph 43 a (new)
43a. Urges the authorities to develop a national energy strategy which guarantees full alignment and implementation of the Paris Accords on Climate, relevant EU climate objectives and legislation, and the EU’s decarbonisation target; stresses the need to put in place an appropriate carbon price as a means for effective decarbonisation in line with the European Green Deal and the political commitments made in the Sofia Declaration of 2020;
Amendment 244 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44 a (new)
Paragraph 44 a (new)
44a. Calls for further efforts in the field of agriculture and rural development; believes it is important to establish a solid system for consultations between policymakers and various interest groups in rural areas; stresses the need to develop a modern, ecological, climate-friendly small- and medium-scale agriculture that ensures the livelihood of farmers and protection of Albania’s natural resources as well as biodiversity;
Amendment 246 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44 a (new)
Paragraph 44 a (new)
44a. Calls for a revision of the National Strategy on Waste Management for 2018- 2035 and to focus on the most sophisticated methods for recycling in line with EU standards; stresses the need to use modern filter technology for incineration plants until a full recycling strategy is in place in order to reduce harm to human health and the environment;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas every year millions of animals are transported across Member States and to third countries over long distances to be bred, reared, fattened or slaughtered;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on all Member States to ensure that journeys are planned and executed, from departure to destination, in line with EU animal welfare requirements, particularly in the case of extreme weather conditions, taking into account the different means of transport and the range of geographical conditions across the EU and third countries;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. calls moreover on all Member States to prohibit all long-distance animal transports when extreme weather conditions apply, especially when outside temperatures exceed 30°C degrees.
Amendment 25 #
2018/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. calls to limit journeys to slaughter in the future to a maximum of 4 hours;
Amendment 26 #
2018/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. calls for a ban on journeys that exceed 8 hours;
Amendment 28 #
2018/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Strongly deplores the uneven and poor enforcement of the regulation in many Member States, which are failing to effectively and uniformly monitor and sanction persistent violations of EU law, thereby allowing some transporters to operate illegally; calls on the Commission, in view of the lack of harmonisation of controls and sanctions across the Member States, to consider revising the current provisions, as laid out under EC/1/2005 particularly Recital 11 and Article 30 (1), in order to ensure that effective and dissuasive sanctioning mechanisms are uniformly introduced and imposed across the EU;
Amendment 35 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. Whereas the most frequent infringements of Regulation 1/2005 occur in relation to the following provisions: specifications of space allowances and sufficient headspace, appropriate partitions, prohibition of transport in extreme heat, water requirement during long journeys, prohibition of the transport of unfit animals, bedding requirements, and requirement for animals to be unloaded for 24 hours rest, feed and water after a specified maximum travelling time
Amendment 39 #
2018/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Deplores the fact that, despite clear recommendations from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), parts of the Regulation are not in line with current scientific knowledge, and calls for updated rules on: - sufficient ventilation and cooling in all vehicles; - appropriate drinking systems suitable for different species and ages , particularly for unweaned animals; - specific minimum headroom;
Amendment 86 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2 a (new)
Subheading 2 a (new)
Considers that meat consumption must progress towards markedly lower volumes, but with higher quality and higher sustainability, based on locally sourced produce, with supply focused on EU demand
Amendment 89 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Deplores the fact that the overall degree of progress in implementation of Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 by the Member States has been insufficient to meet the Regulation’s main objective, which is to improve animal welfare during transport, and that overall implementation remains poor; calls on Member States to substantially improve compliance with Regulation 1/2005;
Amendment 108 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that a partial implementation is insufficient to achieve the Regulation’s overarching purpose of avoiding injury to or undue suffering of animals during transport, and that persistent severe animal welfare problems remain;
Amendment 133 #
2018/2110(INI)
4a. Calls on the Commission to take action against the Member States which systematically fail to implement and enforce the Regulation;
Amendment 135 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Parliament to set up a Committee of Inquiry to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application of Union law in relation to animal welfare during transport within and outside the EU, given the numerous and systematic violations of the Regulation 1/2005 by Member States, and considering the insufficient resources that the Commission invests in undertaking official audits on animal welfare during transport.
Amendment 145 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls the strong enforcement powers given to Member States under the Regulation, including the power to require transporters to establish systems to prevent the recurrence of breaches and to suspend or withdraw a transporter’s authorisation; calls on Member States to take sufficient corrective actions and sanctions, to avoid animal suffering and to dissuade continued non-compliance on the part of operators;
Amendment 153 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the Commission to undertake a mapping exercise of sanction systems, and, where appropriate to ensure a level playing field, develop a harmonised EU sanction system, in order to ensure that penalties are effective, proportionate and dissuasive, taking into account repeated infringements;
Amendment 155 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Calls on the Commission to draw up, after consultation of National Contact Points, a list of operators guilty of repetitive and serious breaches of the Regulation based on inspection and implementation reports; calls on the Commission to publish and update this list frequently, and also to promote examples of best practice, both in transport and governance;
Amendment 156 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6c. Calls on Member States to ensure that operators found to be repeatedly in breach of Regulation 1/2005 have their authorisations revoked;
Amendment 157 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6d. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to aim for zero non- compliance in implementing and enforcing Regulation 1/2005;
Amendment 158 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 e (new)
Paragraph 6 e (new)
6e. Notes that vehicles often do not conform with the requirements of Article 12 of Directive 64/432/EEC as amended; Considers, in particular, that carriages with leaking faeces and urine or otherwise inadequate waste storage pose risks for the spread of antimicrobial resistance; Calls on the Commission to develop harmonised procedures to grant approval to vessels and trucks;
Amendment 164 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls for increased cooperation between competent authorities to strengthen enforcement by using technology to create a real-time feedback loop and geolocational tracking between the Member State at the point of departure and the Member State at the point of arrival; takes the view that should animals which started out in a good state of fitness arrive in a poor state of fitness, then the exporter company must be immediately penalised;
Amendment 167 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. asks the Commission to present regular reports to the European Parliament on the implementation and the enforcement of the current Regulation, including breakdown of infringements per Member State, per species and per type of infringement, in relation to the volume of live animal transport per Member State;
Amendment 168 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. considers that enforcement is particularly difficult when a journey passes through several Member States and when the various enforcement tasks (journey log approval, transporter authorisation, certification of competence and of vehicle approval, etc.) are undertaken by several different Member States; calls on Member States that find breaches to notify all other Member States involved, as required by Article 26 of Regulation 1/2005, in order to prevent recurrence of the infringements and enabling optimised risk assessment;
Amendment 181 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission to assess the compatibility ofensure full and consistent compliance with Regulation (EC) No 561/20056 on the protection of animals duringharmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport6 and related operations and, to this end, assess the compatibility of Regulation (EC) No 561/20065 on the harmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport6 protection of animals during transport and related operations, as regards driving time and drivers’ rest periods; _________________ 6 OJ L 102, 11.4.2006, p. 1.
Amendment 205 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Regrets the insufficient number of checks and official audits and calls for an increase in the number of yearly inspections by the Food and Veterinary Office; calls for a more effective and transparent monitoring system, including public access to information collected via the Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES);
Amendment 206 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Calls on the Commission to develop geolocation systems to enable tracking of the animals' location and the duration of journeys in transport vehicles, as well as any non-compliance with transport schedules.
Amendment 213 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Calls for Member States to be more rigorous in certification and approval procedures both for vehicles and in granting certificates of competence to drivers;
Amendment 215 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Calls on operators to ensure thorough training of drivers and attendants in line with Annex IV, to ensure correct treatment of animals;
Amendment 235 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Urges the Commission to assess possible violation of legislation during the transport of animals by sea;
Amendment 257 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Calls for a ban on all journeys that exceed four hours irrespective of the mode of transport, and for the setting of lower, species-specific maximal journey times and distances, where appropriate.
Amendment 262 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14b. Calls to limit journeys of unweaned animals to both a maximum distance of 50km and a maximum duration of 1.5 hours, given the difficulty of ensuring their welfare during transport;
Amendment 268 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for the reduction of animal journey times, in particular long and very long journey times, by employing alternative strategies, such as economically viable local slaughter facilities, replacing the transport of breeding animals by using semen or embryos, and transportation of carcasses and meat products, as well as by means of legislative initiatives in Member States to facilitate on-farm slaughter, whilst ensuring the highest possible animal welfare standards;
Amendment 285 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Urges the Commission to support, where needed, the construction of economically viable slaughter facilities within Member Statregional or mobile slaughter and meat processing facilities so that animals are slaughtered as close as possible to their place of rearing;
Amendment 296 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Considers that transport of carcasses should replace live animal transport; Calls on the Commission to develop a strategy to shift from live transport to a meat-and-carcasses-only trade, given the environmental, animal welfare and food safety impact of live animal transport; Calls, as a first step, to limit journeys to slaughter to both a maximum duration of four hours and maximum distance of 300km, irrespective of the mode of transport;
Amendment 311 #
2018/2110(INI)
Notes that the livestock sector, in particular intensive industrial livestock production, is responsible for a significant percentage of GHG emissions, and considers that the intensive production model leads to significantly compromised animal welfare and negative consequences for public health, in particular via the inappropriate use of antibiotics and its contribution to antimicrobial resistance.
