1181 Amendments of Anna-Michelle ASIMAKOPOULOU
Amendment 2 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Startegic Partnership on Critical Raw Materials between Canada, of the one part, and the European Union and its Member States, of the other part,
Amendment 28 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. wheras Canada was the first country with which the EU established a Strategic Partnership on Critical Raw Materials;
Amendment 65 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that the two most important product categories that the EU and Canada export to each other are machinery, accounting for around 40 % of both exports and imports, and chemical, pharmaceutical and plastic products, making up around 20 % of total exports and imports; notes, however, that the mining and extraction sector is highly significant when it comes to imports from Canada, compared to other trading partners, accounting for nearly 20 % of the EU’s total imports from Canada; underlineHighlights that access to critical raw materials from a reliable trading partners, including Canada, is a key element of the EU's Critical Raw Materials strategy and vital to delivering a sustainable green transition;
Amendment 69 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Welcomes the signing in July 2021 of the EU-Canada Srategic Partnership on Critical Raw Materials within the framework of CETA; notes that this will help to integrate EU-Canada raw material value chains and foster collaboration in science, technology and innovation;
Amendment 71 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the fact that European and Canadian firms are making increasing and continuous use of preferences granted by CETA, with preference utilisation rates of EU imports from Canada standing at 65 % in 2021 compared to 52 % in 2018; notes that the utilisation rate is still lower, though increasing for EU exports, reaching 58 % in 2021 compared to 40 % in 2018; notes with interest that smaller companies are using the preferences to a larger extent than large companies and that utilisation rates are significantly higher for agri-food industries compared to manufacturing industries; stresses that the low utilisation rates in key sectors for several EU members indicate foregone cost savings and diminished welfare gains from the agreement; encourages both partners to continue to promote actions to raise awareness of CETA among stakeholders in both regions, including through the EU's "Access2Market" platform;
Amendment 83 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the parties to make available all the legal and administrative support and tools SMEs need to engage in trade and investment under CETA, in order to foster an increase in exchanges and to enhance participation so they can reap the benefits of CETA, including through active measures to facilitate the internationalisation of SMEs, simplify procedures, and address technical barriers to trade that disproportionately affect SMEs; welcomes, in this regard, the recommendation on SMEs adopted by the Joint Committee in 2018, and the subsequent action plans, including concrete actions such as the launch of the Access2Markets platform in October 2020, which supports SMEs with practical information on trade agreements and trade barriers;
Amendment 95 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines that CETA provides a framework that fosters both trade and climate action by including commitments to cooperate on trade-related environmental issues of common interest such as climate change, as demonstrated by the recommendation on trade, climate action and the Paris Agreement, notably with the promotion of clean technologies, such as hydrogen; welcomes the growth of the environmental goods trade by 27 % since provisional application started;
Amendment 96 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Welcomes the launch of the EU- Canada Digital Partnership as a key enabler of the green and digital transition; calls on both parties to strengthen their cooperation in the framework of the CETA implementation on issues of strategic mutual interest such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the fight against disinformation;
Amendment 103 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Insists on the effective implementation of the specific commitments related to the trade and sustainable development (TSD) provisions, which are an integral part of CETA and are essential to the accomplishment of the objectives set; takes note that in 2024 the Commission will conduct an ex post evaluation of CETA, including its TSD chapter, involving independent experts; believes that efforts targetting better implementation of the TSD chapter or its review should be preceded by a meaningful consultation of all stakeholders, including business and SME organisations, and shall not entail a re-opening of the agreement;
Amendment 105 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Notes that the UK ceased to be a member of the European Union following the provisional application of CETA; notes that the UK and Canada have agreed a series of bilateral trading arrangements to take account of this, including with regards to TRQ use and cumulation; notes that some of these agreements will cease to apply after 2024, which may present minor disruptions to established supply chains; calls on the Commission to explore the possibility for new agreements where these disruptions may negatively affect Union economic operators;
Amendment 113 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the parties to reviewmake use of the review clause CETA in order to introduce a suitable and effective dispute settlement mechanism, including the consideration of, among various enforcement methods, sanctions as a deterrent to be used, as a last resort, in the case of serious breaches;
Amendment 116 #
2023/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Notes that most of the concerns expressed before the provisional application of the agreement, including the overtake of Canadian agricultural products onto the EU market, have not materialised; Urges Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Poland and Slovenia to ratify CETA, as this will also be essential in order to update the agreement, and reiterates the importance of full application of CETA, including its investment protection provisions;
Amendment 51 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Where Member States apply or interpret the arm’s length principle in a significantly differentl way, they create situations that could harm the internal market. Inconsistency and could lead to unnecessary costs for businesses in case of disputes. Such significant differences in applicable transfer pricing rules not only could lead to double taxation, but also allowcan also be misused for profit shifting and tax avoidance. Such inconsistency is a purposes. Such significant inconsistencies can present serious tax obstacle for businesses operating across borders, is likely to cause economic distortions and inefficiencies and has a negative impact on cross-border investment and growth. Tax administrations, however, should not automatically assume that associated enterprises have sought to manipulate their profits. There may be a genuine difficulty in accurately determining a market price in the absence of market forces or when adopting a particular commercial strategy. The consideration of transfer pricing should not be confused with the consideration of problems of tax fraud or tax avoidance, even though transfer pricing policies may be used for such purposes.
Amendment 57 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) This Directive lays down rules to ensure a common application of the arm’s length principle across the Union with the aim of increasing tax certainty and reducing occurrences of double taxation as well as double non taxation in line with the OECD guidelines.
Amendment 61 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) To ensure that the arm’s length principle is applied in a uniform way across the Union, Member States should apply a common definition of associated enterprises derived from the OECD guidelines . In order to ensure equal treatment, a permanent establishment should be treated, for the purpose of this Directive, as an associated enterprise and thus the internal dealings between head office and permanent establishment should be determined in accordance with the arm’s length principle.
Amendment 78 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) In order to minimise disputes, reduce related costs to businesses, and ensure a common approach across the Union, this Directive further provides that a taxpayer should not be subject to adjustment when its results fall within the interquartile range unless the tax administration or the taxpayer proves that a specific different positioning in the range is justified by the facts and circumstances of the specific case. When the results of a controlled transaction fall outside the arm's length range, tax administrations should be required to make an adjustment to the median of all the results unless the taxpayer or the tax administration proves that any other point of the range determines a more reliable arm’s length price in a given case.
Amendment 80 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) In order to lower the compliance burden for taxpayers that operate cross- border within the Union a common approach towards the documentation on transfer pricing should further be introduced. One standard template, rules on content and linguistic arrangements, timeframes and which taxpayers should be in scope would bring simplicity and potential cost savings taking into account chapter V ‘Documentation’ of the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines and the Code of conduct on transfer pricing documentation for associated enterprises in the European Union33 . Harmonized interpretation of those terms at Union level is also necessary to facilitate application of this Directive by the tax administrations and businesses Therefore, Member States shall empower their tax administrations to deal efficiently with the common documentation efforts on transfer pricing. _________________ 33 Resolution of the Council and of the representatives of the governments of the Member States, meeting within the Council, of 27 June 2006 on a code of conduct on transfer pricing documentation for associated enterprises in the European Union (EU TPD), 2006/C 176/01, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal- content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.C_.2 006.176.01.0001.01.ENG&toc=OJ%3AC %3A2006%3A176%3AFULL
Amendment 85 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The rules provided by this Directive should be applied in in a manner consistent with the most up-to-date version of the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines.
Amendment 88 #
2023/0322(CNS)
(16) In order to create more certainty for taxpayers and mitigate the risk of double taxation, the possibility to establish further common transfer pricing binding rules by way of implementingdelegated acts is provided in this Directive. Those implementingdelegated acts should provide taxpayers with a clear view of what tax authorities in the Union would consider to be acceptable to be used for specified transactions and provide so- called ‘safe harbours’ that bring down the compliance burden and the number of disputes. In view of the potential impact of such measures on national executive and enforcement power regarding direct taxation, the exercising of taxing rights allocated under bilateral or multilateral tax conventions that prevent double taxation or double non-taxation and in view of potential impact on Member States’ tax bases, implementing powers to adopt decisions under this Directive should be conferred on the Council, acting on a proposal from the Commission.
Amendment 97 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) The retention period of 105 years is justified in order to allow Member States to comply with most statutes of limitations.
Amendment 115 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a
Amendment 118 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) a person participates in the control of another person through a holding that exceeds 2533 % of the voting rights;
Amendment 123 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) a person participates in the capital of another person through a right of ownership that, directly or indirectly, exceeds 25 33% of the capital;
Amendment 124 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) a person is entitled to 2533 % or more of the profits of another person.
Amendment 148 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall ensure that the arm's length price is determined by applying the most appropriate transfer pricing method to the circumstances of thefor a particular case.
Amendment 180 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 14 – paragraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 3
3. The rules referred to in paragraphs 2 shall be taken by means of Council implementingdelegated acts based on a proposal from the Commission.
Amendment 187 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall examine and evaluate the application of this Directive every 5 years and submit a report on its evaluation to the European Parliament and to the Council. The first report shall be submitted by 31 December 2031or after the adoption of updated OECD Guidelines on Transfer Pricing, whichever is earlier, and submit a report on its evaluation to the European Parliament.
Amendment 190 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 194 #
2023/0322(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 16 – paragraph 2
Article 16 – paragraph 2
2. Information, including personal data, processed in accordance with this Directive shall be retained only for as long as necessary to achieve the purposes of this Directive, in accordance with each data controller’s national law on statute of limitations, but in any case no longer than 105 years.
Amendment 12 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Insists that the Commission must guarantee that EU funds are not allocated or linked to any form of terrorism and/or religious and political radicalization while ensuring notably that individuals or groups affiliated, linked to, or supporting terrorist organisations are excluded from Union funding; reiterates its position that salaries of education civil servants responsible for drafting and teaching school textbooks paid by Union funds, must be made conditional on full compliance with UNESCO standards of peace and tolerance; is concerned about antisemitism, hate speech and incitement to violence taught in Palestinian school textbooks, funded by the EU; stresses that conditionality of EU financial assistance in the educational sector needs to be duly considered; underlines the importance of proper training of Palestinian teachers, in line with UNESCO education standards.
Amendment 48 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Access to raw materials is essential for the Union economy and the functioning of the internal market. There is a set of non-energy, non-agricultural raw materials that, due to their high economic importance and their exposure to high supply risk, often caused by a high concentration of supply from a few third countries, are considered critical. Given the key role of many such critical raw materials in realising the green and digital transitions, and in light of their use for defence and space applications, demand will increase exponentially in the coming decades. At the same time, the risk of supply disruptions is increasing against the background of rising geopolitical tensions and resource competition, with serious vulnerabilities linked to the possible weaponisation of supply dependencies and bottlenecks. Furthermore, if not managed properly, increased demand for critical raw materials could lead to negative environmental and social impacts. Considering these trends, it is necessary to take measures to ensure access to a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials to safeguard the Union's economic resilience and open strategic autonomy.
Amendment 55 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Firstly, in order to effectively ensure the Union's access to a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials, that framework should include measures to decrease the Union's growing supply risks by strengthening Union capacities along all stages of the strategic raw materials value chain, including extraction, processing and recycling, towards benchmarks defined for each strategic raw material. Secondly, as the Union will continue to rely on imports, the framework should include measures to increase the diversification of external supplies of strategic raw materials, including trough the ratification of new FTAs with third countries. Thirdly, is necessary to provide measures to reinforce the Union’s ability to monitor and mitigate existing and future supply risks. Fourthly, the framework should contain measures to increase the circularity and sustainability of the critical raw materials consumed in the Union.
Amendment 57 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) In order to ensure that the measures set out in the Regulation focus on the most relevant materials, a list of strategic raw materials and a list of critical raw materials should be established. Those lists should also serve to guide and coordinate Member States’ efforts to contribute to the realisation of the aims of this Regulation. The list of strategic raw materials should contain raw materials that are of high strategic importance, taking into account their use in strategic technologies underpinning the green and digital transitions or for defence or space applications, that are characterised by a potentially significant gap between global supply and projected demand, and for which an increase in production is relatively difficult, for instance due to long lead-times for new projects increasing supply capacity. To take account of possible technological and economic changes, the list of strategic materials should be periodically reviewed and, if necessary, updated. Moreover, the list will be based on a clear and transparent methodology, allowing for increased predictability and stability for European economic operators. In order to ensure that efforts to increase the Union capacities along the value chain, reinforce the Union’s capacity to monitor and mitigate supply risks and increase diversification of supply are focused on the materials for which they are most needed, the relevant measures should only apply to the list of strategic raw materials.
Amendment 58 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 a (new)
Recital 4 a (new)
(4a) Decarbonisation efforts in European industrial processes also require secondary raw materials. These are key for the development of technologies which will enable the green and digital transitions. A sub-list of strategic secondary raw materials should be established within the strategic raw materials in order to prioritise the supply of specific materials, in line with the following: their role in decarbonisation endeavours; forecasted growth in global demand; potential bottlenecks and dependencies; scarcity of supply in the EU or related technological difficulties; potential for recovery of critical raw material. The assessment should also take into account strategic forecast analyses to address future bottlenecks or supply disruption.
Amendment 63 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) To strengthen Union capacities along the strategic raw materials value chain, benchmarks should be set to guide efforts and track progress. The aim should be to increase capacities for each strategic raw material at each stage of the value chain, while aiming to achieve overall capacity benchmarks for extraction, processing and recycling of strategic raw materials. Firstly, the Union should increase the use of its own geological resources of strategic raw materials and build up capacity, including through innovative technologies and relevant skills, to allow it to extract the materials needed to produce at least 10 % of the Union's consumption of strategic raw materials. Keeping in mind that extraction capacity is highly dependent on the availability of Union geological resources, the achievement of this benchmark is dependent on such availability. Secondly, in order to build a full value chain and prevent any bottlenecks at intermediate stages, the Union should in addition increase its processing capacity along the value chain and be able to produce at least 40 % of its annual consumption of strategic raw materials. Thirdly, it is expected that in the coming decades a growing share of the Union's consumption of strategic raw materials can be covered by secondary raw materials, which would improve both the security and the sustainability of the Union’s raw materials supply. Therefore, Union recycling capacity should be able to produce at least 15 % of the Union’s annual consumption of strategic raw materials. These benchmarks refer to the 2030 time horizon, in alignment with the Union's climate and energy targets set under Regulation (EU) 2021/1119 of the European Parliament and of the Council29 and the digital targets under the Digital Decade30 , which they underpin. Furthermore, quality jobs, including skills development and job-to-job transitions, will address risks in the sectoral labour market and help ensure the EU’s competitiveness. These benchmarks must remain flexible, given the differing chemical properties, geological availability and overall specificities of the materials in question. _________________ 29 Regulation (EU) 2021/1119 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 June 2021 establishing the framework for achieving climate neutrality and amending Regulations (EC) No 401/2009 and (EU) 2018/1999 (OJ L 243, 9.7.2021, p. 1). 30 Decision (EU) 2022/2481 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 establishing the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 (OJL 323, 19.12.2022, p. 4–26 )
Amendment 69 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7 a (new)
Recital 7 a (new)
(7a) Chemical regulation is a key component for ensuring a stable investment environment for the processing of critical and strategic raw materials in the Union; Therefore, the Union's chemical regulation must be better aligned with its raw materials supply agenda and the Commission should promote the timely use of Risk Management Option Analysis for relevant materials listed in Annex I and Annex II of this regulation;
Amendment 73 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8 a (new)
Recital 8 a (new)
(8a) In exceptional cases, it is also necessary to put in place appropriate measures to support Strategic Projects aimed at the extraction, processing or recycling of critical raw materials in the Union that should, together with Member State efforts, contribute to increasing capacities; Such projects should be limited to those that make a significant contribution to the security of the Union's supply of critical raw materials;
Amendment 83 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11 a (new)
Recital 11 a (new)
(11a) Imports of raw materials present in Annexes 1 and 2 of this regulation play a key role in efforts to diversify supply and increase the resilience of EU supply chains. Importantly, these imports must observe the principle of fair competition as the Union market operates on a level playing field. The Commission shall act swiftly and assertively when evidence suggests unfair trade practices, effectively implementing the Union's trade defence toolbox.
Amendment 126 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. When assessing the effectiveness of relevant measures to attain the benchmarks, including as concerns the review stipulated by Article 46, the Commission shall apply a tailored approach to the different raw materials, in line with their specificities, availability, use and recycling possibilities.
Amendment 145 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
The Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 36 to amend Annex I, Section 1 in order to update the list of strategic raw materials, in line with a clear and transparent methodology.
Amendment 155 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) the project would make a significant contribution to the security of the Union's supply of critical raw materials;
Amendment 438 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – Section 1 – paragraph 1 – point p a (new)
Annex I – Section 1 – paragraph 1 – point p a (new)
(pa) Ferrous scrap
Amendment 442 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 2 a (new)
Annex III – point 2 a (new)
2a. whether the project contributes to significantly strengthening Union capacities as a share of the Union's annual consumption of any critical raw material;
Amendment 443 #
2023/0079(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 2 b (new)
Annex III – point 2 b (new)
2b. a significant strengthening of Union capacities as a share of the Union's annual consumption of any critical raw material would mean a project that would deliver at least 20% of the Union's existing annual consumption of the critical raw material in question;
Amendment 5 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
Amendment 8 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
– having regard to the negotiating framework for Turkey of 3 October 2005, and the fact that, as with all accession countries, Turkey’s accession to the EU depends on full compliance with the Copenhagen criteria, and to the need to normalise its relations with all EU Member States, including the Republic of Cyprus,
Amendment 10 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
Amendment 14 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
– having regard to Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/1894 of 11 November 2019 concerning restrictive measures in view of Turkey’s illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, as most recently renewed by Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2186 of 8 November 2022
Amendment 30 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
Amendment 38 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13
Citation 13
– having regard to its previous resolutions on Türkiye, in particular those of 7 June 2022 on the 2021 Commission Report on Turkey1 and of 19 May 2021 on the 2019-2020 Commission Reports on Turkey2 and of 26 November 2020 on escalating tensions in Varosha following the illegal actions by Turkey, _________________ 1 OJ C 493, 27.12.2022, p. 2. 2 OJ C 15, 12.1.2022, p. 81.
Amendment 43 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
Amendment 64 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas Türkiye remains a candidate for EU accession, a NATO ally and a key trade and economic partner, as well as a key partner on migration;
Amendment 86 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the Russian war of aggression continues to cause unprecedented geopolitical shifts in Europe; whereas Türkiye’s key location allows it to play an instrumental, strategicmportant role in the events;
Amendment 94 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas, in the aftermath of tensions between the EU and Turkey, particularly in relation to the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, the European Council expressed readiness to engage with Turkey in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner in a number of areas of common interest provided that the de-escalation is sustained and that Turkey engages constructively, and subject to the established conditionalities set out in previous European Council conclusions;
Amendment 123 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Reminds Türkiye that, as a candidate country, it is required to align itself with the EU acquis in all aspects, including values, interests, standards and policies, to respect and uphold the Copenhagen criteria, to align with EU policies and objectives, and to pursue and maintain good neighbourly relations with the EU and all its Member States without discrimination;
Amendment 124 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Regrets that, during the reporting period, limited or no progress at all has been registered in most fields. There was serious backsliding in key areas such as democracy, rule of law, fundamental rights and the independence of the press and the judiciary. In the field of good neighbourly relations, Türkiye’s aggression against Greece reached unprecedented levels up until the devastating earthquakes of February 2023;
Amendment 136 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Regrets Türkiye’s continued denial of access to vessels under the flag of one Member State, namely the Republic of Cyprus, to the Straits of Bosporus and the Dardanelles, as well as the additional unilateral measures taken on the flow of ships which complicated the transport of Ukrainian grain to ports outside Türkiye;
Amendment 143 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. AcknowledgesTakes note of the partial measures taken in recent months by the Turkish authorities to prevent the re-exportation to Russia of goods covered by EU sanctions, but urges them to go further in order to ensure that Türkiye stops being a hub for entities and individuals that wish to; underlines the paramount importance of preventing the circumvention of EU sanctions and urges Turkey to ensure the full respect of those sanctions, in particular taking into account the free circulation of products, including dual use goods, within the EU-Turkey Customs Union; highlights, its expectation that Turkey will avoid becoming a safe haven for Russian capital and investments, thus clearly circumvent suching EU sanctions;
Amendment 151 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on Türkiye to fully align itself with the sanctions and restrictive measures taken by the EU against the Russian and Belarusian authorities and individuals responsible for the illegal aggression against Ukraine and avoid becoming a safe haven for Russian capital and investments. Deplores the fact that circumvention of EU sanctions by Türkiye undermines the collective efforts of the EU and of its allies to limit Russia’s ability to continue its illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 158 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. DFurther deplores, against the backdrop of the war, the delaying of the ratification of Sweden’s NATO accession, which only plays into Russia’s hands; invites the Turkish authorities to deliver on their promise of a more constructive partnership in NATO and to ratify Sweden’s NATO membership in the Grand National Assembly as early as possible;
Amendment 173 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that, in terms of human rights and the rule of law, the desolate picture painted in its resolution of 7 June 2022 on the 2021 Commission Report on Turkey remains valid, and reiterates the content of that resolution; fully endorses the resolution of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe of 12 October 2022, and the related report by its Monitoring Committee, on the honouring of obligations and commitments by Türkiye; calls on Turkey to fully implement all judgements of the European Court of Human Rights in line with Article 46 of the ECHR, as well as the payment of just satisfaction awarded by the ECtHR, an unconditional obligation deriving from Turkey’s membership of the Council of Europe;
Amendment 236 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Takes note of the efforts made by Turkey to continue hosting a large refugee population; welcomes, in this regard, the continued provision of EU funding for refugees and host communities in Turkey, and expresses its commitment to sustaining this support in the future; calls on the Commission to ensure the utmost transparency and accuracy in the allocation of funds under the successor to the Facility for Refugees in Turkey, ensuring that the funds are primarily given directly to the refugees and host communities and managed by organisations that guarantee accountability and transparency; supports an objective assessment of the cooperation between the EU and Turkey on refugees and migration matters and underlines the importance of both sides complying with their respective commitments under the EU-Turkey Joint Statement of 2016 and the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement vis-à vis all Member States, including the resumption of the readmission of returnees from the Greek islands, or the activation of the Voluntary Humanitarian Admissions Scheme; firmly objects to any instrumentalisation of migrants by the Turkish Government; notes that a continuing increase in asylum applications was registered in Cyprus over the past years and recalls Turkey’s obligation to take any necessary measures to prevent the creation of new sea or land routes for illegal migration from Turkey to the EU;
Amendment 244 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Welcomes, after a confrontational period, Türkiye’s recent steps towards normalising relations with several countries, such as Armenia, Egypt, Israel and the Gulf states, but remains concerned by the fact that Türkiye’s foreign policy still clashes in many aspects with EU interests and, far from growing closer to the EU, it has further diverged in the last year, reaching a record low of alignment with just 7 % of common foreign and security policy decisions; encourages Turkey to pave the way for genuine reconciliation between the Turkish and Armenian peoples, including settling the dispute of the Armenian Genocide, and to fully respect its obligations to protect Armenian and other cultural heritage; encourages Turkey, once again, to recognise the Armenian Genocide;
Amendment 249 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WelcomesTakes note that, after a confrontational period, Türkiye’s recent steps towards normalising relations with several countries, such as Armenia, Egypt, Israel and the Gulf states, but remains concerned by the fact that Türkiye’s foreign policy still clashes in many aspects with EU interests and, far from growing closer to the EU, it has further diverged in the last year, reaching a record low of alignment with just 7 % of common foreign and security policy decisions;
Amendment 266 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the overall de-escalation of tensions observed in the eastern Mediterranean in recent times, particularly in the wake of the February earthquakes, and expresses its hope that a possible new era in Türkiye’s foreign policy might yield positive results in the bilateral relations between Türkiye and all EU Member States; reiterates its long-standing support for a solution to the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation and reaffirms its positions on the matter expressed in its resolution of 7 June 2022; mains fully aware that any positive dynamics can be easily reversed at any moment while the underlying issues remain unresolved; continues to urge Turkey to engage in a bona fide peaceful settlement of disputes and to refrain from any unilateral action or threats; continues, in particular, to call Turkey to show genuine collective engagement to negotiating the delimitation of exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and the continental shelf in good faith and in line with international rules and principles; condemns, in this regard, the harassment by Turkish warships of research vessels performing surveys within the EEZ delimitated by the Republic of Cyprus; expresses its total solidarity with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus; reaffirms the right of the Republic of Cyprus to enter into bilateral agreements on its EEZ and to explore and exploit its natural resources in full compliance with international law; reiterates its call on the Turkish Government to sign and ratify the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which is part of the EU acquis; supports the invitation extended to Turkey by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to negotiate in good faith the maritime delimitation between their respective coast lines, or to have recourse to the International Court of Justice, and calls on Turkey to accept Cyprus’s invitation;
Amendment 270 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the overall de-escalation of tensions observedpositive momentum that appears to be developing recently in the eEastern Mediterranean in recent times, particularly in the wake offollowing the February earthquakes, and expresses its hopes that a possible new erAnkara will demonstrate a sin Türkiye’s foreign policy might yield positive results in the bilateral relations between Türkiycere commitment to good neighbourly relations, abandoning its aggressive and aill EU Member States; reiterates its long-standing support for a solution to the Cyprus problemegal practices and claims and engage in dialogue with Greece, in good faith and on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation and reaffirms its positions on the matter expressed in its resolution of 7 June 2022;international law, in order to resolve the only outstanding difference between the two countries, which is the delimitation of their respective EEZ and continental shelf.
Amendment 288 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Reiterates its call on the Turkish Government to halt its plans for the Akkuyu nuclear power plant, which is located in a region prone to severe earthquakes, therefore posing a major threat not only to Turkey, but also to the Mediterranean region; asks the Turkish Government to involve the governments of its neighbouring countries in relation to any further developments in the Akkuyu venture; to facilitate an experts’ mission of the International Atomic Energy Agency for inspection of the facility after the devastating earthquakes; to align its legislation with relevant EU acquis on nuclear safety and proceed with cross- border cooperation with neighboring states; to accede to the UN Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Trans-boundary Context and the UNECE Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters.
Amendment 291 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Reiterates its long-standing support for a solution to the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation, with political equality, a single sovereignty, a single international personality and a single citizenship, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, and reaffirms its positions on the matter expressed in its resolution of 7 June 2022;
Amendment 295 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Amendment 301 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Regrets that Türkiye’s position regarding the resolution of the Cyprus issue remains unchanged and that the Turkish support for a two state solution is not in line with the relevant UNSC resolutions. Further regrets that Türkiye pursues illegal activities in the maritime zones of Cyprus, has failed to implement in a non discriminatory manner the Additional Protocol to the Ankara Agreement and continues the policy of “faits accomplis”, especially in the fenced area of Varosha.
Amendment 303 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 c (new)
Paragraph 13 c (new)
13c. Deplores Türkiye’s ongoing campaign for the international upgrading of the illegal secessionist entity of the occupied part of Cyprus, mainly in international organizations such as the Organization of Turkic States and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, but also on a bilateral level, in blatant violation of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions 541/1983 and 550/1984 and in spite of strong condemnation by the EU and others.
Amendment 308 #
Amendment 309 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 d (new)
Paragraph 13 d (new)
13d. Notes that no significant progress was registered with regard to the protection of the rights of non-Muslim minorities and expects Turkish authorities to respect and protect the property and educational rights of minorities, and recognize the legal personality and the public use of the ecclesiastical title of the Ecumenical Patriarchate; Furthermore, urges Turkey to allow the re-opening of the Halki Seminary, respect the historical and cultural character of monuments, especially those classified as UNESCO World Heritage, apply the relevant to the religious communities and minorities recommendations of the Venice Commission and implement all relevant rulings of the European Court of Human Rights and resolutions of the CoE, including on the Greek Orthodox population of the islands Gökçeada (Imvros) and Bozcaada (Tenedos);
Amendment 314 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 e (new)
Paragraph 13 e (new)
13e. Reminds Türkiye that Hagia Sophia is a symbol of the ecumenical Christian Orthodox tradition and the Byzantine spirit, a monument globally renowned for its unparalleled historic cultural and architectural significance, inscribed since 1985 in the World Heritage List of UNESCO;
Amendment 315 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 f (new)
Paragraph 13 f (new)
13f. Underlines that the decisions to turn Hagia Sophia and the Church of Holy Saviour of Chora into mosques, in July 2020 and August 2020 respectively, constitute serious challenges to the inter- faith and inter-cultural dialogue in the region, while degrading the Christian heritage in the country;
Amendment 317 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 g (new)
Paragraph 13 g (new)
13g. Reminds that the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, by its decision adopted during its 44th Session in July 2021, has expressed great concern about the potential impact of status change on the Οutstanding Universal Value of Hagia Sophia and the Chora Museum and has called on Türkiye to engage in international cooperation and dialogue before any further major changes are implemented at the property;
Amendment 318 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 h (new)
Paragraph 13 h (new)
13h. Regrets that no steps have been taken to open the Halki (Heybeliada) Greek Orthodox Seminary, which remains closed since 1971;
Amendment 319 #
2022/2205(INI)
13i. Calls on Türkiye to fully implement the recommendations of the Council of Europe on protecting minority property rights and education rights, especially by taking steps to revise the relevant legislation on the issue of property rights of non-Muslim minorities and legislation covering all issues of property rights;
Amendment 320 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 j (new)
Paragraph 13 j (new)
13j. Reminds that past discriminatory policies implemented by Türkiye brought the Greek Minority to the verge of extinction;
Amendment 321 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 k (new)
Paragraph 13 k (new)
Amendment 322 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 l (new)
Paragraph 13 l (new)
13l. Notes that minorities continued to face difficulties in many areas, such as the lack of legal status for religious institutions, the absence of protection for languages, the lack of schooling support, and clergy training, the decrease of the number of media programs in minority languages, as well as obstacles in enjoying property rights for foundations; further notes that the lack of legal personality for minority communities’ churches, synagogues, patriarchates, monasteries, and chief rabbinates is an impediment to their freedom of association and religion and to enjoying their property rights;
Amendment 323 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 m (new)
Paragraph 13 m (new)
13m. Deplores that no steps were taken to revise school textbooks, in order to remove discriminatory references, including against non-Muslim minorities;
Amendment 324 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 n (new)
Paragraph 13 n (new)
13n. Calls on Türkiye to fully respect language, religion, culture, cultural heritage and fundamental rights of minorities in accordance with European standards, to put in place mechanisms that will support the participation of minorities in decision-making processes and ensure that they are duly represented in the public administration; further calls on Türkiye to continue the reform process and introduce legislation, which makes it possible for all non-Muslim religious communities to acquire legal personality as underlined by the Venice Commission in 2010;
Amendment 325 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1 b (new)
Subheading 1 b (new)
Wider EU-Turkey relations and Turkish foreign policy
Amendment 326 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 o (new)
Paragraph 13 o (new)
13o. Calls on Türkiye to unequivocally commit to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and the peaceful settlement of disputes having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice and to avoid threats and actions that damage good neighbourly relations. Calls also on Türkiye to respect the sovereignty of all EU Member States as well as their sovereign rights to explore and exploit natural resources in accordance with international law, including the Law of the Sea, and in particular, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS);
Amendment 327 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 p (new)
Paragraph 13 p (new)
13p. Expresses its concern that Türkiye even contested the sovereignty of Greece, over specific Greek islands of the Eastern Aegean Sea, on the unfounded basis of an alleged obligation for their demilitarization;
Amendment 328 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 q (new)
Paragraph 13 q (new)
13q. Expresses deep concern that Türkiye continues to uphold a formal threat of war against Greece (casus belli), should the latter exercise its lawful right to extend its territorial waters up to 12 nautical miles in the Aegean Sea, in accordance with Article 3 of UNCLOS, which also reflects customary international law; emphasizes that such a threat is in stark violation of the UN Charter, which explicitly prohibits the threat or use of force and undermines regional peace and stability;
Amendment 329 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 r (new)
Paragraph 13 r (new)
Amendment 330 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 s (new)
Paragraph 13 s (new)
13s. Strongly condemns the instrumentalisation of migrants by Türkiye for its own political purposes and expresses concern regarding efforts by Türkiye to place under its control yet another migration route in the Central Mediterranean;
Amendment 331 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 t (new)
Paragraph 13 t (new)
13t. Requests Türkiye to honour and comply with its commitments under the EU-Turkey Joint Statement of 2016 and the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement vis-à-vis all Member States, including the resumption of the readmission of returnees from Greece and to refrain from instrumentalizing migrants for political purposes; further requests Türkiye to uphold its obligation to take necessary measures to dismantle smuggling networks operating on its territory and to prevent the creation of new sea or land routes for illegal migration from Türkiye to the EU;
Amendment 332 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 u (new)
Paragraph 13 u (new)
13u. Condemns Türkiye’s refusal to implement Articles 4 and 6 of the EU- Turkey Readmission Agreement for the readmission of third-country nationals, in disrespect of its obligations vis-à-vis the EU. Deplores that Türkiye links the implementation of these articles to visa liberalization, when full implementation of the readmission Agreement is one of the prerequisites for visa liberalization and recalls that the visa liberalization process, the upgrading of the Customs Union and the accession process have their own benchmarks and requirements, according to the EU institutional and legal framework;
Amendment 333 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 v (new)
Paragraph 13 v (new)
13v. Regrets that Türkiye’s positions and policy vis-a-vis Libya have remained vastly unchanged and condemns the signature of the two memoranda of understanding between Türkiye and Libya on comprehensive security and military cooperation and on the delimitation of maritime zones; condemns furthermore, the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the delimitation of maritime jurisdiction areas between Türkiye and the National Accord Government of Libya (November 2019), which ignores Greece’s sovereign rights in the area concerned, infringes upon the sovereign rights of third States, does not comply with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and cannot produce any legal consequences for third States;
Amendment 334 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 w (new)
Paragraph 13 w (new)
13w. Notes with concern that Türkiye signed, in October 2022, a new MoU on hydrocarbons with the Libyan Government of National Unity, which could have serious consequences for regional stability, to the extent that it would entail a direct or indirect implementation of the 2019 MoU, in areas where Greece and other third countries have sovereign rights in accordance with the international Law of the Sea;
Amendment 347 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Reiterates its firm conviction that Türkiye is a country of strategic relevance in political, economic and foreign policy terms, a key partneactor for the stability of the wider region and a vital ally, including within NATO, and reaffirms that the EU is committed to pursuing the best possible relations with Türkiye based on dialogue, respect and mutual trust;
Amendment 348 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Reiterates its firm conviction that Türkiye is a country of strategic relevance in political, economic and foreign policy terms, a keyn important partner for the stabilecurity of the wider region and a vitalsignificant ally, including within NATO, and reaffirms that the EU is committed to pursuing the best possible relations with Türkiye based on dialogue, respect and mutual trust;
Amendment 359 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Considers, in view of all the above, that in the absence of a drastic change of course by the Turkish Government, Türkiye’s EU accession process has lost its purpose and will not endure much longer in the current circumstances; recommends, in that case, starting a reflection process to find an alternative and realisticaffirms nevertheless its support for keeping the accession process and its value-based approach as the main framework for EU-Türkiye Turkey relations in substitution for the accession process; calls on the Commission, therefore, to explore possible formats for a mutually appealing framework through a comprehensive and inclusive process, as it is still the most powerful tool to exercise normative pressure on and constructive dialogue with the Government of Turkey and the best framework to sustain the democratic and pro-European aspirations of Turkish society and promote convergence with the EU;
Amendment 362 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Considers, in view of all the above, that and, in the absence of a drastic change of course by the Turkish Government, Türkiye’s EU accession process has lost its purpose and will not endure much longer in the current circumstances; recommends, in that case, starting a reflection process to find an alternative and realistic framework for EU-Türkiye relations in substitution for the accession process; calls on the Commission, therefore, to explore possible formats for a mutually appealing framework through a comprehensive and inclusive procesfrom Türkiye, that a strategic discussion should be initiated within the European Council regarding the future of EU - Türkiye relations;
Amendment 367 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Reaffirms that the EU's policy towards Türkiye is based on a dual approach, which favours open channels of communication and cooperation with Ankara (positive agenda/High Level Dialogues) in areas of common interest, in a gradual, proportionate and reversible manner and provided that Türkiye sustains de-escalation, as well as appropriate negative measures in case Türkiye persists in its provocative, revisionist and illegal actions.
Amendment 373 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Insists that democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights should remainas well as respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and sovereign rights lie at the heart of good neighbourly relations between the EU and Türkiye and that any framework for those relations should be firmly underpinned by the principles of international law and multilateralism;
Amendment 392 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reaffirms its support for an upgraded customs union with a broader, mutually beneficial scope, which could encompass a wide range of areas of common interest, including digitalisation and Green Deal alignment; insists that such a modernisation would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and the aforementioned principlesfundamental freedoms, respect for international law and good neighbourly relations, and that it can only be envisaged upon Turkey’s full implementation of the Additional Protocol to extend the Ankara Agreement towards all Member States without reserve and in a non-discriminatory fashion; stresses that both parties must be fully aware of this democratic conditionality from the outset of any negotiations, as Parliament will not give its consent to the final agreement if no progress is made in this field; remains ready to advance towards visa liberalisation as soon as the Turkish authorities fulfil the six outstanding benchmarks;
Amendment 393 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Regrets the continued violation by Türkiye of the rules of the Customs Union and invites the European Council to look into the matter; reaffirms its support for an upgraded customs union with a broader, mutually beneficial scope, which could encompass a wide range of areas of common interest, including digitalisation and Green Deal alignment; insists that such a modernisation would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and the aforementioned principles; stresses that both parties must be fully aware of this democratic conditionality from the outset of any negotiations, as Parliament will not give its consent to the final agreement if no progress is made in this field; remains ready to advance towards visa liberalisation as soon as the Turkish authorities fulfil the six outstanding benchmarks;
Amendment 241 #
2022/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Notes North Macedonia’s commitment to positive diplomacy and good neighbourly relations; reiterates its full support for a consistent mutualand bona fide implementation of the Treaty of Friendship with Bulgaria and the Prespa Agreement with Greece;
Amendment 145 #
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 need to combat gender-based violence, step up child protection, adopt and implement legislation on minority rights, in particular the remaining by-laws, still pending to pass, with emphasis on self-identification and the use of the mother language with the local authorities, strengthen property rights and conduct a population census; underlines the importance of removing barriers to the socioeconomic inclusion of persons with disabilities;
Amendment 197 #
2022/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Welcomes that Albania continued dialogue to ensure neighbourly relations and regional cooperation, which remain essential elements of the enlargement process, as well as of the Stabilisation and Association Process.
Amendment 16 #
2022/2081(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recognises the critical role performed by UNRWA in providing Palestine refugees with vital services; commends the results of the study on Palestinian schoolbooks performed by the Georg Eckert Institute, confirming that they adhere to UNESCO standards and adopt criteria that are prominent in international education discourse.
Amendment 14 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas competition policy should aim to support the European Green Dealencourage job creation, growth, competitiveness, entrepreneurship and innovation especially during times of uncertainty and transformation;
Amendment 24 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas international collaboration and cooperation are vital to attaining a global and viable level playing field and realising the twin transitions;
Amendment 28 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the current geopolitical challenges demonstrate that it is crucial to reduce the European Union’s dependency on third countries for Critical Raw Materials, products and technology;
Amendment 44 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 60 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Believes that proposals for a European Critical Raw Materials Act, a Net Zero Industry Act, and the revision of the EU’s internal electricity market offer an opportunity to level the playing field for European industry’s competitiveness vis-a-vis global competitors; calls on the Commission to take this opportunity to balance the EU’s climate ambitions with a broader industrial strategy;
Amendment 62 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Reiterates that Critical Raw Materials are vital to delivering the twin transition and retaining Europe’s industrial base; emphasises the role that recycling can play in securing our supply of Critical Raw Materials, both through the encouragement of smart design and the processing of a greater proportion of our waste streams within the internal market; notes that the EU’s high environmental standards should allow for the EU to fully utilise its own domestic sources of critical raw materials in a sustainable manner; strongly believes that strategic European projects need faster and more transparent permitting processes, new funding streams, and a consistent policy framework; reiterates that increased Union capabilities can complement and strengthen the Union’s trade policy and ambitions to forge new partnerships with third countries for critical raw material supplies; welcomes the Commission’s aim to better support third countries in their efforts to develop domestic value chains;
Amendment 64 #
2022/2060(INI)
3c. Welcomes the Commission’s acknowledgement that high energy prices are undermining European industrial competitiveness; reminds the Commission of the depth of this challenge, noting that some industries in Europe are currently operating at only 50% capacity as a result of the recent rise in energy prices; emphasises that energy costs, relative to those in other parts of the world, have been one of the key factors negatively impacting the ability of European industry to compete on the global market;
Amendment 66 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Welcomes commitments by the Commission to examine possibilities for redesigning the EU’s internal electricity market in a way that would decouple the dominant influence of gas on the price of electricity; encourages the Commission to incentivise the uptake of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs); calls on the Commission to consider new approaches to PPAs, including aggregation models, which would be designed to help energy- intensive industries reduce firming and profiling costs associated with renewable energy supply; believes that aggregation models of this kind can help to de-risk private investment in the renewable energy sector and contribute towards the Green Deal;
Amendment 67 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Notes that Union competition policy must respond to global trends and take into account its effects on European companies ability to compete in global markets; notes that the share of European companies by top market capitalisation in the world has drastically reduced since the year 2000;
Amendment 68 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Strongly believes that Europe’s industrial strategy should provide for Europe’s existing industrial base, as well as clean-tech sectors that will provide jobs and prosperity in the decades ahead;
Amendment 69 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 f (new)
Paragraph 3 f (new)
3f. Strongly believes that an ambitious global free trade agenda is of paramount importance for the EU’s competitiveness; notes that 38 million jobs in the EU are supported by EU exports; calls for the swift conclusion of Free Trade Agreements with New Zealand, Chile, Australia, Mexico, Mercosur and other partners;
Amendment 70 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 g (new)
Paragraph 3 g (new)
3g. Welcomes the continuation of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC); recognises that sustained dialogue and cooperation with our like-minded partners can contribute to the effectiveness of competition policy;
Amendment 71 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 h (new)
Paragraph 3 h (new)
3h. Emphasises the important role of national supervisory and competition authorities in enforcing EU competition rules; stresses the need and importance of the independence of the national authorities whilst reiterating the increasing need to ensure more cooperation and sharing of best practices between the national authorities;
Amendment 72 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 i (new)
Paragraph 3 i (new)
3i. Welcomes the implementation of the Foreign Subsidies Regulation; highlights the importance of combatting distortive effects on the single market and the need to level the playing field for European companies; underlines that all companies operating in the EU’s single market must abide by State aid rules;
Amendment 73 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 j (new)
Paragraph 3 j (new)
3j. Highlights that European industry is part of an export-orientated economy; recalls the importance of the EU’s competition policy in enabling European companies to compete internationally;
Amendment 74 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 k (new)
Paragraph 3 k (new)
3k. Calls on the Commission to create an attractive innovation environment for European companies through eliminating administrative obstacles;
Amendment 75 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 l (new)
Paragraph 3 l (new)
3l. Stresses that a robust competition policy is crucial for a level playing field, particularly for SMEs, which will lead to job creation, growth, competitiveness, entrepreneurship and innovation in the single market; points out that a robust competition policy will improve the resilience of the European Union’s single market;
Amendment 80 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the quick adoption of the Temporary Crisis Framework for State Aid measures to support the economy following the aggression against Ukraine by Russia, and the subsequent prolongations thereof; notes the Commission's announcement to transform this into a Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework, by enlarging its scope to support all possible renewable sources of energy;
Amendment 87 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to safeguard the integrity of the internal market and is deeply concerned about the risk of increasing fragmentation within the internal market due to excessive use of subsidies in response to the US Inflation Reduction Act; understands the need for additional publicUnderstands the need for additional public investments in order to respond to ongoing specific global shocks and a global trend towards increased state funded industrial policy; calls on the Commission to safeguard the integrity of the internal market in doing so, however, and reminds the Commission of the risks that excessive relaxation of State aid rules can pose to the functioning of the internal market; calls on the Commission to pay particular attention to the differing levels of fiscal space available to Member States; considers the use of European investments; c funds alongsiders the introduction of dedicated permanent, if necessary debt-financed, European investment funds to be a better policy response; changes to State aid rules to offer a means of avoiding such risks; believes that expanding the scope of the Recovery and Resilience Facility could be part of the solution;
Amendment 122 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 134 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 142 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls on the Commission to take action to ensure that the State aid approval procedure is swift and efficient to ensure the timely approval of much- needed projects in light of the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the twin transitions; supports the creation of a special operation centre within the Commission to accelerate the approval procedure;
Amendment 150 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls for the quantitative jurisdictional thresholds in the EC Merger Regulation to be reviewed and lowered; calls for the introduction of a rebuttable presumption that effective competition is significantly impeded by any concentration leading to a dominant position in a relevant market or any concentration involving a very large market operator or a gatekeeper; calls for matters of public interest, such as climate protection, sustainability and the rule of law, to be taken into account when examining the impact of a concentration on the internal market; calls for the inclusion of review clauses in decisions approving a concentration with a view to introducing more stringent conditions;
Amendment 174 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
Amendment 179 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Welcomes the evaluation of Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 and Regulation (EC) No 773/2004 initiated by the Commission; considers a legislative review of these regulations necessary; calls for stronger use of structural remedies, and therefore for the primacy of behavioural remedies to be removed from Regulation (EC) No 1/2003;
Amendment 213 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Stresses that competition law remains relevant to digital markets despite the entry into force of the DMA; considers that violations of privacy rights can constitute abusive practices;
Amendment 254 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Deplores the distortive effects of aggressive tax planning on fair competition; calls for companies that use third-country tax havens to be excluded from receivingTakes note of the past EU efforts implementing international actions addressing base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS); takes note, in this regard, of the distortive effects of BEPS planning on fair competition; welcomes the Commission's recommendation of 14 July 2020 in not granting financial support to companies with links to tax havens and to protect honest taxpayers at the same time; calls on the Commission, in this regard, to inform Parliament about the implementation of the recommendations by Member States aidnd whether further legal initiatives seem necessary;
Amendment 269 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Underlines that the European Union’s State aid and competition rules should be simplified and allow flexibility in strategic sectors in order to achieve the Union’s strategic objectives;
Amendment 280 #
2022/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Stresses that Parliament should be adequately involved in shaping competition policy; considers that more frequent use should be made of Parliament’s right to intervene in judicial proceedings concerning competition law; calls on the Commission to enter into negotiations for an interinstitutional agreement on competition policy;
Amendment 2 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – point 1
Paragraph 1 – point 1
1. Notes that the challenges resulting from recent events, including the COVID- 19 crisis, the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and the unprecedented rise of energy costs, have limited the Union’s ability to provide itself with the means necessary to attain its objectives and carry through its policies; notes that inflation has affected the purchasing power of the budget;
Amendment 26 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – point 4
Paragraph 2 – point 4
4. Article 311 TFEU shall be amendmaintained so that the decision laying down the provisions relating to the system of own resources of the Union and the implementing measures for that system are adopted by the Council acting by qualified majorunanimity after obtaining the consent of the European Parliament;
Amendment 69 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F b (new)
Recital F b (new)
F b. whereas the Iranian authorities is committing human rights violations and crackdown on protests throughout the country following the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who was killed after being arrested for allegedly wearing an improper hijab;
Amendment 178 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Stresses that more states should be sanctioned under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime, for instance Iran and China, due to the respective authorities’ continuous human rights violations;
Amendment 329 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29 a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to increase their efforts in promoting equal rights for persons with disabilities through external action; emphasises the need to increase pressure on candidate countries to implement reforms to improve the situation of persons with disabilities and to increase their efforts in terms of deinstitutionalisation; calls on the Commission to assist candidate countries to develop a structured process for consulting persons with disabilities and their representative organisations;
Amendment 339 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Underlines its opposition to and condemnation of intolerance, xenophobia and discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, social class, disability, caste, religion, belief, age, sexual orientation or gender identity, which in many of the world’s regions leads to killings and persecution; stresses that racism, antisemitism, discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance continue to be a major problem worldwide and have been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic; calls for the EU and its Member States to lead the global fight against antisemitism and welcomes the adoption of the EU strategy to this end;
Amendment 341 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30 a. Is concerned about the hate speech and violence still taught in Palestinian school materials and used in schools by UNRWA; reiterates its position that all schoolbooks and school materials supported by Union funds must be in line with UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, coexistence, and non-violence; demands that all school material, which is not in compliance with these standards will be removed immediately;
Amendment 376 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34 a. Strongly condemns the Iranian authorities’ brutal crackdown on protests throughout the country following the death of Mahsa Amini, who was killed after being arrested for allegedly wearing an improper hijab; urges the EU and Member States to call on the Iranian authorities and President Raisi to immediately stop using violence against the protesters and cease shutting off access to the internet inside the country;
Amendment 387 #
2022/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35 a. Is deeply concerned about the violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon; deplores that it affects many religious communities, namely Christians (including Copts, Syriacs, Assyrians), Jews, Muslims (including Uyghurs, Ahmadis and Alevis), Buddhists, Hindus and smaller religious groups, such as Baha’is, Sikhs and Zoroastrians, as well as groups of people who are atheists, humanists, agnostics or do not identify with any religion;
Amendment 11 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 1 June 2017 on combating anti-Semitism,
Amendment 14 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 8 b (new)
Citation 8 b (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 7 June 2022 on the 2021 Commission Report on Turkey,
Amendment 51 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas intercultural dialogue is key to promote peace and fight radicalisation in Member States and in partner countries;
Amendment 52 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
Db. whereas anti-Semitism is against Europe’s system of values and principles and its condemnation needs to be promoted in all aspects of the EU's international cultural relations;
Amendment 53 #
2022/2047(INI)
Dc. whereas Christian minorities in partner countries are considered an integral part of Europe’s culture and need to be respected;
Amendment 116 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Encourages Member States and partner countries to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation for the repatriation of looted artefacts around the globe to the countries of origin or former owners;
Amendment 126 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Calls Member States and partner countries to include a culture and trade nexus in their trade negotiations and monitor its implementation in order to further promote cultural dialogue and cooperation;
Amendment 128 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Calls on third countries to cooperate with the relevant international organisations, especially the Council of Europe and UNESCO, in order to prevent and combat illicit trafficking and the deliberate destruction of cultural heritage, while actively taking action to preserve its structural rigidity and restore its original form;
Amendment 135 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5d. Calls on third countries to respect fully the historical and cultural character of cultural and religious monuments and symbols, especially those classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites;
Amendment 137 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5e. Calls on the Turkish authorities to fully respect the historical and cultural character of cultural and religious monuments and symbols, especially those classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites; calls on Turkey to fully respect its international obligation to protect monuments of Alevi, Christian, Armenian, Pontian and Jewish origin;
Amendment 140 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 f (new)
Paragraph 5 f (new)
5f. Condemns the conversion of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul in 2020, a monument internationally recognised as a historic World Heritage site and a universal symbol of Christianity, Chora Church in Istanbul and Hagia Sophia in Trabzon in 2013 into mosques by the Turkish authorities; notes with concern the recent developments with regard to the historic Panagia Soumela Monastery, which is included, on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List; recognises that the protection of cultural heritage is key to promote good neighbourly relations and maintain peace and stability in the region;
Amendment 141 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 g (new)
Paragraph 5 g (new)
5g. Reiterates its call on Turkey to respect the role of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for Orthodox Christians all over the world and to recognise its legal personality and the public use of the ecclesiastical title of the Ecumenical Patriarch;
Amendment 142 #
2022/2047(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Paragraph 5 h (new)
5h. Stresses the need to eliminate restrictions on the training, appointment and succession of members of the clergy, to allow the reopening of the Halki Seminary, which has been closed since 1971, and to remove all obstacles to enable it to function properly;
Amendment 2 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
— having regard to the Proposal for a Regulation establishing a Single Market Emergency Instrument and repealing Council Regulation (EC) 2679/98
Amendment 38 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
E a. Whereas the EU is pursuing a number of legislative initiatives that seek to boost our supply chain resilience, such as the Battery Regulation, the Single Market Emergency Instrument, The Chips Act, the Critical Raw Materials Act, and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive;
Amendment 84 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Strongly believes that the anticipated Critical Raw Materials Act can contribute positively to the EU’s long- term commitment to foster more resilient supply chains;
Amendment 85 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Calls on the Commission to ensure that the Critical Raw Materials Act addresses key problems of access to funding and investment for extraction and processing projects; Strongly believes that the Critical Raw Materials legislation should include an associated EU Fund that can assist in leveraging finance for strategically important projects, both inside and outside of the EU; Believes that such funding should be made available as soon as possible;
Amendment 87 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Notes that China dominates the supply and processing of many strategically important critical raw materials, including rare earths; Notes that China is the largest supplier for nearly one third of the EU’s identified Critical Raw Materials; Expresses concern about previous attempts by China to weaponize these dependencies;
Amendment 89 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4 d. Reiterates that Critical Raw Materials are key to achieving the Green and Digital transitions and that demand for these materials is set to dramatically increase in the coming decades;
Amendment 90 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4 e. Believes that improved recycling rates, greater circularity in the economy, and further research into substitute materials can all play arole in meeting this rising demand; Reiterates, however, that this alone will not be sufficient, and that new primary production of critical raw materials will be necessary to keep pace with demand;
Amendment 91 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 f (new)
Paragraph 4 f (new)
4 f. Notes that many materials, which are key to attaining the EU’s resilience in strategic sectors do not feature in the EU’s current Critical Raw Materials list; Calls on the Commission to address this as part of its upcoming Critical Raw Materials Act, particularly for strategic materials such as Aluminium, Cooper, and Nickel;
Amendment 92 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 g (new)
Paragraph 4 g (new)
4 g. Calls on the Commission to prioritise policies aimed at retaining and developing our existing levels of primary production of strategic materials; Notes with concern the impact of the current energy crisis on primary production in the EU in these sectors; Notes that 50% of the EU’s aluminium and zinc capacity are already offline, while Silicon production is 30% offline; Highlights the importance of these materials to key strategic EU projects like the Solar Energy Strategy, the Chips Act, and the transition to Electric Vehicles.
Amendment 93 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 h (new)
Paragraph 4 h (new)
4 h. Notes the need for the EU to develop a more cohesive strategy in its bid to achieve a degree of strategic autonomy in the field of Critical Raw Materials supply; Expresses concern that these ambitions are often siloed within individual units of the Commission or pursued via targeted, flagship projects; Believes that a dedicated EU agency on Critical Raw Materials and Resilient Supply Chains could overcome this challenge;
Amendment 96 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Suggests that future investment and trade agreements of the EU with relevant third countries, shall make collaboration in the field of semiconductors and along the entire semiconductor supply chain a key priority; Calls on the Commission to launch a public consultation, impact assessment, and scoping exercise for a Bilateral Investment Agreement with Taiwan;
Amendment 102 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Notes that the implementation of the proposed toolbox has to be guided by the principles of confidentiality and proportionality. Furthermore, it shall avoid any additional administrative burden for businesses, in particular SMEs, or protective measures that hamper trade relations more broadly;
Amendment 103 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Believes that in a globalised world characterized by complex international value chains, European resilience must be based on well-functioning multilateral and bilateral trade regimes.
Amendment 105 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5 d. Highlights that any new initiative to improve the salience of supply chains (such as the Chips Act or the Single Market Emergency Instrument) proposed by the European Commission must comply with Union law, the WTO Agreement and be consistent with commitments made under other trade and investment agreements to which the Union or the Member States are party;
Amendment 107 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5 e. Recognizes that the EU needs to shorten supply chains and re-shore essential production procedures to increase resilience and its strategic autonomy; calls on the Commission and Member States to reinforce measures that have a rapid effect on the reindustrialisation of Europe and create future-proof jobs by working with international partners in order to remove existing barriers to global competition and revive free trade.
Amendment 131 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Calls on the Commission to review whether it can make greater use of its trade defence tools to target unfair, state- subsidies provided by non-market economies; Highlights the case of the Aluminium industry, where between 2013 and 2017, the OECD found that 85% of global subsidies in the sector were channelled to just five Chinese companies;
Amendment 132 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8 b. Calls on the Commission to examine innovative solutions that can increase electricity intensive industries’ access to renewable energy sources; Calls on the Commission to consider new approaches to Power Purchase Agreements, such as the “Green Pool” initiative being pioneered by Greece;
Amendment 158 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Welcomes the EU’s first Strategic Partnerships for Critical Raw Materials as signed with Canada and Ukraine in 2021; Calls on the Commission to swiftly conclude similar agreements with other key partners; Welcomes existing commitments from the Commission to pursue such agreements with a number of partners, including Norway and Namibia; Recognises the strong role that they can play in diversifying supply chains and facilitating investment opportunities;
Amendment 162 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13 b. Welcomes the commitment between the European Union and the United States to develop a Global Arrangement on Sustainable Steel and Aluminium, aimed at addressing issues of subsidies and overcapacity from non- market actors; Calls on the Commission to intensify its engagement with the United States on this arrangement;
Amendment 194 #
2022/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Believes that the Global Gateway can play a key role in contributing to the EU’s bid to diversify its supply chains, particularly in the area of critical raw material processing projects; Highlights the benefits that this can bring to the EU, but also to third countries looking to develop their own values chains;
Amendment 2 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. RHighlights that the policies for industry, trade, competition and the single market should be considered in a holistic way within the industrial strategy, which should have the ecosystems at the core, should aim at aligning the different instruments and be fully integrated with the existing initiatives; recalls that the new Industrial Strategy was updated to reflect the lessons learned from COVID-19 and to boost the recovery of the single market, and that this strategy will be key to enhancing EU competitiveness and overcoming future challenges; recalls that a strong governance system and market surveillance are essential in order to relaunch the single market, which is the EU greatest asset; calls on the Commission to focus on ensuring that the industrial strategy helps remove single market barriers and, avoid further fragmentation and diverging national approaches;
Amendment 10 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 20 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Acknowledges the European standardisation strategy and underlines that standards are essential for a well- functioning single market, global competitiveness and the green and digital transitionsthe safety of products, global competitiveness, the green and digital transitions and ultimately European society at large; stresses that is crucial that the strategy continues to attract the best experts, boosts a more coordinated approach in terms of international standards setting and that strategic objectives are discussed and agreed with the active participation of all stakeholders involved, including the research community; underlines the need to develop tools to monitor standards in order to support SMEs and microenterprises to identify those that are particularly relevant for them;
Amendment 28 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines the need to strengthen the competitiveness of SMEs, microenterprises and industry by addressing supply risks, dependencies, disruptions and vulnerabilities, especially in the green and digital economies; stresses that an effective, open, fair and cooperative public procurement framework will lead to more jobs, growth and innovative investments; reminds the importance of the guidelines developed by the Commission that give practical indications about how Member States should include performance goals and quality criteria, such as the Most Economic Advantageous Tender (MEAT) one, in the contracts awarded through public procurement and how to better involve a plurality of manufacturers, including SMEs and microenterprises;
Amendment 37 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Recalls the importance of effective and sustainable public procurement practices, especially in the context of the health ecosystem; urges the Commission to support Member States in the development of targeted rules, regarding the joint procurement of essential goods such as medicines, aiming to ensure long- term sustainability, security of supply, fair competition and investments in manufacturing capabilities;
Amendment 42 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates the need to enhance European strategic autonomy by addressing disruptions and vulnerabilities of supply chains and ensuring their resilience, especially in areas such as raw materials, digital technologies (including micro-processors), photovoltaic technologies and to incentivise the production of critical goods, such as essential medicines; recalls how strategic autonomy should be pursued also investing in skills, digital infrastructures, access to data and key technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, 5G and 6G, microprocessors and semiconductors, batteries, high-performance computing and quantum technologie, quantum and cyber technologies; highlights the urgency in scaling up innovative breakthrough industrial technologies in the productive regions across the Union, in particular for critical energy intensive industries; calls on the Commission to make sure that value chains are taken into account in their entirety, especially when analysing strategic dependencies and identifying the investments that are needed across the industrial ecosystems;
Amendment 48 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Underlines that in order to make the Union’s single market fit for the digital age, it is crucial to prioritise investments in digital infrastructures, bridge the digital divide and improve digital literacy and skills, without neglecting rural, remote and outermost areas; stresses the need for Member States to act seriously through their national frameworks to make sure they implement the Pact for Skills and the other Union’s initiatives aimed at creating reskilling and upskilling opportunities for workforce; recalls to this end the importance to strengthen education and training to further integrate the knowledge triangle and highlights the need to implement the initiatives aimed at reinforcing the European Research Area, the European Education Area and the European Innovation Ecosystems, aiming at building a strong European internal market for research and innovation;
Amendment 51 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to strive for an open strategic autonomy and stresses that to achieve this objective they should in particular: - relaunch the single market strategy in order to de-fragmentise regulatory approaches, de-regulate where necessary, de-bureaucratise public administrations and business’ life, overcome existing barriers to investments, in order to reduce regulatory compliance costs, award competition and favour market-led innovation; - develop concrete actions to support Member States to bridge the lack of skills and to re-balance within the single market the drain of talents, technological experts and know-how; - develop a European Innovation Area able to turn scientific results into commercial products, supporting startups and SMEs and retaining businesses within the Union's single market; - implement a strategy on critical raw materials and resources needed for the key enabling technologies, the digitalisation and the green transition; - improve research, innovation and technological development funding, not only from the private sector but also from government-led policies, including in the form of public-private ventures.
Amendment 57 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls the commitments to increase R&D investments to 3 % of GDP and to develop a single market for research and innovation; underlines that industrial alliances and public-private partnerships are important to develop breakthrough technologies also aiming at closing carbon loops across the value chains of energy intensive industries by reusing and recycling resources; calls on the Commission to ensure consistency and synergy in all initiatives, funding and regulatory instruments supporting industry, SMEs and microenterprises;
Amendment 61 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Calls on the Commission to establish clear, effective, simple and comprehensive guidelines regarding the existing instruments that should address the policy priorities in several industrial sectors, notably the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs), the various alliances (industrial data, space launchers, zero emissions aviation, batteries, and others), the European Digital Infrastructure Consortia (EDICs), and others; stresses the importance of ensuring the right synergies between the different instruments, programmes and funds, from the Recovery and Relaunch Facility to the structural funds, and urges to better integrate them with the joint undertakings and the other initiatives derived from Horizon Europe, such as the European Institute of Technology and Innovation (EIT) and the European Innovation Council (EIC);
Amendment 67 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that in addition to vertical ecosystems, there is a need to have horizontal approaches, such as on enabling technologies, and that the digital ecosystem must be integrated with all other industrial ecosystems horizontally.; stresses the importance of the Industrial Forum established by the Industrial Strategy and notes that among the five task forces that were created, one is directly relevant for the single market and analyses the horizontal aspects of the single market and the removal of the barriers, and another one has a specific focus on advanced manufacturing as an horizontal enabler for a wide range of ecosystems; underlines the massive investment gap existing in the technology industries enabling the digital transformation of our society and reiterates the need to strengthen investments in digital technologies; calls on the Commission, as well as the Member States, to fully support such a horizontal approach, in order to ensure that Europe remains a global leader in a crucial enabling technology; reminds that the green and digital transformation is affecting jobs' quality, structure and characteristics and stresses how the single market's integration should lead to real benefits for the European citizens, also through more effective measures to secure consumer rights and a more efficient labour market;
Amendment 72 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to adopt a holistic approach when it creates incentives to support strategic industrial sectors and their supply chains, such as food, pharmaceutics and others, which are facing a sharp increase of energy, transport and raw materials' costs due to the current conflict in Ukraine; stresses that ensuring sufficient access to affordable, secure and diversified clean energy throughout the single market is going to be key to continue with its integration and to pursue the European industry’s transformation plans, boost its green transition and its global competitiveness; underlines how the development of efficient and integrated logistics networks and infrastructures can ensure a smoother access to transport, energy and digital services increase competitiveness of businesses, reduce barriers in the single market and widen markets for products and jobs; reminds the importance of diversification of supplies and material circularity in particular to reduce reliance on third country imports and increase Union's energy and resources independence;
Amendment 75 #
2022/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. stresses the importance of the data economy and asks the Commission to accelerate on all data-related initiatives, improving data sharing and exchange, contributing to the development of common European data spaces, fostering the creation of shared European infrastructures to facilitate the use and the exchange of data across industrial sectors, strengthening the data, cloud and edge ecosystems and reinforcing investments in high-speed communications; reminds that cybersecurity is fundamental to engage securely with the digital economy, also in view of enhancing trust of citizens and businesses and lead to a wider uptake and use of digital solutions;
Amendment 121 #
2022/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) Implement under the NDICI, as a matter of priority, strategies and dedicated programming for broader youth access to education, vocational training, higher education together with adequate funding for access to education and ensuring that school textbooks and educational material in partner countries adhere to the UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance and non-violence in education, and as an integral part of the Union’s strategy for combatting Antisemitism; commends the ongoing curriculum reforms commenced by Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia and Morocco in this regard; reiterates its concern about anti-Semitic content and incitement to violence present in Palestinian educational materials, as demonstrated by the findings of the recent EU funded study by the Georg Eckert Institute; recalls that youth migration, whether regular or irregular, and professional brain drain are a matter of serious concern to our partners in the region, as well as a serious threat to the longer-term capacity for economic growth and economic viability of Southern Neighbourhood countries; stresses the importance of expanding access to the Erasmus and Erasmus+ programmes for participants from Southern Neighbourhood countries; recalls the importance of circular mobility, including South-to-South exchanges, so that professionals from Southern Neighbourhood countries can have concrete opportunities to further their professional training in the EU and return to their country of origin to share and build knowledge; insist that financial support to education initiatives must be conditionally linked to an adherence to Union values and UNESCO standards; recalls the importance of mainstreaming the socioeconomic integration of women in the region and of gender equality in all EU policies areas whenever possible; stresses the importance of targeted EU support for women with the objective of improving their access to education, training and employment and, more generally, promoting equal professional and socioeconomic opportunities;
Amendment 165 #
2022/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to take action against the alarming increase in antisemitism in the Union; is of the opinion that the will to accommodate other religious minorities in some cases has created an unjustifiable acceptance of antisemitism;
Amendment 168 #
2022/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Calls on the Commission to implement zero tolerance for EU support for projects that directly or indirectly express antisemitism; emphasizes in this context that it is an important issue of credibility for the EU that the external action of the union in this respect is linked to other EU policies; calls therefore on the Commission to change its policy regarding UNRWA so that there is a clear conditionality in the fight against antisemitism in order to gain access to EU funds;
Amendment 72 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 31 – point c
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 31 – point c
(c) an Union general import authorisation for importers to the customs territory of the Union that is available to all importers who respect the conditions and requirements listed in chapter II of this Regulation and in the implementingdelegated act referred to in Article 9(8) of this Regulation;
Amendment 86 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a – point a
(a) the rules on marking referred to in Article 48 of Directive (EU) 2021/555the United Nations Protocol;
Amendment 96 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. Firearms or their essential components shall be imported provided that they are marked in accordance with Article 48 of Directive (EU) 2021/555the United Nations Protocol.
Amendment 97 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 2
Amendment 102 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. The economic operator shall also verify if the imported firearms and their essential components comply with the required marking according to Article 4 of Directive (EU) 2021/555. In the absence of marking in accordance with these requirements, the economic operator shall arrange for the firearms and their essential components to be marked, without delay, after importation.
Amendment 103 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 b (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. The Commission and competent authorities granting the export authorisation, in case of suspicion, shall carry out post-shipment checks to ensure that the exported firearms and their essential components have been marked in accordance with Article 4 of Directive (EU) 2021/555.
Amendment 119 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 4
Article 9 – paragraph 4
4. Competent authorities shall process applications for import authorisations within a period of time, which shall not exceed 640 working days, from the date on which all required information has been provided to the competent authorities. Under exceptional circumstances and for duly justified reasons, that period may be extended to 960 working days.
Amendment 127 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 8
Article 9 – paragraph 8
8. The Commission shall adopt an implementing delegated act to establish an Union general import authorisation and setting out the conditions for the import of firearms, their essential components and ammunitions by authorised economic operators for security and safety pursuant to Article 38(2), point (b), of Regulation (EU) 952/2013.Those implementingdelegated acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 37(2).
Amendment 139 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall adopt an implementing delegated act to establish an uniform end- user certificate. Those implementingdelegated acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 37(2).
Amendment 145 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 4
Article 15 – paragraph 4
4. Member States shall process applications for export authorisations within a period of time , which shall not exceed 640 working days, from the date on which all required information has been provided to the competent authorities. Under exceptional circumstances and for duly justified reasons, that period may be extended by the competent authorities to 960 working days.
Amendment 211 #
2022/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 3
Article 27 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall adopt implementingdelegated acts establishing the rules and format to be used by Member States for providing the Commission with anonymised statistical data as referred to in paragraph 1 and 2 of this Article. Those implementingdelegated acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 37.
Amendment 128 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10 a (new)
Recital 10 a (new)
(10a) As a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the Union is committed to promoting a rules-based, open, multilateral trading system under the WTO. Any measures introduced by the Union that affect trade must be WTO compliant. Further, all measures introduced by the Union that affect trade must take into account the possible response of the Union’s trade partners and ensure that the enforcement of the measure is not perceived as a unilateral protectionist measure.
Amendment 148 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 a (new)
Recital 18 a (new)
(18a) Taking into account that this Regulation breaches the European Parliament's and Commission's interinstitutional agreement on Better Law-Making by excluding an impact assessment, and thus lacks significant estimates needed to evaluate cost-benefit, the one-in, one-out principle, and WTO compatibility amongst other things, the Commission should create an impact assessment six months after the Regulation's entry into force. The Commission should also submit a comprehensive report to the European Parliament and to the Council on the impact of the Regulation, three years after its applicability. The report shall evaluate the effectiveness of this Regulation in reaching its objectives, in particular, its impact on the eradication of forced labour.
Amendment 151 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 b (new)
Recital 18 b (new)
(18b) Given that this Regulation will impose additional compliance costs on economic operators, action needs to be taken to prevent the total level of regulatory and financial burden from increasing. Therefore, in line with the Commission's Better Regulation agenda, and the 'one in, one out' principle, the Commission should present, before the application of this Regulation, proposals offsetting the regulatory and financial burdens introduced by this Regulation, through the revision or abolishment of provisions in other Union legislative acts that generate compliance costs for economic operators.
Amendment 170 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Before initiating an investigation, competent authorities should request from the economic operators under assessment information on actions taken to mitigate, prevent or bring to an end risks of forced labour in their operations and valuesupply chains with respect to the products under assessment. Carrying out such due diligence in relation to forced labour should help the economic operator to be at a lower risk of having forced labour in its operations and valuesupply chains. Appropriate due diligence means that forced labour issues in the valuesupply chain have been identified and addressed in accordance with relevant Union legislation and international standards. That implies that where the competent authority considers that there is no substantiated concern of a violation of the prohibition, for instance due to, but not limited to the applicable legislation, guidelines, recommendations or any other due diligence in relation to forced labour being applied in a way that mitigates, prevents and brings to an end the risk of forced labour, no investigation should be initiated.
Amendment 173 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In order to ensure cooperation among competent authorities designated under this and other relevant legislation and in order to ensure consistency in their actions and decisions, competent authorities designated under this Regulation should request information from other relevant authorities, where necessary, on whether economic operators under assessment are subject to and carry out due diligence in relation to forced labour in accordance with applicable Union legislation or Member States legislation setting out due diligence and transparency requirements with respect to forced labour. When requesting information from economic operators, competent authorities should follow the Commission’s Once-Only principle, through increased cooperation and dialogue between authorities who are engaged in overseeing product regulation. An economic operator should not have to submit the same information more than once.
Amendment 185 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) During the preliminary phase of investigation, competent authorities should focus on the economic operators involved in the steps of the valuesupply chain where there is a higher risk of forced labour with respect to the products under investigation, also taking into account their size and economic resources, the quantity of products concerned and the scale of the suspected forced labour.
Amendment 188 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) Competent authorities, when requesting information during the investigation, should prioritise to the extent possible and consistent with the effective conduct of the investigation the economic operators under investigation that are involved in the steps of the valuesupply chain as close as possible to where the likely risk of forced labour occurs and take into account the size and economic resources of the economic operators, the quantity of products concerned, as well as the scale of suspected forced labour.
Amendment 204 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Competent authorities that establish that economic operators violated the prohibition, should without delay prohibit the placing and making available of such products on the Union market and their export from the Union, and require the economic operators that have been investigated to withdraw the relevant products already made available from the Union market and have them recycled, or should this not be possible destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including Union legislation on waste management. Agricultural products that cannot be recycled, should be donated, or, should this not be possible, destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including Union legislation on waste management.
Amendment 219 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) If the economic operators fail to comply with the decision of the competent authorities by the end of the established timeframe, the competent authorities should ensure that the relevant products are prohibited from being placed or made available on the Union market, exported or withdrawn from the Union market and that any such products remaining with the relevant economic operators are recycled, or should this not be possible destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including Union legislation on waste management at the expense of the economic operators. Agricultural products that cannot be recycled, should be donated, or, should this not be possible, destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including Union legislation on waste management.
Amendment 238 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) The Commission should issue guidelines in order to facilitate the implementation of the prohibition by economic operators and competent authorities. Such guidelines should include guidance on due diligence in relation to forced labour and complementary information for the competent authorities to implement the prohibition. The guidance on due diligence in relation to forced labour should build on the Guidance on due diligence for Union businesses to address the risk of forced labour in their operations and supply chains published by the Commission and the European External Action Service in July 2021. The guidelines should be consistent with other Commission guidelines in this regard and relevant international organisations’ guidelines. The guidelines should include sectoral guidance such as the garment and textile sector, agri-sector and automotive sector, as well as type of supplier such as wholesale, manufacture or smallholder farm. The reports from international organisations, in particular the ILO, as well as other independent and verifiable sources of information should be considered for the identification of risk indicators.
Amendment 256 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37
Recital 37
(37) Where the competent authorities conclude that a product corresponds to a decision establishing a violation of the prohibition, they should immediately inform customs authorities which should refuse its release for free circulation or export. The product should be recycled, or should this not be possible destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including legislation on waste management, which excludes re-export in case of non-Union goods. . Agricultural products that cannot be recycled, should be donated, or, should this not be possible, destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including legislation on waste management.
Amendment 263 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37 a (new)
Recital 37 a (new)
(37a) The Commission should take into due consideration the risk of disengagement by economic operators who are either related to products, regions or production sites in the data base, or who have had their product removed from the Union market, as well as the consequences on affected workers. The Commission should therefore, where appropriate, support economic operators in adopting and carrying out measures suitable and effective for bringing forced labour to an end.
Amendment 272 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42 a (new)
Recital 42 a (new)
(42a) With acknowledgment of current developments in traceability technology and the use of blockhain to facilitate monitoring of supply chains, the Commission should support economic operators in the uptake of such technology, including through financial and technical assistance.
Amendment 282 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 45
Recital 45
(45) Since forced labour is a global problem and given the interlinkages of the global value chains, it is necessary to promote international cooperation against forced labour, which would also improve the efficiency of applying and enforcing the prohibition. The Commission should as appropriately cooperate with and exchange information with authorities of third countries and international organisations to create enabling environments to promote and protect human rights, including capacity building to support workers and local communities in their efforts to root out forced labour from global supply chains and enhance the effective implementation of the prohibition. International cooperation with authorities of non-EU countries should take place in a structured way as part of the existing dialogue structures, for example Human Rights Dialogues with third countries, or, if necessary, specific ones that will be created on an ad hoc basis. The Commission should further integrate this Regulation with existing trade measures such as free trade agreements and the Generalised Scheme of Preferences, to enhance the cumulative effect of EU trade measures in eradicating forced labour. This means that in the case where a product has been found to have forced labour, it cannot qualify for GSP tariff reduction. Furthermore, if third country authorities are found to be non-cooperative, or not taking measures to end forced labour within their national borders, the Commission should evaluate whether they should benefit from existing GSP trade facilitation. The Commission should ensure coherence and synergies between relevant external policies, in particular development cooperation and projects focusing on the eradication of forced labour.
Amendment 291 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
1. This Regulation lays down rules prohibiting economic operators from placing and making available on the Union market or exporting from the Union market products made with forced labour. This Regulation contributes to the fight against forced labour and promotes corporate sustainability due diligence standards.
Amendment 298 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2
Article 1 – paragraph 2
2. This Regulation shall not cover the withdrawal of products which have reached the end-users in the Union market, or been transformed or integrated into another product and constitute minor component of the final product.
Amendment 334 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point h
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point h
(h) ‘economic operator’ means any natural or legal person or association of personsbusiness with more than 1000 employees on average and a worldwide net turnover exceeding EUR 150 million in the financial year preceding the last financial year who is placing or making available products on the Union market or exporting products;
Amendment 352 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point n
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point n
(n) ‘substantiated concern’ means a well-founded reason, based on objective, factual and verifiable information, for the competent authorities to suspect that products were likely made with forced labour;
Amendment 355 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point r – point 1 (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point r – point 1 (new)
1) 'supply chain' means the network of organizations that cooperate to transform raw materials into finished goods (including the extraction, harvest, production or manufacturing)
Amendment 356 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point s a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point s a (new)
(sa) 'mass balance model' means a chain of custody model in which materials or products with a set of specified characteristics are mixed according to defined criteria with materials or products without that set of characteristics;
Amendment 373 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Competent authorities shall follow a risk-based approach in assessing the likelihood that economic operators violated Article 3. That assessment shall be based on all relevant, factual and verifiable information available to them, including the following information:
Amendment 385 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. In their assessment of the likelihood that economic operators violated Article 3, competent authorities shall focus on the economic operators involved in the steps of the valuesupply chain as close as possible to where the risk of forced labour is likely to occur and take into account the size and economic resources of the economic operators, the quantity of products concerned, the complexity of the supply chain as well as the scale of suspected forced labour.
Amendment 393 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Before initiating an investigation in accordance with Article 5(1), the competent authority shall request from the economic operators under assessment information on actions taken to identify, prevent, mitigate or bring to an end risks of forced labour in their operations and valuesupply chains with respect to the products under assessment, including on the basis of any of the following:
Amendment 394 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point a a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point a a (new)
(aa) any industry scheme, third-party audit or certification from the economic operators' suppliers that guarantees the absence of forced labour;
Amendment 399 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 4
Article 4 – paragraph 4
4. Economic operators shall respond to the request of the competent authority referred to in paragraph 3 within 1530 working days from the day they received such request or make a justified request for an extension of that time limit. Economic operators may provide to competent authorities any other information they may deem useful for the purposes of this Article.
Amendment 424 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 6
Article 4 – paragraph 6
6. The competent authority shall duly take into account where the economic operator demonstrates that it carries out due diligence on the basis of identified forced labour impact in its supply chain, adopts and carries out measures suitable and effective for bringing to an end forced labour in a short period of timetheir supply chain.
Amendment 458 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) prioritise the economic operators under investigation involved in the steps of the valuesupply chain as close as possible to where the likely risk of forced labour occurs and
Amendment 462 #
2022/0269(COD)
(b) take into account the size and economic resources of the economic operators, the quantity of products concerned, the complexity of the supply chain as well as the scale of suspected forced labour.
Amendment 476 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 5
Article 5 – paragraph 5
5. When deciding on the time limits referred to in this Article, competent authorities shall consider the size and economic resources of the economic operators concerned as well as the complexity of the supply chain.
Amendment 488 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. Competent authorities shall assess all information and evidence gathered pursuant to Articles 4 and 5 and, on that basis, establish and duly motivate whether Article 3 has been violated, within a reasonable period of time from the date they initiated the investigation pursuant to Article 5(1).
Amendment 492 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 2
Amendment 505 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – point a
(a) a prohibition to place or make the products or product component concerned available on the Union market and to export them;
Amendment 508 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – point b
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – point b
(b) an order for the economic operators that have been subject to the investigation to withdraw from the Union market the relevant products or product component that have already been placed or made available on the market;
Amendment 512 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – point c
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – point c
(c) an order for the economic operators that have been subject to the investigation to dispose of the respective products in accordance with national law consistent with Union law or to remove or replace the component of the product that was made with forced labour.
Amendment 542 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 6
Article 6 – paragraph 6
6. Where competent authorities establish that economic operators have provided evidence to the competent authorities that they have complied with the decision referred to in paragraph 4, and that they have eliminatedadopted appropriate measures to address the risk of forced labour fromin their operations or supply chain or remediated forced labour cases in compliance with the Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence and amending Directive (EU) 2019/1937 with respect to the products concerned, the competent authorities shall withdraw their decision for the futurelift the market prohibition immediately and inform the economic operators of this decision.
Amendment 553 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) the findings of the investigation and the information underpinning the findings;evidence that justifies the decision.
Amendment 579 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 5
Article 8 – paragraph 5
5. Economic operators that have been affected by a decision of a competent authority pursuant to this Regulation shall have access to a court to review the procedural and substantive legality of the decision. Economic operators shall be entitled to compensation or damages for the prohibition, withdrawal or destruction of products arising from a wrongful decision by a competent authority.
Amendment 594 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
(ga) any court decision to annul competent authority decision referred to in Article 8(5);
Amendment 598 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission shall make available the decisions, and the withdrawals referred to in the paragraph 1, points (c), (d), (e), (g) and (ga) on a dedicated website.
Amendment 613 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
2. The competent authority shall, as soon as possible, diligently and impartially assess the information, including whether the claims are well-founded and, inform the person or association referred to in paragraph 1 of the outcome of the assessment of their submission.
Amendment 627 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall call upon external expertise to provide an indicative, non-exhaustive, verifiable and regularly updated database of forced labour risks in specific geographic areas or production sites with respect to specific products including with regard to forced labour imposed by state authorities. The database shall be based on the guidelines referred to in Article 23, points (a), (b) and (c), and relevant external sources of information from, amongst others, international organisations and third country authorities.
Amendment 642 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission shall ensure that the database is made publicly available by the external expertise at the latest 124 months after the entry into forcebefore the application of this Regulation.
Amendment 645 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 3
Article 11 – paragraph 3
3. Economic operators placing or making available on the Union market or exporting products which are not mentioned in the database referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article, or which come from areas that are not mentioned in that database, shall also be required to comply with Article 3in line with Article 4, risk-based approach shall not be considered to have a high risk of violating Article 3, unless serious proof of the contrary is available.
Amendment 661 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 6 a (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Member States shall confer on their competent authorities the necessary powers to issue an order requiring the providers of online marketplaces to remove products made with forced labour from their online interface, to disable access to it or to display an explicit warning. Such orders shall be issued in accordance with the minimum conditions set out in Article 9(2) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065.
Amendment 692 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) within 4 working days of the suspension, if the competent authorities have not requested the customs authorities to maintain the suspension. In case of perishable products, animals and plants that time limit shall be 2 working days;
Amendment 706 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 1
Article 20 – paragraph 1
Where the release for free circulation or export of a product has been refused in accordance with Article 19, customs authorities shall take the necessary measures to ensure that the product concerned is disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union lawrecycled, or should this not be possible destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law, including Union legislation on waste management. Agricultural products that cannot be recycled, should be donated, or, should this not be possible destroyed, rendered inoperable, or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with Union law accordance. Articles 197 and 198 of Regulation (EU) No 952/2013 shall apply accordingly.
Amendment 734 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) guidance to the economic operator on due diligence in relation to forced labour, which shall take into account applicable Union legislation setting out due diligence requirements with respect to forced labour, guidelines and recommendations from international organisations, as well as the size and economic resources of economic operators; , different types of suppliers along the supply chain, different sectors and the particular risks associated with forced labour imposed by state authorities. The guidance shall also include advice on how to identify indicators of forced labour in different areas of the supply chain;
Amendment 740 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) guidance to the economic operators on measures which are suitable and effective for bringing to an end different types of forced labour;
Amendment 741 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) information on risk indicators of forced labour, including a clear distinction for evaluation between forced labour risks in the private sector and risk of state-imposed forced labour, which shall be based on independent and verifiable information, including reports from international organisations, in particular the International Labour Organization, civil society, business organisations, and experience from implementing Union legislation setting out due diligence requirements with respect to forced labour;
Amendment 747 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) further information to facilitate the competent authorities’ implementation of this Regulation; which includes guidelines regarding the assessment of a notification and identification of indicators of forced labour in the pre-investigation phase and investigation phase. This includes benchmarks for the quantification of 'size of economic operator', 'resources of economic operators', 'quantity of products' and 'scale of forced labour' that will be assessed in order to establish substantiated concern for initiating an investigation. These guidelines should be clearly interpretable to ensure that implementation and enforcement of the measure is horizontal across Member States. Where relevant, the Commission should offer capacity building and training for staff of Member States' competent authorities;
Amendment 750 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(da) the guidelines should be consistent with guidance provided in accordance with relevant Union legislation;
Amendment 751 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) guidance for the practical implementation of Article 16 and, where appropriate, any other provision laid down in Chapter III of this Regulation, including with regard to the identification and evaluation of risks of forced labour linked to commodities sourced by economic operators through a mass balance approach.
Amendment 757 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 a (new)
Article 23 a (new)
Article23a Specific provisions for SMEs 1. SMEs shall be given special support and guidance in adapting to this Regulation. 2. This support and guidance shall include: a) SME-specific guidelines with due diligence checklist and toolkit on preventing forced labour b) capacity-building, training programme and administrative and technical support on the assessment and the prevention of forced labour; c) support in their outreach to relevant suppliers and other actors;
Amendment 759 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1
Article 24 – paragraph 1
1. A Union Network Against Forced Labour Products (‘the Network’) is established. The Network shall serve as a platform for structured coordination and cooperation between the competent authorities of the Member States and the Commission, and to streamline the practices of enforcement of this Regulation as well as other relevant due diligence legislation within the Union, thereby making enforcement more effective and coherent.
Amendment 774 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 3 – point f
Article 24 – paragraph 3 – point f
(f) to promote the cooperation and exchange of expertise and best practices between competent authorities and customs authorities; as well as international organisations such as the World Customs Organisation and National Contact Points for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. The Network shall also maintain regular contact with the Commission's relevant services to receive relevant information from other EU initiatives that support the eradication of forced labour.
Amendment 779 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 3 – point f a (new)
Article 24 – paragraph 3 – point f a (new)
(fa) identify discrepancies between enforcement at the level of different EU Member States;
Amendment 781 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 3 – point f b (new)
Article 24 – paragraph 3 – point f b (new)
Amendment 784 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 4
Article 24 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall organise and chair regular meetings of the Network and shall support and encourage cooperation between enforcement authorities through the Network and participate in the meetings of the Network.
Amendment 789 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 a (new)
Article 24 a (new)
Article24a Support The Network shall support economic operators under investigation to undertake corrective action in line with Article 4(6) and Article 6(6) where the risk of forced labour has been identified to: a) correct the potential risk of forced labour before launching an investigation and b) avoid the last resort of disengagement if the economic operator is deemed violating Article 3. This shall include having dialogue with authorities operating in the region where forced labour has been identified as well as on national level. In the case where disengagement must take effect and economic operators become victim to a third country punitive measure, the Commission shall provide political, administrative or financial support.
Amendment 796 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1
Article 26 – paragraph 1
1. In order to facilitate effective implementation and enforcement of this Regulation, the Commission mayshall, as appropriate cooperate, engage and exchange information with, amongst others, authorities of third countries, international organisations, civil society representatives and business organisations. The Commission shall have regular contact and cooperation with countries that have similar legislation in place, to share information of risk products or regions as well as best practices for bringing to an end forced labour. International cooperation with authorities of third countries shall take place in a structured way as part of the existing dialogue structures with third countries or, if necessary, specific ones that will be created on an ad hoc basis.
Amendment 806 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Cooperation with third countries shall be integrated with other EU policies and instruments that include measures to eradicate forced labour, including free trade agreements, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences, and development cooperation projects led by the Commission.
Amendment 811 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 a (new)
Article 27 a (new)
Article27a Regulatory monitoring and adjustment The Commission shall present, before the application of this Regulation, in line with the 'one in, one out' principle, proposals offsetting the regulatory and financial burdens introduced by this Regulation through the revision or abolishment of provisions in other Union legislative acts that generate compliance costs for economic operators.
Amendment 821 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 3
Article 30 – paragraph 3
3. The Member States shall, by [OP enter DATE = 2430 months from its entry into force of this Regulation], notify those provisions to the Commission, where they have not previously been notified, and shall notify it, without delay, of any subsequent amendment affecting them.
Amendment 827 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 a (new)
Article 30 a (new)
Amendment 831 #
2022/0269(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 a (new)
Article 31 a (new)
Amendment 114 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15 a (new)
Recital 15 a (new)
(15a) Member States that participate in the common procurement of defence products under the Instrument should have a right to invite Ukraine and Moldova to participate in the action. To this end, the Member States should authorise a procurement agent to enter into an agreement for procuring additional quantities of the defence product. Such an agreement would benefit the EDTIB as those countries’ participation would provide better economies of scale and scope, higher demand and interoperability at the technical level, common training, cross-servicing and maintenance, which would provide a foundation for the later inclusion of their defence industries in the EDTIB. It would also strengthen the two countries’ defence capabilities in light of Russia’s aggression and threats. The possibility to participate on the invitation of the Member States in the procurement agreement should be open only to countries that do not contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States, including respect for the principle of good neighbourly relations. It should also be open to Georgia.
Amendment 149 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21 a (new)
Recital 21 a (new)
(21a) Russia’s brutal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine became a turning point for European security, and in particular for Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Finland that are bordering Russia and Ukraine or have their territorial waters or Exclusive Economic Zones adjacent to those of Ukraine. Those Member States have become the target of threatening rhetoric and hostile actions by Russia, supported by Belarus. Despite facing fundamental threats to their own security, they continue to support Ukraine in providing assistance, including military assistance, thus significantly depleting their own stockpiles. The Instrument should therefore provide incentives for the participation of those Member States by granting higher Union contribution to actions where at least two such Member States participate. In addition, such a higher Union contribution should also apply for actions in which Member States decide to authorise the procurement agent to procure additional quantities of the respective defence product for Ukraine and Moldova. Given that those countries are partially occupied by Russia or its proxies, and are the targets of Russia’s military intervention, further support for Ukraine and Moldova would substantially contribute to European security, while strengthening the EDTIB and fostering cooperation in defence procurement.
Amendment 222 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 17 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the budget should ensure appropriate financial support for the economies of Ukraine and the Union, in particular countries hosting large numbers of refugees, including third countries, in the context of the war in order to make the economies and financial systems more resilient, while reinforcing the Union’s capacity to deal with rapidly growing geopolitical challenges;
Amendment 22 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for the provision of adequate resources for the coordination and surveillance of macroeconomic policies, for the fight against financial crime, money laundering and tax evasion, for the implementation of the OECD agreement on corporate taxation, for the enforcement of competition law, and for compliance with the economic governance framework; recalls that tax avoidance, tax fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering undermine government revenues; underlines that it is of utmost importance to fight tax avoidance and evasion while keeping taxes at a level that supports sustainable economic growth;
Amendment 29 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Insists that the Commission must guarantee that EU funds are not allocated or linked to any form of terrorism and/or religious and political radicalisation; reiterates its position that all schoolbooks and school materials supported by Union funds must be in line with UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, coexistence, and non-violence; is concerned about the antisemitism, hate speech and incitement to jihad and violence taught in Palestinian school textbooks, indirectly funded by the EU; stresses that conditionality of EU financial assistance in the educational sector needs to be duly considered;
Amendment 31 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Emphasises the need to stimulate sustainable growth while supporting green and digital transformations, structural reforms to modernise the Union economies and access to finance and capital markets for SMEs and retail investors through information and transparency; highlights the potential of the InvestEU and its SMEs window;
Amendment 45 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses that the EU and its Member States’ capacities to counter disinformation, hybrid warfare, propaganda and espionage must be strengthened due to, among other reasons, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; calls for further funding for strategic communication to counter malicious interference, and reiterates the need of dedicated StratCom Task Forces, including one focused on interference emanating from the Middle East, in particular from Iran;
Amendment 49 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Recalls that the agreed roadmap for the introduction of new own resources is of the utmost importance to ensure repayment of the NGEU programme; therefore urges the Council to respect the agreed timeline to make the necessary progress on the new revenue basket proposed by the Commission in December 2021; also urges the Commission to propose second basket of own resources in line with the roadmap agreed in the IIA;
Amendment 56 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Underlines that in the current context of unexpected needs linked to the Ukraine crisis, inflation, energy insecurity, climate related spending and, at the same time, very limited margins and flexibility of the EU budget, urgent and comprehensive revision of the MFF is indispensable;
Amendment 57 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7 c. Points out, that 2023 will be the last year of contracting under the Next Generation EU programmes and the last year of the implementation of the MFF 2014-2020, as well as the year in which the new programmes 2021-2027 will gather momentum, fostering economic, social and territorial cohesion of the Union;
Amendment 61 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 d (new)
Paragraph 7 d (new)
7 d. Notes, that the automatic inflationary adjustment of the annual budget is well below the actual inflation rate, calls therefore for the adequate level of the payment appropriations and budgetary flexibility to respond in time to the highly unpredictable needs in 2023;
Amendment 62 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 e (new)
Paragraph 7 e (new)
7 e. Calls on the Member States to comply with all the country-specific recommendations of the European Semester, in particular in the field of the rule of law, and to implement the necessary reforms in line with the condition of protecting the Union budget;
Amendment 63 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 f (new)
Paragraph 7 f (new)
Amendment 64 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 g (new)
Paragraph 7 g (new)
7 g. Highlights the need to secure adequate funding for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund; acknowledges that the protection of the EU’s external borders is a condition for the proper functioning of the Schengen area;
Amendment 65 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 h (new)
Paragraph 7 h (new)
7 h. Highlights the need to secure adequate financial and human resources to Court of Auditors, the European Anti- Fraud Office and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office to scrutinise the use of EU funds;
Amendment 66 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 i (new)
Paragraph 7 i (new)
7 i. Highlights that developments in the fields if sustainable finance, fintech, anti-money laundering, cyber resilience, payments and non-bank financial intermediation will entail new competences and tasks for ESAs, which should be accompanied by adequate staffing and funding;
Amendment 152 #
2022/0000(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) increase the EU’s strategic sovereignty in specific areas that are fundamental to its continued pre-eminence on the international stage, for example by achieving full security of energy supply, energy diversification and energy independence, prioritising the reduction of energy dependencies, ensuring supply chains are diversified and that there is reciprocity in trade exchanges and the tools to counteract economic coercion, and ensuring the Union has food and agricultural sovereignty;
Amendment 13 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
— having regard to the Council’s conclusions on Enlargement and Association and Stabilisation Process of 14 December 2021, the Statement of the Members of the European Council of 25 March 2021 on the Eastern Mediterranean, to the European Council’s conclusions of 24 June 2021 and 1 October 2020, and to all previous relevant Council and European Council conclusions,
Amendment 30 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
— having regard to the UNESCO statement of 10 July 2020 on Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
Amendment 33 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8
Citation 8
— having regard to the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council on Cyprus, including resolution 550(1984) of 11 May 1984 on secessionist actions in Cyprus and resolution 789(1992) of 25 November 1992 which consider attempts to settle any part of Varosha by people other than its inhabitants as inadmissible, and call for the transfer of that area to the administration of the United Nations urging all concerned in the Cyprus question to commit themselves to the confidence-building measures set out in the resolution,
Amendment 44 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital -A (new)
Recital -A (new)
-A. whereas Turkey has been linked to the EU by an association agreement since 1964 and whereas a customs union was established in 1995; whereas the European Council granted the status of candidate country to Turkey in December 1999 and whereas accession negotiations were opened in 2005; whereas as a candidate country and as an important partner of the EU, Turkey is expected to respect and uphold the Copenhagen criteria and to uphold the highest standards of democracy, respect of human rights and the rule of law, including compliance with the international conventions acceded to by the EU; whereas being a candidate country entails the need to pursue and maintain good neighbourly relations with the EU and its Member States indiscriminately;
Amendment 52 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas Turkey, besides being a candidate for EU accession, is a key partner in relation to the economy, trade and migration, as well as a strategic partneressential areas of joint interest, such as migration, public health, climate, counter – terrorism and regional issues;
Amendment 61 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas, in the aftermath of recent tensions between the EU and Turkey, particularly in relation to the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, the European Council offered to nurture a more positive dynamic in EU-Turkey relations by expressing readiness to engage with Turkey in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner in a number of areas of common interest, provided that the de-escalation of recent tensions between the EU and Turkey, particularly in relation to the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, is sustained and that Turkey engages constructively and subject to the established conditionalities set out in previous European Council conclusions;
Amendment 74 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas being a candidate country presumes a willingness to progressively approach in all aspects the values, interests, standards and policies of the EU; whereas an analysis of the EU’s reports in recent years reveal that Turkey’s distance from the EU’s values and its normative framework is still considerable and is even growing in fundamental areas such as the rule of law and human rights as well as good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation;
Amendment 85 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas over the past year, EU- Turkey relations have on average remained stable, as enhanced cooperation and dialogue on a number of issues have coexisted with regular conflictsthe Council reiterated that Turkey continues to move further away from the European Union, and that Turkey’s accession negotiations have effectively come to a standstill and no further chapters can be considered for opening or closing, while according to the Commission, the underlying facts leading to this assessment still hold; nonetheless, dialogue and cooperation with Turkey increased in 2021; whereas this report reflects this situation by welcoming positive developments and pointing to further potential in the relationship, while signalling remaining problems, in particular as regards the rule of law and fundamental rights and good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation;
Amendment 110 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Reiterates its concern about the persistent distance between the EU and Turkey, despite it being a candidate country, in terms of values and standards, and the continuing lack of political will to carry out the necessary reforms to address, in particular, the serious concerns about the rule of law and fundamental rights that continue to negatively affect the accession process; notes that, in addition to this, unilateral actions in breach of international law in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea as well as strong and provocative statements against the EU and its Member States have deteriorated EU-Turkey relations; considers that without clear progress in thisese fields, Parliament cannot envisage any resumption of accession negotiations with Turkey, which have effectively been at a standstill since 2018;
Amendment 129 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes, however, that there has been a slight improvement over the past year in overall EU-Turkey relations, which have on average remained stable, as enhanced cooperation and dialogue on a number of issues have coexisted with regular conflicts that good neighbourly relations form an essential part of moving towards the EU; notes that bilateral relations remained challenging with neighbouring EU Member States, particularly Greece and Cyprus; notes that tensions in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean were not conducive to good neighbourly relations and undermined regional stability and security; expresses its hope that this pattern of ‘conflictual cooperation’ can be overcome and replaced with a more positive dynamic;
Amendment 154 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Reiterates its firm conviction that Turkey is a country of strategic relevance in political, economic and foreign policy terms, a partner that is key for the stability of the wider region,the European Union’s strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and ain ally with which the EU wishes to pursue the best possible relationsthe development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey; welcomes, in this view, the recent statements expressed at the highest level by the Turkish authorities about the recommitment of the Turkish Government to the EU path, but urges the Turkish authorities to put their words into action and demonstrate this commitment with specific facts and decisions;
Amendment 164 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Expresses concern over the current economic situation in Turkey, which through soaring inflation and a constantly rising cost of living is pushing a high and increasing number of people into hardship and poverty as reflected in the OECD 2021 Report on Turkey;
Amendment 256 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Takes note of the adoption of the fourth and fifth judicial packages in Turkey during 2021; asserts, however, that the current problems stem not only from problematic legislation, but are often caused by a failurelack of political will to implement existing adequate provisions; remains concerned about the erosion of the rule of law and judicial independence in Turkey;
Amendment 302 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Calls on the Turkish authorities to promote positive and effective reforms in the area of the freedom of thought, conscience and religion by enabling religious communities to obtain legal personality, and by applying Venice Commission recommendations on the status of religious communities, all relevant ECtHR rulings and Council of Europe resolutions, including on the Greek Orthodox population of the islands of Gokceada (Imbros) and Bozcaada (Tenedos); notes that following the decision to turn Hagia Sophia into a mosque in July 2020, another museum among the World Heritage Sites in Turkey was converted into a mosque; notes the recent developments with regard to the historical Panaghia Soumela Monastery, when images on social media depicted a foreign band dancing to disco music inside this monument, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative list; notes that no steps were taken to open the Halki (Heybeliada) Greek Orthodox Seminary, closed since 1971; reiterates its call on Turkey to respect the importance of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for Orthodox Christians all over the world, to recognise its legal personality and the public use of the ecclesiastical title of the Ecumenical Patriarch; notes with concern that hate speech and hate crimes against Christians and Jews continued to be reported, Alevis faced hate crimes, and investigations in this regard remained ineffective
Amendment 307 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Is concerned that full respect for and protection of language, religion, culture, cultural heritage and fundamental rights of minorities in accordance with European standards have yet to be achieved and calls upon Turkey to take action.