Amendment 313 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Notes that the most frequent infringements of Regulation 1/2005 occur in relation to the following provisions: specifications of space allowances and sufficient headspace, appropriate partitions, prohibition of transport in extreme heat, water requirement during long journeys, prohibition of the transport of unfit animals, bedding requirements, and requirement for animals to be unloaded for 24 hours rest, feed and water after a specified maximum travelling time
Amendment 318 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Insists that animal welfare legislation should be based on science and the latest technology; Stresses that detailed provisions addressing specific needs in various types of transport should be updated, as per Article 30 of Regulation 1/2005, whenever they appear no longer to ensure compliance for a particular species or types of transport, and in the case of new scientific advice; deplores the fact that, despite clear recommendations from EFSA and Parliament’s request in its 2012 resolution, the Commission has failed to update the rules on animal transport with the latest scientific evidence; calls on the Commission, therefore, to update the rules on the basis of the latest scientific knowledge and technology, in particular as regards factors including sufficient ventilation and coolingtemperature control in all vehicles, appropriate drinking systems and liquid feed, particularly for unweaned animals, and specificreduced stocking densities and specified sufficient minimum headroom;
Amendment 359 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls for the upcoming CAP reform to maintain and reinforce the link between increased CAP payments and improved animal welfare conditions which fully respect or go beyond the standards set out in Regulation 1/2005; Calls for coupled support likewise to be conditional upon improved animal welfare standards, to be assured by the Commission within their assessment of the CAP Strategic Plans
Amendment 380 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Considers that export-oriented agricultural policy gives rise to unnecessary suffering in live animal transport; Considers that both animal welfare and rural economies are better served by shorter supply chains focused on more local or regional consumption and breeding.
Amendment 382 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23b. Calls for the prohibition of live animal exports to third countries, with limited exceptions for breeding purposes, provided that the breeds are suited to the relevant climatic and environmental context.
Amendment 383 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls for consistent and full compliance with the 2015 judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union in Case C-424/13, in which the Court ruled that, EU transporters must comply with the Regulation until the final destination, even if outside the Union, and that for the transport of animals involving a long journey commencing in EU territory and then continuing outside of it, the transporter, in order to be authorised to depart, must submit a truerealistically planned and accurate travel log for the purpose of verifying compliance with Regulation (EC) No 1/2005; Calls on competent authorities not to approve journey logs where animals must be unloaded for a 24-hour rest in a non-EU country unless the organiser has identified a place for that rest that provides facilities equivalent to those of a control post; Calls on official veterinarians at EU exit points to verify that animals are fit to continue their journey and that vehicles and/or vessels meet the requirements of the Regulation; Notes in particular that Article 21 of Regulation 1/2005 specifies that veterinarians check vehicles before they leave the EU, to ensure that they are not overcrowded, provide sufficient headroom, provide bedding, are carrying sufficient feed and water and that the ventilation and water devices are functioning correctly.
Amendment 408 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Is appalled at reports of extremely long and distressing waiting periods for animals at borders; calls on Member States having borders with third countries to open dedicated express lanes, sufficiently staffed and freely traversable, at customs for animals being transported, in order to reduce waiting periods;
Amendment 413 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Calls on the Commission to increase cooperation and communication between the competent authorities in all Member States and in third countries in order to reduce animal welfare problems related to poor administration; Asks the Commission to promote animal welfare internationally and conduct initiatives to increase awareness among non- EU countries;
Amendment 423 #
2018/2110(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Stresses that unless animal transport and welfare standards in third countries are aligned with those of the EU and their implementation is sufficient to ensure compliance with the regulation, live animal transport journeys to third countries should also be forbidden, in addition to the prohibition of live animal exports;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
– having regard to the European Court of Auditors special report No 4/2014 “Integration of EU Water Policies into the CAP: a partial success”,
Amendment 9 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
– having regard to the Commission’s Staff Working Document on agriculture and sustainable water management,
Amendment 10 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 c (new)
Citation 4 c (new)
– having regard to EU Directive 2009/128 on sustainable use of pesticides, and on the report from the Commission to the European Parliament and Council on Member State National Action Plans and on progress in the implementation of that Directive 2009/128/EC,
Amendment 12 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
– having regard to the Commission communication of 14 February 2018 entitled “A new, modern Multiannual Financial Framework for a European Union that delivers efficiently on its priorities post-2020”,
Amendment 27 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
– having regard to the ECI on glyphosate and the move to a pesticide free environment,
Amendment 32 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
– having regard to the Declaration of the Third European Rural Parliament, adopted on 16 October 2017 by representatives of rural movements of 40 countries (EU Member States and neighbour countries),
Amendment 42 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 d (new)
Citation 10 d (new)
– having regard to the meta-study “Is the CAP fit for purpose? An evidence- based fitness check assessment” (Pe’er et al, 2017, German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research, iDiv),
Amendment 43 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 e (new)
Citation 10 e (new)
– having regard to the UN process resulting in the International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development (IAASTD) assessing the potential of food and sustainability,
Amendment 44 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 f (new)
Citation 10 f (new)
– having regard to the report by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food (A/HRC/34/48),
Amendment 48 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the Commission’s communication on the Future of Food and Farming acknowledges that the common agricultural policy (CAP) is the most integrated policy in the EU and, yet the CAP has considerable work to do isn enabling the EU farming sector to respond tomeet citizens’ demands regarding not only food security, safety, quality and sustainability, but also environmental careprotection, climate change action and high animal welfare standards;
Amendment 61 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas there is a clear demand from society that the status quo of EU food policy cannot continue, calling for improving the environmental, public and animal health and societal impacts of the CAP;
Amendment 69 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the European Union’s overarching objective of multifunctional agriculture, driven by small and family farms, remains key to delivering the positive externalities and minimising negative externalities and public goods that European citizens demand;
Amendment 80 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas over the years the CAP has undergone regular re-programming in line with new challenges, but another step in this continuous process of modernisation and simplification, building on previous reforms, is now necessarywith limited effectiveness;
Amendment 91 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas, although organic farming protects the environment, minimises land degradation, promotes biodiversity, dispenses with pesticides and thus preserves the groundwater from inputs of pollutants, the current focus of the CAP does not go nearly far enough in acknowledging its positive achievements;
Amendment 97 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas currently we still face increasingly urgent challenges such as continuous loss of small farms and land concentration, as well as climate change and deteriorating biodiversity, water and air quality, increased soil erosion 1a; _________________ 1a State of the Environment Report, European Environmental Agency, 2015;
Amendment 98 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Cb. whereas many of these are undermining the fertility and productivity of our agricultural systems in the long term;
Amendment 99 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
Cc. whereas another step in this continuous process of reform building on previous reforms, is now necessary;
Amendment 105 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the new delivery model (NDM) is at the core of the Commission’s communication on the Future of Food and Farming, and is to be welcomed, provided that it ensures genuine simplification, not only at EU level but also at Member State and regional level, and flexibility for farmers, without adding new constraints on Member States and thus a new layer of complexitydoes not compromise ambitious policy objectives, and flexibility for beneficiaries; whereas the NDM should also set clear and ambitious goals and enforcement mechanisms that are implementable by the Member States;
Amendment 119 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the CAP must play an important role in overcoming stagnation and volatility of farm incomes which, despite the concentration and intensification of production and increasing productivity, are still lower than in the rest of the economy;