Amendment 318 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Notes with great concernStrongly condemns the indictment refilled by Turkey’s Chief Public Prosecutor at the Constitutional Court seeking the dissolution of the HDP and a political ban on nearly 500 HDP members, including most of its current leadership, which would prevent them from conducting any kind of political activity in the next five years and that the HDP and its party organisations have been specifically and continuously targeted by the Turkish authorities, leading to a situation where over 4 000 HDP members are currently in prison; continues to strongly condemn the continued detention since November 2016 of Selahattin Demirtaş and Figen Yüksekdağ, the former co-chairs of the HDP;
Amendment 368 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Commends the efforts made by Turkey to continue hosting the largest refugee population in the world; welcomes, in this regard, the continued provision of EU funding for refugees and host communities in Turkey, and expresses its commitment to sustain this support in the future; calls on Turkey to ensure the full and non-discriminatory implementation of the EU-Turkey Statement of 2016, including vis a vis the Republic of Cyprus, as well as to resume the readmission of returnees from the Greek islands interrupted in March 2020, and Turkey’s obligation to take any necessary measures to prevent new sea or land routes for illegal migration opening from Turkey to the EU, and its will to cooperate with neighbouring states as well as the EU to this effect and with fundamental rights as part of its implementation process; Believes that strengthening trade relations could bring concrete benefits to citizens in Turkey and the EU therefore takes note of the Commission’s proposal to work on a mandate on the potential upgrading of the Customs Union provided that it is implemented vis-à-vis all Member States would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and fundamental freedoms and that it can only be envisaged following Turkey’s full implementation of the Additional Protocol to extend the Association Agreement towards all Member States without reserve and in a non-discriminatory fashion; stresses that both parties must be fully aware of this democratic conditionality from the very onset of any negotiations, as the Parliament will not give its consent to the final agreement without results on the aforementioned preconditions in this field; notes that visa liberalisation would constitute an important step towards facilitating people-to-people contacts and is of great importance for Turkish citizens, particularly for students, academics, business representatives and people with family ties in EU Member States; continues its support for the visa liberalisation process once the set conditions have been fully and effectively implemented and encourages the Turkish Government to fully comply with the 72 criteria identified in the visa liberalisation roadmap in a non-discriminatory manner towards all member-states; stresses that there has been very little real progress on the outstanding benchmarks still to be fulfilled by Turkey; notes that the new Action Plan on Human Rights foresees the acceleration of the fulfilment of the remaining benchmarks; stresses that the revision of Turkey’s anti-terrorism legislation and Data Protection Law are key conditions for ensuring fundamental rights and freedoms; regrets that as a result of Turkey’s instrumentalization of refugees a continuing increase in asylum applications was registered in Cyprus in 2021; notes that pending the full and effective implementation of the EU- Turkey Readmission Agreement vis-à-vis all Member States, existing bilateral readmission agreements and provisions in similar agreements and arrangements with EU Member States, should be adequately implemented; cooperation in the area of justice and home affairs with all EU Member States remains essential;
Amendment 370 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Commends the efforts made by Turkey to continue hosting the largest refugee population in the world; welcomes, in this regard, the continued provision of EU funding for refugees and host communities in Turkey, and expresses its commitment to sustain this support in the future; emphasises that the instrumentalisation of migrants and refugees cannot be accepted as a tool for political leverage and blackmail; notes that pending the full and effective implementation of the Joint EU – Turkey Statement of 2016 and the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement vis-à-vis all Member States, existing bilateral readmission agreements and provisions in similar agreements and arrangements with Member States should be adequately implemented; effective border management, as well as the resumption of returns, continue to be priorities;
Amendment 407 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Acknowledges that Turkey can pursue its own foreign policy in line with its interests and goals, but expects this policy to be defended through diplomacy and dialogue based on international law and, as a candidate country, to be increasingly aligned with that of the EU; notes that Turkey’s CFSP alignment remained at very low levels and its increasingly assertive foreign policy continued to collide with the EU priorities under the CFSP, notably due to its support for military actions in the Caucasus, Syria, Libya and Iraq; notes that the EU has repeatedly stressed the need for Turkey to respect the sovereign rights of EU member states, which include entering into bilateral agreements and exploring and exploiting their natural resources in accordance with the EU acquis and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea; stresses that Turkey needs to commit itself unequivocally to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and to the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with the United Nations Charter, having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice;
Amendment 438 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Welcomes the decrease in tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean during the past year, but remains fully aware that these positive dynamics could be reversed at any moment while the underlying issues remain unresolved; condemns, in this regard, the continuous harassment and hindrance by Turkish warships of research vessels from performing surveys on the potential route of the East Med Pipeline, which is an energy project of EU Common Interest (PCI), within the EEZ/ continental shelf of Member States; calls on Turkey to respect the sovereignty of all EU Member States over their territorial sea and airspace as well as their sovereign rights, including inter alia the right to explore and exploit natural resources, in accordance with EU and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which is part of the EU acquis; continues to urge Turkey to unequivocally commit to good neighborly relations, international agreements and to the peaceful settlement of disputes, having recourse, if necessary to the International Court of Justice and to refrain from any unilateral action or threats; supports, in this respect, the invitation by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to Turkey to negotiate in good faith the maritime delimitation between their relevant coasts, or have recourse, to the International Court of Justice, and calls on Turkey to accept Cyprus’ invitation; reiterates its call on the Turkish Government to halt its plans for the Akkuyu nuclear power plant, which will be located in a region prone to severe earthquakes, therefore posing a major threat not only to Turkey, but also to the Mediterranean region; requests, accordingly, that the Turkish Government join the Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context (Espoo Convention), which commits its parties to notifying and consulting each other about major projects under consideration that are likely to have a significant adverse environmental impact across borders; asks the Turkish Government, to this end, to involve or at least consult the governments of its neighbouring countries in relation to any further developments in the Akkuyu venture;
Amendment 448 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. WelcomNotes theat decrease in tensspite the initial indications towards a de-escalations in the Eastern Mediterranean during the past year, but remains fully aware that these positive dynamics could be reversed at any moment while the underlying issues remain unresolved tensions continued to remain high with Member States, in particular Greece and Cyprus;
Amendment 460 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. DeploRegrets the fact that the unresolved conflict in Cyprus is a major obstacle to EU-Cyprus problem remains unresolved and stresses that a solution in line with the relevant UNSC resolutions will have a positive impact on Turkey’s relations with the EU; reaffirms its view that the only sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue is that of a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with a single international legal personality and political equality, as set out in relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and in accordance with international law and on the basis of respect for the principles on which the Union is founded and the acquis;; deeply regrets that Turkey has abandoned this UN frameworke agreed UN framework and its insistence to a two state solution in Cyprus and that it continues to violate UN Security Council resolutions, with unilateral, illegal and provocative actions including by the opening of the fenced off area of Varosha; notes that EU funding to Turkey will be subject to rules on conditionality, including for respecting the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and European values and principles; praises the important work of the bi- communal Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) and calls on the Turkish authorities to advance their efforts to provide the CMP proprio motu and without delay with all information at their disposal relating to burial sites and any other places where remains might be found, including information in military archives;
Amendment 468 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Deplores the fact that the unresolved conflict in Cyprus isremains unresolved, constituting a major obstacle to EU-Turkey relations; reaffirms its view that the only sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue is that of a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement, including its external aspects, within the UN framework, on the basis of a bi- communal, bi-zonal federation with a single international legal personality and political equality, in accordance with international law and on the basis of respect for, with all relevant UNSC resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EUnion is founded and the acquis; deeply regrets that Turkey has abandoned this UN framework; the EU will continue to play an active role in supporting the process;
Amendment 477 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Strongly condemns Turkey’s unilateral actions in relation to Varosha that run contrary to the UN Security Council Resolutions and recalls the importance of the status of Varosha and the need for full respect of UN Security Council Resolutions, in particular Resolutions 550, 789 and 1251, as underlined by the 24 June 2021 European Council. The Council calls for the immediate reversal of these actions and the reversal of all steps taken on Varosha since October 2020;
Amendment 488 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
24 b. Strongly condemns Turkey’s illegal activities in Greek and Cypriot waters, as well as its violations of the Greek national airspace, including overflights of inhabited areas, and its territorial sea, which violate both the sovereignty and the sovereign rights of an EU Member State and international law; expresses its full solidarity with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus; reaffirms the right of the Republic of Cyprus to enter into bilateral agreements on its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and explore and exploit its natural resources in full compliance with relevant international law; expresses its grave concern about the illegal Turkish fishing activities within Greek territorial waters in the Aegean Sea and the unregulated and unreported fishing activities of Turkish fishing fleets in international waters in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean; calls on all sides for a genuine collective engagement to negotiate the delimitation of EEZs and the continental shelf in good faith, fully respecting international law and the principle of good relations between neighbours; notes with regret that the casus belli declared by the TGNA against Greece in 1995 has not been withdrawn yet; welcomes the continuation of exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey, which seek to address, the delimitation of the continental shelf and the EEZ in line with international law; reiterates its call on the Turkish Government to sign and ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which is part of the European Union acquis; notes that the Council’s conclusions of 15 July 2019, in the light of Turkey’s continued and new illegal drilling activities, not to hold the Association Council and further meetings of the EU-Turkey high-level dialogues for the time being remain valid, urges Turkey to unequivocally commit to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and to the peaceful settlement of disputes, having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice; Turkey must stop all threats and actions that damage good neighbourly relations, normalise its relations with the Republic of Cyprus and respect the sovereignty of all EU Member States over their territorial sea and airspace as well as all their sovereign rights, including inter alia the right to explore and exploit natural resources, in accordance with EU and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS);
Amendment 498 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 c (new)
Paragraph 24 c (new)
24 c. Strongly condemns the Turkish military interventions in Syria, which constitute grave violations of international law and risk undermining the stability and security of the region as a whole; calls on the Government of Turkey to end its illegal occupation of northern Syria and Afrin and to withdraw its military and paramilitary proxy forces; reiterates that security concerns cannot justify unilateral military action in a foreign country; recalls its position, as expressed in previous resolutions, on the introduction of an initiative in the Council for all EU Member States to halt the licencing of arms exports to Turkey in accordance with Council Common Position2008/944/CFSP;
Amendment 505 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 d (new)
Paragraph 24 d (new)
24 d. Notes that the persistent foreign interference in Libya continued to challenge seriously the implementation of the UN-led Berlin process; Turkey claimed that the UN embargo provisions, the articles on withdrawal of foreign elements and the suspension of military training in the cease-fire agreement are not applicable to the legitimate government; on a regular basis, the Turkish Ministry of Defence issued statements on ongoing training with Libyan forces and the legitimate presence of Turkish military forces; the presence of mercenary forces was a complicating factor; Turkey maintained its unjustified opinion that Operation IRINI is not balanced and that it disproportionally targets the Government of National Accord. Turkey continued to assert the validity of the Turkish-Libyan maritime delimitation and military agreements of 2019 which the EU considers an infringement upon the sovereign rights of third States, not complying with the Law of the Sea and having no legal consequences for third States; the EU listed a Turkish shipping company in the framework of violations of the Libya weapons embargo;
Amendment 510 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 e (new)
Paragraph 24 e (new)
24 e. Recalls the need for Turkey to address obligations as regards the implementation of the EU-Turkey Customs Union, ensuring its effective application to all Member States. regrets Turkey’s continued deviations from its obligations under the EU-Turkey Customs Union, and recalls that trade barriers or equivalent that are not in conformity with it should be removed without delay; recalls, in this sense, that the current customs union will not achieve its full potential until Turkey fully implements the Additional Protocol to extend the Ankara Agreement towards all Member States without reserve and in anon-discriminatory fashion in relation to all Member States, and until all existing trade irritants are resolved; stresses that a modernisation of the Customs Union would be beneficial for both parties and would keep Turkey economically and normatively anchored to the EU; reiterates that this modernisation would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and fundamental freedoms as prescribed by the Copenhagen criteria on good neighbourly relations with the EU and all its Member States and on its non-discriminatory implementation;
Amendment 512 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 f (new)
Paragraph 24 f (new)
24 f. Continues its support for the visa liberalization process once the set conditions have been met; points out that visa liberalization would constitute an important step towards facilitating people- to-people contacts and notes that it is of great importance, particularly for students, academics, business representatives and people with family ties in EU Member States, but stresses that there has been very little real progress on the six outstanding benchmarks still to be fulfilled by Turkey; asks the Government of Turkey to fully comply with these benchmarks in a non-discriminatory manner, including with regard to all EU Member States;
Amendment 519 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Insists that democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights should remain at the heart of EU-Turkey relations under any framework; reaffirms its support for keeping the accession process and its value-based approach as the main framework for EU-Turkey relations, as it is still the most powerful tool to exercise normative pressure and sustain the democratic and pro-European aspirations of Turkish society; nevertheless remains open to the possibility of both sides reviewing, in a realistic manner, the appropriateness of this framework and its ability to function, or, if necessary, exploring other possible models for future relations;
Amendment 529 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Insists that democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights should remain at the heart of EU-Turkey relations under any framework; reaffirms its support for keeping the accession process and its value-based approach as the main framework for EU-Turkey relations, alongside the principles of international law and multilateralism, as it is still the most powerful tool to exercise normative pressure and sustain the democratic and pro-European aspirations of Turkish society; nevertheless remains open to the possibility of both sides reviewing, in a realistic manner, the appropriateness of this framework and its ability to function, or, if necessary, exploring other possible models for future relations;
Amendment 545 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Notes that the current state of ‘conflictual cooperation’ in EU-Turkey relations is prone to producing unsatisfactory results; calls for a rebalancing of the relationship by building on the solid grounds for cooperation driven by mutual interests, and also by building confidence to address the lack of trust; believes that an orderly dispute settlement mechanism may be beneficial in such an overall framework and calls on the Commission to explore the creation of such a mechanism in accordance with obligations under the Negotiating Framework;
Amendment 547 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
Amendment 557 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27 a. Believes that the EU should continue to pursue all possible instances of dialogue, common understanding and convergence of positions with Turkey; invites Turkey to engage in constructive and bona fide dialogue –including on issues of foreign policy where Turkey and the EU have been on opposing terms- with a view to once again finding common ground and a common understanding with the EU, restarting dialogue and cooperation on good neighbourly relations, and relaunching the process of reforms in Turkey; reiterates that, failing that, and in the event of renewed unilateral actions or provocations in breach of international law, the EU should use all the instruments and the options at its disposal, including targeted sanctions as a last resort, which should not have an adverse impact on the Turkish people, civil society or refugees in Turkey;
Amendment 559 #
2021/2250(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
27 b. Considers that, as a necessary step in order to improve the overall state of relations, both sides need to use respectful language, make efforts to fight existing prejudices and misconceptions, and allow for a more objective and complete consideration of the other side’s image in the respective public opinion, reversing the mutually deteriorating perceptions; calls on this view on the Commission to launch a communication policy towards Turkish society aimed at raising awareness about the EU; stresses that a belligerent, revisionist and aggressive rhetoric only reinforces extreme positions on both sides and that a purely confrontational approach plays into the hands of those who are aiming to pull Turkey and the EU apart;
Amendment 65 #
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 and human rights, including the protection of persons belonging to minorities, counter corruption and organised crime, and ensure media freedom;
Amendment 94 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Encourages the government to accelerate administrative preparations for the upcoming accession negotiations and to make the best possible use of assistance and transfer of know-how provided by EU Member States in this regard; stresses the importance of having in place coherent government structures to effectively coordinate EU integration matters; 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 97 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Welcomes the adoption to the Population Census Law and looks forward to the smooth conduct of the upcoming Population Census in full transparency and in line with international standards..
Amendment 141 #
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, and rights of people with disabilities and minority rights;
Amendment 147 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Amendment 153 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Calls on Albania to continue the ongoing efforts to implement a comprehensive land sector reform and to consolidate property rights, in transparent manner by holding consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including by addressing cases of falsification of documents and swiftly advancing the process for registration and compensation.
Amendment 224 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 f (new)
Paragraph 29 f (new)
29f. Recalls the urgency of the fight against drug trafficking networks in Albania, which are gaining increased international access.
Amendment 276 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. WelcomEncourages the Albanian Government’s to continued steps promoting good neighbourly relations, ands well as enhancing inclusive regional integration by developing a Regional Economic Area;
Amendment 1 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 14 December 2022, on the prospects of the two-stat solution for Israel and Palestine
Amendment 16 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 a (new)
Citation 24 a (new)
— having regard to the Open Doors World Watch List 2023,
Amendment 23 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 30
Citation 30
Amendment 24 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the two-state solution, with the state of Israel andEU remains united it its commitment to achieving a two-state solution, based on the parameters in the Council conclusions of July 2014 that allow the sState of PalestineIsrael to livinge side by side, together in peace, security and mutual recognition under the 1967 borders with mutually agreed upon land swaps and Jerusalem as the capital of both states, is the only viable solution to the conflictwith an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign and viable State of Palestine;
Amendment 28 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the two-state solution, withon the state of Israel and the state of Palestine living side by side, together in peace, security and mutual recognition under the 1967 borders with mutually agreed upon land swaps and Jerusalem as the capital of both states,basis of the 1967 lines with two sovereign, democratic states living side by side in peace and guaranteed security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, and in full respect of international law is the only viable solution to the conflict;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the Palestinian leadership has repeatedly called for renewedplaced preconditions on the peace talks leading to a two-state solution, which has not been reciprocated by the Israeli Governmentereas the successive Israeli Governments have also offered peace talks but without any preconditions;
Amendment 41 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas both Israel and the Palestinian leadership hasve repeatedly called for renewed peace talks leading to a two-state solution, which has not been reciprocated by the Israeli Governmentsustainable solution providing peace and security;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2207(INI)
B a. whereas Arab states such as Egypt or Jordan, which have maintained diplomatic relations with Israel for years, have played a meaningful role in promoting dialogue on the Middle East Peace Process, including on security and stability; underlines the continuing relevance of investing in meaningful negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority; whereas one of the premises for the Abraham Accords was the halting of annexation plans in the West Bank; whereas on all parties should respect this;
Amendment 46 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas the Iranian regime continues to influence the PA, and represents a serious threat to peace and stability in the region;
Amendment 55 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the Israeli occupation of -Palestinian territoryconflict has been ongoing for 55 years; whereas the number of settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem has dramatically increased since the signing of the Oslo Accords in contravention of international law and the objective of peace;
Amendment 72 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas European development partners (the EU, its Member States, Norway and Switzerland) are by far the largest donors and disburse EUR 1.2 billion annually in official development assistance to Palestinethe PA;
Amendment 78 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas EU assistance provides vital budget support to the PA through the PEGASE programme; whereas since the beginning of the current multiannual financial framework, EU assistance to Palestine has been ad hoc; whereas the 2021-2024 joint strategy provides a basis on which annual action programmes can be adopted, but a multiannual prospect for concrete fundingwhereas an effective oversight and examination of where the funds are allocated is still lacking ;
Amendment 80 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas EU assistance provides vital budget support to the PA through the PEGASE programme; whereas since the beginning of the current multiannual financial framework, EU assistance to Palestinethe PA has been ad hoc; whereas the 2021- 2024 joint strategy provides a basis on which annual action programmes can be adopted, but a multiannual prospect for concrete funding is still lacking;
Amendment 86 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas EU funding includes a multiannual contribution to UNRWA, whose work Parliament continually supports and advocates to be continued; reminds that the conditionality of EU financial assistance in the educational sector needs to be duly considered; insists that the Commission must guarantee that no Union funds are allocated or linked to any form of terrorism and/or religious and political radicalisation;
Amendment 89 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas EU funding includes a multiannual contribution to UNRWA, whose work Parliament continually supports and advocates to be continued as long as UNRWA concretely promotes education based on peacebuilding, tolerance, coexistence;
Amendment 105 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas in 2011, the UN Ad Hoc Liaison Committee concluded that Palestinian institutions are ready for statehood; whereas however, since then, the democratic status of Palestine has deteriorated owing to the ongoing occupation and internal problems, as well as worsening rule of law and, corruption and terrorism;
Amendment 106 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas in 2011, the UN Ad Hoc Liaison Committee concluded that Palestinian institutions are ready for statehood; whereas however, since then, the democratic status of Palestinethe PA has deteriorated owing to the ongoing occupation and internal problems, as well as worsening rule of law and corruption;
Amendment 107 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas in 2011, the UN Ad Hoc Liaison Committee concluded that Palestinian institutions are ready for statehood; whereas however, since then, the democratic status of Palestine has deteriorated owing to the ongoing occupation and internal problems, as well as worsening rule of law and corruption;
Amendment 111 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the PA faces a crisis of legitimacy; whereas the last Palestinian parliamentary elections were held in 2006; whereas the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, as set out in Article 2 TEU; whereas the Union's action on the international scene should be guided by these principles;
Amendment 119 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas Palestinian Hamas is designated as a terrorist organisation by the EU;
Amendment 123 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)
Recital H b (new)
H b. whereas the terrorist organisation Hamas aims to annihilate the State of Israel;
Amendment 130 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas socioeconomic and employment conditions in the Palestineian Territories have severely deteriorated; whereas the BDS movement has led to many Palestinians losing their jobs; whereas the Israeli occupation involves significant restrictions on the Palestinian economy, which undermines the effectiveness of EU aid and further increases Palestinian dependence on foreign aid;
Amendment 139 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
I a. Whereas a significant reason behind the deterioration of the social and economic conditions in the Palestinian territories is related to corruption in the PA;
Amendment 140 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
I a. whereas according to the Open Doors World Watch List 2023, Christians in the Palestinian Territories face discrimination and persecution;
Amendment 146 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
I b. whereas women in the Palestinian Territories face discrimination and still have fewer rights than men, for instance in relation to divorce, custody of children and inheritance;
Amendment 148 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I c (new)
Recital I c (new)
I c. whereas even though same-sex acts is decriminalised in the West Bank persons belonging to the LGBTQI+ community still face harassment and discrimination; whereas there are no laws that protect LGBTQI+ persons from discrimination and harassment; whereas Palestinians belonging to the LGBTQI+ community frequently seek refuge in Israel and in the EU, fearing for their lives, and fearing death from members of their own family; whereas Gaza criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual activity between men and LGBTQI+ people can face up to 10 years of imprisonment;
Amendment 151 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I d (new)
Recital I d (new)
I d. whereas hate speech and the incitement to violence are still taught in Palestinian school materials; whereas the EU-commissioned study by the Georg- Eckert Institute published last June confirmed previous reports of antisemitism, glorification of terror and the erasure of Israel on maps in Palestinian schoolbooks; whereas the EU demands that all schoolbooks and school materials supported by Union funds must be in line with UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, coexistence, and non- violence;
Amendment 156 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) reiterate the EU’s stroits unwavering support for thea negotiated two-state solution, as on the only viable solution to the conflict, with the state of Israel and the state of Palestine living side by side, together in peace, security and mutual recognition under the 1967 borders with mutually agreed upon land swaps and Jerusalem as the capital of both statesbasis of the 1967 lines with two sovereign, democratic states living side by side in peace and guaranteed security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, and in full respect of international law;
Amendment 174 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) continue to underline that Israeli settlements in the oPt are illegal; call for an end to all actions that undermine the viability of the two-state solutiona sustainable solution providing peace and security on the ground;
Amendment 179 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) stress the importance of direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestineian Authority and remind both sides of the importance of the participation of women in all levels of the negotiation, ethnic and religious minorities;
Amendment 185 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(c a) recognise that the Abraham Accords are a factor in the reorganisation of inter-state relations in the region and must be taken into account in a European strategy aimed at helping the region to achieve stability;
Amendment 187 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(c a) underline the importance of the condemnation of hate speech and violent behaviour by the PA Authorities;
Amendment 190 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point c b (new)
(c b) support the need to, with the respective Arab countries that have signed the Abraham Accords, explore how their normalisation agreements with Israel can be conducive to the two-state solution;
Amendment 195 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) support Palestinian calls for renewed and inclusive political representation; strongly urge the PA and President Abbas to hold free and fair national elections in order to strengthen the legitimacy of the Palestinian political leadership; stress that it is unacceptable that the PA has held no elections in more than 16 years; call on Israel to respect its obligations to allow these elections to take place in East Jerusalem; promote the participation of youth and women;
Amendment 200 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) support Palestinian calls for renewed and inclusive political representation; strongly urge the PA and President Abbas to hold free and fair national elections in order to strengthen the legitimacy of the Palestinian political leadership; call on Israel to respect its obligations to allow these elections to take place in East Jerusalem; promote the participation of youth and women, women and ethnic minorities;
Amendment 204 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(d a) express grave concern about people affiliated with EU-listed terrorist organisations running or seeking to run for Palestinian political office; insist again that the EU and the international community must be able to observe these elections, upon invitation;
Amendment 208 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
(e) strongly call for East Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to be brought under one legitimate, democratic PA rule that respects Israel's right to exist in security and peace; facilitate political consensus and reconciliation among Palestinian political factions; stress the importance of democratic elections being respected by all parties involved;
Amendment 219 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(f a) strongly condemn the harassment and discrimination of persons belonging to the LGBTQI+ community and “honour killings” of girls and women; call for concrete measures to be enacted to fight discrimination and the lack of protection for LGBTQI+ persons, women, religious minorities and other marginalised groups;
Amendment 223 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) urge the PA to eliminate repressive restrictions on the funding and registration of non-governmental organisations and to respect the freedom of assembly and expression and freedom of religion;
Amendment 227 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
(g a) call on the PA to condemn any organizations that are affiliated with or express support for extremist and terrorists;
Amendment 231 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) condemn the continued, widespread use of torture by Palestinian authorities; demand that the PA establish independent and reliable mechanisms to investigate occurrences of torture or ill- treatment within its territory;
Amendment 236 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(h a) Call on the PA to eliminate any kind of political connection with the terrorist regime in Iran;
Amendment 240 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) call on the PA to amend national legislation to align with international legal standards on anti-discrimination to ensure that hate crimes are prohibited under the law, and to diligently investigate any anti- Semitic or other discriminatory motives;
Amendment 247 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
Amendment 260 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) comply with the commitment to fully and effectively implement existing EU legislation and the bilateral arrangements applicable to settlement products; demand the adoption of EU legislation banning trade with settlements in the oPt, in compliance with international humanitarian law;
Amendment 263 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) engage with the PA to jointly establish a more regular political dialogue at the ministerial level and to launch, as soon as possible, negotiations on a full association agreement between the EU and Palestine; convene an assbuild up towards an eventual association agreement once the PA shows it respects the demociration council when an agreement has been reachedc principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 265 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) engage with the PA to jointly establish a more regular political dialogue at the ministerial level and to launch, as soon as possible and with strict conditionality, negotiations on a full association agreement between the EU and Palestinethe PA; convene an association council when an agreement has been reached;
Amendment 271 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)
(m a) address the widespread antisemitism among the Palestinians in private and public; reiterate the EU:s commitment to combat all forms of antisemitism and stress that such a commitment will affect all of its relations with the Palestinian Authority.
Amendment 276 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n
Paragraph 1 – point n
(n) work towards an immediate end to the blockade of the Gaza Strip while making sure that both parties respect each other’s right to exist; strongly and publicly condemn the rhetoric from Hamas wanting the annihilation of the State of Israel;
Amendment 280 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point n a (new)
(n a) strongly condemn Palestinian terrorist groups firing indiscriminate rockets into Israel;
Amendment 284 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) actively offer to deploy an election observation mission to the oPtWest Bank upon the announcement of general elections;
Amendment 287 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) enhance funding, including humanitarian aid and development assistance, for the green transition, good governance and anti-corruption efforts, including public financial management reform; expand aid to Palestinian civil society, including to human rights defenders under attack; create a scrutiny mechanism to make sure that the funding is going to the right place and assess if progress is being made and make sure that that EU funds do not directly or indirectly finance terrorism any longer, including the six Palestinian organisations who has close links with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), an EU terror designated group;
Amendment 290 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) enhance funding, including humanitarian aid and development assistance, for the green transition, good governance and anti-corruption efforts, including public financial management reform; expand aid to Palestinian civil society, including to human rights defenders under attack; call on the PA to stop rewarding terrorists via the provision of payments to their families from the "Palestinian Authority Martyrs' Fund", which acts as a means to incite and glorify terrorism;
Amendment 291 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) enhance funding, including humanitarian aid and development assistance, for the green transition, good governance and anti-corruption efforts, including public financial management reform; expand aid to Palestinian civil society, including to human rights defenders under attack and develop a more rigorous process to check where European funds are used to prevent any taxpayer money going to terrorist organisations or affiliates;
Amendment 293 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) enhance funding, including humanitarian aid and development assistance, for the green transition, good governance and anti-corruption efforts, including public financial management reform; expand aid to Palestinian civil society, including to human rights defenders under attack; make sure that access to EU funding is subject to a clear conditionality in the fight against antisemitism, extremism and terrorism;
Amendment 299 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point p a (new)
(p a) call on the PA to eradicate all anti- Semitic content and incitement to violence from its school textbooks; call on the EU and its Member States to reiterate in their exchanges with representatives of the PA that this is a longstanding issue that must be resolved immediately;
Amendment 313 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – point r
(r) express concern about how EU policy and effectiveness of financial assistance in the Palestineian Territories are undermined by illegal settlements, the Israeli occupation and related restrictions on the Palestinian economy; demand compensation for the demolition of all EU- funded infrastructure in the oPt;
Amendment 314 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – point r
(r) express concern about how EU policy and effectiveness of financial assistance in Palestine are undermined by illegal settlements, the Israeli occupation and related restrictions on the Palestinian economycall for both parties to respect EU policy in order to ensure the effectiveness of financial assistance; demand compensation for the demolition of all EU- funded infrastructure in the oPt;
Amendment 331 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u
Paragraph 1 – point u
(u) ensure continued and additional financial support to Palestinian refugees through UNRWA to meet the increasing needs on the ground; welcome the Commission’s firm commitment to fighting anti-semitism and engaging with the Palestinian Authority and the UNRWA to promote quality education for Palestinian children and ensure full adherence to UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, co- existence, and non- violence in Palestinian textbooks; call therefore on the Commission to establish a clear conditionality in the fight against antisemitism in order to gain access to EU funds;
Amendment 339 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u
Paragraph 1 – point u
(u) ensure continued and additional financial support to Palestinian refugees through UNRWA to meet the increasing needs on the ground while making sure that the financial support is being used to activities reflecting the EU values;
Amendment 344 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point u a (new)
(u a) make sure that all education curricula funded by the EU are in line with UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, co-existence and non-violence and strongly condemns the hate speech, violence and antisemitism that continue to be found in Palestinian Authority education curricula;
Amendment 345 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point u a (new)
(u a) express concern for the mounting violence that has characterised the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since 2022 and the potential for this to further escalate; note in this context that Israel suffered in January 2023, its most deadly Palestinian terrorist attack since 2008;
Amendment 348 #
2021/2207(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point u b (new)
(u b) work to fully designate Hezbollah and the IRGC as terrorist organizations, which would strengthen the EU’s calls on the PA to end its links with those entities;
Amendment 2 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 a (new)
Citation 24 a (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 3 October 2017 on EU political relations with ASEAN,
Amendment 3 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 b (new)
Citation 24 b (new)
— having regard to the 29th EU- ASEAN Joint Cooperation Committee Meeting held on 11 February 2022,
Amendment 4 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 24 c (new)
Citation 24 c (new)
— having regard to the inaugural European Parliament-ASEAN Inter- Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Inter- Regional Dialogue held on 22 June 2021,
Amendment 14 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Europe and the Indo- Pacific together represent over 70 % of global trade in goods and services and over 60 % of foreign direct investment (FDI) with their annual trade reaching EUR 1.5 trillion in 2019; whereas the region produces 60 % of global gross domestic product (GDP) and contributes to two thirds of global economic growth; whereas the EU is the biggest investor in the area, which includes four (China, Japan, South Korea and India) out of the EU’s top 10 global trading partners; 1a _________________ 1a https://ec.europa.eu/info/sites/default/files /jointcommunication_indo_pacific_en.pdf
Amendment 18 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. Whereas the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) opened a new chapter in their longstanding relations by entering in a Strategic Partnership in December 2020;
Amendment 19 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
C b. Whereas enhanced inter- parliamentary relations and parliamentary diplomacy between the European Parliament and the parliaments of Southeast Asia – through the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) – should reflect the future agenda of broader and deeper EU-ASEAN relations;
Amendment 20 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
C c. Whereas the European Parliament and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) are natural partners with a significant potential to contribute towards strengthening EU-ASEAN relations;
Amendment 21 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
C d. Whereas EU-ASEAN relations are based on the shared values and principles of a rules-based international order, effective and sustainable multilateralism, and free and fair trade;
Amendment 22 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C e (new)
Recital C e (new)
C e. Whereas EU-based entities are the largest provider of foreign direct investment to the ASEAN region; whereas the EU is ASEAN's third largest trading partner and ASEAN as a whole represents the EU's third largest trading partner outside Europe;
Amendment 23 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C f (new)
Recital C f (new)
C f. Whereas negotiations on an EU- ASEAN Free Trade Agreement have been suspended by mutual agreement since 2009;
Amendment 32 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership is an open, 21st century trade agreement that aims to secure a level playing field and rules-based trade environment in the Indo-Pacific and provides a model of regional trade integration; whereas the US withdrew from the agreement in January 2017 while China, Taiwan and the UK formally submitted a request to accede in September 2021;
Amendment 45 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas the geopolitical reality has dramatically changed since Russia’s invasion to Ukraine in February 2022 and makes our further engagement with Indo- Pacific partners even more important and urgent in order to diversify our trade relations, to deepen our cooperation on critical and emerging technologies, digital issues and raw materials, to strengthen supply chains resilience and help tackle global challenges.
Amendment 64 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to work closely with its Indo-Pacific like-minded partners to reinforce value chains by strengthening and diversifying trade relations in order to reduce strategic dependencies in critical supply chains with a particular focus on technologies and raw materials, by working towards the full implementation and better enforcement of existing trade agreements, by finalising ongoing trade negotiations and by developing cooperation in strategic sectors; underlines the importance of working together with like-minded Indo-Pacific countries on establishing technical standards, to further promote the EU as a global standard-setter, underlines the importance to develop new Digital Partnership Agreements, starting with Japan, Republic of Korea and Singapore;
Amendment 88 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement has been instrumental in creating more sustainable trade; welcomes the increase in the preference utilisation rates for EU exports to Japan in 2020; underlines thcalls to start negotiations to include data furtherlows provisions in the EPA; underlines that progress ihas nbeeded in the implementation of the agreement, in particular as regards then made-in the expansion of GIs protection for both parties, utilisation rates of tariff rate quotas opened by Japan for EU exporters, the and the process for ratification of ILO convention No 105 by Japan while further progress is needed in the implementation of the agreement, including liberalisation of trade in services and the ratification of ILO Conventions No 105 and No 111;
Amendment 97 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Call on the Member States to ratify the EU-Vietnam IPA so that it enters into force and creates favourable conditions to boost EU investment in Vietnam and in the region, in particular in areas promoting green transformation and the circular economy; urges Vietnam to continue working to achieve equal treatment of EU Member States with regard to pharmaceuticals and to guarantee a full implementation of the sanitary and phytosanitary provisions; invites Vietnam to complete its key labour reforms in accordance with the agreement and to swiftly ensure the ratification of ILO Convention No 87 by 2023;
Amendment 106 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Recalls the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in accelerating FTA negotiations between the EU and ASEAN Member States;
Amendment 151 #
2021/2200(INI)
17 a. Regrets the fact that negotiations for a bilateral trade and investment agreement with Thailand, launched in 2013 and put on hold in 2014 following the military take-over, are still paused; stresses the importance of taking steps (in line with the Council Conclusions of 2019) towards the resumption of negotiations on an ambitious and comprehensive FTA and invites the Thai authorities to provide clear indications in this respect and to engage in structural reforms.
Amendment 161 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls for further engagement with ASEAN and its member states and for the development and promotion of the EU- ASEAN strategic partnership; calls on both sides to use the momentum of the planned EU-ASEAN Summit in 2022, on the occasion of 45th anniversary of the EU- ASEAN bilateral relationship, to present a new EU-ASEAN action plan for the upcoming period to promote increased multifaceted cooperation in key areas and explore the possibility of resuming negotiations of a region-to-region trade agreement once the conditions in terms of human rights and democracy are to the EU’s standardsmet; calls for a parliamentary dimension to the 45th anniversary summit and reiterates its intention to create an EU-ASEAN parliamentary assembly to strengthen the democratic dimension of the partnership;
Amendment 172 #
2021/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, the Secretary-General of the ASEAN Inter- Parliamentary Assembly and the respective countries in the Indo-Pacific region.
Amendment 16 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 35 a (new)
Citation 35 a (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 23 March 2022 entitled Safeguarding food security and reinforcing the resilience of food system (COM(2022)133),
Amendment 18 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the EU to actively support the new African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),which presents a major opportunity for African countries to boost inclusive growth, enable sustainable development, reduce poverty and improve living standards; notes that the AfCFTA paves the way for a fundamental transformation of the continent’s development prospects and highlights the EU's unique role in offering assistance, given its own experience in developing the world's most advanced example of a regional trading bloc;
Amendment 18 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 35 b (new)
Citation 35 b (new)
— having regard the European Council Conclusions of 16 December 2021,
Amendment 22 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the 6th Summit of the EU and the AU in 2022 led to an agreement on ‘A Joint Vision for 2030’, to drive our common priorities, shared values and international law, by preserving together our interests and common public goods, the security and prosperity of our citizens, the protection of human rights for all, gender equala new mutually- beneficial joint strategy which reflects the interests of both sides and strengthens the ties between the two continents and will allow for closer cooperation on issues of mutual convergences in the area of trade, development, security, and women’s empowerment good governance, while creating all spheres of life partnership of equals; whereas both Unions recognised the importance of food security and nutrition;
Amendment 24 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas the geopolitical global context has been subject to considerable change, as Russian Federation launched an unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 with geopolitical effects, including on the relations between the EU and Africa, in particular on access to food and to raw materials;
Amendment 25 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas achieving the SDGs by 2030 must become the benchmark of success of EU-Africa cooperation, including the contribution of trade and investment relations to combat poverty in the long term;
Amendment 28 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas migration is part of the (SDG 10.7) to facilitate orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and mobility of people;
Amendment 31 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the EU Trade Policy Review acknowledges the strategic importance of deepening active and fair engagementtrade relations with the African continent and African states by proposing several strands of action to strengthen trade and economic links between the two continents;
Amendment 32 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises that economic partnership agreements need to support the various regional trade communities in Africa and the further development of the AfCFTA, contribute to the building of resilient and sustainable regional value chains, and help to boost and diversify intra-African trade; welcomes the EU's existing "stepping stone" agreements made with Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, as well as the launch of a strategic dialogue with Kenya that aims to implement elements of the concluded EPA bilaterally where progress as a whole is stalled; calls on the EU to pursue this process with other states where possible; calls for chapters ensuring consistency with development needs and policies and the UN sustainable development goals to always be included and implemented;
Amendment 33 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. whereas the EU should pursue a "Team Europe" approach in its cooperation with Africa, including more coordination between different Commission directorates general, European development financing institutions, European export credit agencies, commercial banks and Member States;
Amendment 35 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the EU is one of the most important trading partners for Africaand its Member States constitute Africa’s biggest partner on all counts in terms of trade, investment, Official Development Assistance (ODA), humanitarian assistance and security; whereas, the positive effects of the EU trade tools towards Africa, such as the GSP and Aid for Trade, are significant; whereas in 2020, over 61 % of goods imported to the EU from Africa were primary goods and almost 70 % of goods exported from the EU to Africa were manufactured goods;
Amendment 41 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas strengthening the intra- continental trade in Africa is essential for its economic development; whereas the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)African and European private sector have a shared interest in its successful and effective implementation , notably with regards to the economic growth and job opportunities it is expected to create; whereas the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as the flagship project of the First-Ten-Year Implementation Plan (2014-2023) under the African Union’s Agenda 2063, gives new momentum to pan-African trade and investment opportunities and will increase Euro-African connectivity;
Amendment 46 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the reform of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences as one of the EU’s key trade instruments for supporting developing countries in their efforts to promote sustainable development, reduce poverty and ensure respect for human rights; welcomes, in particular, the aim to facilitate export diversification, increased economic growth and job creation in developing countries on the African continent; calls on the EU to make sure that European trade policy does not contradict efforts by African partners to establish viable economic structures.
Amendment 48 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas AfCFTA will become the world’s largest free-trade area in terms of participating countries – a market of 1.2 billion people, including a fast-growing middle class, with a combined GDP of USD 3 trillion, which is expected to more than double by 2050 and to eliminate tariffs on 90 percent of product lines on the continent; in this context, Africa´s GDP could increase by one percent, total employment by1.2 percent per year and intra-African trade by 33 percent; whereas the creation of the AfCFTA represents a major opportunity for the UE but will also depend in large part on its ability to mobilize investments and to foster trade exchanges and corporate presence in the Africa;
Amendment 54 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas African states are not homogeneous; whereas the African continent is particularly vulnerable to the external “shocks” given its high rate dependency not only from external financial resources and revenues such as foreign remittances, foreign direct investment, tourism or external aid, but also from imports of manufactured goods;
Amendment 61 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas Africa is a continent of hope and opportunity and perceived as such by a growing number of its young population; whereas Africa is the youngest continent in the world with a median age of 19.8 years and 60 percent of the population under age 25; whereas by 2050, the population of Africa will have doubled, from some 1.2billion people to some 2.4 billion and that, by the same year, 50% of the global population less than 25 years old will be in Africa;
Amendment 67 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas climate change and environmental degradation are existential threats to Africa, the EU and the entire world, and require joint responsiveness and substantive investments in sustainable and inclusive economic development and; whereas the EU-Africa trade relations play a crucial role to address the climate transition and foster common efforts towards achieving long term sustainable growth and development, notably through the provismotion of access to public goodssustainable supply chains and trade diversification in the transition to a low- carbon economy;
Amendment 76 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic consequences set back growth across Africa in 2020, may have thrown an additional 30 million people into poverty and exacerbated the prevalence of child labour; whereas the EU and the AU have committed to supporting the full- fledged African health sovereigntyystem and capacities, in order for the continent to respond to future public health emergencies, and to supporting, to this end, a common agenda for manufacturing vaccines, medicines, diagnostics, therapeutics and health products in Africa, including investment in production capacities, voluntary technology transfers as well as strengthening of the regulatory framework to enable equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics;
Amendment 91 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas respecting fair conditions on the EU-Africa trade in agricultural products needs to be revisedshould be the baseline for European exports and imports of food and other agricultural products, as well as the need to ensure that agricultural exports do no contradict the goal to establish a more resilient food sector in Africa;
Amendment 101 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas the AU’s Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020- 2030) envisions a secured digital single market for Africa by 2030; and the digital economy in Africa offers prospects for increased job creation, particularly for SMEs, which account for an estimated 80 percent of jobs across the continent and are the backbone of the African economy;
Amendment 105 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P a (new)
Recital P a (new)
P a. whereas our African partners are also actively seeking EU´s assistance in enhancing Africa´s digital infrastructure and ensuring proper connectivity and Internet access across the continent;
Amendment 111 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Affirms that EU-Africa trade and investment relations form part of our joint endeavour to achieve thebring enormous benefits in terms of stimulating economic growth, regional integration, poverty reduction and job creation; underlines that geographical proximity and long historical and cultural ties are increasingly reinforced by growing trade exchanges; in this respect, the EU should invest more efforts in taking the partnership beyond the traditional "donor-recipient" relationship; additionally, the EU and Africa should continue to work together in favour of common objectives and shared interests, including the realisation of UN SDGs by 2030 and the objectives of the Paris Agreement; stresses that the modernisation of EU-AU trade and investment relations must adhere to the principle of policy coherence for development and contribute to the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic by means of the green and digital transformation of the economies in both the EU and the AU, as well as among our global trading partners;
Amendment 118 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses that efforts towards supply chain diversification create opportunities for both continents and believes that the EU and the UA should work together to create the conditions and incentives to support the diversification of investments and production of EU and African companies;
Amendment 126 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Underlines the fundamental role of functioning state institutions, authorities and infrastructures, and considers that their absence can be a major obstacle to trade; in this regard, stresses that all African countries must improve legal certainty as it is vital for any kind of trade to develop; calls on the Commission to work closely with its African counterparts to guarantee a business environment that is conducive to investment;
Amendment 127 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Stresses the need to adapt the economic and trade proposals of the New Agenda for the Mediterranean, adopted by the European Commission on the 9 February 2021, to the current emergency situation; and, calls to smoothly implement the trade-related projects of the Economic and Investment Plan as soon as possible;
Amendment 131 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. UnderlinBelieves that the EU needs an entirely new foundation for itsSummit set the path for a renewed economic partnership with Africa, on equal grounds and based on mutual respect and understanding, and is a unique opportunity to revive trade relations between both continents;
Amendment 142 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Supports the objectives of AfCFTA notably the aim to create a single market for goods, services, facilitated by movement of persons in order to deepen the economic integration of the African continent; stresses that indicators in measuring economic success should be improved and diversified beyond GDP growth;
Amendment 144 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Regrets that despite the fact that the EU is already the most open market for African exports and the UE is by far Africa´s largest export market and its main customer, accounting that the total trade in goods between the 27 EU Members States and Africa was worth 225 billion euros in 2020, compared to 115 billion euros for China and 38 billion euros for the United States, non-tariff barriers to EU-Africa trade remain significant and quality standards still diverge widely in certain cases;
Amendment 147 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Regrets that the activity of foreign investors as well as the take-off of African businesses is hampered by fragmented markets, inefficient transit regimes and border crossings procedures for goods, services and people, as well as poor implementation of regional integration commitments; highlights, in this context, that the timely, effective and comprehensive implementation of the AfCFTA is of utmost importance;
Amendment 148 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Stresses that the UE is still the largest source of foreign direct investment in Africa and still maintains an important level of competitiveness, but upward trends of activity from other international actors challenge the EU’s economic leadership on the African continent given that competitiveness of an individual firm is driven not only by internal factors, but also external factors such as the number of competitors and types of competition; in this sense, European companies are facing growing pressure from foreign competition;
Amendment 150 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to facilitate the development of regional value chains and better regional infrastructures in Africa; specially, points out the need to significantly invest in the transport infrastructure, connectivity and digitalisation to facilitate intra-African trade; in this sense, notes that removing barriers to intra-African trade can facilitate the growth of regional value chains, which can facilitate means for African companies, and in particular SMEs, to internationalise;
Amendment 154 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Underlines the need to establish a constructive public-private dialogue and to make cultures evolve with a view to an intelligent network of ecosystems, up to the hybridization between the public sphere and the private sector; with this backdrop the EU must continue to work with African countries on facilitating and promoting private investment on the continent, as the public investment is not enough on its own; calls to further increase public and private trilateral partnerships to develop new trade relations in sectors of common interest such as energy, industry, transport;
Amendment 156 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Asks to the European Commission to put special emphasis on digitalisation under the "Global Gateway Initiative" with regard to Africa;
Amendment 157 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Considers that trade relations should be given further momentum, not only on the negotiations of the DCFTAs with Morocco and Tunisia, but with our trade agreements in the whole of the Mediterranean; notes that there is still a lack of presence of the EU companies in region; considers trade relations to be essential to reduce the influence of other powers such as China or Russia;
Amendment 159 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to assist and create conditions for African countries to integrate into the world economy, not only as the source countries of primary commodities, but as exporters of intermediate and final products, while maintaining policy space for the safeguarding of infant industries; highlights, in this context, the opportunity it represents for both continents developing and investing on emerging markets, in particular in the manufacturing sector; further stresses the importance of strengthening linkages between European and African operators in this regard to help creating value and raising standards and therefore improve competitiveness;
Amendment 163 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes that the future of the international trading system depends on the revitalising of the WTO and finalising the Doha Round, on which African countries have placed their hopes; emphasises that the reform and modernisation of the WTO and the WTO rulebook is an important area for cooperation between EU and African Union, since both are strongly committed to a rules-based multilateral trading system, and that a stronger cooperation on the multilateral trade agenda will greatly contribute to addressing the current global threats and challenges, including growing protectionism worldwide and the “weaponisation” of trade;
Amendment 167 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Highlights that the WTO-led Aid- for-Trade initiative aims to help Least developed countries, in particular, to build the supply-side capacity and trade-related infrastructure they need to implement and benefit from WTO agreements and more broadly expand their trade; in this sense, this initiative is a key component in trade relations with Africa, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis;
Amendment 173 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 176 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Stresses that the Union should favour a constructive engagement on all aspects of migration, forced displacement and mobility, working to ensure that migration takes place in a safe and well- regulated manner. It is essential to build a long- term shared strategy to link trade, development and migration policies, as has been established by several European Council Conclusions, in particular the ones adopted on 16 December 2021, as it could play a key role to fight human smuggling and illegal migration routes from African countries to the EU;
Amendment 178 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for a greener and more sustainable post-pandemic world to be built back, which necessitatesNotes the impact of the COVID-19 on supply chains; insists on the importance of building more resilient supply chains in the post-pandemic world by reinforcing strategic autonomy, identifying dependencies, better addressing vulnerabilities and supply disruptions, diversifying production and investing more in game-changing enterprises that have integrated social, environmental and health objectives into their business models;
Amendment 182 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Regrets the major impact caused of the unprovoked and unjustified Russian Federation invasion of Ukraine on the increased price of energy, fuels, raw materials and agricultural products causing a severe increase in production costs which is jeopardising production continuity and might lead to supply chain disruptions; calls for reinforced action at international level to ensure that policy decision-making has food security at its core, in order to avoid scarcity and ensure nutritional security in the most vulnerable countries, particularly in the African continent, addressing it by trade means and preventing obstacles to the international trade in food and raw materials;
Amendment 193 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Commission to foster investment in the African continent through innovative financial instruments to increase capital flows and reduce risk, reduce risks and helping to strengthen competitiveness for EU exports investments; to achieve those objectives, cooperation between the European InvestmentBank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), together with Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) in a "Team Europe"approach is essential, with an adequate policy steer from the Commission, in order to boost the investment opportunities in Africa particularly by providing more risk capital and guarantees aimed to facilitate large scale investments while maintaining EU support for smaller scale local projects; in this sense,welcomes the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+) which allows DFIs to take more risk in their investment programs;
Amendment 197 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Urges the Commission to prepare an effective and easily accessible microcredit scheme; in this sense, also urges the European Investment Bank (EIB), as the lending arm of the European Union, to strengthen its capacities to support private sector development in Africa and, in this regard, calls on the EIB to dedicate more funds to African Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through the EFSD+ blended budget; also underlines, in this context, the high potential of Public-Private Partnership and microfinancing to further empower SMEs and local farmers;
Amendment 202 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Amendment 203 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12 b. Stresses that implementation, widening and deepening of current trade agreements between the EU and African countries, as well as the conclusion of sustainable investment facilitation deals with selected countries in Africa opens up new opportunities for fruitful partnerships between the EU and African SMEs building on predictable legal frameworks for trade and investment; notes that these agreements can help businesses to diversify exports from Africa to the EU and move up the value chains; underlines that promoting an open, non- discriminatory and stable business environment favourable to private sector investment, as well as access to relevant digital platforms, is crucial for both EU and African SMEs; welcomes, in that regards, the IP Helpdesk for SMEs in Africa, which provides European SMEs with first-line support on how to protect and enforce their intellectual property rights (IP), as well as the new rules of origin self-assessment tool (ROSA); calls for a more innovative financing mechanisms for the private sector, that would improve market access for SMEs and mitigate risks, facilitate access to finance while reducing regulatory and administrative burden to a minimum; stresses that all these issues should be better integrated in trade agreements with Africa, with the systematic inclusion of an SME chapter;
Amendment 207 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for the EU to reinforce its support to the African countries and the AU on combating illicit financial flows and tax evasion by multinational companies;
Amendment 211 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses that least developed countries (LDCs) have an interest in and are strong supporters of rules-based multilateral trading systems and their integration into the international trading system should also be improved; is aware of the fact that special and differentiated treatment is a founding principle of the WTO;
Amendment 220 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that the trade partnership between the EU and Africa must prioritise quality nutrition self-sufficiencyand food security by boosting safe, resilient and sustainable agri-food systems in order to increase the efforts to reach the Sustainable Development Goal of ‘Zero Hungerin 2030’;
Amendment 233 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Reiterates that the different EPAs should contribute to developing intra- African integration and to the development of a fair and sustainable trade modelerve as building blocks for the African Continental Free Trade Area and are key instruments to boost economic relations between Africa and the EU, promote long- term sustainable development, improve regional integration and reduce poverty ; to fully play this role and be conducive to the integration of European and African value chains, the EPAs should be implemented and modernised to include provisions that support cross-border value chains, including deeper disciplines, such as services trade, investment, intellectual property rights or competition, which may enable business environment to give assurances to economic operators and investors;
Amendment 264 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Appreciates the initiative by the Council and the Commission to organise the first Africa-Europe Week, which was held in February 2022 in Brussels and underscores the importance of promoting ahead of coming initiatives greater cooperation between all stakeholders, including business organisations;
Amendment 268 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Notes that transport networks are critical enablers of trade and prosperous economies; stresses the need to better connect African rural and urban areas; notes, in particular, that a crucial challenge in the context of food insecurity is the lack of proper transportation networks and due to that, farmers are frequently restrained from delivering agricultural products over certain distances; encourages further EU engagement to facilitate market access for farmers;
Amendment 271 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Stresses that education and professional training that provide people with the skills required by the labour market are key factors for development; in this context, cooperation between universities, research institutions and vocational education and training (VET) programmes from both continents need to be strengthened; in that regards, private sector-driven initiatives on VET as well as entrepreneurship in Africa should be supported and better coordinated, as the pandemic has emphasised the importance of both digital skills and digital learning methods;
Amendment 279 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes the EU’s Africa-EU Green Energy Initiative and the EU’s continued support to the African Single Electricity Market; stresses that access to energy must be guaranteed at an affordable price to everyone as a common good and a basic rightand the future energy demand are key issues that the EU and Africa should address together; notes the need to leverage the new renewable energy potential in Africa and invest in sectors with higher added value such as green steel and green hydrogen, notably by improving technology cooperation and increasing clean energy exports; points out, that technical assistance regarding energy market legislation is needed and should be provided through EU-African cooperation, as well as the development of common standards; points out that sustainable energy cooperation should be one the main features of the "Global Gateway Initiative" with regard to Africa;
Amendment 282 #
2021/2178(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Insists on the importance on building partnerships to improve the sustainability of raw materials value chains, building on the Critical Raw Materials Action Plan and making use of all EU external policy instruments;
Amendment 288 #
2021/2178(INI)
25. Calls for reinforced cooperation on EU-AU digital agendas based on the principles of democratic governance, effective regulatory mechanisms across the digital domain and global-to-local governance mechanisms for data and digital infrastructures that place people- centred development at the coreenable European companies, particularly SMEs to take full advantage of trade opportunities; in that regards, also recommends that a digital transition goes in line with the principles of data protection;
Amendment 2 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas since the Lisbon Treaty, foreign direct investment has remained an exclusive competence of the European Union, as enshrined in Article 3(1)(e), Article 206 and Article 207 TFEU; whereas the EU’s international investment policy shouldhas been further reformed to address the current challenges;
Amendment 3 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas international investment agreements aim to ensure that EU investors enjoy a reciprocal level playing field when investing in a third country that is similar to the levels of guarantees enjoyed by third country investors in the EU;
Amendment 5 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas global foreign direct investment flows, which were already declining since 2015, have experienced a dramatic drop in 2020 (-30%) due to the COVID-induced crisis; whereas increasing outward and inward FDI will remain a key element of the path to recovery for the EU and for many other economies;
Amendment 8 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas around 1 500 bilateral investment treaties ratified by the Member States before the Lisbon Treaty are still in place, including the Energy Charter Treaty;
Amendment 9 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas EU IIAs include or refer to a sustainable development chapter, which covers responsible business conduct (RBC) and the respect of environmental, human rights and labour standards, as well as the commitment of the Parties that those standards shall not be lowered in order to attract investment;
Amendment 12 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
Db. whereas FDI and the EU investment policy should play a key role in achieving the objective of open strategic autonomy, in terms of diversification of supply chains;
Amendment 14 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas one of the top priorities of the European Green Deal is to respond to the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation; whereas all EU policies need to contribute to these goals, including investment policy; whereas substantial investments are needed worldwide in order to achieve the aims of the European Green Deal, meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic;
Amendment 18 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. wWhereas the number of investor- state dispute settlement (ISDS) cases is rising each year, including against Member States, signalling the ease of use of ISDS; whereas about 15 % of cases known to be filed against Member States in 2020 were intra-EU disputes;
Amendment 25 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that the EU’s investment policy needs to meet the expectations of investors and beneficiary states, but also the EU’s broader economic interests and external policy objectives; considers that EU international investment policy needs to be reformed in order to address a variety of challenges and transform it into an integrated and coherent policy frameworkrecalls the European Parliament's call for an integrated and coherent policy framework, which promotes high-quality and sustainable investments; welcomes the efforts undertook by the European Commission since 2010 to reform the Union's investment policy in that direction; considers that EU international investment policy needs to pursue its reform efforts to better meet the current challenges of better protecting our investors and making our Single Market an attractive place to invest in;
Amendment 30 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 45 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that the definition of investment as codified in EU IIAs covers not only greenfield investments, but alsoshould not cover financial instruments that can be held for purely speculative purposes or for the extraction of rent;
Amendment 48 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Welcomes the Commission’s efforts to open up new markets to EU investors through the negotiations of chapters on investment liberalisation with third countries; calls on the Commission to seek the best possible conditions for EU investors abroad, reflecting the level of openness that foreign investors enjoy in the EU and covering all ranges of business activities, including services and manufacturing sectors;
Amendment 50 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Calls on the Commission to monitor and seek the removal of barriers to the establishment and operation of EU investors in foreign markets, including discriminatory practices and performance requirements such as technology transfer; welcomes the Commission’s focus on enforcement of existing commitments, and underlines that this should also apply to investment-related commitments;
Amendment 51 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Invites the Commission to use all available means to improve the investment climate in developing countries, both through development cooperation tools and through bilateral agreements; welcomes, in that regard, the focus on investment facilitation disciplines seeking to enhance transparency, streamline procedures and enhance public-private dialogue; highlights that those disciplines should benefit both EU and local investors;
Amendment 52 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Recalls that in the last decade, the Union signed several agreements containing investment chapters with third countries; regrets that mixed agreements and agreements under shared competences1 are either only applied provisionally or not in force at all; urges Member States to ratify these agreements as soon as possible so that all EU investors can benefit from greater market liberalization and stronger investment protection rules and standards; [1] Provisions on portfolio investment and/or ISDS are shared competence between the European Union and its Member States, according to the ECJ (Singapore Opinion).
Amendment 53 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Amendment 54 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 f (new)
Paragraph 3 f (new)
3f. Underlines that investment can and should have a positive impact on sustainable development; is concerned that according to OECD, developing countries faced a shortfall of USD 1.7 trillion in 2020 due to the COVID- induced crisis in addition to the exiting USD 2.5 trillion funding gap; calls on the Commission to ensure consistency of the EU’s investment policy with the European Green Deal and the SDGs; calls on the EU’s investment policy to help developing countries, notably African countries, in reducing the funding gap to reach the SDGs;
Amendment 56 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 h (new)
Paragraph 3 h (new)
3h. Welcomes the leadership role taken by the European Union in the World Trade Organization (WTO) plurilateral negotiation on Investment Facilitation for Development, which will improve the investment and business climate, and make it easier for investors in all sectors of the economy to invest, conduct their day-to-day business and expand their operations in developing countries; is encouraged to see that more than two-thirds of WTO members participate to this negotiation; supports the progress made so far by the parties, and strongly encourages parties to reach their stated goal of concluding the negotiation by the end of 2022;
Amendment 57 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 i (new)
Paragraph 3 i (new)
3i. Welcomes the Commission’s trailblazing work on new standalone investment facilitation agreements, which would facilitate and support sustainable and inclusive investment; takes note in that regard of the start of negotiations with Angola in June 2021 on such an agreement; invites the European Commission to conclude this negotiation as soon as possible; takes note that similar investment facilitation provisions are being negotiated among African countries in the future Investment Protocol of the African Continental Free Trade Area; invites the Commission to continue supporting those negotiations;
Amendment 58 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading -1 (new)
Subheading -1 (new)
-1 Opening new markets to all EU investors
Amendment 59 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading -1 a (new)
Subheading -1 a (new)
-1a Ensuring an investment-friendly business climate
Amendment 60 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 j (new)
Paragraph 3 j (new)
3j. Recalls that investment protection measures seek to ensure, through commitments such as non-discrimination on the grounds of gender, race or religion, fair treatment for investors or compensation in case of expropriation; welcomes in that regard the reform efforts carried out by the Commission for the precise definitions of protection standards in modern investment agreements;
Amendment 61 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. StressNotes that an alarming number of investment claims target environmental measurelegal proceedings before ISDS courts target environmental measures1, whether they be on fossil fuels or renewable energy investments; regrets the fact that various countries, including the Member States, are being sued in relation to policies on climate, the phasing out of fossil fuels, or the just transition; [1] 17% of all cases according to UNCTAD databases
Amendment 69 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Urges the Commission to exclude invensure consistments in fossil fuels or any other activities that pose significant harm to the environment and human rights from treaty protections, in particular investor-state arbitration mechanismscy between IIAs and EU environment policies, labour rights, and human rights, notably through provisions on sustainable development aiming at improving the domestic framework in which foreign investors operate;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Points out that even in the absence of legal proceedings, the explicit or implicit threat of recourse to investment arbitration can enhance the position of investors in negotiations with states (the ‘chilling effect’); however, stresses that modern EU IIAs do clearly recall the principle that governments have the right to regulate legitimate public policy objectives on matters of public health, social services, public education, safety, environment or public morals, social or consumer protections, privacy and data protection, or the promotion and protection of cultural diversity, including in a manner that may negatively affect the operation of an investment or an investor’s expectation of profits; calls on the Commission to strongly assert its right to regulate;
Amendment 76 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that IIAs do not contain investor obligations; stresses that only foreign investors can launch investment cases against states; regrets the fact that having a case dismissed is the best possible outcome for respondent states but includes provisions on trade and sustainable development whereby parties commit not to lower environmental and labour standards to attract investment, and to promote the uptake of responsible business conduct in their territories; stresses that under the majority of investment treaties only foreign investors can launch investment cases against states; invites the Commission to continue international discussions on how to make investment obligations more effective in the field of international investment law;
Amendment 80 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Is concerUnderlineds that recent EU IIAs still contain broadlimit protection standards which can be uto well-defined extreme caseds to challenge legitimate public polichat EU investors may face in third countries; asks the Commission to conly allowtinue protectiong against discrimination, direct expropriation and thand indirect expropriation, losses owing to war or civil unrest, breach of physical security, denial of justice, fundamental breach of due gpross denial of justicecess, manifest arbitrariness, targeted discrimination on manifestly wrongful grounds such as gender, race or religion, or abusive treatment such as harassment, and to ensure that foreign investors are not accorded superior rights to those enjoyed by domestic investors;
Amendment 86 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines the fact that EU IIAs negotiated after 2009 still include sunset clauses which prevent easy termination; points out that Member States and the other contracting parties can agree to neutralise sunset clausesunset clauses are standard procedures in EU IIAs as they are meant to protect investment on the long-term; however, notes that Member States and the other contracting parties can agree to shorter sunset clauses as is the case in recent negotiations where parties agreed to a five-year sunset clause with the possibility to agree on an extension of five additional years in case of no replacement; calls on the Commission to assess the benefit of negotiating shorter sunset clauses for EU investors;
Amendment 92 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises that under both customary international law and international human rights law, individuals are requiredoffered the possibility to seek redress before domestic courts before bringing international proceedings against the state for wrongful acts; regretspoints out the fact that international investment law, by contrast, usually does not require the exhaustion of domestic remedies; notices, however, that the requirement to exhaust domestic remedies would be inefficient in countries with flawed judicial systems; welcomes the Commission’s “no U-turn” approach that prevents investors from cherry- picking remedies using different tracks once they have opted for bringing a claim under the Investment Court System;
Amendment 94 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines that the considerable damages awarded by investment tribunals have imposed a significant financial burden on respondent states; points out that the use of valuation methods generally used by adjudicators is highly controversial owing to their very wide margin of discretion and reliance on highly complex and inherently speculative assumptions; invites the Commission to review theprovide safeguard within provisions governing compensation in EU IIAs; and the use of stronger clauses preventing the use of punitive damages; notes in that regard the benefits that a permanent multilateral investment court with well-versed adjudicators will bring; calls on the Commission to advocate for strict valuation methods in the ongoing UNCITRAL reform negotiations;
Amendment 101 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. StressNotes that the increasing recourse by investors to third parties to finance their litigation in exchange for a return in the outcome of an award (third- party funding) is adding incentives to increase the number of claims; invites the Commission to support the restric; welcomes the Commission's efforts for ensuring full transparency of third-party funding in EU investment agreements; invites the Commission to continue international negotiations ofn how to regulate third-party funding for investor- state disputes beyond EU agreements;
Amendment 108 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the Member States to terminate or modernise anytheir bilateral investment treaties that contain ISDS, any treaties that contain protection standards beyond protection against direct expropriation, nationality-based discrimination or the gross denial of justice, and any treaties that protect fossil fuel investment(BITs) or modernise them as to put them in conformity with the reformed approach in EU IIAs; takes note of the fact that EU IIAs no longer protect old BITs standards and points out to the fact that a multilateral court system would solve such adjudication issues;
Amendment 110 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls on the Member States to swiftly ratify already concluded EU IIAs, in order to replace bilateral investment treaties with modern provisions protecting all EU investors alike;
Amendment 112 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to ensure that all of the Member States’ bilateral investment treaties are fully compatible with EU law; supports the Commission in strictly applying the conditions for authorising the negotiation, signature and conclusion of new agreements by Member States; supports the Commission in issuing interpretative guidelines to be followed by Member States to ensure a unified interpretation of modernised EU investment policies;
Amendment 125 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Points out that the ECT is the most litigated investment agreement in the world today; welcomesupports efforts to modernise the ECT and the EU’s position to exclude protection for most fossil fuel investments; notes that investments considered ‘significantly harmful’ under the EU taxonomy would remain protected according to the EU’s position; underlines that amending the ECT requires unanimity of all contracting parties voting at the annual conference;
Amendment 136 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Urges the Commission to ensure that a revised ECT will immediately prohibit fossil fuel investors from suing contracting parties for pursuing policies to phase out fossil fuels in line with their commitments under the Paris Agreement; calls on the Commission and the Member States to start preparingconsider the option of a coordinated exit from the ECT with a view to formal submission to the Council in the event of the negotiating objectives not being achieved by June 2022;
Amendment 148 #
2021/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. NotWelcomes that in the context of the UNCITRAL Working Group III discussions, the EU and its Member States are pursuing the establishment of a standing mechanism to resolve investment disputes: the multilateral investment court; stresses, however, that this proposal does not covercalls on the Commission to promote the modernisation of substantive protection standards in appropriate international fora;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 a (new)
Citation 18 a (new)
— having regard to the European Council Conclusions of 12 December 2019,
Amendment 127 #
2021/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L a (new)
Recital L a (new)
L a. whereas the Turkey-Libya Memorandum of Understanding on the delimitation on maritime jurisdictions in the Mediterranean Sea infringes upon the sovereign rights of Third States does not comply with Law of the Sea and cannot produce any legal consequences for Third States;
Amendment 293 #
2021/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
(o a) urge the Libyan authorities to proceed to the cancelation of the Turkey - Libya Memorandum of Understanding on the delimitation on maritime jurisdictions in the Mediterranean Sea;
Amendment 14 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas any assessment of the barriers to the single market should be based on the experiences and perceptions of businesses and consumers who engage to some degree withoperate on the single market every day; whereas existing single market barriers disproportionately affect SMEs and microenterprises, and hinder their cross- border activities;
Amendment 20 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas many barriers affecting the single market derive from incorrect or incomplete application of EU legislation or measures taken by Member States to protect their general interests;
Amendment 38 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Amendment 41 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
G b. whereas a clear majority of businesses consider that the single market is not sufficiently integrated;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G c (new)
Recital G c (new)
G c. whereas fragmentation of rules for cross-border commerce deeply affect business and consumers all over the internal market;
Amendment 43 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G d (new)
Recital G d (new)
Amendment 44 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G e (new)
Recital G e (new)
G e. whereas arbitrary public procurement practices and abuses of the exceptions given by the current Public Procurement framework for long term contracts taken during the Covid pandemic highly affected the internal market and posed serious threats to transparency;
Amendment 45 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G f (new)
Recital G f (new)
G f. whereas despite the efforts made in the past by multiple programmes and applications, traders still struggle to find information on the rules and procedures for the cross-border provisions of services and the sale of goods;
Amendment 46 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G g (new)
Recital G g (new)
G g. whereas barriers in the digital single market still exist and have to be removed in order to realise its full potential; whereas the use of new technologies and AI can be helpful to overcome those barriers; whereas better implementation of existing legislations for the European single market is crucial;
Amendment 47 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G h (new)
Recital G h (new)
G h. whereas the lack of harmonization and insufficient standardisation bring additional cost and reduces safety of products on the single market while decreasing European competitiveness on the international markets;
Amendment 60 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that the single market remains the European Union’s greatest achievement; urges the Commission, therefore, to refocus resources at issues plaguing the single market, in particular non-tariff barriers (NTBs), which continue to create unnecessary and unfair burdens and limit opportunities for consumers and businesses, especially SMEs;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Deplores that according to an EP study the number of infringement proceedings against Member States in the field of single market has risen between 2017 and 2019, reaching 800 in 2019, its highest level since 2014;
Amendment 74 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Acknowledges that certain NTBs can be justified and originate from multi- level governance; uUrges the Member States, where such NTBs are absolutely essential, to ensure their proportionality and strict alignment with legitimate public policy objectives;
Amendment 87 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 – point b
Paragraph 6 – point b
b) burdensome and complex administrative requirements, insufficient and inaccessible information and limited lines of communication with public administration, including through points of single contact, which also limit the possibilities for new or competing services in new locations that would improve consumer choice;
Amendment 98 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 6 – point d a (new)
d a) insufficient rules for cross-border e-commerce;
Amendment 100 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 – point d b (new)
Paragraph 6 – point d b (new)
Amendment 126 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to adopt handy, concise, and ready-to-use tools for national authorities to address incorrect practices and violations and enforce the internal market rules;
Amendment 137 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Considers thatStresses the existence of obstacles to mutual recognition of professional qualification is seriously affected by administrative barrierss and other requirements to access a regulated profession imposed by some Member States;
Amendment 146 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Manifests deep concern with an increasing number of uncoordinated urban vehicle access regulations applied to both private and commercial vehicles, which hamper the freedom of movement and basic principles of internal market; asks the Commission to access and act on this unjustified limitation to the internal market notwithstanding the environmental value that may underlie the measures;
Amendment 148 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13 b. New Title : Digitalization and Use of AI
Amendment 149 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 c (new)
Paragraph 13 c (new)
13 c. Believes that digitalisation and emerging technologies such as AI can contribute to achieving the objectives of the EU and deepen the internal market; stresses that, if such technologies are used correctly, they can be positive and transformative and address many challenges to eliminate the single market obstacles;
Amendment 150 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 d (new)
Paragraph 13 d (new)
13 d. Welcomes the DSA and DMA regulation proposals and asks for the European Commission and Member States to adopt frameworks which are coherent with the other policies of the internal market and the EU; considers that it is of outmost importance for companies and specially SMEs and consumers to have a clear, harmonized and robust set of rules;
Amendment 151 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 e (new)
Paragraph 13 e (new)
13 e. Underlines the importance of a fully functioning digital single market that benefits consumers and enterprises and asks for SMEs to be supported in order to face the obstacles and struggles in their digital transformation;
Amendment 162 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Regrets that despite the investment taken in SOLVIT, the lack of visibility and confidence of companies in the SOLVIT network in solving their problems is quite high; invites the Commission to revisit the SOLVIT network system and its adaptability to future challenges for the internal market;
Amendment 169 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Highlights the importance of harmonization of standards (hENs) for the internal market and stresses the importance of incorporating in a deeper way stakeholders and businesses in order to avoid unnecessary burdens to EU single market access;
Amendment 183 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls on the Commission to present an annual periodic report on NTBs and establish an open and transparent database compiling specific national NTBs together with ongoing infringement procedures;
Amendment 199 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Calls on each Member State to ensure that all competent authorities within its jurisdiction have all the minimum powers and necessary budget and staff to ensure the proper application of the internal market acquis;
Amendment 200 #
2021/2043(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23 b. Stresses the importance of an increased level of harmonisation that includes effective and efficient enforcement cooperation among the competent authorities in order to detect, to investigate and to order the cessation or prohibition of the infringements;
Amendment 11 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Underscores the necessity to demonstrate the benefits of living in a democracy to citizens, especially those left behind by globalization; in that context, calls on the EU and the US to work together and align their strategies to create investment synergies, particularly to achieve sustainable and inclusive digital and green transitions of their economies;
Amendment 12 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
(1) Notes that EU-U.S. common challenges are increasingly non-military in nature and lie within our economic partnership; calls for an increased legislative dialogue between the European Parliament and the U.S. Congress via committee-to-committee interaction and the Transatlantic Legislative Dialogue; suggests the creation of a Transatlantic Assembly, a consultative forum where members of the U.S. Congress and the European Parliament would share legislative initiatives and discuss cooperative actions;
Amendment 20 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the US support for the new Director-General of the WTO, the US’s return to the Paris Agreement, the WTO tariff rate quota agreement and, the temporary suspension of Airbus Boeing tariffs, and for opening discussions to address global steel and aluminium excess capacity;
Amendment 31 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises at the same time that some diverging interests remain; in this regard, urges both sides to resolve bilateral disputes; urges the US to remove unilateral trade measures and refrain from taking further ones; urges the removal of section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminium; calls for a rapid and lasting solution on aircraft subsidies; threats for additional measures on digital service taxes, and refrain from taking further ones, and focus on what brings us together; urges the removal of section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminium; calls for a rapid and lasting solution on aircraft subsidies; encourages both sides to use the EU-US Summit as a stepping stone to continue mending our trade relationship and discuss untapped areas for greater cooperation;
Amendment 46 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for enhanced cooperation on WTO reform, including reinstating the aAppellate bBody, regulating trade in health products, setting an ambitious climate and environmental agenda, concluding the fisheries negotiations, making progress in the electronic commerce negotiation, and agreeing on concrete deliverables for the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC12); encourages both sides to stick torive for multilateral agreements or, if not possible, for open plurilateral agreements; calls on the US to renew its commitments to the WTO's Government Procurement Agreement (GPA);
Amendment 57 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Advocates a joint strategic approach towards China, addressing the roots of unfair trade practices and tackling industrial subsidies, state-owned enterprises and human rights concerns, forced technology transfers, and human rights concerns; notes that such issues cannot be solved unilaterally or bilaterally and demand leading a coalition of like-minded partners at the international level within the framework of the WTO;
Amendment 64 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Draws attention to the importance of having a coordinated position with the US to tackle systemic structural and market distorting practices that endanger the global level-playing field; in that context, considers relevant the work done by the EU, US and Japan to strengthen existing WTO rules on industrial subsidies; urges the EU and the US to pursue this work and lead a coalition of like-minded countries at the WTO with a view to agreeing on new rules;
Amendment 66 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Amendment 70 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. In that context, calls for a stronger regulatory partnership through the Trade and Technology Council and encourages both sides to exchange best regulatory practices; urges the EU and the US to pursue their negotiation on conformity assessment to remove financially burdensome non-tariff barriers; stresses the importance for both sides to align and lead a coalition of like-minded partners to enhance the use of transatlantic standards by international standards organizations;
Amendment 72 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Calls on the EU and the US to work together and lead efforts to address the issue of vaccine shortage to ensure that vaccines are delivered worldwide and to the greatest number as fast as possible; recalls that the world is facing a global scarcity of vaccines; therefore, to achieve vaccine equity, calls on the EU and the US to work with manufacturers to increase global manufacturing capacity for vaccines and their components;
Amendment 73 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5d. While recognising the importance to protect European intellectual property rights to maintain businesses’ capacity to innovate, considers relevant to examine all relevant flexibilities within the TRIPS agreement with the aim to increasing global vaccines and vaccine components manufacturing capacity; stresses that finding solutions on intellectual property rights can only be one part of the common global response;
Amendment 84 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Encourages both sides to find a framework for joint action and look for selective agreements; calls for a stronger regulatory, green and digital partnership through the Trade and Technology Council and a coordinated approach to critical technologies, a carbon border adjustment mechanism and digital and global taxes.;
Amendment 98 #
2021/2038(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Underlines that stronger partners make for stronger alliances; welcomes efforts being made by both sides to render their supply chains more resilient, especially with regards to critical raw materials; encourages both sides to consider the other as a partner of choice;
Amendment 211 #
2021/2038(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the Biden administration’s announced commitment to re-engage with the UN Human Rights Council, signalling the US’s renewed intention to promote human rights globally; strongly agrees with Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the Council is “flawed and needs reform,” pledges to work with the U.S. and other democratic allies to end the disproportionate focus on Israel and, in this context, abolish Agenda Item 7;
Amendment 227 #
2021/2038(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. EncouReiteragtes its appeal to the US to move towards the abolition of the death penalty, the reform of the criminal justice system, including through addressing systemic racism, and the end of all discrimination against LGBTQI persons; urges dialogue and exchange of best practices between the EU and US on promoting racial and gender equality; urges dialogue and exchange of best practices between the EU and US on promoting racial and gender equality in order to modernise our justice systems to ensure justice and freedom to all as enshrined in our constitutions; underlines that the EU and the US should have the ambition to lead by example and demonstrate values-based leadership in all matters related to achieving historical justice and overcoming every type of discrimination;
Amendment 346 #
2021/2038(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Welcomes the United States' renewed engagement in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly with the Eastern Mediterranean Act of 2019, which authorises new security assistance for Cyprus and Greece, and strengthens energy cooperation among regional actors; calls for the establishment of a comprehensive EU-US dialogue for close cooperation to jointly address the increasing threats posed by Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean; expresses strong concern that Turkey, a NATO member, is moving away from the respect for fundamental values and the rule of law, and that it is increasingly confrontational towards the EU Member States of Greece and Cyprus;
Amendment 414 #
2021/2038(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Welcomes the recent engagement of the US in the negotiations on a revival of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as a cornerstone of a global non- proliferation regime and a foundation for de-escalation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region; calls for renewed transatlantic efforts to meaningfully revive the Middle East Peace Process, leading to a viable two-state solutionechoes US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s call for a “longer and stronger” nuclear agreement with Iran and urges transatlantic collaboration to counter Tehran’s other malign behaviour, including regional aggression, ballistic missiles, and terrorism calls for renewed transatlantic efforts to meaningfully revive the Middle East Peace Process, leading to a viable two-state solution; hails the historic U.S.- brokered Abraham Accords between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain and encourages transatlantic cooperation on deepening those ties;
Amendment 6 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that in 2020 China for the first time ranked as the EU’s largest partner for trade in goods, with the trade balance further deteriorating to the EU’s detriment; recalls however that the US, followed by the UK, are still the EU’s top two partners in trade in goods and services combined;
Amendment 18 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is convinced that the EU-China bilateral trade and investment relationship is of strategic importance and should be rules-based, with the multilateral trading system at its core; it reiterates that while economic de-coupling is not beneficial for the EU, a more assertive enforcement and adherence to commitments is necessary in the overall trade and investment relationship;
Amendment 22 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Calls on China to play a more active part in the WTO and other multilateral initiatives and to fully comply with its WTO obligations, matching its acquired economic power with its level of development, and urges on the Commission to step up its efforts to work together with China on reforming and strengthening the rules-based multilateral trading system; urges for a specific focus on the reform of the WTO as a key tool to bring stability and legal certainty to the international trade arena, while tackling structural shortcomings at pluri- and multilateral levels; considers pertinent to specifically discuss the negative effects and possible remedies for distortions caused by the global excess capacity of steel and aluminum, alongside the importance of tackling industrial subsidies at the WTO level;
Amendment 40 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Repeats its deep concern about the many barriers that European businesses face when accessing and operating on the Chinese market; is worried that China’s ‘dual circulation strategy’ referred to in its 14th Five Year Plan will further deteriorate the business environment for EU companies; highlights again its particular concern about the market distorting practices such as, but not limited to, industrial subsidies, the beneficial treatment of Chinese state-owned enterprises, IP theft, forced technology transfers and data localisation, industrial overcapacity in sectors such as steel and the related dumping of exports, and other unfair trading practices;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Stresses the absence in reciprocity in public procurement and the need to improve the EU’s posturing in this field; recalls the importance of an assertive and effective International Procurement Instrument to open up external procurement markets, as well as an Instrument of Foreign Subsidies which can successfully tackle distortions on the EU internal market; highlights that these two instruments should complement one another in tackling different sides of the same coin, focusing on the external and the internal dimensions respectively;
Amendment 49 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Urges the Commission to place an increased emphasis on the issues linked to standardization and the normative elements ofa growing international competition; reminds, in this regard, of the links between, trade, patents and standards; calls on the Commission to intensify activity in all areas of standardization, IPR infringements, including patent infringements by Chinese companies in the fields of digitalization and communications, within all relevant bodies, including the UN’s International Telecommunication Union; urges for more policy discussions regarding the implications of Chinese initiatives such as Made in China 2025 or, increasingly pertinently, China Standards 2035;
Amendment 55 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Reiterates the increasing significance of the trade-security nexus in the EU’s international trade policy; urges the Commission and Member States to continue their efforts on monitoring FDI coming into Europe, particularly as concerns strategic assets and critical infrastructure, further strengthening the FDI Screening Mechanism and delivering swiftly on its commitments on an Anti- Coercion Instrument;
Amendment 56 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4 d. Underlines the importance of the EU strategic relationship with China and calls on the EU’s Member States and institutions to address China with one voice and in a coordinated way; considers that the 17+1investment format is promoted by China to weaken the EU cohesion regarding investment policy and calls for a higher degrees of transparency, coherence and coordination between Member States on matters related to bilateral investment projects and deals, particularly on FDI, where the EU has exclusive competence; draws attention to the links between economic dependencies and external political leverage at the level of Member States;
Amendment 57 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4 e. Stresses, in this context, the issues linked to strategic dependencies in the area of critical raw materials (CRMs) and the urgent need to augment the resilience of European supply chains; calls for efforts to diversify and consolidate the EU’s access to key strategic resources needed for powering the EU’s twin engines of growth, with a particular emphasis on the 30 elements present on the fourth list of CRMs updated in 2020; welcomes in this context the recently- adopted EU Action Plan on Critical Raw Materials;
Amendment 58 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 f (new)
Paragraph 4 f (new)
4 f. Calls for increased attention to European SMEs that engage in commercial and investment relations with China and welcomes the Commission's support for SME-friendly initiatives such as the ‘Access to Markets’ portal, the Rules of Origin ‘ROSA’ portal or the China IPR SME Helpdesk, among others;
Amendment 59 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 g (new)
Paragraph 4 g (new)
4 g. Is convinced of the vital significance of proper information regarding legislative and regulatory developments on the Chinese market, given its opaque and state-driven nature; recalls in this context the importance of frequent and frank discussions with EU institutions, the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China (EUCCC) and all our partners on the ground;
Amendment 60 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 h (new)
Paragraph 4 h (new)
4 h. Urges China to make tangible progress towards improving its stance on sustainable development, including on climate protection and environmental- friendly production methods, corporate social responsibility, labor conditions and respect for human rights; considers important in this context concrete action towards the ratification and implementation of outstanding ILO core conventions;
Amendment 62 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the conclusion in principle, at the political level, of the EU- China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI); recalls that the CAI alone cannot solve all issues ailing our economic and political relationship, and thus has to be considered in the context of a strengthened EU toolbox of unilateral measures; underlines it will thoroughly scrutinise the agreement, with a clear focus on its benefits related to a rebalancing in market access, fair competition and level playing field, including its sustainable development section, and take stock of the human rights context, before determining its position; stresses that proper implementation and effective enforcement will be key determinants of the utility and success of the agreement in redressing structural asymmetries in the trade and investment relationship; highlights the role and relevance of structured and frequent exchanges with the office of the Chief Trade Enforcement Officer in efforts to evaluate the future implementation of the CAI; recalls and strengthens in this context the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in facilitating mutual understanding, transparent communication and frank dialogue;
Amendment 74 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Deeply regrets the unfair and unacceptable Chinese escalation of placing elected Members of the European Parliament andEuropean Union institutions entities under sanctions, as this further erodes trust and hinders bilateral cooperation; underlines that the ratification process of the CAI cannot start until the Chinese sanctions against MEPs and EU institutions are not lifted;
Amendment 98 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Considers relevant a discussion on the wider regional trade architecture and deems it pertinent to have timely and comprehensive reports from the Commission on RCEP and the CPTPP, in order to ensure a solid situational awareness of what is evolving on the ground; is particularly interested in the implications for EU strategic interests of matters such as standard-setting in the Asia-Pacific as well as Rules of Origin provisions;
Amendment 101 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Draws attention to developments linked to the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, as a key geopolitical instrument of the Chinese government; underlines that projects related to infrastructure or development financing ought to be closely monitored, including as concerns the possible negative political and geo- economic effects; highlights the need for the EU to enhance its own Connectivity Strategy, built on transparency, sustainability and accountability, as a geopolitical tool to engage with third countries in infrastructure or development projects;
Amendment 104 #
2021/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6 c. Recalls, in the context of the regional dynamics, the importance of EU- Taiwan relations, the bilateral structural dialogue, including on matters related to multilateralism and WTO, technology and public health, as well as essential cooperation on critical supplies such as semiconductors; urges the Commission to move forward with the Investment Agreement with Taiwan, taking the necessary steps for a scoping exercise, impact assessment and launching a public consultation;
Amendment 4 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the new EU Action Plan on Critical Raw Materials and stresses that EU t, the creation of the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA), and the emphasis on Critical Raw Materials (CRM) in the communication on the Trade pPolicy can play a key role as a vehicle for improving EU access to these materials; notes that the COVID-19 outbreak has expoReview (TPR); calls for an assertive trade policy emphasising the diversification and resilience of supply chains, and prioritising the improvement of global and EU mechanisms to create a favourable trade environment for European industry; stresses that EU trade policy plays a key role in improving EU access to all CRM, including base metals, industrial minerals, aggregates and biotic materials; notes that the disruption of worldwide supply chains caused by the lack of COVID-19 pandemic and the increasilience of global value chains for certain key products, showing the need for more robust and resilient supply chaing tensions between major powers has exposed strategic vulnerabilities for the EU, particularly in securing key resources necessary to deliver the Green Deal and to ensure the digital trans for critical raw materials; mation of the EU’s economy;
Amendment 11 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Welcomes the publication of the Updated New Industrial Strategy1a and its call to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy and new partnerships with industry and like-minded international partners; welcomes the Commission’s ongoing work on critical supply chains highlighting that critical raw and processed materials are essential to ensure the success of the clean energy and digital transitions; __________________ 1a Updating the 2020 New Industrial Strategy: Building a stronger Single Market for Europe’s recovery”, COM(2021) 350 final
Amendment 16 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that demand for raw materials is projected to double by 2050 and that the EU is highly reliant on non- EU countriewith concern the International Energy Agency’s 2021 projection that the energy sector’s global needs for critical minerals could increase by as much as six times by 2040 from use in batteries, renewable energy technologies, and grid infrastructure1a and is convinced that the EU’s significant dependency on imports for CRM, including 100% import reliance for several specialty metals and rare earths, undermines its strategic autonomy and geopolitical objectives; stresses that, because the EU supply and investment plans for many critical raw materials, making diversified sourcing essential to increase the EU’s security of supply fall short of what is needed to meet internal demand and that CRM prices are globally set, the EU industry faces a high international competition in access to raw materials and is vulnerable to export restriction measures by third countries; calls, therefore, on the Commission to diversify the supply sources of critical raw materials as much as possible, and reduce current reliance on a few third countries; calls on the Commission to focus also on securing supplies by establishing strategic stocks and appropriate stockpiling of critical raw materials in Europe, particularly in light of the uncertainties linked to the evolution of the geopolitical situation worldwide and the potential trade tensions with rich non- EU producer countries; __________________ 1a https://www.iea.org/reports/the-role-of- critical-minerals-in-clean-energy- transitions
Amendment 29 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the Commission to use bilateral Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to help secure a sustainable and diversified raw materials supply, while using stricter rules of origin and promoting sustainability standards worldwide; welcomes in that sense the ongoing dialogue with Canada and Chile aiming to strengthen trade relations in the area of CRM; underlines that future EU trade and partnership agreements can provide not only greater supply security but also a reliable political and economic framework and that they should include specific provisions on critical raw materials to promote cooperation and avoid export restrictions; emphasises the need for closer cooperation with key international suppliers especially Serbia, Ukraine, Australia, the US, Africa, Mercosur, and China;
Amendment 36 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Welcomes the Joint European Union - United States initiative on addressing global steel and aluminium excess capacity and calls for comprehensive and expeditious measures to hold to account countries like China that support trade-distorting policies; reminds the Commission, however, that for the time being the US Section 232 tariffs remain in full force and that this issue must urgently be resolved;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that future EU free trade agreements (FTAs) should include a specific focus on raw materials; cCalls on the Commission to further enhance the enforcement of FTAs to ensure that commitments and obligations on sourcing of critical raw materials are met by trading partners; calls on the Commission to strengthen cooperation on sustainable sourcing of raw materials with third countries under existing EU policies and instruments, including enlargement, neighbourhood, development and cooperation policies, and based on recognised international standards (e.g. OECD and UNGPs) and global industry initiatives on responsible sourcing; calls on the Commission to coherently align its actions on raw materials with other EU initiatives promoting sustainability in order to create a level playing field and to streamline the rule-book so that policies do not overburden industry;
Amendment 54 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Requests that the Commission acts through the Waste Shipments Regulation review to prevent, through increased measures and a strengthened inspection system, the illegal and dubious exports of waste products containing critical raw materials to avoid improper treatment of electronics waste and batteries; calls for overall requirements that waste products containing critical raw materials are exported with a guarantee they will be treated under equivalent conditions to Europe in the destination country so that resources are not lost through informal recycling operations and which also supports the transition to the circular economy; considers that it is important to reinforce the availability of secondary raw materials, including ferrous scrap and rare earths, in order to improve the resilience and circularity of CRMs supplies;
Amendment 57 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 f (new)
Paragraph 3 f (new)
3f. Calls on rules of origin to be used in a stricter way to safeguard raw materials production and prevent circumvention from regions where operators are subject to less stringent sustainability and industrial subsidies requirements;
Amendment 67 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that a fully functioning rules-based multilateral trading system is also key to ensuring open trade flows of critical raw materials; renews its call on the Commission, in this regard, to pursue its efforts for the modernisation, strengthening and substantial reactivationtowards an ambitious reform of the World Trade Organization to fight distortions of international trade and unfair trade practices, and guarantee effective competition worldwide;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Highlights that the strong state- backed competition for access to raw materials in third countries hampers EU resilience and security of supply, therefore welcomes the Commission's plans to establish strong and supportive international partnerships by endorsing a global agenda on raw materials, aiming for EU partnerships that ensure both security of supply and developmental benefits;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Welcomes the Joint Statement of the Trilateral Meeting of the Trade Ministers of Japan, the United States and the European Union Commission, and supports the proposed definition of industrial subsidies; welcomes that such definition extends beyond the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures and EU Anti- subsidy Regulation, and provides a broader definition of a subsidy; believes that such measures are crucial in levelling the international playing field in the area of CRM as industrial subsidies, particularly in China, pose a serious threat to EU industry and workers as it distorts international competition;
Amendment 1 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 (new)
Paragraph -1 (new)
-1. Highlights that trade policy can contribute to the development and wealth of women, the reduction of socio- economic gaps between women and men and the realisation of women’s rights by ensuring decent work conditions for women and by contributing to sustainable and equitable economic development while expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurship and access to apprenticeships, work and employment;
Amendment 2 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 a (new)
Paragraph -1 a (new)
-1 a. Highlights that trade policy has the potential to promote the relevant international standards and legal instruments on gender equality, such as the Beijing Platform for Action and the Sustainable Development Goals;
Amendment 3 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 b (new)
Paragraph -1 b (new)
-1 b. Calls for the EU to support and introduce trade policies that reduce socio- economic gaps and ensure a high level of protection and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights, including gender equality; calls for the EU to ensure that gender equality is a core concept in all EU trade policies;
Amendment 9 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the fact that the new EU Gender Action Plan 2021-2025 (GAP III) calls for theontinues to promotion ofe gender equality through the EU’s trade policy and recalls the necessary; welcomes the Commission and the Council's promotion and support ofor the inclusion of a specific gender chapter in EU trade and investment agreements;
Amendment 15 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Welcomes the Commission's promotion and support of gender provisions in agreements such as the EU- Chile Association Agreement;
Amendment 16 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Supports the promotion of gender equality and women empowerment outside the European continent’s borders and supports international efforts to promote the inclusion of gender perspective into trade policy and related programmes and international exchange of best practices within international organisations and bodies such as the WTO, ITC and UN on gender-responsive policies and programmes
Amendment 22 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that trade policy is not gender neutral and that better collection of gender-disaggregated data, together with clear indicators, is needed to adequately assess the different impacts of trade policy on women and men; reiterates its call for the EU and its Member States to include in ex ante and ex post impact assessments and ex post evaluations the country-specific and sector-specific gender impact of EU trade policy and agreements;
Amendment 26 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Notes the importance of conducting systematic and evidence-based gender analyses using, when possible, gender-disaggregated data in consultation with local authorities and organisations, for the assessment of the objectives, monitoring sources, means of implementation and efficacy of outcomes to ensure that trade policies are indeed promoting inclusive economic growth;
Amendment 50 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with concern the persistent gender gap in digital access and digital skills; calls for the Commission and the Member States to support female entrepreneurs, traders and workers in acquiring the necessary skills through development cooperation and Aid for Trade;
Amendment 53 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Expresses its concerns about the possibility of an increase in the digital gender gap in developing countries and regions in the current COVID-19 crisis; stresses the importance of promoting digital proficiency, digital accessibility and digital affordability for women and girls as instruments to obtain gender equality in development strategies; stresses the need to channel development funds into the promotion of the digital education of women and girls , and to support female-led projects in the digital sector, especially those with a social impact;
Amendment 56 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Recalls that women with disabilities, women that are members of ethnic and minority groups, women from different socio-economic backgrounds, older women and women in rural areas, as well as refugee and migrant women, may face difficulties in accessing digital services and related infrastructure; stresses the importance of an intersectional approach to all gender mainstreaming initiatives as regards increasing women’s access to and use of digital services, and to education and employment in the digital economy and society; calls on the Member States to tackle the digital exclusion of all vulnerable groups in society and to make ICT education accessible to them by adapting teaching methods and timetables to take account of the different factors determining women’s access to education;
Amendment 58 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Recalls that access to finance is essential to take advantage of new export opportunities; underlines that women entrepreneurs and women-led businesses often face gender-specific barriers to accessing finance; calls for the facilitating, as much as possible, of the access of women entrepreneurs and women-led businesses to finance;
Amendment 64 #
2021/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to ensure that sufficient resources are available to promote the core value of gender equality in its trade and investment policies and to ensure that the secretariats of the EU institutions responsible for trade policy and negotiations have the knowledge and technical capacity to incorporate the gender perspective.