Amendment 126 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas CAP must play an important role in ensuring all farmers, including small farmers so far disregarded by CAP, receive a fair remunerative income by aiming at a sustainable economic model that promotes regional and local economies; these shall be based on developing short supply chains and boosting agro- ecosystem functions and respecting environmental limits, so ensuring resilience and long term productivity;
Amendment 137 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas over the last few years farmers have been confronted with increasing price volatility, which has reflected price fluctuations on global markets and uncertainty caused by macroeconomic developments, external policiesglobal agricultural commodity speculation, prices being suppressed by overproduction, external policies, increased export orientation of EU production, sanitary crises and moreincreasingly frequent extreme weather events in the EU as climate change kicks in ;
Amendment 142 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas farmers are driven to bankruptcy or abandoning production mainly due to not receiving fair income for their work;
Amendment 154 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F b (new)
Recital F b (new)
Fb. whereas the continued high rate of loss of farmers (averaging around a 100 per day) impacts very negatively the socio- economic fabric of rural communities and regions;
Amendment 156 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F c (new)
Recital F c (new)
Fc. whereas this represents a failure of policy and is not acceptable;
Amendment 164 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas it is essential to ensure a fair standard of living across regions and Member States, affordable prices for citizens andprices that are fair for farmers and affordable for consumers, and access to quality food and healthy diets, while delivering on the commitments for environmental care, climate action, and animal and plantimal health and welfare and healthy ecosystems;
Amendment 197 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas there are unfair disparities in levels of CAP payments between western and central/eastern Europe;
Amendment 212 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the emergence of new challenges, such as increasing global trade, is necessitating needs fair and sustainable conditions for the global exchange of goods and services, within the framework of the WTO; and in accordance with exisEU imports and exports should be conditional upon meeting EU social, economic and environmental standards, which should be promoted;
Amendment 225 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
Ib. whereas about 80% of the required protein in the EU is imported from third countries and that not nearly enough has so far been done to implement a protein strategy in the CAP;
Amendment 227 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas while the focus on research and development for both product and, process and social innovation is to be welcomed, research must be focused on the transition towards sustainable farming systems, and more must be done to translate the results of research into farming practice, facilitated by EU-wiindependent, transparent, sufficiently- and publically-funded agricultural extension services (FAS) in all Member States and regions;
Amendment 241 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas special attention should be given in the FAS and EIP to encourage alternatives to pesticides, especially uptake of the 8 IPM principles to reduce pesticide use dependency, and to move towards achieving a pesticide-free future;
Amendment 251 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas bottom-up participatory research between researchers and farmers and effective peer-to-peer exchanges have been increased by the EU innovation partnerships (EIP), they should be further boosted;
Amendment 253 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J c (new)
Recital J c (new)
Jc. whereas taking advantage of and encouraging natural processes to boost yields and resilience is likely to lower production costs based on current experiences;
Amendment 254 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the agriculture and food sector must be incentivised to continue to contribute toplay a stronger role in reaching the environmental care and climate action objectives of the EU set out in international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the UN SDGs; COP21 and UN SDG, by in particular delivering results improving biodiversity and action on climate change and air, soil and water pollution;
Amendment 269 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas the protection of natural resources is vital for the long term resilience of the agricultural sector, farmers’ livelihoods and Europe’s ability to produce food;
Amendment 276 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas the European Court of Auditors has underlined the fact that the green payments introduced as part of the 2013 reform create added complexity and bureaucracy, are difficult to understand (despite being based on pre-existing requirements of crop rotation, maintaining permanent pasture and landscape features), and fail to significantly enhance the CAP’s environmental and climate performance;
Amendment 284 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L a (new)
Recital L a (new)
La. whereas the evidence-based “Fitness Check” meta-assessment of scientific studies also found that greening measures did not significantly improve environmental performance, largely because those requirements were already being met;
Amendment 312 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas it is essential to ensure fair competition within the single market within the sector and with other players in the food chain, both up and downstream, and to further strengthendevelop incentives tohat prevent crises witheffectively, including active supply management tools, that are able to match supply with EU demand, to be deployed at sectoral level and by public authorities, ;
Amendment 328 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
Oa. whereas as farmers are expected by society to change their practices to become fully sustainable, they should be supported in this transition with public funds;
Amendment 340 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas Parliament must play a comprehensive role in setting a clear policy framework to maintain common ambition at European level and democratic debate on the strategic issues which have an impact on the everyday lives of all citizens when it comes to the use of natural resources, the quality of our food and th, health and the sustainable modernisation of agricultural practices;
Amendment 351 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph -1 (new)
Paragraph -1 (new)
-1. Emphasises that the upcoming CAP reform needs to aim at ambitious policies ensuring a truly sustainable and common food, agricultural and rural development policy, aiming at providing nutritious and healthy food, animal welfare, healthy ecosystems, and fair incomes for farmers in Europe, following the guiding principle of “public money for public goods”;
Amendment 356 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the intention to simplify and modernise the CAP, but emphasises that the integrity of the single marketthe CAP while ensuring this high level of ambition in line with citizens' expectations; Emphasises that the integrity of the single market including a baseline of common environmental quality and a truly common policy must be the overridunderlying prioritinciples of reform;
Amendment 384 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that even the flexibility that Member States currently enjoy in defining basic rules may risk distorting competition and ambitions for cohesion within the single market and granting unequal access to support for famers in different Member States or even in differentbetween rural regions;
Amendment 387 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Stresses that, to ensure a level playing field , a common EU baseline is required that delivers on citizens' rights to a healthy environment and healthy, nutritious food;
Amendment 398 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Considers that this baseline should be set to fulfil relevant laws, and also allow "no harm" to the environment or to society;
Amendment 412 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that subsidiarity for Member States should only be granted within a common set of rules and tools agreed at EU level as part of a uniform approach to all programming efforts and eligibility criteria, should cover both of the CAP’s pillars and ensure, in particular, a a common European approach in Pillar I and Pillar II and thus a level playing field, in particular robust objectives, in line with environmental legislation and based on quantified and ambitious result indicators;
Amendment 425 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Highlights that national CAP strategic plans should be evidence-based and designed with the involvement of the relevant environmental authorities, in consultation with all relevant stakeholders (including small farmers, environmental NGOs and civil society representatives), and must obligatorily follow the partnership principle;
Amendment 437 #
2018/2037(INI)
4. Reminds the Commission of the need to fully respect the distribution of powers within each Member State, often set out in their constitutions, particularly in terms of respecting the legal competences of the EU’s regions when designing and implementing policies;
Amendment 443 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the efforts of the Commission to establish programme design, implementation and control of an output results-based approach in order to foster performance rather thand compliance, while ensuring adequate monitoring via clearly defined, solid and measurable indicators at EU level, including an appropriate system of quality controlcontrols of MS measure/programme design and implementation, as well as compliance and penalties;
Amendment 458 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Amendment 468 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Notes that a certain level of compliance is needed to achieve a level playing field, keeping commonality in the CAP (and to maintain all payments within the WTO green box).