Amendment 73 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The objectives of this Regulation, in particular counteracting third countries’ economic coercion of the Union or a Member State, cannot be sufficiently achieved by Member States acting on their own. This is because Member States as distinct actors under international law may not be entitled under international law to respond to economic coercion directed against the Union. Additionally, because of the exclusive competence conferred on the Union by Article 207 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Member States are prevented from taking common commercial policy measures as a response to economic coercion. Therefore, those objectives can be achieved with greater effectiveness atit is necessary that the means for achieving those objectives are created at the Union level.
Amendment 76 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In accordance with the principle of proportionality, it is necessary and appropriate, for creating an effective and comprehensive framework for Union action against economic coercion, to lay down rules on the examination, determination and counteraction with regard to third countries’ measures of economic coercion. In particular, the Union’s response measures should be preceded by an examination of the facts, a determination of the existence of economic coercion, and, wherever possible, efforts to find a solution in cooperation with the third country concerned. Any measures imposed by the Union should be commensurate with the injury caused by the third countries’ measures of economic coercion. The criteria for defining the Union response measures should take into account in particular the need to avoid or minimise collateral effects, administrative burdens and costs imposed on Union economic operators as well as the Union’s interest. Any Union response measures should primarily take into account their likelihood and ability to induce the third country to cease the coercive measures. Therefore, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve the objectives pursued, in accordance with Article 5(4) of the Treaty on European Union.
Amendment 82 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The Commission should examine whether third-country measures are coercive, on its own initiative or following information received from any source, including legal and natural persons, the European Parliament or a Member State. Following this examination, the Commission should determine in a decision whether the third-country measure is coercive. The Commission should publicly communicate any affirmative determinationthe result of this examination. In the case of an affirmative determination, the Commission should communicate to the third country concerned, together with a request that the economic coercion cease and a request, where appropriate, that any injury be repaired.
Amendment 92 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Union response measures adopted in accordance with this Regulation should be selected and designed on the basis of objective criteria, including: first and foremost, the effectiveness of the measures in inducing the cessation of coercion by the third country; their potential to provide relief to economic operators within the Union affected by the third-country measures of economic coercion; the aim of avoiding or minimising negative economic and other effects on the Union; and the avoidance of disproportionate administrative complexity and costs. It is also essential that the selection and design of Union response measures take account of the Union’s interest. Union response measures should be selected from a wide array of options in order to allow the adoption of the most suitable measures in any given case.
Amendment 100 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) It is important to ensure an effective and regular communication and exchange of views and information between the Commission on the one hand and the European Parliament and the Council on the other, in particular on efforts to engage with the third country concerned to explore options with a view to obtaining the cessation of the economic coercion and on matters that may lead to the adoption of Union response measures under this Regulation.
Amendment 104 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) The Commission should evaluate measures adopted under this Regulation as to their effectiveness and operation and as to possible conclusions for future measures. The Commission should also review this Regulation after gaining sufficient experience with the existence or application of this Regulation., as well as to take account of the review of the Blocking Statute.1a This review should cover the scope, functioning, efficiency and effectiveness of this Regulation. The Commission should report on its assessment to the European Parliament and the Council, _________________ 1a Council Regulation (EC) No 2271/96 of 22 November 1996 protecting against the effects of the extra-territorial application of legislation adopted by a third country, and actions based thereon or resulting therefrom, OJ L 309,29.11.1996, p. 1–6
Amendment 113 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 a (new)
Article 1 a (new)
Article 1 a Definitions For the purposes of this Regulation, the following definitions apply: (a) "threat of coercion" means a substantiated threat of a third country action or measure that is credible, significant, and could be quickly and easily deployed; b) “failure to act” means failure by a third country to take measures or actions to implement existing agreements that are fully ratified with the European Union or a Member State affecting trade or investment; (c) “Union interest” means ensuring the social, political, and economic cohesion of the union, upholding its strategic and economic interests, and ensuring the integrity of the single market;
Amendment 120 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
— by applying or threatening to apply measures affecting trade or investment. or failing to implement existing agreements that are fully ratified with the European Union or a Member State affecting trade or investment;
Amendment 129 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
(ca) the extent to which the coercion is having a measured effect on the economy of the Union or a Member State;
Amendment 133 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point e a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point e a (new)
(ea) whether the third country is applying the measures as part of a broader pattern of behaviour against the interests or policy decisions of the Union or a Member State.
Amendment 139 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The Commission shall carry out the examination referred to in paragraph 1 in the event of a substantiated request of a Member State or the European Parliament.
Amendment 143 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
The Commission mayshall publish a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union or through other suitable public communication means withof the launch of an examination procedure and may include an invitation to submit information within a specified time limit. In that event, the Commission shall notify the third country concerned of the initiation of the examination.
Amendment 147 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
The Commission shall publish a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union or through other suitable public communication means of the decision of an examination in accordance with Article 3.
Amendment 154 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
The Commission shall be open toproactively engage on behalf of the Union with the third country concerned, to explore options with a view to obtaining the cessation of the economic coercion. Such options may include:
Amendment 164 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
The Commission shall keep the European Parliament and the Council informed of relevregularly informed and provide notice of anty developments.
Amendment 174 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) action pursuant to the Articles 4 and 5 has not resulted in the cessation of the economic coercion and, where appropriate, reparation of the injury it has caused to the Union or a Member State within a reasonable period of time;
Amendment 183 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 7 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Where the conditions referred to in points (a), (b), and (c) are met in response to an affirmative determination of economic coercion by means of extra- territorial sanctions, the Commission shall only adopt an implementing act after it has exhausted the recourse to action provided by Council Regulation (EC) No 2271/96 of 22 November 1996.
Amendment 186 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. The Union response measures shall apply from a specified date after the adoption of the implementing act referred to in paragraph 1. The Commission shall set this date of application, taking into account the circumstances, to allow for the notification of the third country concerned pursuant to paragraph 3 and for it to cease the economic coercion, as well as to allow sufficient time for business to adequately prepare for any anticipated effects.
Amendment 190 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall, upon adoption of the implementing act, notify the third country concerned of the Union response measures adopted pursuant to paragraph 1. In the notification, the Commission shall, on behalf of the Union, call on the third country concerned to promptly cease the economic coercion, offer to negotiate a solution including, where appropriate, the reparation of the injury caused by it to the Union and its Members States, and inform the third country concerned that the Union response measure will apply, unless the economic coercion ceases.
Amendment 194 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 4
Article 7 – paragraph 4
4. The implementing act referred to in paragraph 1 shall state that the application of the Union response measures shall be deferred for a period specified in that implementing act, where the Commission has credible information that the third country haswill ceased the economic coercion before the start of application of the adopted Union response measures. In that event, the Commission shall publish a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union indicating that there is such information and the date from which the deferral shall apply. If the third country ceases the economic coercion before the Union response measures start to apply, the Commission shall terminate the Union response measures in accordance with Article 10.
Amendment 197 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 6
Article 7 – paragraph 6
Amendment 210 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point a
Amendment 214 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. Any Union response measure shall not exceed the level that is commensurate with the injury suffered by the Union or a Member State due to the third country’s measures of economic coercion, taking into account the gravity of the third country’s measures and the rights in question. economic impact that the measures are having on the Union or a Member State.
Amendment 220 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) the avoidance or minimisation of negative impacts on affected actors by Union response measures, including the availability and cost differentiation of alternatives for affected actors, for example alternative sources of supply for goods or services;
Amendment 230 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall keep under review the measures of economic coercion deployed by a third country that have triggered the Union response measures, the effectiveness of the Union response measures adopted and their effects on the Union’s interests and shall regularly keep the European Parliament and the Council informed thereof.
Amendment 241 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. A Member State or the European Parliament may request the Commission to amend, suspend, or terminate a Union response measure after 18 months of its application. The Commission shall respond to requests within six months and provide a justification for its decision.
Amendment 242 #
2021/0402(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 5 b (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. A Member State that has been subject to economic coercion shall have the right to request the Commission to review measures, if the Member State considers that the measures are no longer sufficient to counteract coercion or commensurate to the economic coercion imposed by the third country.
Amendment 88 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) The Commission should continue to work in partnership with producer countries, and more generally in cooperation with international organisations and bodies, and should be reinforcing its support and incentives with regard to protecting forests and transition to deforestation-free production, acknowledging the role of indigenous people, improving governance and land tenure, increasing law enforcement and promoting sustainable forest management, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable intensification and diversification, agro- ecology and agroforestry. In doing so it should acknowledge the role of indigenous people in protecting forests. Building upon the experience and lessons learned in the context of the already existing initiatives, the Union and the Member States should work in partnership with producer countries, upon their request, to exploit the multi-functionalities of forest, support them in the transition to sustainable forest management, and address global challenges while meeting local needs and paying attention to the challenges faced by smallholders in line with the Communication to Stepping up Action to Protect and Restore the World’s Forests. The rules must aim to minimise the burden on smallholders in third countries and prevent barriers to their access to the market and international trade. The partnership approach should help producer countries in protecting, restoring and sustainably using forest, hence contributing to the objective of this Regulation to reduce deforestation and forest degradation.
Amendment 99 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Bearing in mind that the use of recycled relevant commodities and products should be encouraged, and that including such commodities and products in the scope of this Regulation would place a disproportionate burden on operators; underlines the need to ensure the proportionality of regulatory burdens in the context of international trade, used commodities and products that have completed their lifecycle, and would otherwise be disposed of as waste, should be excluded from the scope of this Regulation.
Amendment 132 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 55
Recital 55
(55) In order to ensure that information requirements with which operators have to comply and which are set out in this Regulation remain relevant and in line with scientific and technological developments, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the Commission in respect of supplementing the information requirements necessary for the due diligence procedure, the information and criteria of risk assessment and risk mitigation with which operators have to comply which are set out in this Regulation and the list of goods set out in Annex I of this Regulation. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level and with stakeholders, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council should receive all documents at the same time as Member States' experts, and their experts should systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.
Amendment 133 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 56
Recital 56
(56) Regulation (EU) No 995/2010 prohibits the placing of illegally harvested timber and timber products on the Union market. It lays down obligations for operators placing timber on the market for the first time to exercise due diligence and for traders to keep a traceable record of their suppliers and customers, which should be applied at an appropriate and general level to not cause any disproportionate administrative burdens. This Regulation should retain the obligation to ensure the legality of relevant commodities and products, including wood and wood products, placed on the Union market and complements them with the requirement on sustainability. This Regulation and the related Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 607/2012 are therefore rendered redundant by this Regulation and should be repealed.
Amendment 135 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 57
Recital 57
(57) Regulation (EC) No 2173/2005 lays down Union procedures for the implementation of a FLEGT licensing scheme through bilateral Voluntary Partnership Agreements (VPAs) with timber-producing countries. VPAs are generally intended to foster systemic changes in the forestry sector aimed at sustainable management of forests, eradicating illegal logging and supporting worldwide efforts to stop deforestation; VPAs provide an important legal framework for both the EU and its partner countries, made possible with the good cooperation and engagement by the countries concerned; new VPAs with additional partners should be promoted; To respect bilateral commitments that the European Union has entered into and to preserve the progress achieved with partner countries that have an operating system in place (FLEGT licensing stage), this Regulation should include a provision declaring wood and wood-based products covered by a valid FLEGT license as fulfilling the legality requirement under this Regulation.
Amendment 141 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 61
Recital 61
(61) Operators, traders and competent authorities should be given a reasonable periodsufficient time in order to prepare themselves to meet the requirements of this Regulation,
Amendment 170 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Amendment 175 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – point a
(a) that the relevant commodities and products, including those used for or contained in relevant products, were produced on land that has not been subject to deforestation after December 31, 2020entry into force of this Regulation, and
Amendment 179 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – point b
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8 – point b
(b) that the wood has been harvested from the forest without inducing forest degradation after December 31, 2020deforestation after entry into force of this Regulation;
Amendment 187 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Amendment 222 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
(1) The Commission has presented a proposal for a Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (CSDD); the Commission should make a comprehensive impact assessment for the alignment of the Directive on CSDD and the Regulation to avoid any duplicates and to reduce the administrative burden; the Regulation shall also be revised if any due diligence obligations have stricter requirements than the Directive on CSDD; also take into account the results from the impact assessment in order to design rules that do not forego but enhance competitiveness for all companies, in particular SMEs; reminds the Commission of the "One in, one out" principle and demands that the proposal on due diligence will be paired with suggestions on reduced regulation for the industry; The Regulation shall foremost support well-functioning systems and ensure that already existing global forest certification schemes can be used.
Amendment 223 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. The Commission shall analyse the possibility to exclude operators that are not considered as a high risk country from the obligation of due diligence statements.
Amendment 225 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point d
Amendment 231 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3
Article 9 – paragraph 3
Amendment 233 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. Operators shall verify and analyse information collected in accordance with Article 9 and any other relevant documentation, and on this basis carry out a risk assessment to establish whether there is a risk that the relevant commodities and products intended to be placed on or exported from the Union market are non- compliant with the requirements of this Regulation. If the operators cannot demonstrate that the risk of non- compliance is negligible, they shall not place the relevant commodity or product on the Union market nor export it is not able to collect the requested or adequate information, they shall firstly be able to request assistance from the competent authority and secondly not place the relevant commodity or product on the Union market nor export it. This obligation must be analysed closely by the Commission and the regulation shall be revised if the required information lead to a disproportionate burden for the operator.
Amendment 245 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point i
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point i
Amendment 246 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point j
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point j
(j) complementary informationassurance onf compliance with this Regulation, which may include information supplied by certification or other third- party-verified schemes, including voluntary schemes recognised by the Commission under Article 30(5) of Directive (EU) 2018/200149 , provided that the information meets the requirements set out in Article 9; _________________ 49 Directive (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 328/82, 21.12.2018, p. 82–209).
Amendment 249 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 5
Article 10 – paragraph 5
Amendment 253 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 8
Article 10 – paragraph 8
Amendment 254 #
2021/0366(COD)
1. In order to exercise due diligence in accordance with Article 8, operators shall establish and keep up to date a due diligence system to ensure that they can guarantee compliance with the requirements set out in Article 3(a) and (b). The due diligence system shall be reviewed at least once a year and if necessary adapted to and accounting for revision or abolishment of provisions in other EU Regulations that generate compliance costs and administrative burden in the affected sectors or for new developments which may influence the exercise of due diligence. Operators shall keep record of updates in the due diligence system(s) for 5 years.
Amendment 273 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 12
Article 14 – paragraph 12
12. Checks shall be carried out without prior warningnotification of the operator or trader, except where prior notification of the operator or trader is necessaryand in close cooperation with stakeholders, in order to ensure the effectiveness of the checks.
Amendment 276 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) examination of documentation and records that demonstrate the compliance of a specific product or commodity that the operator has placed, intends to place on or export from the Union marketthe operator with the requirements of this Regulation;
Amendment 279 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point f
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point f
(f) any technical and scientific means adequate to determine twhe exact place wthere the relevant commodity or product was produced, including isotope testingare deforestation- free;
Amendment 280 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point h
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point h
(h) spot checks, including field audits, including where appropriate in third countries through cooperation with the administrative authorities of third countries. Any checks must be carried without disproportionate bureaucracy. If a product has been accepted, it should not be necessary to do another check, in order to keep the administrative burdens to a minimum.
Amendment 312 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 1
Article 27 – paragraph 1
1. This Regulation establishes a three- tier system for the assessment of countries or parts thereof. Unless identified in accordance with this Article as presenting a low or high risk, countries shall be considered as presenting a standard risk. For wood products listed in Annex I, the EU Timber Regulation shall apply until the Commission has assigned a country to a risk category. The Commission may identify countries or parts thereof that present a low or high risk of producing relevant commodities or products that are not compliant with Article 3, point (a). The list of the countries or parts thereof that present a low or high risk shall be published by means of implementing act(s) to be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 34(2). That list shall be updated as necessary in light of new evidence.
Amendment 349 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 1
Article 29 – paragraph 1
1. Natural or legal persons shall be entitled to submit reliable and substantiated concerns to competent authorities when they deem, based on relevant and objective circumstances, that one or more operators or traders are failing to comply with the provisions of this Regulation.
Amendment 358 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1
Article 32 – paragraph 1
Amendment 374 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 33
Article 33
Amendment 376 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 36 – paragraph 2
Article 36 – paragraph 2
2. Articles 3 to 12, 14 to 22, 24, 29 and 30 shall apply 124 months from the entry into force of this Regulation, with the objective to facilitate a smooth roll out of the Regulation, hence reducing the risk of disruptive impacts on trade.
Amendment 391 #
2021/0366(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 3
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 3
Amendment 67 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 9
Article 15 – paragraph 9
9. Where the Commission considers that the findings justify temporary withdrawal for the reasons referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article, it is empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 36, to amend Annex I and Annex II in order to temporarily withdraw the tariff preferences provided under the special incentive arrangement for sustainable development and good governance referred to in Article 1(2), point (b). In adopting the delegated act the Commission may, when appropriate, consider the socio- economic effect of the temporary withdrawal of tariff preferences in the beneficiary country.
Amendment 86 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 10
Article 19 – paragraph 10
10. Where the Commission considers that the findings justify temporary withdrawal for the reasons referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article, it is empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 36, to amend Annex I and Annex II, in order to temporarily withdraw the tariff preferences provided under the preferential arrangements referred to in Article 1(2). In adopting the delegated act the Commission may, where appropriate, consider the socio-economic effect of the temporary withdrawal of tariff preferences in the beneficiary country.
Amendment 117 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The general objectives of the GSP are to support eradication of poverty in all its forms, in line with Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development Goal 17.12 and, to promote the sustainable development agenda, and to encourage exports diversification from GSP beneficiary countries while averting harm to EU industry’s interests. The 2018 GSP Mid- term Evaluation and the 2021 supporting Study for the Impact Assessment underpinning this Regulation concluded that the GSP framework under Regulation (EU) No 978/2012 has delivered on these main objectives, which were at the core of the 2012 overhaul of Council Regulation (EC) No 732/200815 . _________________ 15 Council Regulation (EC) No 732/2008 of 22 July 2008 applying a scheme of generalised tariff preferences from 1 January 2009 and amending Regulations (EC) No 552/97, (EC) No 1933/2006 and Commission Regulations (EC) No 1100/2006 and (EC) No 964/2007 (OJ L 211, 6.8.2008, p. 1).
Amendment 121 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Those objectives remain relevant in the current global context and they are consistent with the analysis and perspective of the recent Commission Communication Trade Policy Review “An Open, Sustainable and Assertive Trade Policy”16 (‘TPR’). According to the TPR, the Union has a “strategic interest to support the enhanced integration into the world economy of vulnerable developing countries” and it “must fully use the strength provided by its openness and the attractiveness of its Single Market” to support multilateralism and to ensure adherence to universal values. For GSP specifically, the TPR notes its important role in “promoting respect for core human and labour rights” and sets the objective for the GSP “to further increase trading opportunities for developing countries to reduce poverty and create jobs based on international values and principles”. Together with openness to trade, the scheme should support GSP beneficiary countries to develop a strong industrial base and to create an infrastructure that facilitates access to knowledge and information to foster diversification of trade flows. Moreover, the scheme should assist beneficiaries in recovering from the COVID-19 impact and in re-building their economies in a sustainable manner, including with respect to international human rights, labour, environmental and good governance standards. By prioritising diversification of exports from GSP beneficiary countries, the scheme should focus preferences on less competitive products which should ultimately contribute to sustainable development and poverty eradication. Coherence should be ensured between the GSP and its objectives and the assistance provided to beneficiary countries, in line with Union’s Policy Coherence for Development (PCD), which constitutes a key pillar of Union’s efforts to enhance the positive impact and increase effectiveness of development cooperation17 . _________________ 16 COM(2021) 66 final, 18 February 2021 17 Article 208 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU concerning PCD reads: “The Union shall take account of the objectives of development cooperation in the policies that it implements which are likely to affect developing countries”.
Amendment 132 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) By providing preferential access to the Union market, the scheme should assist developing countries in their efforts to reduce poverty and achieve and promote good governance and sustainable development by helping them to generate additional revenue through international trade, which can then be re-invested for the benefit of their own development and, in addition, to diversify their economies. The scheme's tariff preferences should focus on less competitive products originating from those developing countries that have greater development, trade and financial needs.
Amendment 169 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
Recital 23 a (new)
(23 a) Safeguards are essential mechanisms to reduce beneficiary countries’ dependency on a few products, to focus preferences on less competitive products and to stimulate economic growth. The scheme should reinforce the Union’s financial and economic interests by providing effective and enforceable safeguards to sensitive products which should at the same time improve the diversification of their economies and the implementation of social and environmental rights in beneficiary countries.
Amendment 189 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Orderly international migration can bring important benefits to the countries of origin, transit and destination of migrants and contribute to their sustainable development and economic growth needs. Increasing coherence between trade, development and migration policies is key to ensure that the benefits of migration accrue mutually to both the origin, transit and destination countries. In this respect, it is essential for both origin, transit and destination countries to address common challenges, such as, stepping up cooperation on readmission of own nationals and their sustainable reintegration in the country of origin, in particular in order to avoid a constant drain in active population in the countries of origin, with the ensuing long- term consequences on development, and to ensure that migrants are treated with dignity.
Amendment 190 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Orderly international migration, safe, regular and responsible international migration and mobility of people, including through the implementation of planned and well- managed migration policies, as the Sustainable Development Goals target 10.7 establishes, can bring important benefits to the countries of origin and destination of migrants and contribute to their sustainable development needs . Increasing coherence between trade, development and migration policies, as it has been adopted by several European Council Conclusions, in particular the ones adopted on 16th December 2021, is key to ensure that the benefits of migration accrue mutually to both the origin and destination countries. In this respect, it is essential for both origin and destination countries to address common challenges, such as, stepping up cooperation on readmission of own nationals and their sustainable reintegration in the country of origin, in particular in order to avoid a constant drain in active population in the countries of origin, with the ensuing long- term consequences on development, and to ensure that migrants are treated with dignity.
Amendment 192 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26 a (new)
Recital 26 a (new)
(26 a) The Union should favour a constructive engagement on all aspects of migration, forced displacement and mobility, working to ensure that migration takes place in a safe and well-regulated manner. It is essential to further step up cooperation on migration with partner countries, built on the more for more principle and using the full application of the NDICI-Global Europe instrument.
Amendment 194 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Return, readmission and reintegration are a common challenge for the Union and its partners. In particularAccording to the Court of Auditors less than 1 in 5 actually return to their own countries outside of Europe.1a The effective return of third country nationals who do not have the right to stay is an essential component of a well-functioning Common European Asylum System and for the Schengen Agreement. This requires the Union to cooperate closer with countries of origin and transit to ensure return. In this regard, every State has the obligation to readmit its own nationals under international customary law, and multilateral international conventions such as the Convention on International Civil Aviation signed in Chicago on 7 December 1944. Improving sustainable reintegration and capacity building would significantly strengthen the local development in the partner countries. Shortcomings in third countries related to the readmission of its own nationals need to be prevented to ensure the effective and dignified return of third country nationals who do not have the right to stay in Union. _________________ 1a European Court of Auditors Special Report 17/2021, https://www.eca.europa.eu/Lists/ECADoc uments/SR21_17/SR_Readmission- cooperation_EN.pdf
Amendment 201 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 9 a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 9 a (new)
(9 a) ‘sensitive products’ means goods whose utilisation rate by standard GSP beneficiary countries could negatively impact the Union industry and primary sector;
Amendment 235 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3
Article 8 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall, every three years, review the list referred to in paragraph 2 of this Article and adopt an implementing act in the year preceding the review year, in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 39(2), in order to suspend or to re-establish the tariff preferences referred to in Article 7. That implementing act shall apply as of 1 January of the year following its entry in force.
Amendment 238 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 4
Article 8 – paragraph 4
4. The list referred to in paragraphs 2 and 3 of this Article shall be established on the basis of the data available on 1 September of the year in which the review is conducted and of the two years preceding the review year. It shall take into account imports from GSP beneficiary countries listed in Annex I as applicable at that time. However, the value of imports from GSP beneficiary countries, which upon the date of application of the suspension no longer benefit from the tariff preferences under Article 4(1), point (b), shall not be taken into account.
Amendment 290 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 9
Article 15 – paragraph 9
9. Where the Commission considers that the findings justify temporary withdrawal for the reasons referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article, it is empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 36, to amend Annex I and Annex II in order to temporarily withdraw the tariff preferences provided under the special incentive arrangement for sustainable development and good governance referred to in Article 1(2), point (b). In adopting the delegated act the Commission may, when appropriate, consider the socio- economic effect of the temporary withdrawal of tariff preferences in the beneficiary country.
Amendment 315 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) serious shortcomings in customs controls on the export or transit of drugs (illicit substances or precursors), or related to the obligation to readmit the beneficiary country’s own nationals or serious failure to comply with international conventions on antiterrorism or anti-money laundering;
Amendment 318 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(c a) shortcomings related to the obligation to readmit the beneficiary country’s own nationals;
Amendment 322 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) serious and systematic unfair trading practices including those affecting the supply of raw materials, which have an adverse effect on the Union industry and which have not been addressed by the beneficiary country. For those unfair trading practices, which are prohibited or actionable under the WTO Agreements, the application of this Article shall be based on a previous determination to that effect by the competent WTO body; Commission following a Trade Barrier investigation under Council Regulation (EC) No 3286/94 of 22 December 1994 laying down Community procedures in the field of the common commercial policy in order to ensure the exercise of the Community's rights under international trade rules, in particular those established under the auspices of the World Trade Organization. For the other unfair trading practices, including - but not limited to – breaches of intellectual property rights, trade distorting investment practices, trafficking and smuggling, breaches of competition rules and any other unfair trading practices that may hinder market access and the national treatment principle, the application of this Article shall be based on a previous determination to that effect under the conditions laid down in Paragraph 3;
Amendment 333 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 3
Article 19 – paragraph 3
3. Where the Commission, acting upon a complaint or on its own initiative, considers that there are sufficient grounds justifying temporary withdrawal of the tariff preferences provided under any preferential arrangement referred to in Article 1(2) on the basis of the reasons referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article it shall adopt an implementing act to initiate the procedure for temporary withdrawal in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 39(2). The Commission shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of the adoption of that implementing act. Sufficient grounds justifying temporary withdrawal of the tariff preferences provided under any preferential arrangement referred to in Article 1(2) on the basis of the reasons referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article are prima facie deemed to exist in case a Trade Barrier investigation has already been concluded by the Commission in relation to the unfair trading practices at stake.
Amendment 344 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 5
Article 19 – paragraph 5
5. The Commission shall provide the beneficiary country concerned with every opportunity to cooperate during the monitoring and evaluation period of six months from the date of publication of the noticmonitoring and evaluation period will be of six months from the date of publication of the notice. During this period, the Commission shall provide the beneficiary country concerned with every opportunity to cooperate.
Amendment 347 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 7
Article 19 – paragraph 7
7. Within three months from the expiry of the period referred to in paragraph 5, the Commission shall submit a report on its findings and conclusions to the beneficiary country concerned. The beneficiary country has the right to submit its comments on the report. The period for comments shall not exceed one month. This paragraph does not apply in case a trade barrier investigation has already been concluded in relation to the unfair trading practices at stake.
Amendment 351 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 8 – introductory part
Article 19 – paragraph 8 – introductory part
8. Within sixthree months from the expiry of the period referred to in paragraph 4, point (b)5, the Commission shall decide:
Amendment 353 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 10
Article 19 – paragraph 10
10. Where the Commission considers that the findings justify temporary withdrawal for the reasons referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article, it is empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 36, to amend Annex I and Annex II, in order to temporarily withdraw the tariff preferences provided under the preferential arrangements referred to in Article 1(2). In adopting the delegated act the Commission may, where appropriate, consider the socio-economic effect of the temporary withdrawal of tariff preferences in the beneficiary country.
Amendment 358 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 12
Article 19 – paragraph 12
12. Where the Commission decides on temporary withdrawal, such delegated act shall become applicable sixthree months after its adoption.
Amendment 364 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 16
Article 19 – paragraph 16
16. Where the Commission considers that there is sufficient evidence to justify temporary withdrawal for the reason set out in paragraph 1, point (a) and the exceptional gravity of the violations calls for a rapid response in view of the specific circumstances in the beneficiary country, it shall initiate the procedure for temporary withdrawal in accordance with paragraphs (3) to (15). However, the period referred to in paragraph 4, point (b)5 is reduced to 21 months and the deadline referred to in paragraph 8 is reduced to 53 months.
Amendment 378 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 4
Article 24 – paragraph 4
4. An investigation, including the procedural steps referred to in Articles 25, 26 and 27, shall be concluded within 12 9 months from its initiation.
Amendment 421 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – subheading 1
Annex IV – subheading 1
Modalities for the application of Article 8 and Article 29
Amendment 427 #
2021/0297(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – point 1
Annex IV – point 1
1. Article 8 and Article 29 shall apply when the percentage share referred to in paragraph 1 of thatose Articles exceeds 470 %.
Amendment 83 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The initiative for a carbon border adjustment mechanism (‘CBAM’) is a part of the ‘Fit for 55 Package’. That mechanism is to serve as an essential element of the EU toolbox to meet the objective of a climate-neutral Union by 2050 in line with the Paris Agreement by addressing risks of carbon leakage resulting from the increased Union climate ambition. The CBAM is also consistent with the EU's objective of Open Strategic Autonomy.
Amendment 88 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Existing mechanisms to address the risk of carbon leakage in sectors or sub- sectors at risk of carbon leakage are the transitional free allocation of EU ETS allowances and financial measures to compensate for indirect emission costs incurred from GHG emission costs passed on in electricity prices respectively laid down in Articles 10a(6) and 10b of Directive 2003/87/EC. However, free allocatExisting carbon leakage measures are based on strict benchmarks established by the best- performing installations. These measures also represents an incentive to reduce emissions under the EU ETS weakens the price signal that the system provideshile also providing a carbon price signal for emissions above the benchmark level; they have proven so foar the installations receiving it compared to full auctioning and thus affects the incentives for investment into further abatement of emissionso be effective in reducing the risk of carbon leakage, although in the context of lower carbon prices than those experienced recently and those forecasted by 2030.
Amendment 96 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The CBAM seeks to replacestrengthen carbon leakage protection in view of higher EU climate ambitions by 2030 and thereafter replace progressively these existing mechanisms by addressing the risk of carbon leakage in a different way, namely by ensuring equivalent carbon pricing for imports and domestic products. To ensure a gradual transition from the current system of free allowances to the CBAM, the CBAM should be progressively phased in while free allowances in sectors covered by the CBAM are phased out and by ensuring that EU products exported in the global market are not replaced by more carbon intensive products, which would undermine the objective of reducing global emissions. To ensure a gradual transition from the current system of free allowances to the CBAM, free allowances should only be phased out once the CBAM regulation has proven its effectiveness in terms of protection from the risk of carbon leakage both for imports and exports, not before 2030 and only following a three years test phase running from 2026 to 2028 during which the effectiveness of the mesure will be throughly assessed by the Commission. The combined and transitional application of EU ETS allowances allocated free of charge and of the CBAM should in no case result in more favourable treatment for Union goods compared to goods imported into the customs territory of the Union.
Amendment 114 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12 a (new)
Recital 12 a (new)
(12 a) While the surrenderingof CBAM certificates for EU importers addresses the risk of carbon leakage on the EU market, it is essential that the CBAM would also seek to reduce the possibility of European low-carbon exports being replaced by carbon-intensive items on third country markets or by goods that are not subject to equivalent climate policy and carbon costs, undermining the goal of lowering global emissions. It is therefore necessary to continue addressing the risk of carbon leakageassociated with European exports to third countries that have not yet limited or priced GHG emissions at the same levels as the EU.
Amendment 116 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12 b (new)
Recital 12 b (new)
(12 b) This Regulation does not apply to goods exported from the EU and therefore does not address carbon leakage associated with exports. Consequently, the Commission should monitor and evaluate the mechanism’s impact on export markets and, if the assessment of the effectiveness of the CBAM in tackling carbon leakage on the EU market is positive, after the three year test period, the Commission shall present a report to the European Parliament and Council accompanied with a legislative proposal to address the carbon leakage risk on export markets while starting the free allocation phase out as set out in the ETS directive.
Amendment 119 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12 c (new)
Recital 12 c (new)
(12 c) If European industries producing goods subject to the CBAM face significant difficulties as a result of its implementation, the Commission develops an in-depth assessment in close collaboration with the industrial secotrs. This assessment should be completed as soon as possible to determine whether the mechanism is effective and practible.
Amendment 121 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) As an instrument to prevent carbon leakage and reduce GHG emissions the CBAM should ensure that imported products are subject to a regulatory system that applies carbon costs equivalent to the ones that otherwise would have been borne under the EU ETS. The CBAM is a climate measure which should prevent the risk of carbon leakage and support the Union’s increased ambition on climate mitigation, while ensuring WTO compatibility. However, the CBAM should be combined with rules addressing the exports component, such as the implementation of full or partial export duty exemptions, in order to fully eliminate concerns of carbon leakage and protect the competitiveness of European exported goods. Such a mechanism would be in line with the rules provided by the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (ASCM).
Amendment 132 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to exclude from the CBAM third countries or territories fully integrated into, or linked, to the EU ETS and where the carbon cost burden is equivalent to that under the EU ETS, in the event of future agreements, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of TFEU should be delegated to the Commission in respect of amending the list of countries in Annex II. Conversely, those third countries or territories should be excluded from the list in Annex II and be subject to CBAM whereby they do not effectively charge the ETS price on goods exported to the Union.
Amendment 135 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 a (new)
Recital 16 a (new)
(16 a) The implementing act pursuant to Article 7(6) shall include all input materials that contribute significantly to GHG emissions. In the case of stainless steel (CN codes 7218-7223), ferro-alloys shall be included in the list of input materials as they fulfil this criterion.
Amendment 139 #
2021/0214(COD)
(17) The GHG emissions to be regulated by the CBAM should correspond to those GHG emissions covered by Annex I to the EU ETS in Directive 2003/87/EC, namely carbon dioxide (‘CO2’) as well as, where relevant, nitrous oxide (‘N2O’) and perfluorocarbons (‘PFCs’). The CBAM should initially apply to direct emissions of those GHG from the production of goods up to the time of import into the customs territory of the Union, and after the end of a transition period and upon further assessment, as well to indirect emissions, mirroring the scope of the EU ETS.
Amendment 147 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) The CBAM system has some specific features compared with the EU ETS, including on the calculation of the price of CBAM certificates, on the possibilities to trade certificates and on their validity over time. These are due to the need to preserve the effectiveness of the CBAM as a measure preventing carbon leakage over time and to ensure that the management of the system idoes not add excessively burdensome administrative burden to EU companies in terms of obligations imposed on the operators and of resources for the administration, while at the same time preserving an equivalent level of flexibility available to operators under the EU ETS.
Amendment 156 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
Recital 23 a (new)
(23 a) Given the unique nature of the CBAM and the need forclose EU coordination, a CBAM authority at the EU level should be established to properly implement and monitor the provisions contained in this regulation.
Amendment 157 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) In terms of sanctions, Member Statesthe EU Central Authority should apply penalties to infringements of this Regulation and ensure that they are implemented. The amount of those penalties should be identical to penalties currently applied within the Union in case of infringement of EU ETS according to Article 16(3) and (4) of Directive 2003/87/EC. However, in case of circumvention or absorption practices or in case of repeated infringements of the provisions of the present Regulation, stronger penalties should apply to avoid undermining the effectiveness of the CBAM regime.
Amendment 202 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 52
Recital 52
(52) The Commission should evaluate the application of this Regulation before the end of the transitional period and report to the European Parliament and the Council. The report of the Commission should in particular focus on possibilities to enhance climate actions towards the objective of a climate neutral Union by 2050. The Commission should, as part of that evaluation, initiate collection of information necessary to prevent distortion of competition in the EU and in global markets and possibly extend the scope to indirect emissions, as well as to other goods and services at risk of carbon leakage, and to develop methods of calculating embedded emissions based on the environmental footprint methods47 . With regard to indirect emissions, the evaluation shall take into account the exposure of EU producers to carbon costs passed on in electricity prices due to the functioning of the EU energy market. _________________ 47 Commission Recommendation 2013/179/EU of 9 April 2013 on the use of common methods to measure and communicate the life cycle environmental performance of products and organisations (OJ L 124, 4.5.2013, p. 1).
Amendment 209 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 52 a (new)
Recital 52 a (new)
(52 a) Given the particularities of the European electricity market vis-à-vis those of third countries, the provisions laid down in Articles 10a(6) and 10b of Directive 2003/87/EC play a crucial role in ensuring the competitiveness of EU electro-intensive industries against carbon leakage. These particularities result in an embedded carbon cost even when the electricity being consumed by an installation is decarbonised. Should the Commission seek to extend the scope to indirect emissions, the said provisions of Directive 2003/87/EC should not be phased out until the European electricity mix has been decarbonised to a degree that the mismatch between indirect costs and indirect emissions is negligible.
Amendment 216 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) The Commission should strive to engage in an even handed manner and in line with the international obligations of the EU, with the third countries whose trade to the EU is affected by this Regulation, to explore possibilities for dialogue and cooperation with regard to the implementation of specific elements of the Mechanism set out this Regulation and related implementing acts. It should also explore possibilities for concluding agreements to take into account their carbon pricing mechanism, provided that they deliver equivalent GHG emissions reductions and carbon costs constraints.
Amendment 232 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
1. This Regulation establishes a carbon border adjustment mechanism (the ‘CBAM’) for addressing greenhouse gas emissions embedded in the goods referred to in Annex I, upon their importation into the customs territory of the Union, in order to prevent the risk of carbon leakage from the EU and contribute to the reduction of global carbon emissions.
Amendment 235 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3
Article 1 – paragraph 3
3. The mechanism willshould progressively become an alternative to the mechanisms established under Directive 2003/87/EC to prevent the risk of carbon leakage, notably the allocation of allowances free of charge in accordance with Article 10a of that Directive, if it has been proven to be effective in preventing carbon leakage both for imports into and exports from the Union’s custom territory, and without prejudice to maintaining EU ETS allowances free of charge at benchmark level until a test period with actual surrendering obligation by declarants running until 2030 has proven such effectiveness.
Amendment 262 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 12
Article 2 – paragraph 12
12. The Union, may conclude agreements with third countries with a view to take account of carbon pricing mechanisms in these countries in the application of Article 9. These agreements shall not lead to undue preferential treatment of imports from third countries as regards the CBAM certificates to be surrendered and they must not take into account any carbon pricing mechanisms that are considered to be circumvention practices under Article 27.
Amendment 282 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a Notification and Registration of Exports 1. Any declarant wishing to obtain adjustments to their emission allowances corresponding to the embedded emissions of the goods produced in the EU and exported outside the territory of the customs union shall be registered as a declarant according to Article 4 and shall notify the competent authority of its intention at the time of lodging the predeparture declaration. On release of the goods, the customs office of export will transmit the necessary particulars of the export movement to the competent authority which shall issue a certificate establishing the allowance adjustments to be granted to calibrate the regulatory obligation. 2. The Commission is empowered to adopt implementing acts, concerning the standard format of the notification and the delays and procedure to be followed by the competent authority when processing applications for obtaining a CBAM certificate in accordance with paragraph 1 and the rules for identification by the competent authority of the declarants. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 29(2).
Amendment 290 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 6
Article 7 – paragraph 6
6. The Commission is empowered to adopt implementing acts concerning detailed rules regarding the elements of the calculation methods set out in Annex III, including determining system boundaries of production processes, emission factors, installation-specific values of actual emissions and default values and their respective application to individual goods as well as laying down methods to ensure the reliability of data on the basis of which the default values shall be determined, including the level of detail and the verification of the data. Where necessary, those acts shall provide that the default values can be adapted to particular areas, regions or countries to take into account specific objective factors such as geography, natural resources, market conditions, prevailing energy sources, or industrial processes. The implementing acts shall build upon existing legislation for the verification of emissions and activity data for installations covered by Directive 2003/87/EC, in particular Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/2067.
Amendment 298 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. The Commission is empowered to adopt implementing acts concerning the principles of verification referred to in paragraph 1 as regards the possibility to waive the obligation for the verifier to visit the installation where relevant goods are produced and the obligation to set thresholds for deciding whether misstatements or non-conformities are material and concerning the supporting documentation needed for the verification report. Provisions laid down in such implementing acts shall be equivalent to the provisions set in Regulation 2018/2067.
Amendment 304 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. The authorised declarant shall keep records of the documentation, certified by an independent person, verifier accredited pursuant to art. 18 and in line with the competences established in art. 8(1) concerning the verification of embedded emissions. The accredited verifier is required to demonstrate that the declared embedded emissions were subject to a carbon price in the country of origin of the goods and keep evidence of the proof of the actual payment for that carbon price which should not have been subject to an export rebate or any other form of compensation on exportation.
Amendment 307 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. The authorised declarant shall keep records of the documentation, certified by an independent person, required to demonstrate that the declared embedded emissions were subject to a carbon price in the country of origin of the goods and keep evidence of the proof of the actual payment for that carbon price which should not have been subject to an export rebate or any other form of compensation on exportation.
Amendment 310 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 4
Article 9 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission is empowered to adopt implementing acts establishing the methodology for calculating the reduction in the number of CBAM certificates to be surrendered, regarding the conversion of the carbon price paid in foreign currency into euro at yearly average exchange rate in accordance with paragraph 1, and regarding the qualifications of the independent person certifying the information as well as elements of proof of the carbon price paid and the absence of export rebates or other forms of compensation on exportation being applied as referred to in paragraph 2. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 29(2).
Amendment 313 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall, upon request by a register the information on operators of an installations located in a third country, register the information on that operator and on itsies and on those installations in a central database referred to in Article 14(4).
Amendment 317 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 6
Article 10 – paragraph 6
6. The records referred to in paragraph 5, point (c), shall be sufficiently detailed to enable the verification in accordance with paragraph 5, point (b), and to enable any competent authority to verify and to review, in accordance with Article 19(1), the CBAM declaration made by an authorised declarant to whom the relevant information was disclosed in accordance with paragraph 8.
Amendment 322 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 8
Article 10 – paragraph 8
8. The operator may, at any timefter 5 years and with previous notification, ask to be deregistered from the database.
Amendment 325 #
Amendment 327 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. A central CBAM authority at the EU level is established for the purpose of implementing and managing this Regulation.Its composition and tasks shall be established by way of separate Regulation. Each Member State shall designate the national competent authority to carry out the obligations and cooperate with the EU CBAM authority under this Regulation and inform the CommissionEU CBAM authority thereof.
Amendment 331 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
The Commission shall make available to the Member States a list of all competent national authorities and publish this information in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Amendment 332 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall require that national competent authorities exchange any information that is essential or relevant to the exercise of their functions and duties through a network established under the responsibility of the EU CBAM authority.
Amendment 337 #
Amendment 339 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
The CommissionEU CBAM authority shall be assisted by the competent national authorities in carrying out their obligations under this Regulation and coordinate their activities.
Amendment 342 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
All information acquired by the central and national competent authorityies in the course of performing itstheir dutyies which is by its nature confidential or which is provided on a confidential basis shall be covered by an obligation of professional secrecy. Such information shall not be disclosed by the competent authority without the express permission of the person or authority that provided it. It may be shared with customs authorities, the Commission and the European Public Prosecutors Office and shall be treated in accordance with Council Regulation (EC) No 515/97.
Amendment 349 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 3
3. The information in the database referred to in paragraph 2 shall be confidentialmade available to the public, unless it is proven that it is business confidential according to the relevant EU legislation. Non- confidential summaries must be included with confidential information. Information equivalent to the one made publicly available for EU producers under the EU ETS central database shall be made public.