Amendment 477 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to ensure that financial and performance control and audit functions are performed to the same standard and under the same criteria across all Member States, irrespective of enhanced flexibility for Member States in programme design and management, and with a view, in particular, to ensuring a timely disbursement of funds across Member States to all eligible farmers and rural communities, while minimising administrative burden on the beneficiaries ;
Amendment 507 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls however for the fair rewarding of public goods provided by micro- and small farm enterprises, including their participation in co- operative and community endeavours;
Amendment 520 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
A smart and efficient sectorustainable, fair and effective CAP – delivering for citizens, rural areas and the environment
Amendment 526 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Considers it necessary to maintain the current two-pillared architecture, particularly Pillar I, which is dedicated to income support for farmers; considers it necessary, at the same time, to compensate for the provision of public goods; emphasises that the policies they support must be coherent and complementary; also considers it necessary to incentivise actions that deliver public goods, rewarding the level of contribution, on the basis of uniform criteria, while allowing Member States to take specific approaches to reflect local conditions;
Amendment 584 #
2018/2037(INI)
9a. Considers that farmers need to be supported in the transition to full sustainability;
Amendment 611 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Believes that more targeted support for small and family farms is necessary and can be achieved by introducing a compulsory higher support rate for smaller farms; considers, moreover, that support for larger farms should be digressive, reflecting economies of scale, with the possibility fcompulsory capping, to be decided by the Member Statesaking into account provision of quality jobs and high environmental performance;
Amendment 637 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. capping and redistribution should be applied at the appropriate level to avoid land concentration, i.e. where applicable, at the level of companies that control subsidiary holdings;
Amendment 643 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Amendment 647 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the necessity of identifying the key elements of a transparent and objective system of penalties and incentives for determining farmers’the eligibility of beneficiaries (farmers and/or rural communities) for public funding, which should consist of voluntary and mandatory measures;
Amendment 659 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Underlines that, if the new delivery model is to be implemented, it envisions a system of motivational sanctions or financial corrections to be applied to Member States when they do not reach the ambitious objectives set by the regulations;
Amendment 669 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for the existing system for calculating direct payments in Pillar I, which is often based on historic entitlements, to be replaced by an EU-wide uniform and transparent method of calculating payments, in order to make the system simpler and more transparent based on robust and relevant results-orientated EU objectives and targets for the delivery of public goods until 2030;
Amendment 693 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Believes that while the methods of calculating direct payments should be transparent and comparable, Member States must be allowed to use standard working-time requirements as a criterion for their allocation;
Amendment 699 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Amendment 712 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 c (new)
Paragraph 12 c (new)
12c. Considers that payments should also include a strong common conditionality including environmental deliverables and other public goods such as quality jobs;
Amendment 734 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Stresses the need for a fair distribution of direct payments between Member States, which mustay take into account socio-economic differences, and different production costs and the amounts received by Member States under Pillar II;
Amendment 763 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls, therefore, for completing the process of convergence of CAP support between Member States;
Amendment 766 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Believes that, provided that a level playing field in the single market can be guaranteed, voluntary coupled support (VCS) payments should be maintained, as a tool and the achievement of environmental and climate goals are not compromised, voluntary coupled support (VCS) payments should only be activated after a proper environmental and socio- economic impact assessment and should only be maintained, as a tool to address the needs of sensitive sectors and incentivise farming practices meeting high animal welfare and environmental standards, to counteract specific difficulties, particularly those arising from the structural competitive disadvantage of less- favoured and mountainous regions, as well as those which are more temporary in nature and arise from a shift away from the old entitlement scheme, for example;
Amendment 832 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Recalls that generational renewal is a challenge faced by famers in many Member States and that each national strategy must therefore address this issue through a comprehensive approach, including top-ups in Pillar I and targeted measures in Pillar II, as well as by means of new financial instruments and national measures, in order to incentivise famers to pass on their farming operations;
Amendment 850 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Believes that rural development policies have to address rural depopulation, in particular by women and youth;
Amendment 863 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15b. Believes that rural development policies must support the vital role of women in rural societies and support equal representation of women in economic and political structures;
Amendment 887 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines the importance of rural development, including the LEADER and CLLD initiatives, in supporting multi- functional agriculture and in fostering partnerships between farmers, local communities, civil society and additional entrepreneurial activities and opportunities, in order to generate income from diversified economic activities such as agri-tourism, and to secure community-supported agriculture and the provision of social services in rural areas;
Amendment 904 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls for the creation of a new fund for community led local development (CLLD), built upon the LEADER and CLLD experience, to be earmarked at 10% in all structural funds for objectives set by local community led strategies, with no demarcation between the structural funds which shall be deployed on a decentralised basis;
Amendment 925 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the Commission to introduce a new and comprehensive legal framework which allows the, based on robust and relevant results-orientated EU objectives and targets for the delivery of public goods until 2030; it should integration ofe the various types of environmental actions at present, such as cross compliance, greening and the good agricultural and environmental conditions (GAEC) standards, as well asa baseline that must be achieved in order to receive any direct payments, to be supplemented by agri-environment measures (AEMs) forin rural development, so that; an overarching objective is for farmers canto deliver effectively and with lessthe minimum bureaucracy on environmental care,needed to achieve ambitious policy goals on environmental protection, including biodiversity and climate action, while ensuring that Member States have adequate control and taking into account local conditions;
Amendment 955 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Underlines that another objective of a common baseline is to achieve a level playing field not only for competition but also ensure environmental and social quality across the EU, reward positive contributions and at least ensure payments "do no harm";
Amendment 967 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Calls for a measure rewarding significant pesticide use reduction, encouraging uptake of non-chemical alternatives, based on the EU’s 8 principles of IPM;
Amendment 994 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Believes that this new framework shouldmust be underpinned by the possible allocation of a minimum mandatory, ring-fenced amount of the total available budget to AEMs, including organic agriculture, support for biodiversity and genetic diversity in animals and plants;
Amendment 1010 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Amendment 1014 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18b. Considers that the CAP needs to manage the risks associated with climate change and land degradation across the whole farmed landscape, by investing in making agro-ecosystems resilient and robust, investing in ecological infrastructure to build topsoils, reverse soil erosion, introduce/lengthen crop rotations, add more trees into the landscape and boost on-farm biological and structural diversity;
Amendment 1024 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to foster innovation and modernisationagro-ecological methods in agriculture by actively supporting training and agricultural extension as a pre-condition in programme design andto be implementationed in all Member States, while fostering the transfer of know-how and the exchange of best practice models between Member States;
Amendment 1049 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Believes that the digitalisation and precision agriculture promoted in the CAP should not engender input or financial dependency of farmers, or prevent their access to resources, and should be open-source and developed in an inclusive way with farmers;
Amendment 1063 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. highlights that precision farming should not and cannot replace good agronomic practice, and notes that in order to achieve best results in input reduction, farmers should still apply the 8 principles of IPM when they use precision farming;
Amendment 1083 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 3
Subheading 3
A strong position for farmers in the global food system
Amendment 1084 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 3
Subheading 3
A strong position for farmers in the global food systemfood chain
Amendment 1125 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Insists on the critical need for the future CAP to support farmers more efficiently in order to cope with price and income volatility due to climate, health and market risks, by creating additional incentives for flexible risk management and stabilisation tools while ensuring broad accesctive supply side management tools, that match supply with EU demand to benefit all farmers in the relevant sectors, avoiding incentives or investment for growth of production in sectors that are oversupplying, as well as climate change adaption programmes;
Amendment 1152 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Is critical of risk management tools that are based on public funds paying for insurance schemes, as these are increasingly discredited as an effective use of public money, and they divert funds from other vital rural development programmes at a time when that budget is increasingly under pressure;
Amendment 1160 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Notes the success and benefit of mutual fund schemes guaranteeing production levels, that are conditional upon take up of IPM, starting with crop rotation;
Amendment 1166 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Insists on the necessity of strengthening the position of producers within the food supply chain, in particular by strengthening direct marketing and participation in public procurement schemes as well as by guaranteeing them a fair share of the added value, by; through fostering inter-sectoral cooperation, and strengtheningcombating unfair trade practices (UTPs) in the food supply chain; calls furthermore, for full transparency in the markets and crisis prevention;
Amendment 1201 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Commission to allow and indeed encourage – particularly in the dairy sector – active crisis management instruments, such as voluntary sector agreements to manage supply in quantitative terms among producers, producers organisations and processors, as well as publically funded, active and adaptive supply management tools to prevent and resolve crises, limit production (and investments aimed to increase production) to better match supply to EU demand and to examine the possibility of extending such instruments to other sectors after assessing the socio- economic impacts of these measures;
Amendment 1211 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Welcomes the work being carried out on a sustainable protein strategy for the EU;
Amendment 1217 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23b. Notes the necessity of creating local and regional markets for leguminous crops across the EU, of improving environmental performance by growing them in rotation, while also decreasing dependency of imported feed, fertilizer and pesticide inputs, and of increasing viability and economic incentives to change to more sustainable farming practices;
Amendment 1225 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls for an in-depth review of the current crisis reserve mechanism in order to create an independent financial instrument exempt from the budgetary principle of annuality, so as to permit budgetary transfers from one year to the next, thereby enabling quick and effective responses to crisis situations, including those involving animal and plwelfare antd healthy ecosystems, disease-related issues and food safety;
Amendment 1232 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Believes that while trade agreements arcan be beneficial to limited parts of the EU agricultural sector overall, and necessary for strengthening the EU’s position on the global agricultural market, they also pose a number of challenges that require reinforced safeguard mechanisms to ensure a level playing field between, notably agribusiness, overall they can cause serious socio-economic impacts on small and medium scale farmersing in the EU and in the restother parts of the world;
Amendment 1261 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Considers it necessary that the CAP is coherent with other EU policies; particularly it should play its part in ensuring policy coherence for development and not counteract efforts to strengthen local food supply chains in developing countries;
Amendment 1267 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 b (new)
Paragraph 25 b (new)
25b. Considers there should be no bilateral trade deals made that include agricultural products, as in the end farmers’ livelihoods are used as bargaining chips against other sectors, with small and family farmers always footing the bill;
Amendment 1270 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 c (new)
Paragraph 25 c (new)
25c. Considers these challenges require reinforced safeguard mechanisms to ensure a level playing field between farmers in the EU and in the rest of the world and that take into account social, environmental and economic effects in the EU, as well as in countries to which we export;
Amendment 1273 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls for iniBelieves the EU should play a more active role in setting multilatives to promote EU production, safety anderal standards for supply chains including food safety, human rights especially for workers and peasants, environmental standards and quality production schemes, through both labelling and marketing activities on internal and third-country markets;
Amendment 1290 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Highlights the principle of qualified market access, meaning that imported goods should comply with EU standards;
Amendment 1294 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26b. Considers that products of deforestation, land or resource grabbing and human rights abuses should not be granted access to the EU market;
Amendment 84 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 46
Recital 46
(46) Considering the specific nature of the actions concerning a high level of health for humans, animals and plants along the food chain special eligibility criteria concerning provision of grants and use of public procurement need to be provided in this Regulation. In particular, by way of derogation from Regulation (EU, Euratom) of the European Parliament and of the Council61 (the 'Financial Regulation'), as an exception to the principle of non-retroactivity, the costs for the emergency measures, due to their urgent and unforeseeable nature, should be eligible and include also costs incurred as a result of a suspected occurrence of a disease or pest provided that that occurrence is subsequently confirmed and notified to the Commission. The corresponding budgetary commitments and the payment of eligible expenditure should be made by the Commission, after signature of the legal commitments and after assessment of the payment applications submitted by the Member States. Where emergencies in the area of human, animal and plant health in the food chain can be traced back to specific Union practices, measures should be taken to rectify these practices. Costs should also be eligible for protection measures taken in the case of a direct threat to the status of health in the Union as a result of the occurrence or development, in the territory of a third country, a Member State or overseas countries and territories, of certain animal diseases and zoonoses as well as in respect of protection measures, or other relevant activities, taken in support of the health status of plants in the Union. _________________ 61 [to add] [to add]
Amendment 87 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 47
Recital 47
(47) Official controls carried out by the Member States are an essential tool for verifying and monitoring that relevant Union requirements are being implemented, complied with and enforced. The effectiveness and efficiency of official control systems is vital for maintaining a high level of safety for humans, animals and plants along the food chain whilst ensuring a high level of protection of the environment and of animal welfare. Union financial support should be made available for such control measures, especially where compliance with Union law as concerns the health and safety of humans, animals and plants is still deficient, such as live animal transport. In particular, a financial contribution should be available to Union reference laboratories in order to help them bear the costs arising from the implementation of work programmes approved by the Commission. Moreover, since the effectiveness of official controls also depends on the availability to the control authorities of well trained staff with an appropriate knowledge of Union law, the Union should be able to contribute to their training and relevant exchange programmes organised by competent authorities.
Amendment 103 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to improve the functioning of the internal market, and especially to protect and empower citizens, consumers and businesses, in particular micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by enforcement of Union law, facilitation of market access, standard setting, and by promottecting and strengthening human, animal and plant health and animal welfare; as well as to enhance cooperation between the competent authorities of Member States and between the competent authorities of Member States and the Commission and the decentralised Union agencies;
Amendment 153 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point 2.1 – introductory part
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point 2.1 – introductory part
2.1. Annual and multiannual veterinary and phytosanitary programmes for the prevention, eradication, control and surveillance of animal diseases and zoonoses listed in Annex III and of plant pests have to be implemented in compliance with the provisions laid down in the relevant Union law.
Amendment 157 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 3
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 3
3. Activities to support the improvement of the welfare of animals, including measures to ensure compliance with animal welfare standards during animal transport.
Amendment 158 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 7
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 7
7. Activities supporting a sustainable food production and consumption, which does not cause harm to the environment and biodiversity.
Amendment 162 #
2018/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – indent 13
Annex II – indent 13
– monitoring the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement;
Amendment 1158 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Particular attention shall be paid to the principle of proportionality, the right to privacy, the right to the protection of personal data, the right to the physical and mental integrity of a person, the right to non-discrimination and the need to ensure high levels of human health protection. Particular attention shall also be paid to the intrinsic value of animals and their right to be treated as sentient creatures.
Amendment 1161 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) for activities making use of human embryonic stem cells or animals, as appropriate, details of licensing and control measures that shall be taken by the competent authorities of the Member States concerned as well as details of the ethics approvals that shall be obtained before the activities concerned start.
Amendment 1163 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 3
Article 15 – paragraph 3
3. Proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment. The ethics assessment shall be carried out by the Commission unless it is delegated to the funding body. For actions involving the use of animals, human embryonic stem cells or human embryos, an ethics assessment shall be mandatory. Ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out with the support of ethics experts. The Commission and the funding bodies shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible.
Amendment 1467 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 45 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Adopted scientific methods and approaches that can provide scientific evidence and technical support to Union policies shall be reported by the recipients of Union funds to the Commission or funding body. The Commission shall clarify information requirements, paying particular attention to actions raising ethical issues according to Article 15. Such information shall not compromise protection of intellectual property.
Amendment 111 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions entitled ‘The Future of Food and Farming’ of 29 November 2017 sets out the challenges, objectives and orientations for the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2020. These objectives include, inter alia, the need for the CAP to be more result-driven, to boost modernisation and sustainability, including the economic, social, environmental and climate sustainability of the agricultural, forestry and rural areas in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Climate Agreement, and to help reducing the Union legislation- related administrative burden for beneficiaries.
Amendment 115 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2 a (new)
Recital 2 a (new)
Amendment 134 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Rules for classifying wine grape varieties by Member States should be modified to include the wine grape varieties Noah, Othello, Isabelle, Jacquez, Clinton and Herbemont, previously excluded. To ensure that wine production in the Union develops a higher resistance to diseases and that it uses vine varieties better adapted to changing climatic conditions, provision should be made allowing Vitis Labrusca varietiesall species of the genus Vitis, and all varieties stemming from crosses between Vitis vinifera, Vitis Labrusca and otherdifferent species of the genus Vitis to be planted for wine production in the Union.
Amendment 135 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) To enable producers to use vine varieties that are better adapted to changing climatic conditions and with higher resistance to diseases, provision should be made permitting products using designations of origin not only from vine varieties belonging to Vitis vinifera but also from vineother species of the genus Vitis, as well as from varieties stemming from a crosses between Vitis vinifera and otherdifferent species of the genus Vitis.
Amendment 182 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) In respect of export credits, export credit guarantees and insurance programmes, agricultural exporting state trading enterprises and international food aid, Member States may adopt national measures respecting Union law, including policy coherence for development as per Article 208 TFEU and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Since the Union and its Member States are WTO Members, such national measures should also comply with the rules laid down in that WTO Ministerial Decision of 19 December 2015, as a matter of Union law and international law.
Amendment 190 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31 a (new)
Recital 31 a (new)
(31a) In order to ensure a high level of consumer protection, the self-regulatory approach should, as a minimum, ensure that ingredients information is provided on-label or online and that such information complies with stipulations on 'Voluntary Food Information as set out in Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011. The Commission should assess the industry's proposals and publish a report, accompanied by a legislative proposal, with appropriate exemptions for micro producers.
Amendment 205 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point -1 (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point -1 (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2 a (new)
(-1) In Part I, the following Article 2a is inserted, 'Article 2a Policy coherence for development In accordance with Article 208 TFEU, objectives of development cooperation, including those approved in the context of the United Nations and other international organisations, shall be taken into account in the implementation of this regulation. Measures taken under this regulation shall not jeopardise the food production capacity and long-term food security of developing countries, in particular of least developed countries (LDCs)'
Amendment 244 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
(3a) Article 16(1) is replaced by the following "1. Disposal of products bought in under public intervention shall take place in such a way as to: (a) avoid any disturbance of the market,Union market or third country markets (b) ensure equal access to goods and equal treatment of purchasers, and (c) be in compliance(c) avoid sale of products below the relevant public intervention price (d) comply with the commitments resulting from international agreements concluded in accordance with the TFEU. , and (e) comply with policy coherence for development, as per Article 208 TFEU " Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)
Amendment 295 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 63 – paragraph 1
Article 63 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall make available each year authorisations for new plantings for wine production corresponding to either: (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-Or. en 20180101&from=FR)
Amendment 297 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 63 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 63 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) 1% of the total area actually planted with vines for wine production in their territory, as measured on 31 July of the previous year; or Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308- 20180101&from=FR)
Amendment 301 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 63 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 63 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) 1% of an area comprising the area actually planted with vines for wine production in their territory, as measured on 31 July 2015, and the area covered by planting rights granted to producers in their territory in accordance with Article 85h, Article 85i or Article 85k of Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and available for conversion into authorisations on 1 January 2016, as referred to in Article 68 of this Regulation.; Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308- 20180101&from=FR)
Amendment 320 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 64 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 64 – paragraph 2 – point b
(5a) Article 64(2) point (b) is amended as follows: "(b) areas where vineyards contribute to the preservation of the environment; (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101) or to the conservation of the genetic resources of the vine varieties; " Or. en
Amendment 331 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 b (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 64 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 64 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) areas to be newly planted in the framework of land consolidation projects; (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)5b) Article 64(2) point (c) is deleted " " Or. en
Amendment 334 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 c (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 c (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 64 – paragraph 2 – point f
Article 64 – paragraph 2 – point f
(f) areas to be newly planted which contribute to increasing the competitiveness at farm holding and regional level; (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)5c) Article 64(2) point (f) is deleted " " Or. en
Amendment 365 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 81 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Article 81 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point a
(a) the variety concerned belongs to the speciegenus Vitis vinifera or Vitis Labrusca; or
Amendment 370 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 81 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point b
Article 81 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point b
(b) the variety concerned comes from a cross between the species Vitis vinifera, Vitis Labrusca and otherdifferent species of the genus Vitis.