Amendment 351 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 4
Article 14 – paragraph 4
4. The CommissionEU CBAM authority shall establish a central database accessible to the public containing the names, addresses and contact details of the operators and the location of installations in third countries in accordance with Article 10(2). An operator may choose not to have its name, address and contact details accessible to the public.The central database should insofar as possible, mirror the ETS database
Amendment 352 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
1. The CommissionEU CBAM authority shall act as central administrator to maintain an independent transaction log recording the purchase of CBAM certificates, their holding, surrender, re-purchase and cancellation and ensure coordination of national registries.
Amendment 355 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 3
Article 15 – paragraph 3
3. If irregularities are identified as a result of the controls carried out under paragraph 2, the Commission shall inform the Member State or Member States concerned for further investigation in order to correct the identified irregularities. Identified irregularities shall be corrected as soon as possible from their identification and, where appropriate, penalties pursuant to article 27 shall apply.
Amendment 358 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
1. The national competent authority shall assign to each authorised declarant a unique CBAM account number which will be registered with the EU CBAM Authority.
Amendment 359 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. The national competent authority shall authorise a declarant who submits an application for authorisation in accordance with Article 5(1), if the following conditions are fulfilled:
Amendment 366 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 2
Article 17 – paragraph 2
2. Where the national competent authority finds that the conditions listed in paragraph 1 are not fulfilled, or where the applicant has failed to provide the information listed in Article 5(3), the authorisation of the declarant shall be refused.
Amendment 367 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 3
Article 17 – paragraph 3
3. If the national competent authority refuses to authorise a declarant, the declarant requesting the authorisation may, prior to an appeal, object to the relevant authority under national law, who shall either instruct the national administrator to open the account or uphold the refusal in a reasoned decision, subject to requirements of national law that pursue a legitimate objective compatible with this Regulation and are proportionate.
Amendment 368 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
Article 17 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. A decision of the competent national authority authorising a declarant shall contain the following information
Amendment 370 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 6 – introductory part
Article 17 – paragraph 6 – introductory part
6. The competent national authority shall require the provision of a guarantee in order to authorise a declarant in accordance with paragraph 1, if the declarant was not established throughout the two financial years that precede the year when the application in accordance with Article 5(1) was submitted.
Amendment 371 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1
Article 17 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1
The competent national authority shall fix the amount of such guarantee at the maximum amount, as estimated by the competent authority, of the value of the CBAM certificates that the authorised declarant have to surrender, in accordance with Article 22.
Amendment 372 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 7
Article 17 – paragraph 7
7. The guarantee shall be provided as a bank guarantee, payable at first demand, by a financial institution operating in the Union or by another form of guarantee which provides equivalent assurance. Where the competent national authority establishes that the guarantee provided does not ensure, or is no longer certain or sufficient to ensure the amount of CBAM obligations, it shall require the authorised declarant either to provide an additional guarantee or to replace the initial guarantee with a new guarantee, according to its choice.
Amendment 373 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 8
Article 17 – paragraph 8
8. The competent national authority shall release the guarantee immediately after 31 May of the second year in which the authorised declarant has surrendered CBAM certificates in accordance with Article 22.
Amendment 375 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 9
Article 17 – paragraph 9
9. The competent national authority shall revoke the authorisation for a declarant who no longer meets the conditions laid down in paragraph 1, or who fails to cooperate with that authority.
Amendment 376 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2
Article 18 – paragraph 2
Amendment 378 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 3
Article 18 – paragraph 3
Amendment 380 #
2021/0214(COD)
1. The competententral and national authorityies may review the CBAM declaration within the period ending with the fourth year after the year in which the declaration should have been submitted. The review may consist in verifying the information provided in the CBAM declaration on the basis of the information communicated by the customs authorities in accordance with Article 25(2) and any other relevant evidence, and on the basis of any audit deemed necessary, including at the premises of the authorised declarant.
Amendment 382 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
(1) The national competent authority shall inform the EU CBAM authority of the quantity and installation source of the exports. The EU CBAM authority shall inform the Commission of the data received so as to allow the Commissionto to make adjustments to the allowances to be surrendered for the intallation source of the exports.
Amendment 387 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2
Article 19 – paragraph 2
2. Where a CBAM declaration in accordance with Article 6 has not been submitted, the competent authority of the Member State of establishment of the authorised declarant shall assess the CBAM obligations of that declarant on the basis of the information at its disposal and calculate the total number of CBAM certificates due at the latest by the 31 December of the fourth year following that when the CBAM declaration should have been submitted.
Amendment 408 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. In case of repeated failure to surrender a number of CBAM certificates corresponding to the emissions embedded in goods imported during the previous year, or in case of submission of false information in the CBAM declaration, an authorized declarant, and any of its related parties, maybe automatically excluded from the register for a given period from the date of exclusion. The respective verifier – and any of its related parties - who has certified the accuracy of the information in the CBAM declaration should have its certification withdrawn by the central CBAM authority.
Amendment 412 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 5
Article 26 – paragraph 5
5. Member StatesThe central CBAM authority may apply administrative or criminal sanctions for failure to comply with the CBAM legislation in accordance with their national rules in addition to penalties referred to in paragraphs 2 and 4a. Such sanctions shall be effective, proportionate and dissuasive.
Amendment 417 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 2
Article 27 – paragraph 2
2. Practices of circumvention include situations where a change in the pattern of trade in relation to goods included in the scope of this Regulation whether slightly modified or not, stems from a practice, process or work, has insufficient due cause or economic justification other than avoiding obligations as laid down in this Regulation and consist in replacing those goods with slightly modified products, which are not included in the list of goods in Annex I but belong to a sector included in the scope of this Regulation.
Amendment 419 #
2021/0214(COD)
2 a. The practice, process or work referred to in the first subparagraph include, inter alia: (a) the slight modification of the product concerned to make it fall under customs codes which are normally not subject to the obligations of this Regulation, provided that the modification does not alter its essential characteristics; (b) false declarations as to the identity of the producer of the product concerned or of the nature of the product concerned or the production process involved in making it; (c) the consignement of the product concerned via third countries to which no or more favourable obligations apply; (d) the reorganisation by exporters or producers of their patterns and channels of sales in order to eventually avoid obligations as laid down in this Regulation,or undermine their effects, including on overall GHG emissions and on prices of the like products, for instance via practices of resource shuffling;For thepurpose of this point, resource shuffling shall be defined as any practice, process or work that have insufficient due cause or economic justification other than avoiding obligations as laid down in this Regulation, or undermining their effects, without delivering environmental benefits on global GHGemissions; (e) any other measure to eventually avoid or evade obligations as laid down in this Regulation, or undermine their effects, including onoverall GHG;
Amendment 429 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 3
Article 27 – paragraph 3
Amendment 434 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Following a notification from a Member State, an interested party or on its own initiative, the Commission may decide, following an investigation, to extend obligations laid down in this regulation, in whatever way is necessary to prevent future circumvention of the mechanism, when circumvention of the measures in force is taking place.
Amendment 437 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 5
Article 27 – paragraph 5
Amendment 445 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Decisions referred to in the third paragraph shall be subject to theappeal procedure as set out in Article 30.
Amendment 446 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 5 b (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. The Commission shall always investigate possible circumvention when notified by a Member State or an interested party. Initiations shall be made by means of a Commission regulation which shall also instruct customs authorities of Member States to subject imports to registration. The Commission shall provide information to the Member States once a party or a Member State has submitted a request to initiate an investigation and the Commission has completed its analysis thereof, or where the Commission has itself determined that there is a need to initiate an investigation.
Amendment 449 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 5 c (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Investigations shall be carried out by the Commission. The Commission may be assisted by customs authorities and the investigation shall be concluded in due time.
Amendment 451 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 5 d (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 5 d (new)
5 d. The Commission Decision finding circumvention shall impose a penalty pursuant to article 26 on an Authorised Declarant involved in the circumvention and, if appropriate, the operator of the installation located in the third country that is linked to the Authorised Declarant. Where appropriate, the penalty shall also entail the withdrawal of import authorisation and be extended to the operator.
Amendment 453 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 a (new)
Article 27 a (new)
Article 27 a Absorption 1. If any party submits sufficient evidence that, following the entry into force of this Regulation, an Authorised Declarant has been absorbing the cost of the CBAM Certificates, resulting in no or insufficient movement in the resale prices or subsequent selling prices of the imported product in the Union, and that such a situation has insufficient due cause or economic justification other than undermining the effects of the obligations as laid down in this Regulation, the Commission shall open an investigation. Once a party has presented sufficient evidence justifying the opening of an inquiry and the Commission hasfinished its study, the Commission will inform the Member States. 2. The investigation may also be opened, under the conditions set out in the first subparagraph, on the initiative of the Commission or at the request of a Member State. 3. During an investigation pursuant to this Article, any interested party shall be provided with an opportunity to clarify the situation with regard to resale prices and subsequent selling prices. 4. Investigations shall be carried out by the Commission. The Commission may be assisted by customs authorities and the investigation shall be concluded within in due time. 5. If it is concluded that the obligations as laid down in this Regulation should have led to movements in such prices, the Commission shall take appropriate measures to re-establish the effectiveness of the obligations as set out in this Regulation. Such measures imposed pursuant to this Article shall not exceed the amount of the penalties as set out in Article 26.
Amendment 473 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 2
Article 30 – paragraph 2
2. Before the end of the transitional period, the Commission shall present a report to the European Parliament and the Council on the application of this Regulation. The report shall contain, in particular, an in-depthe assessment ofdeveloped in cooperation with the sectors at risk of carbon leakage covered by this regulation of the rules to be applied in the testing period established pursuant art. 30bis and the possibilities to further extend the scope of embedded emissions to indirect emissions and to other goods at risk of carbon leakage than those already covered by this Regulation, as well as an assessment of the governance system as well as an assessment of the impact on competitiveness of the EU downstream industry. It shall also contain the assessment of the possibility to further extend the scope to embedded emissions of transportation services as well as to goods further down the value chain and services that may be subject to the risk of carbon leakage in the future. Such an extension should be considered only if a clear calculation methodology has been established by the Commission and once the mechanism has proven fully effective in terms of achieving its objective of carbon leakage protection.
Amendment 494 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 a (new)
Article 30 a (new)
Article 30 a Before phasing out free allocation to sectors at risk of carbon leakage covered by this rule, the Commission will monitor and assess the mechanism's efficacy in terms of the risk of carbon leakage. To this purpose, the Commission shall publish a report to the European Parliament and the Council, following consultation with the sectors subject by this Regulation,evaluating: a. the first three years (2026-2028) of thesurrendering obligation pursuant to article 22; b. the risk of carbon leakage on export markets. If the assessment is positive, the report shall be accompanied by a legislativeproposal to phase out free allocation to sectors subject to this regulation and to adopt a solution to mitigate the risk of carbon leakage on the export market.
Amendment 495 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 a (new)
Article 30 a (new)
Article 30 a Emergency Review At the request of a Member State, an interested party, or on its own initiative, the Commission may carry out an emergency review in order to assess the mechanism's efficacy in preventing carbon leakage in relation to any of the goods referred to in Article 2.
Amendment 506 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 35 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) the carbon price due in a country of origin for the embedded emissions in the imported goods, which is not subject to an export rebate or other form of compensation on exportation.
Amendment 542 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 3 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Annex III – point 3 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Where AttrEmg are the attributed emissions of goods g, and ALg the activity level of the goods, the latter being the amount of goods produced in the reporting period in that installation, and EEInpMat are the embedded emissions of the input materials (precursors) consumed in the production process. Only input materials listed as relevant to the system boundaries of the production process as specified in the implementing act adopted pursuant to Article 7(6) are to be considered. The implementing act pursuant to Article 7 (6) shall include all input materials that contribute significantly to GHG emissions. In the case of stainless steel (CN codes 7218-7223), ferro-alloys shall be included in the list of input materials as they fulfil this criterion. The relevant EEInpMat are calculated as follows:
Amendment 547 #
2021/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 6
Annex III – point 6
Amendment 353 #
2021/0211(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) The scope of the Innovation Fund referred to in Article 10a(8) of Directive 2003/87/EC should be extended to support innovation in low-carbon technologies and processes that concern the consumption of fuels in the sectors of buildings and road transport. In addition, the Innovation Fund should serve to support investments to decarbonise the maritime transport sector, including investments in sustainable alternative fuels, such as hydrogen and ammonia that are produced from renewables, as well as zero-emission propulsion technologies like wind technologies, as well as projects dedicated to the supply of rare earths and permanent magnets. Considering that revenues generated from penalties raised in Regulation xxxx/xxxx [FuelEU Maritime]52 are allocated to the Innovation Fund as external assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(5) of the Financial Regulation, the Commission should ensure that due consideration is given to support for innovative projects aimed at accelerating the development and deployment of renewable and low carbon fuels in the maritime sector, as specified in Article 21(1) of Regulation xxxx/xxxx [FuelEU Maritime]. To ensure sufficient funding is available for innovation within this extended scope, the Innovation Fund should be supplemented with 50 million allowances, stemming partly from the allowances that could otherwise be auctioned, and partly from the allowances that could otherwise be allocated for free, in accordance with the current proportion of funding provided from each source to the Innovation Fund. _________________ 52[add ref to the FuelEU Maritime Regulation].
Amendment 1189 #
2021/0211(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12 – point g
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12 – point g
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 3
Article 10 a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 3
The Innovation Fund shall cover the sectors listed in Annex I and Annex III, including environmentally safe carbon capture and utilisation (“CCU”) that contributes substantially to mitigating climate change, as well as products substituting carbon intensive ones produced in sectors listed in Annex I, and to help stimulate the construction and operation of projects aimed at the environmentally safe capture and geological storage (“CCS”) of CO2, as well as of innovative renewable energy and energy storage technologies, as well as projects dedicated to the supply of rare earths and permanent magnets; in geographically balanced locations. The Innovation Fund may also support break- through innovative technologies and infrastructure to decarbonise the maritime sector and for the production of low- and zero-carbon fuels in aviation, rail and road transport. Special attention shall be given to projects in sectors covered by the [CBAM regulation] to support innovation in low carbon technologies, CCU, CCS, renewable energy and energy storage, in a way that contributes to mitigating climate change.
Amendment 530 #
2021/0114(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 47 – paragraph 1
Article 47 – paragraph 1
(1) This Regulation shall apply to foreign subsidies granted in the tenfive years prior to the date of application of this Regulation where such foreign subsidies distort the internal market after the start of application of this Regulation.
Amendment 3 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s intention to create a genuine single market for data as it will be the backbone of Europe’s data economy to fuel innovation, job creation, and efficiency gains across all sectors; considers that ensuring trust in digital services is fundamental for the digital single market and should be at the heart of both public policy and business models to advance Europe’s digital goals and global competitiveness; improved access to and availability of greater amounts of data, coupled with emerging tools and state of the art technologies that can be used to power insights while mitigating risks, will allow European citizens, businesses, researchers, and governments to better leverage the data they already possess while improving outcomes through enhanced collaboration with partners around the world;
Amendment 4 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s intention to create a genuine single market for data as it will be the backbone of Europe’s data economy; considers that ensuring trust in digital services and in smart products is fundamental for the digital single market to grow and thrive and should be at the heart of both public policy and business models; underlines that that the creation of a single market for data is not an objective per se, but it should allow European companies and citizens to develop and benefit from innovative and competitive services and products;
Amendment 24 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges the Commission to empower consumers to put them in control of their data and to ensure that the single market for data is grounded in European valueWay of Life's common values such as protection of fundamental rights and fairness in competition; believes that citizens’ data could help in developing innovative green solutionmore sustainable solutions for products and services that would benefit European consumers and companies; asks the Commission to consider how to supportpromote data altruism in full compliance with European legislation;
Amendment 26 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges the Commission to empower consumers to put them in control of their data and to ensure that the single market for data is grounded in European values and fairness in competition, while allowing for effective data usability; believes that citizens’ data could help in developing innovative green solutions and services that would benefit European consumers and companies; asks the Commission to consider how to support data altruism in full compliance with European legislation;
Amendment 31 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Underlines the societal benefits of promoting better access to public-sector data in ways that strengthen their usability across the EU; ensure a timely and effective implementation of the Open Data Directive and promote common formats for high-value datasets to make them combined and analysed from different Member States are essential for a truly harmonised Digital Single Market;
Amendment 44 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the need to create a singlecommon European data spaces with the aim of ensuring the free flow of non- personal data across borders and sectors; believes furthermore that the framework for the governance of common European data spaces should be built on the principles laid down in the Regulation on free flow of non-personal data; underlines the principle of the free flow of non- personal data as imperative for a single market for data, providing a level playing field for data sharing between stakeholders, taking into account in particular EU SMEs’ needs and allowing them to scale up and operate cross-border in the internal market; considers that business- to-business (B2B) and business-to- government (B2G) data sharing should be voluntary, while mandatory access to data should also be envisaged to remedy potential market failures;
Amendment 52 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Believes that mandatory access to data should also be envisaged to remedy potential market failures and considers in this regard that detailed provisions should be laid down in the upcoming Digital Markets Act; underlines that the proposal for a Digital Market Act should lay down provisions according to which economic entities considered as gatekeepers in the internal market should be required to contribute to data sharing with the relevant stakeholders;
Amendment 64 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Highlights that the Data Act should lay down provisions for the use of high quality and reliable datasets that are essential for the creation of a well- functioning single European data space and as well as for helping the EU companies to develop high quality products and services across the internal market;
Amendment 73 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Calls on the Commission to ensure consistency between the Data Act and the framework for the governance of common European data spaces, on the one hand, and the proposals under the Digital Services Act package on the other;
Amendment 84 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the need to improve access to European cloud services and to address interoperability issues, including codes of conduct, certification and standards, in a ‘cloud rulebook’; calls on the Commission to facilitate safe common European data spaces, based on a trustworthy and secure infrastructure with strong cybersecurity tools; considers proportionality to be the guiding principle for data quality and interoperability requirements; calls on the Commission to consider promoting existing standards to avoid unnecessary transaction costs and to provide high quality standards for sectors and data spaces of high importance for significant societal challenges.;
Amendment 87 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the need to improve access to European cloud services and to address interoperability issues, including codes of conduct, certification and standards, in a ‘cloud rulebook’; considers proportionality to be the guiding principle for data quality and interoperability requirements; calls on the Commission to consider promoting existing standards to avoid unnecessary transaction costs, overcome technical challenges, and to provide high quality standards for sectors and data spaces of high importance for significant societal challenges.;
Amendment 92 #
2020/2217(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Promotes secure, responsible use of data to build trust by working with other stakeholders to provide clear, concrete guidance on using shared data consistent with the GDPR; Supporting the use of privacy-enhancing technologies and robust security standards are essential to enable organisations to derive value from datasets that contain personal data in ways that do not put data protection at risk;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Whereas SMEs represent 99 % of all businesses in the EU, and in the past five years SMEs have created around 85 % of new jobs and provided two-thirds of the total private sector employment in the EU;
Amendment 18 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Whereas for the European Union, the average contribution to the economy by SMEs is around 56 percent;
Amendment 19 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Amendment 20 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 d (new)
Paragraph 1 d (new)
1 d. Whereas the COVID-19 virus and following lockdowns has caused profound disruptions to global supply chains and trade;
Amendment 21 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 e (new)
Paragraph 1 e (new)
1 e. Whereas trade and investment barriers, administrative costs and bureaucracy affect SMEs disproportionally due to their size and limited resources to overcome them, SMEs benefit more from rule-based trade opening than large companies;
Amendment 22 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 f (new)
Paragraph 1 f (new)
1 f. Whereas the purpose of the Small Business Act for Europe (SBA) and the Think Small First principle is to increase competitiveness and support entrepreneurship;
Amendment 23 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 g (new)
Paragraph 1 g (new)
1 g. Whereas only 9 % of EU SMEs protect their intellectual property rights (IPR), partly due to differing national legislation within the EU;
Amendment 24 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 h (new)
Paragraph 1 h (new)
1 h. Whereas already before COVID- 19, European competitiveness was lagging behind other developed economies, threatening Europe’s potential to generate wealth and prosperity;
Amendment 25 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 i (new)
Paragraph 1 i (new)
1 i. Stresses that SMEs need clear, consistent and predictable legislation in order to grow and create jobs;
Amendment 28 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Encourages the Commission to fully support SMEs in overcoming all barriers that prevent their access to third- country markets; requests the inclusion of an SME chapter in every trade agreement as done in the EU-Japan agreement and the modernised Agreement with Mexico, and that they should be included when revising existing FTAs; underlines the need for the effective enforcement of trade agreements, especially for SMEs, as a priority task of the Chief Trade Enforcement Officer;
Amendment 62 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Calls for a particular focus on SMEs in the current EU trade policy review in order to create better opportunities for SMEs; asks the Commission to make the "Think Small First" principle a vocal point of European trade policy to spur growth and development of SMEs;
Amendment 64 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Reiterates its call on the Commission to monitor the effects of its trade policy on SMEs, for example by ensuring a good representation of SMEs in the public consultation process in order to make sure that their views are properly and adequately collected, analysed and represented in the impact assessments;
Amendment 67 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6 c. Calls on the Commission, Member States and local governments to make business climate and competitiveness paramount priorities on their political agendas, and foster an entrepreneurial culture throughout the single market, where innovation, problem solving, risk taking, job creation and contributing to the prosperity of the EU is rewarded;
Amendment 70 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6 d. Welcomes the Commission’s commitment to introduce a "one in - one out" principle when creating new laws as a first step to stem the tide of new regulation and cut red tape, but reminds that it merely maintains status quo, which is not a sufficient ambition; calls also for more clarity on how the Commission intends integrate this principle in terms of trade policy;
Amendment 73 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 e (new)
Paragraph 6 e (new)
6 e. Calls on the Commission to present a roadmap towards achieving a reduction of at least 30 % of outdated rules and regulations affecting SMEs, in order to decrease administrative burdens and cost pressure, promote competitiveness and make a real impact for SMEs to grow and prosper within the EU;
Amendment 74 #
2020/2131(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 f (new)
Paragraph 6 f (new)
6 f. Stresses the importance of IPR strategies for SMEs in order for them to protect their R&D investments and collect growth capital; calls therefore for a reinforcement of cross-border cooperation on IPR, for example through a wide territorial application of the new Unitary Patent (UP)/ Unitary Patent Court (UPC) framework throughout the EU, which could increase legal certainty and lower cost for SMEs to ensure IPR and operate on a European level;
Amendment 1 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 20 a (new)
Citation 20 a (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 13 May 2020 on tourism and transport in 2020 and beyond (COM(2020)0550) and to the adoption of the Tourism and Transport Package,
Amendment 2 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21 a (new)
Citation 21 a (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 25 March 2021 on establishing an EU strategy for sustainable tourism (2020/2038(INI)),
Amendment 5 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that COVID-19 has caused an unprecedented health, economic, social and humanitarian crisis on a global scale, with asymmetric effects for least developed countries (LDCs); calls for the EU to tailor its commitments and approach, which were hit the hardest by the trade downturn triggered by the pandemic in a number of sectors and even more so in services, including tourism; opines that, consequently, LDCs are more in need of support to revive their economies and trade than other countries and that the EU has a responsibility to act as a global player; calls for the EU to respect its commitments to developing partner countries and LDCs accordingly, and to adopt a tailored approach that takes into account their particular circumstances;
Amendment 12 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I (new)
Recital I (new)
I. whereas the pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of global value chains, has created major challenges for international production, especially in combination with rapid technological change and digitization acceleration, and has highlighted the need for enhanced resilience and diversification at a global, regional, and local level;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J (new)
Recital J (new)
J. whereas the COVID-19 outbreak has further increased inequalities and has added to the already growing concern among citizens about job loss in certain sectors, the changing nature of work and the pressure on workers’ wages and rights, and these problems must be addressed in order to retain public support for global trade;
Amendment 14 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K (new)
Recital K (new)
K. whereas the divisions within the WTO and the urgent need for its reform, complicated the coordinated response to keep global supply chains open, and the priority now must be to rebuild trust in multilateral institutions being able to deliver global answers, by rapidly moving forward on the discussions on the WTO Trade and Health Initiative;
Amendment 15 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. CHighlights that the COVID-19 pandemic is a catalyst of change in the global order; stresses the fundamental importance of strengthening the EU’s partnerships with developing countries and calls on the Commission to mount an assertive and coordinated international trade policy response geared towards a multilateral, resilient and sustainable recovery in developing countries; calls on the Commission to deepen EU-Africa trade relations through economic partnership agreements, while making the most of the EU’s Aid for Trade Strategy; strongly welcomes the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area(AfCFTA) as an instrument to improve Africa’s access to global markets;
Amendment 15 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L (new)
Recital L (new)
L. whereas COVID-19 has caused a global pandemic, giving rise to an unprecedented global health, economic, social, and humanitarian crisis, which created bottlenecks and disruptions of an unseen scale to international trade, causing it to plunge as the virus spread and slashing global production and employment, decreasing the level of Foreign Direct Investment, and increasing geopolitical tensions;
Amendment 16 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M (new)
Recital M (new)
M. whereas the Trade Policy Review needs to be complemented with a realistic strategy to increase EU resilience and strategic autonomy, including tailored policy measures and instruments in the area of domestic production, nearshoring, diversification of suppliers, and stockpiling;
Amendment 17 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N (new)
Recital N (new)
N. whereas the EU’s large network of trade agreements makes it the biggest actor on the world trading scene and is a key driving force for the development of the European Union’s economy and for the achievement of its geopolitical objectives, including the implementation of EU standards, values, and sustainability frameworks in partner countries;
Amendment 18 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O (new)
Recital O (new)
O. whereas the COVID-19 outbreak risks creating a set-back in the worldwide fight against climate change, yet, we need global action and cooperation to develop policies and streamline climate action in internal and external policy, as the vaccine alone will not be sufficient to address the social, environmental and economic crisis COVID-19 has caused;
Amendment 19 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P (new)
Recital P (new)
P. whereas the pandemic has demonstrated strategic vulnerabilities in the EU and global supply chains, including for critical raw materials, essential medical goods such as personal protective equipment and active pharmaceutical ingredients;
Amendment 20 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q (new)
Recital Q (new)
Q. whereas the Communication on the Trade Policy Review needs to be complemented with continued dialogue and transparency with the European Parliament, which will play a key role in its implementation;
Amendment 23 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T (new)
Recital T (new)
T. whereas the COVID-19 crisis has shown that the services sector is the backbone of the global economy and the most dynamic component of international trade; stresses to this sense that tourism plays a crucial role for the economic growth of the different Member States and, in particular, represents a significant added value for the economic, social and cultural development of the Outermost Regions;
Amendment 24 #
2020/2117(INI)
3. ERecalls that against a backdrop of already-fragile economic conditions, the pandemic has had massive consequences causing international trade to plunge and creating a plethora of disruptions of an unprecedented scale; hence, as a lesson learnt from the pandemic in particular also in Europe, it is indispensable to keep borders open; encourages the EU and the Member States to helpshare their experience and assist developing countries and regions to keep their borders open and to set up ‘green corridor mechanisms’ , to allow as much as possible, the unhindered flow of essential goods, agri-food products and humanitarian aid across border (especially medical supplies and personal protective equipment), agri-food products and humanitarian aid across borders in emergency situations; stresses the importance of maintaining an open, multilateral trading system allowing for transparency about trade-related policy intentions and actions, and limiting unnecessary trade barriers and export restrictions;
Amendment 28 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the mainstreaming of the European Green Deal into the cCommunication on the Trade Policy Review (TPR) and calls for a concrete action plan to make this ambition a reafor an assertive trade policy geared towards multilateralism, resilience, and sustainability;
Amendment 35 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Invites the Commission to adapt its trade policy in order to help developing partner countries to boost the resilience and diversification of their value chains at a global, regional and local level, including reshoring and nearshoring, in order to be better prepared for future systemic shocks;
Amendment 35 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the incorporationat the EU will propose the respect of the Paris Agreement to be considered as an essential element in allfuture trade, and investment and partnership agreements; stresses that ratification of the International Labour Organizgreements; reminds the Commission that the respect and implementation (of ILO) core conventions and respect for human rights are requirements for concluding FTAcommitments of its recent trade agreements; asks for ambitious chapters on digital trade, gender, and on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to be included in allnew trade agreements;
Amendment 42 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the incorporation of the Paris Agreement as an essential element in all trade, investment and partnership agreements; stresses that ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) core conventions and respect for human rights are requirementimportant considerations for concluding FTAs; asks for ambitious chapters on gender and on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to be included in all trade agreements;
Amendment 43 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WHighlights that public health problems caused by COVID-19 can only properly and effectively be managed anywhere in the world as long as measures including vaccines are accessible worldwide; welcomes the commitment shown by the EU and its Member States , acting together as ‘Team Europe’, in tackling the wider impact of COVID-19 on developing societies and economies, in particular through the Coronavirus Global Response and COVAX initiatives; recalls on the Commission to coordinatethat with the COVAX initiative only being able to cover vaccinations for 20% of the world population, a united initiative of industrialised, open, democratic countries in the form of a Vaccine Alliance is needed; reminds the Commission of the interconnected nature of the global economic recovery and that, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) vaccine delays in poorer nations are likely to threaten the European Union’s own recovery because of continued disruptions to international trade and global supply chains; calls on the Commission to coordinate closely with the World Health Organization and the African Union in order tobuilding and scaleing up vaccine production for developing countries to overcome the pandemic, while preventing the emergence of vaccine-resistant variants;
Amendment 48 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that the post-COVID-19 recovery is a unique opportunity to set the agenda forpromote sustainable growth; calls on the Commission, therefore, to present its review of the 15-point action plan on TSD chapters without delay;in 2021 and expects the review to address the enforceability of TSD commitments as a matter of urgency, as it is not currently includedconsider the effective implementation and enforcement in trade agreements; recalls, in this regard, the non-paper from the Netherlands and France on trade, social economic effects and sustainable development11 ; suggests that, as a minimum, recent advances in enforceability should be applied to EU trade policy, namely the ability to tackle any non-compliance by partners through unilateral sanctions, including the introduction of tariffs or quotas on certain products or the cross- suspension of other parts of an agreement; __________________ 11 Non-paper from the Netherlands and France on trade, social economic effects and sustainable development, accessed at ‘the Netherlands at International Organisations (permanentrepresentations.nl)’.
Amendment 53 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that the post-COVID-19 recovery is a unique opportunity to set the agenda for sustainable growth; calls on the Commission, therefore, to present its review of the 15-point action plan on TSD chapters without delay; expects the review to address the enforceability of TSD commitments as a matter of urgency, as it is not currently included; recalls, in this regard, the non-paper from the Netherlands and France on trade, social economic effects and sustainable development11 ; suggests that, as a minimum, recent advances in enforceability should be applied to EU trade policy, namely the ability to tackle any non-compliance by partners through unilateral sanctions, including the introduction of tariffs or quotas on certain products or the cross- suspension of other parts of an agreement; emphasizes the role of the Chief Trade Enforcement Officer in this regard, calling for close cooperation with the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee in the monitoring and scrutiny of TSD enforcement; __________________ 11Non-paper from the Netherlands and France on trade, social economic effects and sustainable development, accessed at ‘the Netherlands at International Organisations (permanentrepresentations.nl)’.
Amendment 55 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls on the Commission to move away from a “brown/green” product distinction, which dictated “good” and “bad” goods and services, and instead promote life cycle analysis and impact assessments to achieve fair and accurate sustainable trade;
Amendment 57 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that brown goods still receive preferential treatment over green goods and that tariffs and trade barriers are working against sustainable trade; demandRequests that the Commission deviselooks into instruments to tackle these distortions and walk the talk ofhat support the Green Deal by implementing itation in all aspects of trade policy;
Amendment 59 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. UDeplores that export restrictions and trade barriers have disrupted agri- food markets and supply chains worldwide, severely impacting developing countries; urges the Commission to identify the appropriate measures to ensure that this pandemic does not precipitate a food crisis in the developing world; supports actions to facilitate trade with a view to promoting food safety and sanitary and phytosanitary measures in response to COVID-19;
Amendment 63 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that high up-front costs, which will only repay themselves over time, and a lack of know-how and equipment are currently preventslowing developing countries from ‘going green’in their green and digital transitions; demands that the Commission use allits trade instruments at its disposal to increase financial support, technical assistance, technology transferscapacity building and digital penetration in order to empower developing countries and enable them toto support the achievement of sustainable and digital resilience;
Amendment 66 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers that COVID-19 has accelerated the shift towards digitalisation, which presents opportunities to facilitate international trade, to reduce face to face processes and allow for efficient logistics and strategic stockpiling with enormous potential, in particular for developing partner countries; underlines that developing countries and LDCs trail behind in the digital economy and calls on the Commission to collaborate with developing partner countries in order to facilitate digital infrastructure, establish policy strategies and harmonise regulatory frameworks for e-commerce.sustainable e-commerce, to support skills training and to modernize trade and customs management tools, electronic payment and automated procedures;
Amendment 71 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Considers that the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development dictates that we work in a multilateral context and coordinate policies at the international and national levels to deal with the enormous challenges to these aspirations resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and to factor in the Sustainable Development Goals in the rebuilding and restructuring of international trade networks;
Amendment 72 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the EU to take a leading role at awithin the multilateral level to end harmful subsidies by advocating transparency and strict regulation and disciplines framework to engage with like-minded countries and trade partners to pursue a strong environmental agenda, including trade agreements and at the World Trade Organization (WTO)he progressive development of disciplines against market distorting subsidies; stresses the importance of drawing up sustainability impact assessments on an ex- ante, intermediate and ex-post basis; stresses the need to develop a comprehensive framework with concrete targetsprovide guidance to advance the SDGs, the Green Deal and the ILO Decent Work Agenda in trade and investment agreements; emphasises that new agreements should only be concluded once these targets have been fulfilled and that existing agreements should be revised accordingly;
Amendment 74 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Stresses the importance of using strategic foresight in order to improve developing countries’ preparedness and resilience to any future shocks and health crises, including the emergence of new disease mutations and future pandemics, aiming to develop future-proof strategies and responses;
Amendment 75 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the EU to take a leading role at a multilateral level to end hmarmfulket distorting subsidies by advocating for a common rulebook, including transparency and strict regulation and disciplines in trade agreements and at the World Trade Organization (WTO); stresses the importance of drawing up sustainability impact assessments on an ex-ante, intermediate and ex-post basis; stresses the need to develop a comprehensive framework with concrete targets to advance the SDGs, the Green Deal and the ILO Decent Work Agenda in trade and investment agreements; emphasises that new agreements should only be concluded once these targets have been fulfilledcarefully consider progress in third country efforts to meet sustainability targets and that existing agreements should be revised accordingly in due time;
Amendment 85 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. EWelcomes the Access2Market gateway and the Commission’s efforts in promoting this tool across the Europe; emphasiszes that transparency and dialogue with stakeholders and citizens are key to creating support for trade policy; insists that the role and responsibilities of and to harness its benefits; insists that the EU must deepen its engagement with Member States, the private sector, civil society, and domestic advisory groups must be clearly defined in the EU’s international agreementsall other relevant actors, as well as with trade partner and developing partner countries, and that financial assistance must be duly accompanied by capacity- building measures to enable itin order for them to function effectively and with particular attention paid to SMEs taking better advantage of trade agreements and to trade facilitation measures;
Amendment 99 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses the importance of fairresilient and sustainable value chains that respect human rights, labour rights and environmental standards; recalls that mandatory due diligence throughout the entire supply chain is a necessaryis an instrument to achieve this; stresses that more attention should be paid to the vulnerabile positiones of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), especially in developing countries, wheremarkets and in their manufacturing capacities as large companies are more likely to overcome a sudden drop in demandexogenous shocks;
Amendment 110 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that global value chains often involve an uneven distribution of risks, particularly in the garment sector; deplores the fact that during the pandemic this uneven distribution has led to European businesses offloading the costs of lower demand onto producers in developing countries by cancelling orders that were already produced and in some cases even shippedsymmetrical effects and distribution of risks; deplores that least developed countries (LDCs), low-income and middle-income (LICs and MICs) countries were hit the hardest in numerous sectors by trade disruptions triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic; calls the Commission to act as a global player and to tailor its support towards LDCs, LICs and MICs, while taking into consideration the particular circumstances of COVID-19; calls on the Commission to engage with Member States, local governments, the private sector and civil society to achieve a fairer distribution of risksnegative impacts and across the supply chains;
Amendment 113 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Stresses that the tourism value chain is one of the main European industrial ecosystems; emphasises, in this regard, that due to restrictions on travel and supply chains disruptions caused by the COVID-19 crisis, tourism related sectors such as HORECA, as well as other major industries (aeronautic, automotive, steel, shipbuilding and marine) are suffering trade and economical collapse;
Amendment 115 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses the importance ofNotes that Member State investments are often drastically cut during crises and assets in strategic sectors, such as healthcare, are exposed to a risk of undervaluation and sale to foreign investors; stresses that, while openness to trade is part of the economy’s resilience and competitiveness, effective rules ensuring fair competition and a level playing field for European businesses in, both in the internal market and in third- country markets; stresses, in this regard, the importance of trade defence instruments and calls on the Commission to swiftly, are necessary to guarantee mutually beneficial trade relations with international partners and protect the single market from aggressive investment strategies from non-EU actors trying to take advantage of the current crisis; stresses that increased investments of state-owned enterprises from third countries may be even more likely to cause distortions in case of leveraging of their privileged position within a closed and non-transparent domestic market; calls on the Commission to swiftly fill the gaps of the EU’s regulatory framework and complete the EU’s trade defence toolbox througwith legislative proposals in 2021, giving priority to an to strengthen our strategic autonomy, where priority should be given to instruments tohat deter and counteract coercive actions by third countries and that tackle distortions caused by foreign subsidies and state- owned enterprises and to the conclusion ofding the negotiations on the International Procurement Instrument12 ; __________________ 12Amended proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 January 2016 on the access of third- country goods and services to the Union’s internal market in public procurement and procedures supporting negotiations on access of Union goods and services to the public procurement markets of third countries (COM(2016)0034).
Amendment 123 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Is convinced that openness should go hand in hand with safeguarding our strategic sectors and should be closely connected with an ambitious, forward- looking industrial policy in line with the Green Deal and digital strategy, which can increase the EU’s capabilities to withstand future shocks in strategic sectors and ensure the competitiveness of EU businesses, creating quality jobs and ensuring that Europe plays a crucial role in the production of innovative goods and future services;
Amendment 128 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Is convinced that openness should go hand in hand with safeguarding our strategic sectors and should be closely connected with an ambitious, forward- looking industrial policy in line with the Green Deal and digital strategy, creating quality jobs and ensuring that Europe plays a crucial role in the production of innovative goods and future services; supply chain diversification and resilience should be a key priority for the revised EU Trade Policy; highlights the coupling of trade and security interests and calls for a proportional strengthening of FDI Screening, complementing Member State efforts to safeguard European strategic sectors, preventing the establishment of detrimental and exploitable economic dependencies with non-EU actors;
Amendment 134 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Is convinced that the EU is too dependent on a limited number of suppliers for critical raw materials, goods, and services, and that this undermines its strategic autonomy and geopolitical objectives; insists that the EU should overcome these undesirable dependencies via a horizontal mix of policies tohat incentivises companies to stockpile, increase manufacturing, diversify sourcing strategies and promotes nearshoring, where necessary, which could create new trading opportunities for partners in the Eastern and Southern Neighbourhoods; stresses that related policies need to be tailored to the specific characteristics of the sectors and global value chains(GVCs) under consideration, as no general policy approach exists, and that GVC configuration is a business choice;
Amendment 140 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that fooagri-food markets and supply chains remained operational during the pandemic, but deplores that export restrictions and trade barriers have disrupted it; notes that the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), which brings together the principal trading countries of agricultural commodities with the aim of enhancing food market transparency and the policy response for food security, can be regarded as an example of good practice; calls on the Commission to explore whether this model could be used in other value chains as well; supports trade facilitating actions taken to promote food safety standards and sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS) in response to COVID-19; calls on the Commission to identify the most appropriate measures to ensure that this pandemic does not translate into a food crisis in the developing world;
Amendment 145 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to come up with a digital trade strategy to, which increases the market access of European businesses, strengthens digital infrastructure, harmonizes regulatory frameworks, modernises trade and customs tools, and protects EU citizens’ rights under the GDPR13 ; underlines the acceleration of the digital revolution due to COVID-19 and stresses the importance of the EU taking the lead in setting standards for a sustainable, digital-driven global economy and keeping international data flows open to rapidly overcome a range of trade barriers and bottlenecks; calls on the EU to facilitate the building and readiness of digital infrastructures, particularly in the e-commerce sector and its supply capacities with the aim of reducing face to face processes and allowing for efficient logistics and strategic stockpiling; calls on the Commission to support skills training to enable more businesses and consumers to use online services and digital platforms; stresses the importance of engaging with the United States and like-minded partners on setting a joint regulatory framework and standards at the WTO level; __________________ 13Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data (General Data Protection Regulation) (OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1).
Amendment 150 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to come up with a digital trade strategy to increase the market access of European businesses and protect EU citizens’ rights under the GDPR13 ; underlines the acceleration of the digital revolution due to COVID-19 and stresses the importance of the EU taking the lead in setting standards for a sustainable, digital-driven global economy and keeping international data flows open; encourages in this regard meaningful progress in the e-commerce negotiations ahead of the WTO ministerial conference at the end of the year; __________________ 13Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data (General Data Protection Regulation) (OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1).