Amendment 397 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – point a
(v) which is obtained from vine varieties belonging to Vitis vinifera or a cross between the Vitis vinifera species and othergenus Vitis, or from a cross between different species of the genus Vitis.;
Amendment 461 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 120 – paragraph 1 – point (g a) new
Article 120 – paragraph 1 – point (g a) new
(19a) In Article 120, paragraph 1, the following point is inserted: ‘(g a) terms relating to the genetic conservation of the vine variety’
Amendment 480 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 148 – paragraph 2 – point (c) – point (i)
Article 148 – paragraph 2 – point (c) – point (i)
(22a) Article 148(2) point (c) point (i) is replaced by the following: “(i) the price payable for the delivery, which shall: — cover production costs, as a minimum, and — be static and be set out in the contract, and/or — be calculated by combining various factors set out in the contract, which may include market indicators reflecting changes in market conditions, the volume delivered and the quality or composition of the raw milk delivered, (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)” Or. en
Amendment 483 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 o (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 o (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 148 – paragraph 3
Article 148 – paragraph 3
(22o) In the Article 148, paragraph 3 is deleted
Amendment 486 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 c (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 c (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 149 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 149 – paragraph 2 – point c
(22c) In Article 149, paragraph 2, the point c is replaced by the following: “(c) provided that, for a particular producer organisation, all of the following conditions are fulfilled: (i) the volume of raw milk covered by such negotiations does not exceed 37,5 % of total Union production (ii) the volume of raw milk covered by such negotiations which is produced in any particular Member State does not exceed 3345 % of the total national production of that Member State, and (iii) the volume of raw milk covered by such negotiations which is delivered in any particular Member State does not exceed 3345 % of the total national production of that Member State; (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)” Or. en
Amendment 487 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 p (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 p (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 149 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 149 – paragraph 2 – point d
(22p) In Article 149, paragraph 2, the point d is deleted
Amendment 488 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 e (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 e (new)
Regulation 1308/2018
Article 149 – paragraph 2 – point e
Article 149 – paragraph 2 – point e
(22e) provided that the raw milk is not covered by an obligation to deliver arising from the farmer’s membership of a cooperative in accordance with the conditions set out in the cooperative’s statutes or the rules and decisions provided for in or derived from these statutes; and In Article 149, paragraph 2, point (e) is deleted “ “ Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)
Amendment 490 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 f (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 f (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 149 a (new)
Article 149 a (new)
Amendment 515 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 g (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 g (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 154 – paragraph 1– point b
Article 154 – paragraph 1– point b
Amendment 536 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 h (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 h (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 160
Article 160
(22h) Article 160 is replaced by the following: “Article 160 Producer organisations in the fruit and vegetables sector In the fruit and vegetables sector producer organisations shall pursue at least one of the objectives set out in points (c)(i), (ii) and (iii) of Article 152(1). The statutes of a producer organisation in the fruit and vegetables sector shall requiremay propose to its producer members to market their entire production concerned through the producer organisation. Fruit and vegetable producer members may sell, either directly or through one intermediary, to consumers in the specific economic area in which their producer organisation is operating, no more than a fixed percentage of their production and/or products. The maximal percentages shall be fixed by the Member State at not less than 10 %. Producer organisations and associations of producer organisations in the fruit and vegetables sector shall be deemed to be acting in the name and on behalf of their members in economic matters within their terms of reference. ” Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)
Amendment 542 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 164
Article 164
(22a) Article 164 is deleted
Amendment 545 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 j (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 j (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 164 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 164 – paragraph 3 a (new)
(22j) In Article 164, the following paragraph is added: ‘3a. Rules shall not be made binding on producers of organic products covered by Regulation (EC) No 848/2018 unless such a measure has been agreed to by at least 50 % of organic producers in the economic area in which the organisation or association operates, and whose production totals at least 60 % of organic production of that area.’
Amendment 548 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 k (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 k (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 164 – paragraph 4 – last subparagraph
Article 164 – paragraph 4 – last subparagraph
(22k) In Article 164, paragraph 4, the last subparagraph is replaced by the following: “Those rules shall not cause any damage to other operators or new entrants in the Member State concerned or the Union and shall not have any of the effects listed in Article 210(4) or be otherwise incompatible with Union law or national rules in force. (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)” Or. en
Amendment 553 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 r (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 r (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 165
Article 165
(22r) The Article 165 is deleted
Amendment 560 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 m (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 m (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 168 – paragraph 4 – letter c – point i
Article 168 – paragraph 4 – letter c – point i
Amendment 568 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 n (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22 n (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 184 – paragraph 2
Article 184 – paragraph 2
(22n) In the Article 184, paragraph 2 is replaced by the following: “2. Tariff quotas shall be administered in a manner which avoids any discrimination between the operators concerned, by applying one of the following methods or a combination of them or another appropriate method: (a) a method based on the chronological order of the submission of applications (“first come, first served” principle); (b) a method of distribution in proportion to the quantities requested when the applications were submitted (the “simultaneous examination method”); (c) a method based on taking traditional trade patterns into account (the “traditional/newcomers method”). (d) a method enabling distribution to a diversity of operators, including by taking into account relevant social and environmental standards, such as the fundamental ILO Conventions, and multilateral environmental agreements to which the EU is a party”. Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)
Amendment 578 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 26 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 26 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Part III – Chapter VII a (new)
Part III – Chapter VII a (new)
(26a) In Part III, the following Chapter VIIa (new) is inserted: ‘ Chapter VIIa Monitoring EU external trade in third country markets Article 205a 1. For the purposes of applying this Regulation, monitoring, analysing and managing the market in agricultural products, increasing market transparency, and ensuring policy coherence for development and the promotion of gender equality, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 227, to establish a system for monitoring the external impact of EU trade, to be integrated with the existing Market Observatories. The information obtained may be transmitted or made available to international organisations, the competent authorities of third countries and may be made public, subject to the protection of personal data. 2. The monitoring system shall observe at least the following: a) export volume and export price data of milk and milk products to individual developing countries with dairy production or dairy development plans, presented per country; b) export volume and export price data of poultry to individual developing countries where sensitivities in the poultry sector have been identified, presented per country; c) export volume and export price data to individual developing countries where sensitivities in a specific sector have been identified, presented per country (notably for milk powders and liquid milk, pigmeat, cereals and tomatoes).
Amendment 581 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 26 b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 26 b (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 206 a (new)
Article 206 a (new)
(26b) In Chapter I of Part IV, the following Article is inserted: ‘Article 206a Resale at loss 1. Agricultural products from a sector listed in Article 1(2) shall not be resold at a loss, unless when justified for the purposes of avoiding food waste. Resale at loss means the sale of agricultural and food products below the purchase price as per invoice, less the proportional part of the discounts included in the invoice, plus the transport costs and the taxes charged on the transaction, by a first or subsequent purchaser 2. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts concerning the criteria for exemptions to paragraph 1, concerning cases where resale at loss is justified for the purposes of avoiding food waste.’
Amendment 602 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 26 c (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 26 c (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 219 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 4
Article 219 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 4
Amendment 607 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 28 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 28 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 219 a (new)
Article 219 a (new)
Amendment 614 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
(27) In Article 225, points (a) to, (c) and (d) are deleted;
Amendment 616 #
2018/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27 a (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013
Article 225 – point b
Article 225 – point b
(b) by 30 June 2014 and also by 31 December27a) Article 225 point (b) is replaced by the following: “(b) every four years and for the first time by 30 June 201822, on the development of the market situation in the milk and milk products sector, and in particular on the operation of Articles 148 to 151, Article 152(3) and Article 157(3), assessing in particular the effects on milk producers and milk production in disadvantaged regions in connection with the general objective of maintaining production in such regions, and covering potential incentives to encourage farmers to enter into joint production agreements, together with any appropriate proposals; ” Or. en (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02013R1308-20180101)
Amendment 876 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 44
Recital 44
(44) In the light of the need to ensure appropriate risk management tools, insurance premia and mutual fundsupport for production losses should be maintained, financed by the EAFRD. The category of mutual funds encompasses both those linked to production losses, and the general and sector-specific income stabilisation tools, linked to income lossesis support shall target the establishment of risk prevention and the building of ecological resilience.
Amendment 1097 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(b a) "concentrated animal feeding operation" means a livestock holding rearing animals at a density beyond that permitted by the area and natural resources, or carrying capacity, of the holding, or in the case of cattle and ruminants, where the animals are without access to grazing or without the appropriate amount of supporting forage hectares to support pasture- or grassland- based grazing or foraging;
Amendment 1316 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to bolster environmental care, biodiversity and climate action and to contribute tomeet all the environmental- and climate-related objectives of the Union;
Amendment 1324 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) to strengthen the socio-economic fabric of rural areas and achieve a balanced territorial development of rural economies and communities including the creation and maintenance of employment.
Amendment 1345 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) support viable farm income and resilience across the Union to enhance food securityreversing the loss of farmers and farming structures, to ensure long term food security and food sufficiency for EU citizens;
Amendment 2047 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. The support established under subsection 2 must not under any circumstances benefit production systems with negative impact on the environment or on third countries or contravene compliance with the legislative instruments referred to in Annex XI.
Amendment 2377 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 4 c (new)
Article 28 – paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Eco-schemes for non-crop features that are part of the farm agro-ecosystem, high nature value farming and enhancing agricultural Natura 2000 areas shall be prioritised by the Member States.
Amendment 2499 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 29 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. The Commission shall ensure in line with chapter III of title V that coupled support for livestock shall only be granted to farms that stay within a defined maximum livestock stocking density for a given river basin 1a. _________________ 1a As defined in Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the Community action in the field of water policy
Amendment 2520 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1
Article 30 – paragraph 1
Coupled income support may only be granted to the following sectors and productions or specific types of farming therein where these are important for economic, social or environmental reasonsthat go beyond minimum legal standards for animal welfare or environment, or where these are important for economic, social or environmental reasons and their need is justified under the procedure outlined chapter III of title V with empirical quantifiable and independently verifiable evidence: cereals, oilseeds, protein crops, grain legumes, flax, hemp, rice, nuts, starch potato, milk and milk products, seeds, sheep meat and goat meat, beef and veal, olive oil, silkworms, dried fodder, hops, sugar beet, cane and chicory, fruit and vegetables, short rotation coppice and other non-food crops, excluding trees, used for the production of products that have the potential to substitute fossil materials.
Amendment 3098 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 58 a (new)
Article 58 a (new)
Amendment 3099 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 58 b (new)
Article 58 b (new)
Article 58b THE LEGUMINOUS CROP SECTOR Types of interventions: As regards the objectives referred to in Article 58a Member States choose in to their CAP Strategic Plans one or more of the following types of interventions: (a) investments in tangible and non- tangible assets; research and experimental production, as well as other actions, including actions for: (i) soil conservation, including the genuine and proven enhancement of soil carbon without systemic reliance on pesticides; (ii) increasing efficiency of water use and management, including water saving; (iii) promoting the use of varieties and management practices adapted to changing climate conditions; (iv) improving management practices to increase pest resilience of crops to pests and decreasing susceptibility to pests; (v) reduction of pesticide use and dependency; (vi) creating and maintaining agricultural habitats favourable to biodiversity, without use of pesticides; (b) advisory services and technical assistance, in particular regarding climate change adaptation and mitigation, also on selection by the farmer of the most appropriate crop rotation; (c) training including coaching and exchange of best practices; (d) organic production and techniques; (e) actions to increase the sustainability and efficiency of transport and of storage of products;
Amendment 3469 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 67 – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)
Article 67 – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)
(ca) mountain and other areas which are disadvantaged in terms of altitude, slope, soil poverty, climate or other factors.
Amendment 3693 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 2
Article 70 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall grant support under this type of interventions in order to promote risk management tools, which help genuine farmers manage production and income risks related to their agricultural activity which are outside their control and which contribute to achieving the specific objectives set out in Article 6.
Amendment 3702 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 70 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) financial contributions to premiums for insurance schemes;a list of interventions which target the establishment of risk prevention and the building of ecological resilience
Amendment 3709 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 70 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) financial contributions to mutual funds, including the administrative cost of setting up;
Amendment 3724 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 4 – point a
Article 70 – paragraph 4 – point a
(a) the types and coverage of eligible insurance schemes and mutual funds;
Amendment 3746 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 5
Article 70 – paragraph 5
5. Member States shall ensure that support is granted only for covering losses of at least 20% of the average annual production or income of the farmer in the preceding three-year period or a three-year average based on the preceding five-year period excluding the highest and lowest entry.
Amendment 3946 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 85 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 85 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) (a) 85 % for the less developed regions; (b) 65 % for the transition regions; (c) 50 % for the more developed regions.
Amendment 4063 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 86 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 86 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. At least 50% of the total EAGF contribution to the CAP Strategic Plan shall be reserved for schemes for the climate and the environment as described in Article 28.
Amendment 4268 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 94 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 94 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Member States shall make CAP Strategic Plans and related annexes public, both at the draft stage and after their approval, in order to allow an informed public debate to take place. Member States shall consult partners on the arrangements for the publication of CAP Strategic Plans and related documentation.
Amendment 4492 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 106 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 106 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. 4 a. All Strategic Plans shall be made open to the public for the period of evaluation for comments and proposed changes.
Amendment 64 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) 'strategic nature projects' means projects that support the achievement of Union nature and biodiversity objectives, laid down in particular in Directive 2009/147/EC and Council Directive 92/43/EEC, by implementing coherent programmes of action in the Member States to mainstream these objectives and priorities into other policies and financing instruments, including through coordinated implementation of the priority action frameworks established pursuant to Directive 92/43/EEC;
Amendment 65 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 4
(4) 'standard action projects' means projects, other than strategic integrated projects, strategic nature projects or technical assistance projects, such as bottom-up projects (CLLD), that pursue the specific objectives of the Programme set out in Article 3(2);
Amendment 66 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. The general objective of the Programme is to contribute to the shift towards a clean, circular,sustainable, circular, resource- and energy-efficient, low-carbon and climate-resilient economy, including through the transition to clean energya highly energy- efficient and renewables-based energy system, to the protection and improvement of the quality of the environment and to halting and reversing biodiversity loss, thereby contributing to sustainable developmenta high level of environmental protection and ambitious climate action. The Programme shall also support better environmental and climate governance at all levels, including better involvement of civil society NGOs and local actors.
Amendment 70 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) to develop, demonstrate and promote innovative techniques and approaches for reaching the objectives of the Union legislation and policy on environment and climate action, including the transition to clean energy, and to contribute to the application of best practice in relation to nature and biodiversity and sustainable farming and food systems;
Amendment 74 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) sustainable farming practises including soil- and agro-biodiversity, carbon capture, soil monitoring, soil and water protection;
Amendment 75 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
(a) the sub-programme Climate Change Governance, Mitigation and Adaptation;
Amendment 76 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. The financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2021-2027 shall be EUR 5 457 900 000 000 in current prices.
Amendment 78 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – introductory part
(a) EUR 3 55 200 000 000 for the field Environment, of which
Amendment 80 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – point 1
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – point 1
(1) EUR 2 153 200 000 000 for the sub- programme Nature and Biodiversity anwhereby 60%ring-fencing for nature and biodiversity to be maintained
Amendment 82 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – point 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – point 2
(2) EUR 1 352 000 000 000 for the sub- programme Circular Economy and Quality of Life;
Amendment 84 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b – introductory part
(b) EUR 1 952700 000 000 for the field Climate Action, of which
Amendment 86 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 1
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 1
(1) EUR 951 700 000 000 for the sub- programme Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation and
Amendment 88 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 2
(2) EUR 12 00028 000 000 for the sub- programme Clean Energy Transition.
Amendment 90 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 2
2. The Programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the Financial Regulation, in particular grants, prizes and procurement. It may also provide financing in the form of financial instruments within blending operations up to a limit of maximum 20% of the financial envelope referred to in Article 5(1)..
Amendment 91 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. A maximum of 25% of the financial envelope referred to in Article 5(1) shall be allocated to strategic integrated projects.