Amendment 154 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for incentiveslooking into providing incentives across the board for EU businesses to shorten or adjust their supply chains where it iscould be beneficial to do so, with a view to ensuring that external social, environmental and economic costs are fully internalised in the price in line with EU policies such as the Farm to Fork Strategy, the Circular Economy Action Plan, the Biodiversity Strategy and stepping up EU action to protect and restore the world’s foreststhe EU's economy, resilience, geopolitical objectives and/or strategic autonomy;
Amendment 157 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for incentives for EU businesses to shorten or adjustfacilitating and enabling EU businesses to increase the resilience of their supply chains where it is beneficial to do so, with a view to ensuring that external social, environmental and economic costs are fully internalised in the price in line withEU supply chains can contribute to the goals of EU policies such as the Farm to Fork Strategy, the Circular Economy Action Plan, the Biodiversity Strategy and stepping up EU action to protect and restore the world’s forests;
Amendment 169 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines that international trade governance has an important role to play in the rapid development of medical treatments and vaccines, the rapid scaling up of production, the development of resilient global value chains and equitable market access for the whole world; stresses, in this context, that the COVID-19 pandemic must be used to provide impetus for more concerted international cooperation and to boost global preparedness for health emergencies;
Amendment 173 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Emphasises, in this connection, the detrimental effects of unilateral measures such as export restrictions and prohibitions and the lack of transparency on global stocks and the subsequent price speculation on scarce essential goods, not least for low and middle-income countries; calls, therefore, forthe EU to encourage the adoption of the WTO trade and health initiative by the end of 2021 and for greater transparency on the supply and production of essentialto encourage stronger global cooperation, including increased transparency, production of medical products, resilience of global healthcare system, and accessible and affordable medical products and services;
Amendment 178 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Is concerned about the recent rise in export restrictions on vaccines by the main manufacturing countries such as the US, the UK, China and, India and by the EU and emphasises that this might endangers the rapid global scaling up of vaccine production capacity; urges the Commission to engage with producing countries to swiftly eliminate export barriers and to replace the export authorisation mechanism with an export and import notification requirement; insists on having timely and comprehensive access to such data; ; reaffirms that the EU export authorisation mechanism is a temporary measure, only to be used as a very last resort, that should evolve in the long-term into a transparency mechanism; stresses, however, that for the time being a targeted export authorisation mechanism with criteria of proportionality and reciprocity works towards ensuring the safety and well-being of European citizens; emphasises that the increased transparency provided by the EU export authorisation mechanism has increased European citizens trust in the EU’s vaccine rollout and management of the COVID-19 pandemic while demonstrating the EU's cooperative approach as a vaccine export champion;
Amendment 187 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Underlines that the vaccines against COVID-19 and its variants are a global public good and that multilateral efforts should be focused on ramping up global production capacities and on promoting voluntary partnerships and technology transfer agreements, including in low and middle-income countries; strongly welcomes, in this regard, the Global C19 Vaccine Supply Chain and Manufacturing Summit held on 8 and 9 March 2021 and calls for the establishment of structural platforms to rapidly scale up vaccine production in more countries, which could take the form of a Public-Private- Partnership clearing house to bring together private and public parties to enable and scale up partnerships, monitor bottlenecks, and identify measures to support vaccine manufacturing and deployment;
Amendment 193 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Underlines that the vaccines against COVID-19 and its variants are a global public good and that multilateral efforts should be focused on ramping up global production capacities and technology transferlicensing agreements, including in low and middle- income countries; strongly welcomes, in this regard, the Global C19 Vaccine Supply Chain and Manufacturing Summit held on 8 and 9 March 2021 and calls for the establishment of structural platforms to rapidly scale up vaccine production in more countries;
Amendment 202 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Emphasises that international trade policy must play a proactive role in this endeavour by facilitating trade in raw materials, alleviating shortages of qualified and experienced personnel, solving supply chain problems and revisiting the global framework for intellectual property rights for future pandemics; insists, in this regard, on a constructive dialogue about a temporary wai; recognises the critical role of the existing intellectual property framework in enabling an unprecedented leverl of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) in order to ensure that countries do not face retaliation over COVID-19 related patent infringements during the pandemicspeed in developing vaccines and therapies against COVID-19 and in facilitating the broad collaboration amongst governments, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies;
Amendment 204 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Emphasises that international trade policy must play a proactive role in this endeavour by facilitating trade in raw materials, alleviating shortages of qualified and experienced personnel, solving supply chain problems and revisit; insists, ing the global framework for intellectual property riis regard, that no concrete evidence has been broughts for future pandemics; insists, in this regard, on a constructive dialogue abouward showing that IP rights constitute a barrier to combatting COVID-19; considers that a temporary waiver of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) in order to ensure that countries do not face retaliation over COVID-19 related patent infringements during the pandemicwill not enhance vaccine production and technology/know how transfer and that destabilising the multilateral IP legal framework, which currently provides protection and incentives, will undermine EU preparedness against mutations and future pandemics; notes that LDCs already are exempt from a bulk of substantial TRIPS obligations;
Amendment 207 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Notes with concern that geopolitical competition and tensions have accelerated following the COVID-19 outbreak; stresses that the European Union still has to position itself in this new geopolitical environment and believes that the global pandemic has confirmed the need for a stronger and more effective international trade and development policy;
Amendment 209 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Invites the Commission to set out concrete and specific actions and a roadmap to implement the concept of open strategic autonomy; recalls the geopolitical significance of a strong, diversified and resilient EU trade policy; stresses that the EU’s market strength, values and adherence to cooperation, fairness and rule-based trade should be the basis of such openness; strongly recommends that the EU seeks out partnerships with like-mindednew and consolidates existing partnerships with like-minded partners; urges, to this end, the Commission to push forward and finalize ongoing bilateral negotiations with international partners; stresses, however, that where cooperation is not possible, the EU should pursue its interests through autonomous measures to protect its values and fight unfair trading practices;
Amendment 210 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Invites the Commission to set out concrete and specific actions and a roadmap to implement the concept of open strategic autonomy and to ensure that all soft and hard options are on the table, even calibrated threats; stresses that the EU’s market strength, values and adherence to cooperation, fairness, reciprocity, and rule-based trade should be the basis of such openness; strongly recommends that the EU seeks out partnerships with like-minded partners; stresses, however, that where cooperation is not possible, the EU should pursue its interests through autonomous measures to protect its values and fight unfair trading practices;
Amendment 215 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Urges the Commission to proceed with putting in place the Multilateral Investment Court, building on the EU’s approach to its bilateral FTAs, to fully exercise its prerogative at EU level concerning investments agreements, and to support Member States in implementing effective foreign direct investment screening mechanism;
Amendment 217 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Urges the Commission to pursue an effective “vaccine & medical supplies diplomacy” for countries with limited access to them and to work effectively towards increasing the EU’s global standing and diplomatic visibility in this area as the acknowledgement of the EU’s leading role will strengthen its international credibility;
Amendment 218 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 c (new)
Paragraph 21 c (new)
21c. Believes that tackling international issues arising from, but not limited to, the COVID-19 pandemic, should be handled at the multilateral lever and require further engagement by the European Union and its Member States, acting together as ‘Team Europe’;
Amendment 220 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the TPR’s affirmation of multilateralism and extensive proposals for the necessary in-depth reform of the WTO across all its functions; shares the Commission’s emphasis on economic recovery, digital trade, unfair state subsidies, and sustainable development in its vision for WTO reform and urges the Commission to bring to bear all efforts to implement a sustainable developmentits agenda; stresses the importance of taking forward the WTO initiative on trade and climate;
Amendment 226 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the TPR’s affirmation of multilateralism and extensive proposals for the necessary in-depth reform of the WTO; shares the Commission’s emphasis on sustainable development in its vision for WTO reform and urges the Commission to bring to bear all efforts to implement a sustainable development agenda; stresses the importance of taking forward the WTO initiative on trade and climate; stresses the importance of effective dispute settlement to establish stability and predictability in the multilateral trading system and the need to solve the current situation of the appellate body in cooperation with the United States, in order to make it operational again and in this way ensure that trade disputes can be properly solved;
Amendment 231 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Emphasises that reviving the WTO negotiating function will play a key role in any substantial reform of the organisation; highlights, in particular, the need to address competitive distortions caused by industrial subsidies and state-owned enterprises, particularly from China; calls for the Commission to actively pursue a solution to the mismatch between the level of development and the number of commitments undertaken within the international trading system; is convinced that EU leadership isand transatlantic cooperation are crucial for any meaningful WTO reform to succeed;
Amendment 237 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Shares the suggestion made in the TPR that the G20 should cooperate and take a leading role in achieving carbon neutrality worldwidestrengthen cooperation on carbon neutrality and other aspects of the Green Deal; stresses, however, that in order for this approach to be effective, some G20 members will need to raise their emission reduction commitments;
Amendment 247 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Supports the new, forward-looking transatlantic agenda based on common interests and shared values; urges the Commission and the US administration to cooperate closely in order to secure a level playing field and to agree on ambitious social and environmental standards and build on each other’s experience to enforce these more efficiently; calls for joint efforts to overcome the pandemic, speed up the economic recovery and facilitate trade in essential medical goods; reiterates that we should work together to achieve meaningful WTO reform and find common solutions to common problems; supports the Commission’s Communication on ‘A new EU-US agenda for global change’ and calls for the swift establishment of a new EU-US Trade and Technology Council;
Amendment 250 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Is aware of the importance of the EU’s multifaceted trade relationship with China; firmly believes that EU-China trade relations require a more balanced and reciprocal approach; stresses that the upcoming ratification process of the EU- China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment can only begin once the EU has the requisite autonomous measures in place, including a ban on products made using forced labour, an upgraded trade defence toolbox and a working sanctions mechanism on human rights; demands that the Commission move forward withhas to be accompanied by substantial progress in the elaboration of suitable and effective autonomous measures, to be deployed in efforts to counter market-distorting practices or to defend strategic EU interests, including a ban on products made using forced labour, an upgraded trade defence toolbox and a working sanctions mechanism on human rights; underlines that Parliament will carefully scrutinise the agreement, including its provisions on sustainable development and reminds the Commission that it will take the human rights situation in China, including in Hong Kong, into account when asked to endorse the Iinvestment Agreement with Taiwaagreement; deeply regrets the unacceptable Chinese escalation of placing elected Members of the European Parliament and European Union institutions under sanctions, as this further erodes trust and hinders bilateral cooperation;
Amendment 258 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Underlines the vital added value of engaging in consolidated economic and commercial relations with the wider Asia- Pacific region, manifesting the concept of Open Strategic Autonomy through a diversification of EU supply chains; stresses the strategic need of contributing to regional and global trade and investment standard-setting, recalling that the normative playing field is an area where the EU needs to exercise its influence, in line with its geo-economic ambitions;
Amendment 262 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26b. Urges the Commission to move forward with the Investment Agreement with Taiwan, taking the necessary steps for a scoping exercise, impact assessment and launching a public consultation; reiterates the importance of the bilateral structural dialogue, including on matters related to multilateralism and WTO, technology and public health, as well as essential cooperation on critical supplies such as semiconductors;
Amendment 265 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Welcomes the TPR’s engagement towards Africa and the Eastern and Southern Neighbourhoods and looks forward to concrete steps to deepen the EU’s relations with these partners; stresses the importance of engaging in an effective, sustained and constructive fashion the Eastern Partnership countries, consolidating existing DCFTAs and providing mutually beneficial economic cooperation with these actors of key geopolitical relevance for the EU’s strategic agenda; reiterates the importance of a strategic and sustainable partnership with Southeast Asia, India and Latin America;
Amendment 270 #
2020/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Calls on the EU to learn from its experience of the COVID-19 pandemic to better understand what it means to be a geopolitical actor in an increasingly tense global environment and stresses the importance of using strategic foresight in order to increase preparedness and resilience for the world emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and for any future shocks and health crises, including the emergence of new disease mutations and future pandemics, aiming to develop future-proof strategies and responses;
Amendment 42 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Welcomes the EU’s September 2018 Concept Paper that outlines a comprehensive approach for the modernisation of the World Trade Organization; believes that this can act as a firm basis for negotiation and discussion with all of its members in the context of the organisation’s reform;
Amendment 44 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Takes note of the United States Trade Representative’s October 2021 Geneva speech in which she made calls for extensive engagement of the World Trade Organization's membership; encourages the United States to present a more detailed policy platform for the organisation's reform and to engage with the EU at the highest levels to find consensus;
Amendment 45 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Amendment 46 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4 d. Recalls the findings of the EU’s November 2021 EU exports report, which found that over 38 million jobs in the EU are supported by exports; calls on the Commission to continue its work in communicating these findings in its public awareness campaigns and notes the positive role that this can play in fostering public support for multilateralism and global trade; insists on the need to raise greater awareness on the benefits and positive aspects of international trade and the important role it plays in improving living standards worldwide;
Amendment 47 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4 e. Calls on the Council to embolden its efforts to conclude Free Trade Agreements with third countries; notes that Free Trade Agreements increase economic interactions and dependencies between countries, and therefore can serve as the precursor to more active and ambitious engagement at the multilateral level;
Amendment 48 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 f (new)
Paragraph 4 f (new)
4 f. Recalls the importance of critical raw materials to the EU’s twin transitions; welcomes efforts to ensure more resilient supply chains for the EU in this field; believes that efforts to diversify supply chains away from single or limited suppliers can contribute to the defence of multilateralism;
Amendment 49 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 g (new)
Paragraph 4 g (new)
4 g. Stresses that increasing trade tensions have progressively and profoundly reshaped the international and regional trade architecture; believes that the EU must continue to act as a staunch and key defender of multilateralism in the world and to avoid actions that undermine those objectives; concludes, however, that the EU must respond to global forces, such as increased fragmentation, trade weaponization and protectionism, in order to preserve its competitive advantages;
Amendment 50 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 h (new)
Paragraph 4 h (new)
4 h. Welcomes the G7 Trade ministers’ Communiqué of October 2021 reaffirming the commitment to advance free and fair trade and defend the integrity of the rules-based multilateral trading system; calls on the Commission to continue to work closely with the G7 to advance the modernisation of global trade and build on common priorities, notably on climate change and the digital economy;
Amendment 51 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 i (new)
Paragraph 4 i (new)
4 i. Believes that trade can achieve greater impact by working collectively with our international partners; calls therefore on the Commission to deepen its cooperation with all relevant international and regional organisations, and in particular the OECD, the G20 and UNCTAD, to strive to maintain a non- discriminatory, predictable and stable trading system while keeping markets open;
Amendment 52 #
2020/2114(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 j (new)
Paragraph 4 j (new)
4 j. Urges the EU to continue to champion and defend multilateralism with an approach that fosters trust by showcasing the benefits of international trade for growth, prosperity, and job creation, to build international majorities on key issues with likeminded partners who share EU values and interests, and to prioritise trade enforcement and the development of autonomous tools to defend and protect the EU against the consequences of trade weaponization and unfair practices;
Amendment 48 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the summit of 27 to 28 March 2022 between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and Morocco aiming to create a security alliance, which was also attended by the US Secretary of State, paved the way for a new regional approach to security and confirmed the countries’ intention to divide the region into blockbuilds on the success of the Abraham Accords;
Amendment 63 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas countries in the region are key trading partners for the EU and there are important economic ties between the two sides; whereas the ongoing global energy crisis has led to increased contact with Qatar and other countriescountries, including Israel, Egypt, and Qatar, in the region on the import of energy resources into the EU; whereas the proposed EastMed Pipeline linking Israel with Greece and Cyprus promises significant benefits in this regard; whereas there is potential for stronger cooperation in other areas such as the green transition, better governance and human rights;
Amendment 128 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Highlights the important role the EU could play in facilitating dialogue between regional stakeholders, which is key to fostering stability; calls, therefore, for cooperation with the regional supranational organisations to be enhanced, and to work with relevant members of the Southern Neighbourhood in order to facilitate increased economic interaction with Israel, in order to unleash the potential benefits offered by the Abraham Accords;
Amendment 3 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. TUrges in light of the current crisis the Commission to focus on SMEs as the backbone of our economy, to boost the economic recovery and competitiveness of the EU; takes note of the Commission’s initiatives to support European SMEs’ access to international markets; stresses, however, that SMEs have to deal with too many regulations and burdens and excessive bureaucracy; stresses that SMEs are kept at a competitive disadvantage by investing in climate neutrality to comply with the Green Deal while trying to remain competitive and thrive on export markets; stresses therefore the need to further improve the business environment in the EU i.e. by facilitating easier access to finance; underlines that cutting red tape and easing of bureaucratic burdens should remain a priority and that legal certainty, evidence based policy, assessments of impact and cost efficiency must be ensured before introducing new EU rules; reminds the Commission of the One-in-one-out principle; highlights in this sense the importance of effective communication and awareness raising campaigns; welcomes the Commission’s objective to launch early in 2020 a dedicated rules of origin self-assessment tool for SMEs on the future Access2Market platform to help companies assess whether a product can benefit from preferences under a given EU trade agreement, in order to facilitate SMEs’ utilisation of preferences under EU trade agreements;
Amendment 12 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Takes note that between the years 2007 and 2017 global GDP increased with more than 70 percent; comparing however the EU increase of 17 percent to countries such as the United States (60 percent), India (80 percent) and China(315 percent), the EU was falling behind in global competitiveness already before; notes that world trade is expected to fall between 13 and 32 percent and EU GDP by 7,5 percent in 2020 due to the effects of COVID-19; stresses therefore that with rapidly declining global economies, a reindustrialisation of Europe is needed and the EU must gather forces to save companies and jobs to that end;
Amendment 16 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Stresses the need for a strong commitment of the Member States for the future of the European industry, for the EU to become a climate neutral continent by 2050 and a world leader in low-carbon, sustainable and digitalised technologies, while avoiding carbon leakage; underlines that our climate ambition must not lead to the deindustrialisation of the EU but to sustainable solutions being made more competitive and circular economy opportunities increased; calls for enabling research and innovation, ensuring that the EU attracts the necessary skills and in this way promote the global competitiveness of the EU;
Amendment 19 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1 c. Notes that the COVID-19 crisis has emphasised the need for digital solutions, trade and business models; welcomes therefore the Commission’s aim towards EU digital leadership, for example by advancing the WTO negotiations for global rules on electronic commerce; calls for openness to a meaningful outcome of those negotiations to facilitate the flow of data across borders and address unjustified barriers to trade by electronic means, in full conformity with EU privacy and data protection law, including the GDPR, and to make use of the flexibility given by the negotiating directives;
Amendment 22 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to focus on domestic productivity within Europe, in order to establish less dependence on vulnerableBelieves that EU resilience can be achieved through the diversification of our trading relations, supply chains and strategic stocks; calls on the Commission to focus on securing the supply within Europe, by establishing strategic diversification of supply chains in core industry sectors such as the tech and telecommunications, medical products and, pharmaceuticals sectorand agricultural products, especially in times of global crisis, and to remain competitive on the global markets; welcomes trade agreements as a way to facilitate diversification of value chains and reinforce EU industry and production; calls on the Commission to continue striking ambitious free trade agreements, which focus on ensuring a level playing field and improved access to public procurement markets; expects in this regard to conclude the FTAs with Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia as well as the PCA with Thailand and encourages the swift ratification of the EU-Mexico and EU-Mercosur FTAs; proposes to the Commission a re-launch of ambitious negotiations with India and scoping exercise with Taiwan; stresses also the importance of including and further developing SME-chapters in all FTAs as a way to promote trade for SMEs;
Amendment 40 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Supports, in principle, the initiative to reinforce a rule-based multilateral trading system; expresses its concern, however, about the functioning of the WTO, owing to some international actors abusing their market power; calls on the Commission to ensure a rules-based multilateral system fit for a stronger EU in the world with open and fair trade, while aiming at sustainable economic recovery; stresses that fair and free trade can only function within a fully operational WTO; calls therefore on the Commission to focus its international efforts to mobilise international partners to reform the WTO, while creating a level playing field and combatting unfair trade and investment practices, and exploring the possibilities for a broader plurilateral initiative related to healthcare products as well as to e-commerce;
Amendment 51 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Points out that the EU is by far the world’s biggest exporter of services and that they represent about 70 percent of EU GDP; stresses therefore the need to further liberalise services through FTAs, welcomes the ongoing plurilateral negotiations within the WTO on key areas of trade in services;
Amendment 52 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Underlines its determination to establish a relationship as close as possible with the United Kingdom, a country that will remain a partner, ally and friend inside Europe; encourages the Commission to seize the momentum caused by the withdrawal to streamline our EU-policies, cut red tape and enhance competitiveness for European companies and SMEs; stresses that the FTA should aim to allow for market access and trade facilitation as close as possible in order to minimize trade disruptions, underpinned by level playing field provisions ensuring high standards in social, labour and environmental protection as well as competition and State aid policies; reiterates its calls on the Commission to make a new and comprehensive UK- EU strategic partnership agreement that goes well beyond trade, in line with the Political Declaration of October 2019;
Amendment 66 #
2020/2076(INI)
5. Calls for the reinforcement of the safeguard instruments in order to make them more efficient and better adapted to protect European industry and to tackle market distortions effectivelya review of the Union's international trade and investment policy and for the Commission to assess the EU trade toolbox, to actively explore the possibilities to tackle market distortions and defend the EU from abusive practices;
Amendment 75 #
2020/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to strengthen the screening of foreign direct investment and to protect access to strategic industries, infrastructure, key enabling technologies, or any other assets in the interests of security and cybersecurity. and to safeguard competitiveness in the European Single Market, in order to guarantee the safety of European people and companies; stresses however the importance of balance and using such an FDI screening mechanism only when necessary, in order to avoid the EU itself becoming protectionist; highlights the importance of better coordination between Member State activities, with a focus on coherence, effectiveness and transparency;
Amendment 14 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
— having regard to the amending budget No 5/2020 of the European Union for the financial year 2020, on the mobilization of the Contingency Margin in 2020 to provide continued humanitarian support to refugees in Turkey, as set out in document 8857/2020,
Amendment 18 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas in June 2020, the Amending Budget (DAB) No 5 for the year 2020 was adopted by the Council, in order to continue providing support to refugees and host communities in response to the Syria crisis; Under the MFF Heading 4, Global Europe, EUR 100 million in commitment and payment appropriations will be provided as resilience support to refugees and host communities in Jordan and Lebanon whereas EUR 485 million in commitment appropriations and EUR 68 million in payment appropriations will be provided to ensure the continuation of the urgent humanitarian support to refugees in Turkey;
Amendment 54 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that the Turkey Facility is made up of two tranches of EUR 3 billion each; regrets the fact that, unlike in the first tranche 2016-2017, where the EU budget contributed EUR 1 billion and Member States EUR 2 billion, in the second tranche 2018-2019 the ratio of contributions was reversed, to the detriment of existing Union projects;
Amendment 122 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the fact that the EUTF for Africa has contributed to the triple humanitarian-development-peace nexus approach, which was not possible with the EU financial instruments under the previous MFF;
Amendment 188 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Reiterates its request that Turkey respect the principle of non-refoulement, in particular on the Syrian border, and that it not use the flows of refugees against the EUdoes not instrumentalize the migratory flows against the EU, for political purposes, and that it abides fully by the EU-Turkey statement especially with regard to the effective prevention of flows, dismantle of smuggling networks, control of its borders and acceptance of returns, in a non- discriminatory manner;
Amendment 212 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Welcomes the Council’s extended invitation to the Commission to present a proposal to the Council for the continuation of financing for Syrian refugees in Turkey, as well as in Jordan, Lebanon and other parts of the region;
Amendment 250 #
2020/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Expects the Commission to fully make use of the possibilities afforded by the programme-based approach under the geographic pillar of the NDICI-Global Europe and IPA III, complemented by global thematic programming, rapid response funding and the large unprogrammed reserve under the NDICI- Global Europe;
Amendment 2 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that Europe and Africa are in close geographical proximity, have strong historical and cultural ties and are being brought ever closer by the increase in trade and shared challenges, including but not limited to migration, fundamentalism, terrorism and violations of International Law, which call for a continental-African approach and result- oriented use of EU resources;
Amendment 22 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that the process of development on the African continent and its alignment with International Law on maritime affairs, trade and protection of labour rights is of key importance for the prosperity, stability and security of both the EU and Africa;
Amendment 69 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers that intercontinental cooperation between EU and Africa can significantly contribute to the fight against xenophobia and fundamentalism and for the stabilisation of the Mediterranean region;
Amendment 123 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that the EU is among the first to bear the costs of all destructive policies employed against African nations, while other players, especially China and, Russia and Turkey, are focused only on their own benefits at the expense of African sovereignty and European security;
Amendment 6 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s intention to introduce a harmonised approach addressing obligations imposed onfor intermediaries, in order to avoid fragmentation of the internal market; stresses that any measure related to fundamental rights should be carefully balanced and take into account the possible impact on the functioning of the internal market, and calls on the Commission to avoid the ‘export’ of national regulations and instead to propose th and to guarantee the respect of fundamental rights and freedoms of users across the Union in a uniform way ; stresses that any measure related to fundamental rights should be carefully balanced and ensure fair digital ecosystem; therefore calls on the Commission to propose the widest- possible harmonisation of rules on liability exemptions and content moderation in order to achieve most efficient and effective solutions for the internal market as a whole;
Amendment 7 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s intention to introduce a harmonised approach addressing obligations imposed onfor online intermediaries, in order to avoid fragmentation of the internal market while guaranteeing users fundamental rights; stresses that any measure related to fundamental rights should be carefully balanced and take into account the possible impact on the functioning of the internal market, and calls on the Commission to avoid the ‘export’ of national regulations and instead to propose the most efficient and effective solutions for the internal market as a whole without creating new administrative burdens and keeping the digital single market open and competitive;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. States that limited liability provisions as set out in the e-Commerce Directive1 must be maintained and strengthened in the Digital Services Act, particularly adjusted in the Digital Services Act, so as to make sure that platforms that are actively hosting or moderating content bear more, proportionately to their capabilities, responsibility for illegal or harmful content; argues that besides the content, platforms should be responsible for the effects of their algorithms and their actions, including moderating order to protect freedom of expression and the freedom to provide service curating of the content, vis-à-vis consumers; highlights that these adjustments should pay particular attention to protect freedom of expression and the freedom to provide services; emphasises that this should be achieved without introducing any sort of general monitoring requirements; underlines the importance of these protections to the growth of European SMEs; _________________ 1 Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 8 June 2000 on certain legal aspects of information society services, in particular electronic commerce, in the Internal Market (‘Directive on electronic commerce’), OJ L 178, 17.7.2000, p. 1.
Amendment 17 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. States that limited liability provisions as set out in the e-Commerce Directive1 must be maintained and strengthenwhere needed, updated in the Digital Services Act to better protect users and consumers, particularly in order to protect freedom of expression and the freedom to provide services; underlines the importance of these protections to the growth of European SMEscompanies, SMEs and microbusinesses in particular; _________________ 1 Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 8 June 2000 on certain legal aspects of information society services, in particular electronic commerce, in the Internal Market (‘Directive on electronic commerce’), OJ L 178, 17.7.2000, p. 1.
Amendment 20 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the Commission to introduce provisions protecting consumers from harmful microtargeting; in this respect, believes that specific limitations, i.e. of microtargeting based on characteristics exposing physical or psychological vulnerabilities, transparency obligations in regard to algorithms used by platforms and adequate tools empowering users to enforce fundamental rights online, are necessary in order to protect consumer rights effectively;
Amendment 24 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises that SMEmicrocompanies and large players have differing capabilities with regard to the moderation of content; warns that overburdening businesses with disproportionate new obligations could further hinder the growth of SMEs and require recourse to automatic filtering tools, which may often lead to the removal of legal contentin this regard, calls the Commission to make sure that the legislative proposal will keep the digital single market open and competitive and to pay special attention to the specific needs of microcompanies;
Amendment 31 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises that online intermediaries, including microcompanies, SMEs and large players have differing capabilities with regard to the moderation of content; warns that overburdening businesses with disproportionate new obligations could further hinder the growth of SMEs and require recourse to automatic filtering tools, which may often lead to the removal of legal content;
Amendment 36 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes theat there are often significant differences between digital services and; therefore calls for the avoidance of a one-size-fits-all approach, where differentiation of instruments is needed;
Amendment 39 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls the fact that mdisinformativeon and harmful content is not always illegal in every Member State; calls, therefore, for the establishment of a well-defined notice- and-takedown process; supports an intensive dialogue between authorities and relevant stakeholders with the aim of deepening the soft law approach based on good practices such as the EU-wide Code of Practice on Disinformation,action mechanism; Believes that such a process adding requirements for platforms to take any measures regarding the content they host must take note of the significant differences between digital services and be proportionate to their scale of reach and operational capacities so as to avoid unnecessary regulatory burdens for the platforms and any restrictions of fundamental rights as a result, such as any restriction on the freedom of expression; Supports greater cooperation between Member States, competent authorities and platforms with the aim of developing and improving soft law approaches in order to further tackle mdisinformation;
Amendment 40 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls the fact that mdisinformativeon and harmful content, yet detrimental to society, is not always illegal in all Member States; calls, therefore, for the establishment of a well-defined notice- and-takedowaction process; supports and intensive dialogue between authorities and relevant stakeholders with the aim of deepening the soft law approach based on good practroducing obligations for business operators to take proactive measures proportionate to their scale of reach and operational capacities to address the appearance of illegal and harmful content, including disinformation, on their services; such as the EU-wide Code of Practice on Disinformation,pports an intensive dialogue between authorities and relevant stakeholders in order to further tackle mdisinformation;
Amendment 52 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the introduction of counter-notice tools to allowproper safeguards and due process requirements, including human oversight and verification of all complaints, as well as counter-notice tools in order to ensure that removal decisions are accurate and content owners tocan defend their rights adequately and in a timely manner when notified of any takedown; underlines its view that delegating the responsibility to set boundaries on freedom of speech solely to private companies is unacceptable and creates risks for both citizens and businesses, neither of which are qualified to take such decisionsfor this reason removal of content should be followed-up by law enforcement.
Amendment 55 #
2020/2022(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the introduction of appropriate safeguards, due process obligations and counter- notice toolprocedures to allow content owners to defend their rights adequately and in a timely manner when notified of any takedown; underlines its view that delegating the responsibility to set boundaries on freedom of speech to private companies is unacceptable and creates risks for both citizens and businesses, neither of which are qualified to take such decisions.; Believes that the removal of content should be followed up by law enforcement where needed;
Amendment 4 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. Whereas Regulation (EU) 2017/23941a has a pivotal role in enhancing cooperation amongst national authorities in the field of consumer protection; __________________ 1aRegulation (EU) 2017/2394 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2017 on cooperation between national authorities responsible for the enforcement of consumer protection laws and repealing Regulation (EC) No 2006/2004 (OJ L 345, 27.12.2017, p. 1).
Amendment 7 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Cb. Whereas Regulation (EU) 2016/6791a (GDPR) establishes the rules on the processing of personal data and on the protection of personal data; __________________ 1a Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation) (OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1).
Amendment 9 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
Cc. Whereas Directive 2002/58/EC1a ensures that all communications over public networks maintain respect for a high level of data protection and privacy; __________________ 1aDirective 2002/58/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2002 concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector (Directive on privacy and electronic communications) (OJ L 201, 31.7.2002, p. 37).
Amendment 10 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the “CPC Common Position COVID-19”3 issued by the Commission and the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) authorities of the Member States on the most recent reported scams and unfair practices in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak; stresses the necessity to better protect consumers by providing reliable and transparent information on malpractices, such as misleading claims and scams for products in high demand; calls on all platforms to cooperate with the Commission and the competent authorities of the CPC network and members of the European Consumer Centres (ECC) to better identify illegal practices, take down scams and asks the Commission to constantly review the common guidelines for the placement and/or sale of items and services of a false, misleading or otherwise abusive content for consumers; believes such guidelines should not only seek to apply Union and national consumer law, but to proactively seek to put in place the means to react to the crisis in the market rapidly; __________________ 3European Commission / Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network, Common Position of CPC Authorities, “Stopping scams and tackling unfair business practices on online platforms in the context of the Coronavirus outbreak in the EU”.
Amendment 32 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes efforts to bring transparency to advertising online and considers that further clarity and guidance is needed as regards professional diligence and obligations for platforms; believes that where advertisers and intermediaries are established in a third country, they should designate a legal representative, established in the Union, who can be held accountable for the content of advertisementsproducts they sell, in order to allow for consumer redress in the case of false or misleading advertisements;
Amendment 39 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Asks the Commission to clarify what sanctions or other restrictions those advertisement intermediaries and platforms should be subject to if they knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements; believes that online platforms should actively monitor the advertisements shown on their sites, stresses the importance of common understanding order to ensure they do not profit from false or misleading advertisements, including from influencer marketing content which is not being disclosed as sponsoredn what constitutes false or misleading advertisement; underlines that advertisements for commercial products and services, and advertisements of a political or other nature are different in form and function and therefore should be subject to different guidelines and rules;
Amendment 54 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. While recalling earlier efforts, asks the Commission to further review the practice of End User Licensing Agreements (EULAs) and to seek ways to allow greater and easier engagement for consumers, including in the choice of clauses; notes that EULAs are often accepted by users without reading themso far the consumer has no choice but to agree with the terms of EULAs; moreover notes that when a EULA does allow for users to opt-out of clauses, platforms may require users to do so at each use; asks the Commission to introduce guidance for platforms on how to better inform consumers about the terms of EULAs, such as a pop-up message comprising key information thereof;
Amendment 62 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines that EULAs should always make the sharing of all data with third parties optional unless vital to the functioning of the services, under the terms of EULAs, consumers should be free to give consent for sharing some or all of their data with third parties, unless there are legal grounds for the lawfulness of sharing of data; asks the Commission to ensure that consumers can still use a connected device for all its primary functions, even if a consumers do not give or withdraws their consent to share non- operational data with the device manufacturer or third parties;
Amendment 74 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes the rise of “smart contracts” based on distributed ledger technologies; asks the Commission to analyse if certain aspects of “smart contracts” should, that need to be clarified and ifprovide guidance should be giventhereabout, in order to ensure legal certainty for businesses and consumers; asks especially for the Commission to work to ensure that such contracts with consumers are valid and binding throughout the Union; that they meet the standards of consumer law, for example the right of withdrawal under Directive 2011/83/EU4 ; and that they"smart contracts" are not subject to national barriers to application, such as notarisation requiremen when it comes to their validity requirements as consumer contracts; __________________ 4 Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2011 on consumer rights, amending Council Directive 93/13/EEC and Directive 1999/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Directive 85/577/EEC and Directive 97/7/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 304, 22.11.2011, p. 64).
Amendment 79 #
2020/2019(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that any future legislative proposals should seek to remove current and prevent potentially new unjustified barriers in the supply of digital services by online platforms, as well as foster an online environment free of illegal content that would be detrimental to Union consumers and the economy of the Union; underlines, at the same time, that new Union obligations on platforms must be proportional and clear in nature in order to avoid unnecessary regulatory burdens or unnecessary restrictions; underlines the need to prevent gold-plating practices of Union legislation by Member States.
Amendment 80 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
(a) Stresses the importance to address the remaining unjustified obstacles to the Digital Single Market and avoid protectionist measures, which are sometimes used by Member States to boost national competition. For example, settling the costs of cross-border disputes, suppliers’ restrictions to selling cross- border, delivery-related matters, taxation rules, limited cross-border access to goods and services due to differences in intellectual property rights law, access to information on the relevant regulatory requirements, complex administrative procedures, as well as ensuring that no new barriers are created;
Amendment 126 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Takes the view that a level playing field in the internal market between the platform economy and the "traditional" offline economy, based on the same rights and obligations for all interested parties - consumers and businesses - is needed; considers that social protection and social rights of workers, especially of platform or collaborative economy workers should be properly addressed in a specific instrument, accompanying the future regulatory framework;
Amendment 133 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that the Digital Services Act should be based on public values of the Union protecting citizens’ rights should aim to foster the creation of a rich and diverse online ecosystem with a wide range of online services, favourable digital environment and legal certainty to unlock the full potential of the Digital Single Market; believes that the EU should focus on removing existing obstacles in the Digital Single Market and on ensuring consumer and fundamental rights protection as one of the main objectives of the reform of the E-Commerce Directive; considers in this context that the Single Market objective can only be achieved if consumer trust is ensured; believes that the updated E-Commerce rules must clearly establish that consumer law and product safety requirements fall within their scope of application in order to ensure legal certainty;
Amendment 207 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses that this problem is aggravated by the fact that often the identity of these companies cannot be establishfraudulent companies and individuals cannot be established; and therefore, consumers cannot seek compensation for the damages and losses experienced;
Amendment 211 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Notes that the WHOIS database register has been a critical instrument to allow interested third parties to find bad actors on the internet; calls on the Commission and the European Data Protection Board to find a concrete solution to ensure interested trusted third parties can have a controlled access to it;
Amendment 226 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to require service providers to verify, such as online market places, technical hosting providers, domain name registrars, online advertising service providers, proxy services and online payment providers, to verify, both at the start of any relationship and periodically, the information and identity of the business partners with whom they have a contractual commercial relationship, and to ensure that the information they provide is accurate, complete, and up-to-date;
Amendment 249 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Amendment 344 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Believes that where intermediaries are established in a third country, they should designate a legal representative, established in the Union, who can be held accountable for the products they offer;
Amendment 363 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission to address the increasing differences and fragmentations of national rules in the Member States and to propose concrete targeted legislative measures including a notice- and-action mechanisms, that can empower users to notify online intermediaries of the existence of potentially illegal online content or behaviour; is of the opinion that such measures would guarantee a high level of users' and consumers' protection while promoting consumer trust in the online economy;
Amendment 456 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Considers that by reducing barriers to market entry and by regulating largesystemic platforms, an internal market instrument imposing ex-ante regulatory remedies on these largesystemic platforms has the potential to open up markets to new entrants, including SMEs and start-ups, thereby promoting consumer choice and driving innovation beyond what can be achieved by competition law enforcement alone;
Amendment 509 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part I – paragraph 1 a (new)
Annex I – part I – paragraph 1 a (new)
The Digital Services Act should contribute to the removal of the existing unjustified obstacles to the digital single market, which many times arise from protectionist measures by Member States, as well as ensuring that no new barriers are created;
Amendment 583 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part III – paragraph 1 – indent 4
Annex I – part III – paragraph 1 – indent 4
- clarify of what falls within the remit of the "illegal content”", definition making it clear that a violation of EU rules on consumer protection, product safety or the offer or sale of food or tobacco products and counterfeit medicines, also falls within the definition of illegal content; it is also necessary to clarify what falls under "harmful content" and "disinformation";
Amendment 619 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part IV – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – indent 2 a (new)
Annex I – part IV – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – indent 2 a (new)
- Measures to address the problem of fake profiles of users and service providers should be explored by the Commission. Information society service providers and users should be identifiable by authorities if needed; this would be the case if they commit an illegal activity online. The Commission should come up with measures that allow judiciary authorities to identify and catch in a very agile way those users that carry out illegal activities (to protect both, users and platforms), while preserving the data protection rights of each user. The creation of a digital identity could be a solution to this challenge.
Amendment 698 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part V – paragraph 1 – indent 3
Annex I – part V – paragraph 1 – indent 3
- preserve the underlying legal principle that online intermediariepassive online hosting providers should not be held directly liable for the acts of their users and that online intermediaries can continue moderating legal content under fair and transparent terms and conditions of service, provided that they are applicable in a non-discriminatory manner;on condition that: (a) The provider does not have actual knowledge of illegal activity or information and, as regards claims for damages, is not aware of facts or circumstances from which the illegal activity or information is apparent; and (b) The provider, upon obtaining such knowledge or awareness, acts expeditiously to remove or to disable access to the information.
Amendment 892 #
2020/2018(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part VIII – paragraph 1 a (new)
Annex I – part VIII – paragraph 1 a (new)
However, additional efforts with clear actions are necessary in order to address remaining obstacles in the digital single market and protectionist practices, such as: settling the costs of cross-border disputes, suppliers’ restrictions to selling cross-border, delivery-related matters, taxation rules, limited cross-border access to goods and services due to differences in intellectual property rights law, access to information on the relevant regulatory requirements, complex administrative procedures.
Amendment 6 #
2020/2017(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the Commission has proposed to rapidly deploy products and services that rely on AI in areas of public interest and the public sector; emphasises that in the education sector, this deployment should involve educators, learners and wider society and take their needs and the expected benefits into account in order to ensure that AI is used purposefully and ethically; expresses its concerns that telecommunication infrastructures in some regions across the European Union are lacking, which limits the accessibility to products and services that rely on AI and calls on the Commission to deploy sustained efforts in ameliorating telecommunication infrastructures in such regions, particularly with regards to the public education sector;
Amendment 27 #
2020/2017(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to include the public and private education sector in the regulatory framework for high-risk AI applications given the importance of ensuring that education continues to contribute to the public good and given the high sensitivity of data on pupils, students and other learners; underlines that data sets used to train AI should be reviewed to avoid reinforcing gender stereotypes and other biases; and when appropriate, make use of artificial intelligence to identify and correct human biases when that might exist;
Amendment 58 #
2020/2017(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Expresses its concern that schools and other public education providers are becoming increasingly dependent on educational technology services, including AI applications, provided by just a few technology companies; stresses that this may lead to unequal access to data and limit competition by restricting consumer choice; calls for this data to be shared with the relevant public authorities, in the privacy compliant manner, so it can be used in the development of curricula and pedagogical practices (in particular since these services are purchased with public money or offered to public education providers for free, and because education is a common good);
Amendment 68 #
2020/2017(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the importance of putting in place a proper framework for the public procurement of such services for the public sector, including for education providers, to ensure consumer choice and the respect of fundamental rights; stresses the need for public buyers to take into account specific criteria, such as non-discrimination and data privacy, and, specifically when purchasing services for public education providers, the involvement of educators and learners; stresses the need to require the involvement of technology companies of all sizes in the sector to ensure a level playing field;
Amendment 93 #
2020/2017(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the unreliability of the current automated means of removing illegal content from online platforms on which audiovisual content is sharedand misinformative content which may wrongly block legitimate content; calls for a ban on generalised moderation and automated content filters;
Amendment 17 #
2020/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas in the political declaration adopted, with the abstention of the 28 Member States of the EU, at the first session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and all other Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) held in New York in November 2019, participating Member Statethe remaining participants undertook to pursue the drafting of a legally binding treaty to establish a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other WMD, which could ultimately contribute to building regional and international trust;
Amendment 88 #
2020/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point t
Paragraph 1 – point t
Amendment 107 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4 a (new)
Recital 4 a (new)
(4a) Due to the increased cross-sectoral and cross-border interdependencies between critical infrastructures, an incident in one Member State can seriously affect activities in another Member State. In order to achieve a high level of resilience of critical infrastructures across the Union, essential services or essential infrastructure should be equally strongly protected and resilient in all Member States. National measures alone are therefore insufficient in addressing risks and situations of disruption of essential services or essential infrastructure.
Amendment 108 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4 b (new)
Recital 4 b (new)
(4b) Differences between national rules relating to the designation and oversight of critical infrastructures as well as differences in requirements may cause distortions of competition within the internal market. A European framework should therefore also have the effect of levelling the playing field for critical entities across the Union.
Amendment 109 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Since it is not practical to expect full and continuous critical infrastructure protection , the aim of this Directive should be to make critical infrastructures resilient thereby furthering their capacity to ensure continuous provision of essential services or essential infrastructure or at least to swiftly restore performance after an incident has taken place. Operators of critical infrastructures delivering essential services across the internal market in various sectors necessary for vital societal functions and economic activities, should become resilient against a range of natural and man-made, intentional or unintentional, current and anticipated future risks. It is therefore necessary to lay down harmonised minimum rules to ensure the provision of essential services in the internal market and enhance the resilience of critical entities.
Amendment 128 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 4
Article 1 – paragraph 4
4. Without prejudice to Article 346 TFEU, information that is confidential pursuant to Union and national rules, such as rules on business confidentiality, shall be exchanged with the Commission and other relevant authorities only where that exchange is necessary for the application of this Directive. The information exchanged shall be limited to that which is relevant and proportionate to the purpose of that exchange. The exchange of information shall preserve the confidentiality of that information and protect the security and commercial interests of criticalthe entities concerned.
Amendment 146 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. The European Commission may issue recommendations to Member States to identify specific essential services, infrastructures and the entities providing them and include them in their list of critical entities.
Amendment 163 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
The risk assessment shall account for all relevant risks referred to in Article 4(1) which could lead to the disruption of the provision of essential services. It shall take into account any dependency of other sectors referred to in the Annex on the essential service provided by the critical entity, including in neighbouringother Member States, on European level, and in third countries where relevant, and the impact that a disruption of the provision of essential services in one or more of those sectors may have on the essential service provided by the critical entity.
Amendment 176 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. The information provided has to be treated swiftly by the competent authorities in a way that respects its confidentiality and protects the security and commercial interest of the critical entity concerned.
Amendment 182 #
2020/0365(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
In so doing, the competent authorities and single points of contact shall, in accordance with Union law or national legislation that complies with Union law, treat the information in a way that respects its confidentiality and protects the security and commercial interest of the critical entity concerned.
Amendment 186 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2 a (new)
Recital 2 a (new)
(2a) Moreover, complex national regulatory requirements, fragmented implementation and insufficient enforcement of legislation such as Directive 2000/31/EC have contributed to high administrative costs and legal uncertainty for intermediary services operating on the internal market, especially micro, small and medium sized companies.
Amendment 208 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Such a substantial connection to the Union should be considered to exist where the service provider has an establishment in the Union or, in its absence, on the basis of the existence of a significant number of users in one or more Member States, or the targedirecting of activities towards one or more Member States. The targeting of activities towards one or more Member States can be determined on the basis of all relevant circumstances, including factors such as the use of a language or a currency generally used in that Member State, or the possibility of ordering products or services, or using a national top level domain. The targedirecting of activities towards a Member State could also be derived from the availability of an application in the relevant national application store, from the provision of local advertising or advertising in the language used in that Member State, or from the handling of customer relations such as by providing customer service in the language generally used in that Member State. A substantial connection should also be assumed where a service provider directs its activities to one or more Member State as set out in Article 17(1)(c) of Regulation (EU) 1215/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council27 . On the other hand, mere technical accessibility of a website from the Union cannot, on that ground alone, be considered as establishing a substantial connection to the Union. __________________ 27 Regulation (EU) No 1215/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2012 on jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters (OJ L351, 20.12.2012, p.1).
Amendment 213 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) This Regulation should complement, yet not affect the application of rules resulting from other acts of Union law regulating certain aspects of the provisionfully harmonises the rules applicable to intermediary services in the internal market with the objective to ensure a safe and trusted online environment, effective protection of fundamental rights and a favourable business climate. Accordingly, Member States should not adopt or maintain additional national requirements on those matters falling within the scope of this Regulation. This does not preclude the possibility to apply other national legislation applicable to providers of intermediary services, in particular Directive 2000/31/ECaccordance with Union law, including Directive 2000/31/EC, in particular its Article 3, with the exception of those changes introduced by this Regulation, Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council as amended,28 and Regulation (EU) …/.. of the European Parliament and of the Council29 – proposed Terrorist Content Online Regulation. Therefore, this Regulation leaves those other acts, which are to be considered lex specialis in relation to the generally applicable framework set out in this Regulation, unaffected. However, the rules of this Regulation apply in respect of issues that are not or not fully addressed by those other acts as well as issues on which those other acts leave Member States the possibility of adopting certain measures at national level. . __________________ 28 Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (Text with EEA relevance), OJ L 95, 15.4.2010, p. 1 . 29Regulation (EU) …/.. of the European Parliament and of the Council – proposed Terrorist Content Online Regulation
Amendment 226 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In order to achieve the objective of ensuring a safe, predictable and trusted online environment, for the purpose of this Regulation the concept of “illegal content” should be defined broadly and also covers information relating to illegal content, products, services and activities. In particular, that conceptFor the purpose of this Regulation the concept of “illegal content” should be understood to refer to information, irrespective of its form, that under the applicable law is either itself illegal, such as illegal hate speech or terrorist content and unlawful discriminatory content, or that relateit is not in compliance with Union law as it refers to activities that are illegal, such as the sharing of images depicting child sexual abuse, unlawful non- consensual sharing of private images, online stalking, the sale of non-compliant or counterfeit products, the non-authorised use of copyright protected material or activities involving infringements of consumer protection law. In this regard, it is immaterial whether the illegality of the information or activity results from Union law or from national law that is consistent with Union law and what the precise nature or subject matter is of the law in question.
Amendment 249 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) The concept of ‘dissemination to the public’, as used in this Regulation, should entail the making available of information to a potentially unlimited number of persons, that is, making the information easily accessible to users in general without further action by the recipient of the service providing the information being required, irrespective of whether those persons actually access the information in question. The mere possibility to create groups of users of a given service should not, in itself, be understood to mean that the information disseminated in that manner is not disseminated to the public. However, the concept should exclude dissemination of information within closed groups consisting of a finite number of pre- determined persons. Interpersonal communication services, as defined in Directive (EU) 2018/1972 of the European Parliament and of the Council,39 such as emails or private messaging services, fall outside the scope of this Regulation. Information should be considered disseminated to the public within the meaning of this Regulation only where that occurs upon the direct request by the recipient of the service that provided the information. Services, such as internet infrastructure services or cloud service providers, which are provided at the request of parties other than the content providers and only indirectly benefitting the latter, should not be covered by the definition of online platforms. __________________ 39Directive (EU) 2018/1972 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 establishing the European Electronic Communications Code (Recast), OJ L 321, 17.12.2018, p. 36
Amendment 257 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The relevant rules of Chapter II should only establish when the provider of intermediary services concerned cannot be held liable in relation to illegal content provided by the recipients of the service. Those rules should notby no means be understood to provide a positive basis for establishing when a provider can be held liable, which is for the applicable rules of Union or national law to determine. Furthermore, the exemptions from liability established in this Regulation should apply in respect of any type of liability as regards any type of illegal content, irrespective of the precise subject matter or nature of those laws.
Amendment 278 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) In order to benefit from the exemption from liability for hosting services, the provider should, upon obtaining actual knowledge or awareness of illegal content, act expedwitihouslt undue delay to remove or to disable access to that content. The removal or disabling of access should be undertaken in the observance of the principle of freedom of expression. The provider can obtain such actual knowledge or awareness through, in particular, its own-initiative investigations or notices submitted to it by individuals or entities in accordance with this Regulation in so far as those notices are sufficiently precise and adequately substantiated to allow a diligent economic operator to reasonably identify, assess and where appropriate act against the allegedly illegal content.
Amendment 281 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22 a (new)
Recital 22 a (new)
(22a) The exemption of liability should not apply where the recipient of the service is acting under the authority or the control of the provider of a hosting service. In particular, where the provider of the online platform that allows consumers to conclude distance contracts with traders does not allow traders to determine the basic elements of the trader-consumer contract, such as the terms and conditions governing such relationship or the price, it should be considered that the trader acts under the authority or control of that platform.
Amendment 282 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In order to ensure the effective protection of consumers when engaging in intermediated commercial transactions online, certain providers of hosting services, namely, online platforms that allow consumers to conclude distance contracts with traders as a functionality of their service, should not be able to benefit from the exemption from liability for hosting service providers established in this Regulation, in so far as those online platforms present the relevant information relating to the transactions at issue in such a way that it leads consumers to believe that the information was provided by those online platforms themselves or by recipients of the service acting under their authority or control, and that those online platforms thus have knowledge of or control over the information, even if that may in reality not be the case. This is the case where the online platform operator fails to clearly display the identity of the trader following this Regulation. In that regard, is should be determined objectively, on the basis of all relevant circumstances, whether the presentation could lead to such a belief on the side of an average and reasonably well-informed consumer. In particular, it is relevant whether the online platform operator withholds such identity or contract details until after the conclusion of the trader- consumer contract, or is marketing the product or service in its own name rather than using the name of the trader who will supply it.
Amendment 291 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
Recital 23 a (new)
(23a) Consumers should be able to safely purchase products and services online, irrespective of whether a product or service has been produced in the Union. For that reason, traders from third countries should establish a legal representative in the Union to whom claims regarding product safety could be addressed. Providers of intermediary services from inside the Union as well as from third countries should ensure compliance with product requirements set out in Union law.
Amendment 310 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Since 2000, new technologies have emerged that improve the availability, efficiency, speed, reliability, capacity and security of systems for the transmission and storage of data online, leading to an increasingly complex online ecosystem. In this regard, it should be recalled that providers of services establishing and facilitating the underlying logical architecture and proper functioning of the internet, including technical auxiliary functions, can also benefit from the exemptions from liability set out in this Regulation, to the extent that their services qualify as ‘mere conduits’, ‘caching’ or hosting services. Such services include, as the case may be, wireless local area networks, domain name system (DNS) services, top–level domain name registries, certificate authorities that issue digital certificates, cloud infrastructure services or content delivery networks, that enable or improve the functions of other providers of intermediary services. Likewise, services used for communications purposes, and the technical means of their delivery, have also evolved considerably, giving rise to online services such as Voice over IP, messaging services and web-based e-mail services, where the communication is delivered via an internet access service. Those services, too, can benefit from the exemptions from liability, to the extent that they qualify as ‘mere conduit’, ‘caching’ or hosting service.
Amendment 331 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) The territorial scope of such orders to act against illegal content should be clearly set out on the basis of the applicable Union or national law enabling the issuance of the order and should not exceed what is strictly necessary to achieve its objectives. In that regard, the national judicial or administrative authority issuing the order should balance the objective that the order seeks to achieve, in accordance with the legal basis enabling its issuance, with the rights and legitimate interests of all third parties that may be affected by the order, in particular their fundamental rights under the Charter. In addition, where the order referring to the specific information may have effects beyond the territory of the Member State of the authority concerned, the authority should assess whether the information at issue is likely to constitute illegal content in other Member States concerned and, where relevant, take account of the relevant rules of Union law or international law and the interests of international comity. Since intermediaries should not be required to remove information which is legal in their country of establishment, national and Union authorities should be able to order the blocking of content legally published outside the Union only for the territory of the Union where Union law is infringed and for the territory of the issuing Member State where national law is infringed.
Amendment 346 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 34
Recital 34
(34) In order to achieve the objectives of this Regulation, and in particular to improve the functioning of the internal market and ensure a safe and transparent online environment, it is necessary to establish a clear and balanced set of harmonised due diligence obligations for providers of intermediary services. Those obligations should target illegal content and aim in particular to guarantee different public policy objectives such as consumer protection, the safety and trust of the recipients of the service, including minors and vulnerable users, protect the relevant fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter, to ensure meaningful accountability of those providers and to empower recipients and other affected parties, whilst facilitating the necessary oversight by competent authorities.