Amendment 92 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Grants under the Programme shall be awarded and co-financed by a rate of 75% and managed in accordance with Title VIII of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment 93 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point –a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point –a (new)
(-a) projects financed by the Programme shall make a significant contribution to the achievement of at least one of the objectives set out in Article 3;
Amendment 95 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) projects financed by the Programme shall avoid undermining environmental, climate or relevant clean energy objectives of the Programme and, whereas often as possible, shall promote the use of green public procurement;
Amendment 98 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) projects with the highest potential of being replicated and taken-up by the public or private sector or of mobilising the largest investments or financial resources (catalytic potential) shall be given priority;
Amendment 100 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
(ea) the Commission shall ensure geographical balance for the project financed by the Programme;
Amendment 104 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Blending operations under this Programme shall be implemented in accordance with the [InvestEU Regulation] and Title X of the Financial Regulation. Blending operations under this Programme shall not benefit from more than maximum 20% of the financial envelope referred to in Article 5(1).
Amendment 105 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1
Article 17 – paragraph 1
1. The Programme shall be implemented by at least two multiannual work programmes referred to in Article 110 of the Financial Regulation. Work programmes shall set out, where applicable, the overall amount reserved for blending operationsCommission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 21 to complement this Regulation by at least two multiannual work programmes referred to in Article 110 of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment 107 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. The Commission shall ensure that co-legislators and stakeholders are adequately consulted when work programmes are developed.
Amendment 108 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2
Article 19 – paragraph 2
2. The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the Programme, but no later than four years after the start of the Programme implementation. That interim evaluation shall, where necessary, be accompanied by a proposal for an amendment of this Regulation.
Amendment 111 #
2018/0209(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 4
Article 19 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluations accompanied by its observations, to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions. The Commission shall make the results of the evaluations publicly available.
Amendment 39 #
2018/0205(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Directive 2010/63/EC
Article 54 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 54 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Amendment 41 #
2018/0205(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Directive 2010/63/EC
Article 54 – paragraph 4
Article 54 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall establish a common format and information content for submitting the information referred to in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 in accordance with the regulatoryexamination procedure referred to in Article 56(3).;
Amendment 42 #
2018/0205(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Directive 2010/63/EC
Article 56 – paragraph 3
Article 56 – paragraph 3
2 a. In Article 56, paragraph 3 is replaced by the following: 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 shall apply.
Amendment 43 #
2018/0205(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Directive 2010/63/EC
Article 157
Article 157
3. Article 57 is deletedamended as follows: Commission report 1. By 10 November 2020 and every five years thereafter, the Commission shall, based on the information received from the Member States under Article 54(1), submit to the European Parliament and the Council a report on the implementation of this Directive. The report should also evaluate this Directive in light of the development of alternative methods not entailing the use of animals, and shall be accompanied, if necessary, by appropriate legislative proposals.. 2. By 10 November 2020 and every three years thereafter, the Commission shall, based on the statistical information submitted by Member States under Article 54(2), submit to the European Parliament and the Council a summary report on that information.
Amendment 152 #
2018/0169(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 2
Article 17 – paragraph 2
It shall apply from ... [one yearsix months after the date of entry into force of this Regulation].
Amendment 161 #
2018/0169(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 4 – paragraph 3 – point b
Annex II – point 4 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) the obligation for drinking water protected areas to meet the requirements of Council Directive 98/83/EC40 including regarding hormones, medicines and microplastics; __________________ 40 Council Directive 98/83/EC of 3 November 1998 on the quality of water intended for human consumption (OJ L 330, 5.12.1998, p. 32).
Amendment 162 #
2018/0169(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 4 – paragraph 3 – point m a (new)
Annex II – point 4 – paragraph 3 – point m a (new)
(ma) the requirements to prevent pollution or health impacts caused by endocrine disruptors as referred to in Regulation 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council 1a __________________ 1a Regulation 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market
Amendment 164 #
2018/0169(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
Annex II – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) pesticides including endocrine disruptors;
Amendment 165 #
2018/0169(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point d
Annex II – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) pharmaceuticals and hormones;
Amendment 166 #
2018/0169(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point e
Annex II – point 5 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) other substances of emerging concern, such as microplastics;
Amendment 22 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 25 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Underlines that, taking into account the scientific advice of EFSA and other relevant Union agencies, one of the targets set out in all Member States' Action Plans should be to reserve Critically Important Antimicrobials, as identified by the WHO, exclusively for human use;
Amendment 36 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for legislative solutions that will assist farmers in reducing the use of antibiotics in livestock farming, with the aim of prudent and responsible use of antimicrobials; insists that such legislative solutions must address prophylactic and metaphylactic useand implement the phase out of routine prophylactic use of antimicrobials and of metaphylactic use of antimicrobials in groups of animals;
Amendment 46 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Supports, as a minimum, the Council's response to the draft Codex Alimentarius Code of Practice to Minimise and Contain Antimicrobial Resistance, and its principles 18 and 19 on responsible and prudent use of antimicrobials;
Amendment 47 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Stresses that responsible and prudent prophylactic use of antimicrobials should be limited to exceptional cases. This use should not be systematic, nor routine, nor applied to compensate for poor hygiene or inadequate animal husbandry practices, and it should be prescribed by a veterinarian only for a limited duration to cover the period of risk. It should always be based on epidemiological and clinical knowledge, with documented justification. Prophylactic use of antibiotics should be limited to individual animals only. Prophylactic use should always represent a very small proportion of total therapeutic infectious disease-related use.
Amendment 50 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Stresses that responsible and prudent metaphylactic use should not be systematic, nor routine, nor applied to compensate for poor hygiene or inadequate animal husbandry practices. The decision to administer antimicrobials metaphylactically should be based on a diagnosis and prescribed by a veterinarian, with documented justification; The decision should be based on epidemiological and clinical knowledge, an understanding of risk factors associated with the group, and in accordance with pre-established criteria for initiation of administration of antimicrobials. When considering preventative use in populations, it should be focused on subsets at highest risk. When antimicrobials are used for (non- routine) metaphylaxis, owners and keepers of food-producing animals shall ensure that they have a health plan specifying appropriate non-medical measures to reduce the need to resort to metaphylactic use in the future;
Amendment 52 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for further research and development into new antimicrobials and encourages alternatives to be investigated, including the development of more sustainable farming systems based on less intensive farming models; recalls that stress suppresses certain immune functions against disease, and that research shows that animals in less intensive farming models experience less stress, meaning their immune systems are less compromised as a result;
Amendment 63 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Highlights that the spread of antimicrobials and consequent antimicrobial resistance in the environment is also a growing concern, requiring further research; Stresses in particular the urgent need for in-depth research on the impact of antimicrobial substances in food crops and animal feed on microbial communities in soil and aquatic ecosystems, as well as the disposal of slurry and wastewater;
Amendment 70 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Stresses the importance of effective environmental risk assessment in the approvals process for new and existing veterinary medicines with antimicrobial properties, particularly as concerns the end-points of antimicrobial substances in the wider environment;
Amendment 74 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Notes that some plant protection products also have antimicrobial properties, which may affect the spread of antimicrobial resistance;
Amendment 80 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Recalls the preventative measures to be used before resorting to antimicrobial treatment of entire groups (metaphylaxis) of food-producing animals: – using good healthy breeding stock that grows naturally, with suitable genetic diversity, – conditions that respect the behavioural needs of the species, including social interactions and hierarchies, – stocking densities that do not increase risk of disease transmission, – isolation of sick animals away from the rest of the group, – (for chickens and smaller animals) subdivision of flocks into smaller, physically separated groups, – implementation of existing rules on animal welfare already in cross compliance as set out in SMRs 11, 12, 13 of Annex II to Reg. 1306/20131a _________________ 1a Reg. 1306/2013 on the financing, management and monitoring of the CAP (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p.549), applying rules laid out in Dir. 98/58/EC on protection of animals kept for farming purposes (OJ L 221, 8.8.1998, p. 23); Dir. 91/630/EEC laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs (OJ L 340, 11.12.1991, p. 33); Dir. 91/629/EEC laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves (OJ L 340, 11.12.1991, p. 28)
Amendment 91 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the Commission to put in place restrictions on live animal transport from zones where antimicrobial-resistant strains of bacteria have been identified by the current monitoring system;
Amendment 114 #
2017/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines the need to change the business culture employed by veterinary medicine producers, which encourages the use and overuse of certain medicines in order to generate profits; stresses also that the competences to prescribe and to sell antibiotics should be separated, and no veterinarian should do both;