Amendment 353 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) In that regard, it is important that the due diligence obligations are adapted to the type and nature and size of the intermediary service concerned. This Regulation therefore sets out basic obligations applicable to all providers of intermediary services, as well as additional obligations for providers of hosting services and, more specifically, online platforms and very large online platforms. To the extent that providers of intermediary services may fall within those different categories in view of the nature of their services and their size, they should comply with all of the corresponding obligations of this Regulation. Those harmonised due diligence obligations, which should be reasonable and non- arbitrary, are needed to achieve the identified public policy concerns, such as safeguarding the legitimate interests of the recipients of the service, addressing illegal practices and protecting fundamental rights online.
Amendment 358 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36 a (new)
Recital 36 a (new)
(36a) Providers of intermediary services should also establish a single point of contact for recipients of services, allowing rapid, direct and efficient communication.
Amendment 362 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 38
Recital 38
(38) Whilst the freedom of contract of providers of intermediary services should in principle be respected, it is appropriate to set certain rules on the content, application and enforcement of the terms and conditions of those providers in the interests of transparency, the protection of recipients of the service and the avoidance of unfair or arbitrary outcomes. Obligations related to terms and conditions should not oblige a provider of an intermediary service to disclose information that will lead to significant vulnerabilities for the security of its service or the protection of confidential information, in particular trade secrets or intellectual property rights.
Amendment 372 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) To ensure an adequate level of transparency and accountability, providers of intermediary services should annually report, in accordance with the harmonised requirements contained in this Regulation, on the content moderation they engage in, including the measures taken as a result of the application and enforcement of their terms and conditions. However, so as to avoid disproportionate burdens, those transparency reporting obligations should not apply to providers that are micro- or, small or medium sized enterprises as defined in Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC.40 __________________ 40 Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC of 6 May 2003 concerning the definition of micro, small and medium- sized enterprises (OJ L 124, 20.5.2003, p. 36).
Amendment 376 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
Recital 40
(40) Providers of hosting services play a particularly important role in tackling illegal content online, as they store information provided by and at the request of the recipients of the service and typically give other recipients access thereto, sometimes on a large scale. It is important that all providers of hosting services, regardless of their size, put in place easily accessible, comprehensive and user-friendly notice and action mechanisms that facilitate the notification of specific items of information that the notifying party considers to be illegal content to the provider of hosting services concerned ('notice'), pursuant to which that provider can decide whether or not it agrees with that assessment and wishes to remove or disable access to that content ('action')following the applicable law ('action'). Such mechanisms should be clearly visible on the interface of the hosting service and easy to use. Provided the requirements on notices are met, it should be possible for individuals or entities to notify multiple specific items of allegedly illegal content through a single notice. The obligation to put in place notice and action mechanisms should apply, for instance, to file storage and sharing services, web hosting services, advertising servers and paste bins, in as far as they qualify as providers of hosting services covered by this Regulation. Providers of hosting services could, as a voluntary measure, conduct own-investigation measures to prevent content which has previously been identified as illegal from being disseminated again once removed. The obligations related to notice and action should by no means impose general monitoring obligations.
Amendment 385 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 41
Recital 41
(41) The rules on such notice and action mechanisms should be harmonised at Union level, so as to provide for the timely, diligent and objective processing of notices on the basis of rules that are uniform, transparent and clear and that provide for robust safeguards to protect the right and legitimate interests of all affected parties, in particular their fundamental rights guaranteed by the Charter, irrespective of the Member State in which those parties are established or reside and of the field of law at issue. The fundamental rights include, as the case may be, the right to freedom of expression and information, the right to respect for private and family life, the right to protection of personal data, the right to non-discrimination and the right to an effective remedy of the recipients of the service; the freedom to conduct a business, including the freedom of contract, of service providers; as well as the right to human dignity, the rights of the child, the right to protection of property, including intellectual property, and the right to non- discrimination of parties affected by illegal content. Providers of hosting services should act upon notices without undue delay, taking into account the type of illegal content that is being notified and the urgency of taking action. The provider of hosting services should inform the individual or entity notifying the specific content of its decision without undue delay after taking a decision whether to act upon the notice or not.
Amendment 396 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42 a (new)
Recital 42 a (new)
(42a) A hosting service provider may in some instances become aware, for instance through a notice by a notifying party or through its own voluntary measures, of information relating to certain activity of a recipient of the service, such as the provision of certain types of illegal content, that reasonably justify, having regard to all relevant circumstances of which the hosting service provider is aware, the suspicion that the recipient may have committed, may be committing or is likely to commit a serious criminal offence involving a threat to the life or safety of person, such as offences specified in Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council. In such instances, the hosting service provider should inform without delay the competent law enforcement authorities of such suspicion, providing all relevant information available to it, including where relevant the content in question and an explanation of its suspicion. This Regulation does not provide the legal basis for profiling of recipients of the services with a view to the possible identification of criminal offences by hosting service providers. Hosting service providers should also respect other applicable rules of Union or national law for the protection of the rights and freedoms of individuals when informing law enforcement authorities.
Amendment 401 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 43
Recital 43
(43) To avoid disproportionate burdens, the additional obligations imposed on online platforms under this Regulation should not apply to micro or, small or medium sized enterprises as defined in Recommendation 2003/361/EC of the Commission,41 unless their reach and impact is such that they meet the criteria to qualify as very large online platforms under this Regulation. The consolidation rules laid down in that Recommendation help ensure that any circumvention of those additional obligations is prevented. The exemption of micro- and small enterprises from those additional obligations should not be understood as affecting their ability to set up, on a voluntary basis, a system that complies with one or more of those obligations. __________________ 41 Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC of 6 May 2003 concerning the definition of micro, small and medium- sized enterprises (OJ L 124, 20.5.2003, p. 36).
Amendment 403 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 43 a (new)
Recital 43 a (new)
(43a) To similarly avoid unnecessary regulatory burdens, certain obligations should not apply to hosting service providers often referred to as closed online platforms where, within the framework of an organised distribution network operating under a common brand, the provider of the intermediary service has a direct organisational, associative, cooperative or capital ownership link with the recipient of the service or where the intermediary service solely aims to intermediate content between the members of the organised distribution framework and their suppliers.
Amendment 405 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 44
Recital 44
(44) Recipients of the service should be able to easily and effectively contest certain decisions of online platforms that negatively affect them. Therefore, online platforms should be required to provide for internal complaint-handling systems, which meet certain conditions aimed at ensuring that the systems are easily accessible and lead to swift, non- discriminatory and fair outcomes. In addition, provision should be made for the possibility of out-of-court dispute settlement of disputes, including those that could not be resolved in satisfactory manner through the internal complaint- handling systems, by certified bodies that have the requisite independence, means and expertise to carry out their activities in a fair, swift and cost- effectivimple, affordable, expedient and accessible manner. The possibilities to contest decisions of online platforms thus created should complement, yet leave unaffected in all respects, the possibility to seek judicial redress in accordance with the laws of the Member State concerned.
Amendment 417 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 46
Recital 46
(46) Action against illegal content can be taken more quickly and reliably where online platforms take the necessary measures to ensure that notices submitted by trusted flaggers through the notice and action mechanisms required by this Regulation are treated with priority, depending on the severity of the illegal activity, without prejudice to the requirement to process and decide upon all notices submitted under those mechanisms in a timely, diligent and objective manner. Such trusted flagger status should only be awarded to entities, and not individuals, that have demonstrated, among other things, that they have particular expertise and competence in tackling illegal content, that they represent collective interests and that they work in a diligent and objective manner. Such entities can be public in nature, such as, for terrorist content, internet referral units of national law enforcement authorities or of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (‘Europol’) or they can be non-governmental organisations and private or semi- public bodies, such as the organisations part of the INHOPE network of hotlines for reporting child sexual abuse material and organisations committed to notifying illegal racist and xenophobic expressionscontent online. For intellectual property rights, organisations of industry and of individual right- holders could be awarded trusted flagger status, where they have demonstrated that they meet the applicable conditions. The rules of this Regulation on trusted flaggers should not be understood to prevent online platforms from giving similar treatment to notices submitted by entities or individuals that have not been awarded trusted flagger status under this Regulation, from otherwise cooperating with other entities, in accordance with the applicable law, including this Regulation and Regulation (EU) 2016/794 of the European Parliament and of the Council.43 __________________ 43Regulation (EU) 2016/794 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and replacing and repealing Council Decisions 2009/371/JHA, 2009/934/JHA, 2009/935/JHA, 2009/936/JHA and 2009/968/JHA, OJ L 135, 24.5.2016, p. 53
Amendment 418 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 47
Recital 47
(47) The misuse of services of online platforms by frequently providing manifestly illegal content or by frequently submitting manifestly unfounded notices or complaints under the mechanisms and systems, respectively, established under this Regulation undermines trust and harms the rights and legitimate interests of the parties concerned. Therefore, there is a need to put in place appropriate and proportionate safeguards against such misuse. Information should be considered to be manifestly illegal content and notices or complaints should be considered manifestly unfounded where it is evident to a layperson, without any substantive analysis, that the content is illegal respectively that the notices or complaints are unfounded. Under certain conditions, online platforms should temporarily suspend their relevant activities in respect of the person engaged in abusive behaviour. This is without prejudice to the freedom by online platforms to determine their terms and conditions and establish stricter measures in the case of manifestly illegal content related to serious crimes, with due regard to the rights and legitimate interests of all parties involved, including the applicable fundamental rights of the recipients of the service as enshrined in the Charter. Providers of hosting services could, as a voluntary measure, introduce own-investigation measures to prevent accounts which have previously been identified as illegal from reappearing once removed. The obligations related to notice and action should by no means impose general monitoring obligations. For reasons of transparency, this possibility should be set out, clearly and in sufficiently detail, in the terms and conditions of the online platforms. Redress should always be open to the decisions taken in this regard by online platforms and they should be subject to oversight by the competent Digital Services Coordinator. The rules of this Regulation on misuse should not prevent online platforms from taking other measures to address the provision of illegal content by recipients of their service or other misuse of their services, in accordance with the applicable Union and national law. Those rules are without prejudice to any possibility to hold the persons engaged in misuse liable, including for damages, provided for in Union or national law.
Amendment 425 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 48
Recital 48
Amendment 445 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 50
Recital 50
(50) To ensure an efficient and adequate application of that obligation, without imposing any disproportionate burdens, the online platforms covered should make reasonable efforts to verify the reliability of the information provided by the traders concerned, in particular by using freely available official online databases and online interfaces, such as national trade registers and the VAT Information Exchange System45 ,and the Union Rapid Alert System for dangerous non-food products (Rapex) or by requesting the traders concerned to provide trustworthy supporting documents, such as copies of identity documents, certified bank statements, company certificates and trade register certificates. They may also use other sources, available for use at a distance, which offer a similar degree of reliability for the purpose of complying with this obligation. However, the online platforms covered should not be required to engage in excessive or costly online fact-finding exercises or to carry out verifications on the spot. Nor should such online platforms, which have made the reasonable efforts required by this Regulation, be understood as guaranteeing the reliability of the information towards consumer or other interested parties. Such online platforms should also design and organise their online interface in a way that enables traders to comply with their obligations under Union law, in particular the requirements set out in Articles 6 and 8 of Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council46 , Article 7 of Directive 2005/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council47 and Article 3 of Directive 98/6/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council48 . __________________ 45 https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/vies/ vieshome.do?selectedLanguage=en 46Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2011 on consumer rights, amending Council Directive 93/13/EEC and Directive 1999/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Directive 85/577/EEC and Directive 97/7/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council 47Directive 2005/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2005 concerning unfair business-to- consumer commercial practices in the internal market and amending Council Directive 84/450/EEC, Directives 97/7/EC, 98/27/EC and 2002/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Regulation (EC) No 2006/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council (‘Unfair Commercial Practices Directive’) 48Directive 98/6/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 1998 on consumer protection in the indication of the prices of products offered to consumers
Amendment 455 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 52
Recital 52
(52) Online advertisement plays an important role in the online environment, including in relation to the provision of the services of online platforms. However,Online advertising is a significant source of financing for many digital business models and an effective tool to reach new customers, not least for small- and medium sized companies. However, there are some instances when online advertisement can contribute to significant risks, ranging from advertisement that is itself illegal content, to contributing to financial incentives for the publication or amplification of illegal or otherwise harmful content and activities online, or the discriminatory display of advertising with an impact on the equal treatment and opportunities of citizens. To ensure consumer protection online advertisement should be subject to proportionate and meaningful transparency obligations. In addition to the requirements resulting from Article 6 of Directive 2000/31/EC, online platforms should therefore be required to ensure that the recipients of the service have certain individualised information necessary for them to understand when and on whose behalf the advertisement is displayed. In addition, recipients of the service should have information on the main parameters used for determining that specific advertising is to be displayed to them, providing meaningful explanations of the logic used to that end, including when this is based on profiling. The requirements of this Regulation on the provision of information relating to advertisement is without prejudice to the application of the relevant provisions of Regulation (EU) 2016/679, in particular those regarding the right to object, automated individual decision-making, including profiling and specifically the need to obtain consent of the data subject prior to the processing of personal data for targeted advertising. Similarly, it is without prejudice to the provisions laid down in Directive 2002/58/EC in particular those regarding the storage of information in terminal equipment and the access to information stored therein.
Amendment 469 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Very large online platforms may cause societal risks, different in scope and impact from those caused by smaller platforms. Once the number of recipients of a platform reaches a significant share of the Union population, the systemic risks the platform poses could have a disproportionately negative impact in the Union. Such significant reach should be considered to exist where the number of recipients exceeds an operational threshold set at 45 million, that is, a number equivalent to 10% of the Union population. The operational threshold should be kept up to date through amendments enacted by delegated acts, where necessary. Such very large online platforms should therefore bear the highest standard of due diligence obligations, proportionate to their societal impact and meansAccordingly, the number of average monthly recipients of the service should reflect the recipients actually reached by the service either by being exposed to content or by providing content disseminated on the platforms’ interface in that period of time. The operational threshold should be kept up to date through amendments enacted by delegated acts, where necessary. The threshold should be designed to target the largest platforms with a reach in the Union that could lead to a systemic impact. Such very large online platforms should therefore bear the highest standard of due diligence obligations, proportionate to their societal impact and means, placing such due diligence obligations on smaller companies, especially micro, small and medium sized companies would be disproportionate.
Amendment 474 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 56
Recital 56
(56) Very large online platforms are used in a way that strongly influences safety online, the shaping of public opinion and discourse, as well as on online trade. The way they design of their services is generally optimised to benefit their often advertising- driven business models and can cause societal concerns. In the absence of effective regulation and enforcement, they can set the rules of the game, withoutsometimes amplify the dissemination of illegal content. Effective regulation and enforcement is needed to effectively identifying and mitigatinge the risks and the societal and economic harm they can cauat may arise. Under this Regulation, very large online platforms should therefore assess the systemic risks stemming from the functioning and use of their service, as well as by potential misuses by the recipients of the service, and take appropriate mitigating measures.
Amendment 490 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 61
Recital 61
(61) The audit report should be substantiated, so as to give a meaningful account of the activities undertaken and the conclusions reached. It should help inform, and where appropriate suggest improvements to the measures taken by the very large online platform to comply with their obligations under this Regulation, without prejudice to its freedom to conduct a business and, in particular, its ability to design and implement effective measures that are aligned with its specific business model. The report should be transmitted to the Digital Services Coordinator of establishment and the Board without delayin 30 days following its adoption, together with the risk assessment and the mitigation measures, as well as the platform’s plans for addressing the audit’s recommendations. The report should include an audit opinion based on the conclusions drawn from the audit evidence obtained. A positive opinion should be given where all evidence shows that the very large online platform complies with the obligations laid down by this Regulation or, where applicable, any commitments it has undertaken pursuant to a code of conduct or crisis protocol, in particular by identifying, evaluating and mitigating the systemic risks posed by its system and services. A positive opinion should be accompanied by comments where the auditor wishes to include remarks that do not have a substantial effect on the outcome of the audit. A negative opinion should be given where the auditor considers that the very large online platform does not comply with this Regulation or the commitments undertaken.
Amendment 496 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 62
Recital 62
(62) A core part of a very large online platform’s business is the manner in which information is prioritised and presented on its online interface to facilitate and optimise access to information for the recipients of the service. This is done, for example, by algorithmically suggesting, ranking and prioritising information, distinguishing through text or other visual representations, or otherwise curating information provided by recipients. Such recommender systems can have a significant impact on the ability of recipients to retrieve and interact with information online. Often, they facilitate the search for relevant content for recipients of the service and contribute to an improved user experience. They also play an important role in the amplification of certain messages, the viral dissemination of information and the stimulation of online behaviour. Consequently, very large online platforms should ensure that recipients are appropriately informed, and can influence the information presented to them through making active choices. They should clearly present the main parameters for such recommender systems in an easily comprehensible manner to ensure that the recipients understand how information is prioritised for them and why. They should also ensure that the recipients enjoy alternative options for the main parameters, including options that are not based on profiling of the recipient.
Amendment 500 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 63
Recital 63
(63) Advertising systems used by very large online platforms could pose particular risks and require further public and regulatory supervision on account of their scale and ability to target and reach recipients of the service based on their behaviour within and outside that platform’s online interface. Very large online platforms should ensure public access to repositories of advertisements displayed on their online interfaces to facilitate supervision and research into emerging risks brought about by the distribution of advertising online, for example in relation to illegal advertisements or manipulative techniques and disinformation with a real and foreseeable negative impact on public health, public security, civil discourse, political participation and equality. Repositories should include the content of advertisements and related data on the advertiser and the delivery of the advertisement, in particular where targeted advertising is concerned.
Amendment 506 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 64
Recital 64
(64) In order to appropriately supervise the compliance of very large online platforms with the obligations laid down by this Regulation, the Digital Services Coordinator of establishment or the Commission may require access to or reporting of specific data. Such a requirement may include, for example, the data necessary to assess the risks and possible harms brought about by the platform’s systems, data on the accuracy, functioning and testing of algorithmic systems for content moderation, recommender systems or advertising systems, or data on processes and outputs of content moderation or of internal complaint-handling systems within the meaning of this Regulation. Investigations by researchers on the evolution and severity of online systemic risks are particularly important for bridging information asymmetries and establishing a resilient system of risk mitigation, informing online platforms, Digital Services Coordinators, other competent authorities, the Commission and the public. This Regulation therefore provides a framework for compelling access to data from very large online platforms to vetted researchers, where relevant to a research project. All requiremenests for access to data under that framework should be proportionate and appropriately protect the rights and legitimate interests, including trade secrets and other confidential information, of the platform and any other parties concerned, including the recipients of the service.
Amendment 520 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 68
Recital 68
(68) It is appropriate that this Regulation identify certain areas of consideration for such codes of conduct. In particular, risk mitigation measures concerning specific types of illegal content should be explored via self- and co-regulatory agreements. Another area for consideration is the possible negative impacts of systemic risks on society and democracy, such as disinformation or manipulative and abusive activities. This includes coordinated operations aimed at amplifying information, including disinformation, such as the use of bots or fake accounts for the creation of fakintentionally inaccurate or misleading information, sometimes with a purpose of obtaining economic gain, which are particularly harmful for vulnerablecertain groups of recipients of the service, such as children. In relation to such areas, adherence to and compliance with a given code of conduct by a very large online platform may be considered as an appropriate risk mitigating measure. The refusal without proper explanations by an online platform of the Commission’s invitation to participate in the application of such a code of conduct could be taken into account, where relevant, when determining whether the online platform has infringed the obligations laid down by this Regulation.
Amendment 613 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) set out uniformharmonised rules for a safe, predictable and trusted online environment, where fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter are effectively protected.
Amendment 614 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b – point i (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b – point i (new)
i) facilitate innovations, support digital transition, encourage economic growth and create a level playing field for digital services within the internal market while strengthening consumer protection and contributing to increased consumer choice.
Amendment 659 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d – indent 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d – indent 1
Amendment 665 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d – indent 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d – indent 2
— the targedirecting of activities towards one or more Member States.
Amendment 669 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) ‘trader’ means any natural person, or any legal person irrespective of whether privately or publicly owned, who is acting, including through any person acting in his or her name or on his or her behalf, for purposes relating to his or her trade, business, craft or profession;
Amendment 686 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point g
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point g
(g) ‘illegal content’ means any information,, which, in itself or by its reference to an activity, including the sale of products or provision of services which is not in compliance with Union law or the law of a Member State, irrespective of the precise subject matter or nature of that law;
Amendment 697 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point h
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point h
Amendment 720 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point n
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point n
(n) ‘advertisement’ means information designed and disseminated to promote the message of a legal or natural person, irrespective of whether to achieve commercial or non-commercial purposes, and displayed by an online platform on its online interface against remuneration specifically in exchange for promoting that information;
Amendment 728 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point p
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point p
(p) ‘content moderation’ means the activities undertaken by providers of intermediary services aimed at detecting, identifying and addressing illegal content or information incompatible with their terms and conditions, provided by recipients of the service, including measures taken that affect the availability, visibility and accessibility of that illegal content or that information, such as demotion, demonetisation, disabling of access to, or removal thereof, or the recipients’ ability to provide that information, such as the termination or suspension of a recipient’s account;
Amendment 761 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) upon obtaining such knowledge or awareness, acts expedwitihouslt undue delay to remove or to disable access to the illegal content.
Amendment 787 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Providers of intermediary services shall not be deemed ineligible for the exemptions from liability referred to in Articles 3, 4 and 5 solely because they carry outtake the necessary voluntary own-initiative investigations or other activiti measures aimed at detecting, identifying and removing, or disabling of access to, illegal content, or take the necessary measures to comply with the requirements of Union law, including those set out in this Regulation, without prejudice to freedom of expression.
Amendment 790 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Providers of intermediary services shall ensure that such measures are accompanied with appropriate safeguards, such as oversight, documentation and traceability or additional measures to ensure that own- initiative investigations are accurate, legally justified and do not lead to over- removal of content.
Amendment 830 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
(ba) the territorial scope of an order addressed to a provider that has its main establishment or, if the provider is not established in the Union, its legal representation in another Member State is limited to the territory of the Member State issuing the order;
Amendment 833 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point b b (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point b b (new)
(bb) if addressed to a provider that has its main establishment outside the Union, the territorial scope of the order, where Union law is infringed, is limited to the territory of the Union or, where national law is infringed, to the territory of the Member State issuing the order;
Amendment 857 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 a (new)
Article 8 a (new)
Article 8a Injunction orders Member States shall ensure that recipients of a service are entitled under their national law to seek an injunction order as an interim measure for removing manifestly illegal content.
Amendment 897 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – title
Article 10 – title
Points of contact for authorities, the Commission and the Board
Amendment 903 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
2. Providers of intermediary services shall make publiccommunicate to their Digital Service Coordinator of establishment, the Commission and the Board the information necessary to easily identify and communicate with their single points of contact.
Amendment 908 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 a (new)
Article 10 a (new)
Article 10a Point of contact for recipients of a service 1. Providers of intermediary services shall establish a single point of contact allowing for direct communication, by electronic means, with the recipients of their services. The means of communication shall be user-friendly and easily accessible. 2. Providers of intermediary services shall make public the information necessary to easily identify and communicate with their single points of contact for recipients.
Amendment 918 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 11 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Providers of intermediary services that would qualify as micro or small enterprises within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendation 2003/361/EC if established in the Union, and who have been unsuccessful in designating a legal representative after reasonable efforts, shall be able to request that the Digital Service Coordinator of the Member State where the enterprise intends to establish a legal representative facilitates further cooperation and recommends possible solutions, including the possibility for collective representation.
Amendment 925 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
1. Providers of intermediary services shall include information on any restrictions that they impose in relation to the use of their service in respect of information provided by the recipients of the service, in their terms and conditions. That information shall include information on any policies, procedures, measures and tools used for the purpose of content moderation, including information about algorithmic decision-making and human review. ItProviders of intermediary services shall also include information on the right to terminate the use of the service. The possibility to terminate must be easily accessible for the user. Information on remedies and redress mechanisms shall also be included in the terms and conditions. The terms and conditions shall be set out in clear and unambiguous language and shall be publicly available in an easily accessible format.
Amendment 950 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Obligations pursuant to paragraph 1 and 2 should not oblige a provider of an intermediary service to disclose information that will lead to significant vulnerabilities for the security of its service or the protection of confidential information, in particular trade secrets or intellectual property rights.
Amendment 975 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Providers of intermediary services shall publish, at least once a year, clear, easily comprehensible and detailed reports on any content moderation they engaged in during the relevant period. Those reports shall include, in particular,including information on the following, as applicable:
Amendment 989 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) meaningful and comprehensible information about the content moderation engaged in at the providers’ own initiative, including the number and type of measures taken that affect the availability, visibility and accessibility of information provided by the recipients of the service and the recipients’ ability to provide information, categorised by the type of reason and basis for taking those measures;
Amendment 1002 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. Paragraph 1 shall not apply to providers of intermediary services that qualify as micro or small enterprises within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendation 2003/361/EC, small or medium sized enterprises (SMEs) within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendation 2003/361/EC. In addition, paragraph 1 shall not apply to enterprises that previously qualified for the status of a medium-sized, small or micro-enterprise within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendation 2003/361/EC during the twelve months following their loss of that status pursuant to Article 4(2) thereof.
Amendment 1009 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Paragraph 1 shall not apply where, within the framework of an organised distribution network operating under a common brand, the provider of the intermediary service has a direct organisational, associative, cooperative or capital ownership link with the recipient of the service or where the intermediary service solely aims to intermediate content between the members of the organised distribution framework and their suppliers.
Amendment 1060 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 3
3. Notices that include the elements referred to in paragraph 2 on the basis of which a diligent provider of hosting services is able to assess the illegality of the content in question, shall be considered to give rise to actual knowledge or awareness for the purposes of Article 5 in respect of the specific item of information concerned.
Amendment 1064 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 4
Article 14 – paragraph 4
4. Where the notice contains the name and an electronic mail address of the individual or entity that submitted it, the provider of hosting services shall promptly, without undue delay, send a confirmation of receipt of the notice to that individual or entity.
Amendment 1081 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 6 a (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Providers of hosting services could, as a voluntary measure in line with provisions Article 6, conduct own- investigation measures to prevent illegal content which has previously been identified as illegal from being disseminated again once removed. The obligations related to paragraph 1 to 6 shall by no means impose general monitoring obligations on hosting services.
Amendment 1087 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 6 b (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Paragraphs 2, 4 and 5 shall not apply to providers of intermediary services that qualify as micro, small or medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendations 2003/361/EU, or to those enterprises within twelve months of them losing such status pursuant to Article 4(2) thereof.
Amendment 1089 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 6 c (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 6 c (new)
6c. Paragraph 2 and 4-5 shall not apply where, within the framework of an organised distribution network operating under a common brand, the provider of the intermediary service has a direct organisational, associative, cooperative or capital ownership link with the recipient of the service or where the intermediary service solely aims to intermediate content between the members of the organised distribution framework and their suppliers.
Amendment 1096 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
1. Where a provider of hosting services decides to remove or disable access to or radically restrict the visibility of specific items of information provided by the recipients of the service, or to suspend or terminate monetary payments related to those items, irrespective of the means used for detecting, identifying or removing or disabling access to or for restricting the visibility or monetisation of that information and of the reason for its decision, it shall inform the recipient, at the latest at the time ofwithout undue delay and at the latest within 24 hours after the removal or disabling of access, of the decision and provide a clear and specific statement of reasons for that decision.
Amendment 1102 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) whether the decision entails either the removal of, or the disabling of access to, the or radical restriction of the visibility of, the information or the suspension or termination of monetary payments related to that information and, where relevant, the territorial scope of the disabling of access;
Amendment 1120 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 4
Article 15 – paragraph 4
4. Providers of hosting services shall publishupon request share the decisions and the statements of reasons, referred to in paragraph 1 in a publicly accessible database managed by the Commissionwith the Digital Service Coordinator of establishment. That information shall not contain personal data.
Amendment 1122 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Paragraph 2 to 4 shall not apply to providers of intermediary services that qualify as micro, small or medium-sized enterprises within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendation 2003/361/EC, or during the first twelve months from when an enterprise lost such status as pursuant to Article 4(2) thereof.
Amendment 1124 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 4 b (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Paragraph 2 to 4 shall not apply where, within the framework of an organised distribution network operating under a common brand, the provider of the intermediary service has a direct organisational, associative, cooperative or capital ownership link with the recipient of the service or where the intermediary service solely aims to intermediate content between the members of the organised distribution framework and their suppliers.
Amendment 1129 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 a (new)
Article 15 a (new)
Amendment 1137 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
This Section shall not apply to online platforms that qualify as micro or, small or medium sized enterprises within the meaning of the Annex to Recommendation 2003/361/EC. , nor during the first twelve months to such enterprises following the loss of such status pursuant to Article 4(2) thereof. This section shall not apply where, within the framework of an organised distribution network operating under a common brand, the provider of the intermediary service has a direct organisational, associative, cooperative or capital ownership link with the recipient of the service or where the intermediary service solely aims to intermediate content between the members of the organised distribution framework and their suppliers.
Amendment 1157 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) decisions to remove or not to remove or disable access to the information;
Amendment 1158 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) decisions to suspend or terminate or not to suspend or terminate the provision of the service, in whole or in part, to the recipients;
Amendment 1161 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) decisions to suspend or terminate or not to suspend or terminate the recipients’ account.
Amendment 1166 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) decisions to radically restrict the visibility of content provided by the recipients,
Amendment 1171 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c b (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c b (new)
(cb) decisions to restrict the ability to monetise content provided by the recipients,
Amendment 1203 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Recipients of the service addressed by the decisions referred to in Article 17(1) and individuals or entities that have submitted notices, shall be entitled to select any out- of-court dispute that has been certified in accordance with paragraph 2 in order to resolve disputes relating to those decisions, including complaints that could not be resolved by means of the internal complaint-handling system referred to in that Article. Online platforms shall engage, in good faith, with the body selected with a view to resolving the dispute and shall be bound by the decision taken by the body.
Amendment 1213 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 18 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) it is impartial and independentndependent, including financially independent, and impartial of online platforms and recipients of the service provided by the online platforms and of individuals or entities that have submitted notices;
Amendment 1221 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Article 18 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) the dispute settlement is easily accessible through electronic communication technology and provides for the possibility to submit a complaint and the requisite supporting documents online;
Amendment 1236 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point e
Article 18 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point e
(e) the dispute settlement takes place in accordance with clear and fair rules of procedure that are clearly visible and easily accessible to all parties concerned and in full compliance with all applicable law.
Amendment 1242 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. The Digital Services Coordinator shall reassess on a yearly basis whether the certified out-of-court dispute settlement body continues to fulfil the listed criteria. If this is not the case, the Digital Services Coordinator shall revoke the status from the out-of-court dispute settlement body.
Amendment 1251 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 5
Article 18 – paragraph 5
5. Digital Services Coordinators shall notify to the Commission the out-of-court dispute settlement bodies that they have certified in accordance with paragraph 2, including where applicable the specifications referred to in the second subparagraph of that paragraph as well as out-of-court dispute settlement bodies whose status has been revoked. The Commission shall publish a list of those bodies, including those specifications, on a dedicated website, and keep it updated.
Amendment 1262 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1
Article 19 – paragraph 1
1. Online platforms shall take the necessary technical and organisational measures to ensure that notices submitted by certified trusted flaggers, within their designated area of expertise, through the mechanisms referred to in Article 14, are processed and decided upon with priority and without delay, depending on the severity of the illegal activity.
Amendment 1278 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) it represents collective interests and is independent from any online platform;
Amendment 1296 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 3
Article 19 – paragraph 3
3. Digital Services Coordinators shall communicate to the Commission and the Board the names, addresses and electronic mail addresses of the entities to which they have awarded the status of the trusted flagger in accordance with paragraph 2 or have been revoked in accordance with paragraph 6.
Amendment 1308 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 6
Article 19 – paragraph 6
6. The Digital Services Coordinator that awarded the status of trusted flagger to an entity shall revoke that status if it determines, following an investigation either on its own initiative or on the basis information received by third parties, carried out without undue delay, including the information provided by an online platform pursuant to paragraph 5, that the entity no longer meets the conditions set out in paragraph 2. Before revoking that status, the Digital Services Coordinator shall afford the entity an opportunity to react to the findings of its investigation and its intention to revoke the entity’s status as trusted flagger
Amendment 1334 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) the absolute numbers of items of manifestly illegal content or manifestly unfounded notices or complaints, submitted in the past yeara given time frame;
Amendment 1336 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) the relative proportion thereof in relation to the total number of items of information provided or notices submitted in the past yeara given time frame;
Amendment 1339 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – point d
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – point d
(d) where identifiable, the intention of the recipient, individual, entity or complainant.
Amendment 1349 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 20 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Providers of hosting services could, as a voluntary measure in line with provisions Article 6, conduct own- investigation measures to prevent suspended accounts from reappearing before the suspension is lifted. The obligations related to paragraph 1 to 4 shall by no means impose general monitoring obligations on hosting services.
Amendment 1352 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21
Article 21
Amendment 1353 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 1
Article 21 – paragraph 1
Amendment 1358 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 2
Article 21 – paragraph 2
Amendment 1361 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 21 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 1381 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 22 – paragraph 1 – point c
Amendment 1391 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1 – point f
Article 22 – paragraph 1 – point f
(f) a self-certification by the trader committing to only offer products or services that comply with the applicable rules of Union law and where applicable confirming that all products have been checked against the Union Rapid Alert System for dangerous non-food products (Rapex).
Amendment 1404 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 2
Article 22 – paragraph 2
2. The online platform shall, upon receiving that information, make reasonable efforts to assess whether the information referred to in points (a), (d) (e) and (ef) of paragraph 1 is reliable through the use of any freely accessible official online database, like the Rapex system or online interfaces made available by a Member States or the Union or through requests to the trader to provide supporting documents from reliable sources. The online platform shall require that traders promptly inform them of any changes to the information referred to in points (a), (d), (e) and (f) and regularly repeat this verification process.
Amendment 1413 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Where the online platform obtains indications that anyinformation under paragraph 1, letter (f) is inaccurate it shall remove the product or service directly from their online platform and if any other item of information referred to in paragraph 1 obtained from the trader concerned is inaccurate or incomplete, that platform shall request the trader to correct the information in so far as necessary to ensure that all information is accurate and complete, without delay or within the time period set by Union and national law.
Amendment 1459 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 a (new)
Article 22 a (new)
Article 22a Obligation to inform consumers and authorities about illegal products and services 1. Where an online platform allows consumers to conclude distance contracts with traders, it shall be subject to additional information obligations for consumers. Where the online platform becomes aware of the illegal nature of a product or services offered by a trader on its interface it shall: (a) immediately remove the illegal product from its interface and inform relevant authorities about it; (b) maintain an internal database of content removed and/or recipients suspended pursuant to Article 20 to be used by internal content moderation systems tackling the identified risks; (c) where the online platform has the contact details of the recipients of its services, inform such recipients of the service that have purchased said product or service during the past twelve months about the illegality, the identity of the trader and options for seeking redress; (d) compile and make publicly available through application programming interfaces a repository containing information about illegal products and services removed from its platform in the past six months along with information about the concerned trader and options for seeking redress.
Amendment 1470 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 23 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) any use made of automatic means for the purpose of content moderation, including a specification of the precise purposes, indicators of the accuracy of the automated means in fulfilling those purposes and any safeguards applied.
Amendment 1473 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 2
Article 23 – paragraph 2
2. Online platforms shall pucommunicate to the Digital Services Coordinator of establishment, at least once every sixtwelve months, information on the average monthly active recipients of the service in each Member Statethe Union, calculated as an average over the period of the past sixtwelve months, in accordance with the methodology laid down in the delegated acts adopted pursuant to Article 25(2).
Amendment 1476 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 23 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Member States shall refrain from imposing additional transparency reporting obligations on the online platforms, other than specific requests in the context of exercising their supervisory powers.
Amendment 1510 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 24 – paragraph 1 a (new)
2. Online platforms shall provide information mentioned in paragraph 1 to public authorities, upon their request, in order to determine accountability in case of false or misleading advertisement.
Amendment 1512 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Article 24 – paragraph 1 b (new)
3. Providers of intermediary services shall obtain consent from the recipients of their service, in order to provide them with micro targeted and behavioural advertisement. Providers of intermediary services shall ensure that recipients of services can easily make an informed choice when expressing their consent by providing them with meaningful information.
Amendment 1534 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 25 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. This section shall not apply where, within the framework of an organised distribution network operating under a common brand, the provider of the intermediary service has a direct organisational, associative, cooperative or capital ownership link with the recipient of the service or where the intermediary service solely aims to intermediate content between the members of the organised distribution framework and their suppliers.
Amendment 1552 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Very large online platforms shall identify, analyse and assess, from the date of application referred to in the second subparagraph of Article 25(4), at least once a year thereafter, any significant systemic risks stemming from the functioning and use madedissemination of illegal content ofn their services in the Union. This risk assessment shall be specific to their services and shall include the following systemic risks:
Amendment 1567 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) any negative effects for the exercise of the fundamental rights to respect for private and family life, freedom of expression and information, the prohibition of discrimination and the rights of the child, as enshrined in Articles 7, 11, 21 and 24 of the Charter respectively through dissemination of illegal content;
Amendment 1577 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) intentional manipulation of their service, including by means of inauthentic use or automated exploitation of the service, with an actual or foreseeable negative and illegal effect on the protection of public health, minors, civic discourse, or actual or foreseeable effects related to electoral processes and public security.
Amendment 1587 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2
Article 26 – paragraph 2
2. When conducting risk assessments, very large online platforms shall take into account, in particular, how their content moderation systems, recommender systems and systems for selecting and displaying advertisement influence any of the systemic risks referred to in paragraph 1, including the potentially rapid and wide dissemination of illegal content and of information that is incompatible with their terms and conditions.
Amendment 1596 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. The obligations detailed in paragraphs 1 and 2 shall by no means lead to a general monitoring obligation
Amendment 1604 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 27 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Very large online platforms shall put in place reasonable, proportionate and effective mitigation measures targeting illegal practices, tailored to the specific systemic risks identified pursuant to Article 26. Such measures may include, where applicable:
Amendment 1661 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) any voluntary commitments undertaken pursuant to the codes of conduct referred to in Articles 35 and 36 and the crisis protocols referred to in Article 37.
Amendment 1665 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 28 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) are independent from the very large online platform concerned and have not provided any other service to the platform in the previous 12 months;
Amendment 1702 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 29 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Obligations pursuant to paragraphs 1 and 2 shall not oblige a very large online platform to disclose information that will lead to significant vulnerabilities for the security of its service or the protection of confidential information, in particular trade secrets and intellectual property rights. Further, very large online platforms shall not be required to enable modification of systems essential to uphold the safety and security of the service.
Amendment 1719 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1
Article 30 – paragraph 1
1. Very large online platforms that display advertising on their online interfaces shall compile and make publicly available through application programming interfaces a repository containing the information referred to in paragraph 2, until one yearsix months after the advertisement was displayed for the last time on their online interfaces. They shall ensure that the repository does not contain any personal data of the recipients of the service to whom the advertisement was or could have been displayed.
Amendment 1767 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 4
Article 31 – paragraph 4
4. In order to be vetted, researchers shall be affiliated with academic institutions, be independent from commercial interests, disclose the funding of the research, have proven records of expertise in the fields related to the risks investigated or related research methodologies, and shall commit and be in a capacity to preserve the specific data security and confidentiality requirements corresponding to each request.
Amendment 1783 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 7
Article 31 – paragraph 7
Amendment 1798 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 33 – paragraph 1
Article 33 – paragraph 1
1. Very large online platforms shall publish the reports referred to in Article 13 within six months from the date of application referred to in Article 25(4), and thereafter every sixtwelve months.
Amendment 1808 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 33 a (new)
Article 33 a (new)
Article 33a Algorithm transparency 1. When using automated decision making, the very large online platform shall upon request provide the Commission with the necessary information to assess the algorithms used. 2. When carrying out the assessments referred to in paragraph 1, the Commission shall consider the following elements: (a) the compliance with corresponding Union requirements; (b) potential negative effects on fundamental rights, including on consumer rights, through dissemination of illegal content; 3. Following an assessment the Commission shall communicate its findings to the very large online platform and allow it to provide additional explanation. 4. Where the Commission finds that the algorithm used by the very large online platform does not comply with point (a) or (b) of paragraph 2 of this Article, the Commission shall inform the Digital Service Coordinator of establishment of the very large online platform.
Amendment 1846 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 1
Article 35 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission and the Board shall encourage and facilitate the drawing up of voluntary codes of conduct at Union level to contribute to the proper application of this Regulation, taking into account in particular the specific challenges of tackling different types of illegal content and systemic risks, in accordance with Union law, in particular on competition and the protection of personal data. The Commission shall also encourage and facilitate regular review and adaption of the Codes of conduct to ensure that they are fit for purpose.
Amendment 1853 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 2
Article 35 – paragraph 2
2. Where significant systemic risk within the meaning of Article 26(1) emerge and concern several very large online platforms, the Commission may invite the very large online platforms concerned, other very large online platforms, other online platforms and other providers of intermediary services, as appropriate, as well as civil society organisations and other interested partierelevant stakeholders, to participate in the drawing up of codes of conduct, including by setting out commitments to take specific risk mitigation measures, as well as a regular reporting framework on any measures taken and their outcomes.
Amendment 1864 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 3
Article 35 – paragraph 3
3. When giving effect to paragraphs 1 and 2, the Commission and the Board shall aim to ensure that the codes of conduct clearly set out their objectives, contain key performance indicators to measure the achievement of those objectives and take due account of the needs and interests of all interested parties, including citizens, at Union level. The Commission and the Board shall also aim to ensure that participants report regularly to the Commission and their respective Digital Service Coordinators of establishment on any measures taken and their outcomes, as measured against the key performance indicators that they contain. Key performance indicators and reporting commitments should take into account differences in size and capacity between different participants.
Amendment 1883 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 36 – paragraph 1
Article 36 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall encourage and facilitate the drawing up of voluntary codes of conduct at Union level between, online platforms and other relevant service providers, such as providers of online advertising intermediary services or organisations representing recipients of the service and civil society organisations or relevant authorities to contribute to further transparency in online advertising beyond the requirements of Articles 24 and 30.
Amendment 1897 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 37 – paragraph 1
Article 37 – paragraph 1
1. The Board may recommend the Commission to initiate the drawing up, in accordance with paragraphs 2, 3 and 4, of voluntary crisis protocols for addressing crisis situations strictly limited to extraordinary circumstances affecting public security or public health.
Amendment 1945 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 41 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point e
Article 41 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point e
(e) the power to adopt proportionate interim measures to avoid the risk of serious harm, without prejudice to fundamental rights.
Amendment 1978 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
Article 44 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
(ba) the conditions met to justify any order to act against illegal content and to provide information taken that derogates from the internal market clause in accordance with Article 3 of Directive 2000/31/EC.
Amendment 2039 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 47 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
Article 47 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
(aa) contributing to the effective application of Article 3 of Directive 2000/31/EC to prevent fragmentation of the digital single market;
Amendment 2088 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(da) monitor derogations from the internal market clause in accordance with Article 3 of Directive 2000/31/EC and ensure that the conditions for derogation are interpreted strictly and narrowly to ensure consistent application of this Regulation;
Amendment 2089 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) support and promote the development and implementation of European standards, guidelines, reports, templates and code of conducts in close collaboration with relevant stakeholders as provided for in this Regulation, as well as the identification of emerging issues, with regard to matters covered by this Regulation.
Amendment 2164 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 55 – paragraph 1
Article 55 – paragraph 1
1. In the context of proceedings which may lead to the adoption of a decision of non-compliance pursuant to Article 58(1), where there is an urgency due to the risk of serious damage for the recipients of the service, the Commission may, by decision, order proportionate interim measures against the very large online platform concerned on the basis of a prima facie finding of an infringement, without prejudice to fundamental rights.
Amendment 2182 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 57 – paragraph 1
Article 57 – paragraph 1
1. For the purposes of carrying out the tasks assigned to it under this Section, the Commission may take the necessary actions to monitor the effective implementation and compliance with this Regulation by the very large online platform concerned. The Commission may also order that platform to provide access to, and explanations relating to, and where necessary access to, its databases and algorithms.
Amendment 2212 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 59 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 59 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. The Commission may by decision and in compliance with the proportionality principle impose on the very large online platform concerned or other person referred to in Article 52(1) fines not exceeding 1% of the total turnover in the preceding financial year, where they intentionally or as a result of repeated negligentlyce:
Amendment 2296 #
2020/0361(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 74 – paragraph 2
Article 74 – paragraph 2
2. It shall apply from [date - threwelve months after its entry into force].
Amendment 5 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 2
— having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, particularly to Articles 3, 15, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26 and 2647 thereof,
Amendment 25 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 5
— having regard to the Concluding Observations of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD Committee) of 2 October 2015 on the initial report of the European Union, including those on the European Union institutions’ compliance with the Convention as public administration,
Amendment 28 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 5 a (new)
- having regard to the General Comments of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as the authoritative guidance on the implementation of the UN CRPD,
Amendment 42 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 20 a (new)
- having regard to the exploratory opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee requested by the European Parliament on the situation of disabled women,
Amendment 47 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 21 a (new)
- having regard to the study of the European Parliament Policy Department C of 2016 on European Structural and Investent Funds and people with disabilities in the European Union,
Amendment 48 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 22
— having regard to the Annual Report 2018 of the European Ombudsman, and specifically her strategic inquiries into how the European Commission ensures that disabled people can access its websites (OI/6/2017/EA), how the European Commission treats disabled people under the Joint Sickness Insurance Scheme for EU staff (OI/4/2016/EA), and the Decision in the joint inquiry in cases 1337/2017/EA and 1338/2017/EA on the accessibility for visually impaired candidates of selection procedures to recruit EU civil servants, organised by the European Personnel Selection Office,
Amendment 59 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Citation 28 a (new)
- having regard to the Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 laying down common provision on the European Structural and Investments Funds, particularly to articles 4, 6 and 7 12
Amendment 74 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Recital A
A. whereas, as full citizens, all persons with disabilitiedisabled persons have equal rights in all fields of life and are entitled to inalienable dignity, equal treatment, independent living, autonomy and full participation in society;
Amendment 88 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Recital F a (new)
Amendment 93 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Recital F b (new)
F b. whereas article 19 of the UN CRPD states that "States Parties to the present Convention recognize the equal right of all persons with disabilities to live in the community, with choices equal to others, and shall take effective and appropriate measures to facilitate full enjoyment by persons with disabilities of this right and their full inclusion and participation in the community";
Amendment 109 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas a considerable proportion of the four million people experiencing homelessness every year have disability, having been largely overlooked as a target group of the UNCRPD and the EU Disability Strategy;
Amendment 158 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Calls on the Commission to proposepare a comprehensive, ambitious and long-term post-2020 European Disability Strategy (the post-2020 Strategy)
Amendment 168 #
Amendment 175 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 4
- reflecting the diversity of persons with disabilitiesdisabled people,
Amendment 177 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 4 a (new)
- reflecting the guidance and interpretation of the UNCRPD given by the General Comments of the UNCRPD Committee, including definitions of the key terms,
Amendment 180 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 5
- mainstreaming the rights of the children with disabilities into all areas, disabled elders, women and children into all areas; regarding children making sure that the educational institutions are fully inclusive and there will be measures against the Member States that fail to fully include them in their educational systems,
Amendment 196 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 5 a (new)
Amendment 200 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 5 b (new)
- recognising and addressing the multiple and intersectional forms of discrimination they may face, and in particular the challenges faced by women, girls, children, older and LGBTI disabled people, as well as persons from racial and ethnic minorities.
Amendment 202 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 5 c (new)
- setting new rules for the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in order to protect the rights of the disabled passengers concerning the safety of the integrity of both their body and equipment when transferred, and the recognition of the need for extra seats in cases of a personal assistant or laying,
Amendment 203 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 5 c (new)
- regarding the accessibility of buildings, transportation and media;
Amendment 205 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 2 – indent 6 a (new)
- by creating mechanisms for the coordination of portability and adaptability of benefits and services for the disabled people between Member States inside the EU;
Amendment 235 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the post -2020 Strategy should be based on a cross-cutting, comprehensive review of all EU legislation and policy in order to ensure full harmonisation with the provisions of the UNCRPD; insists that it should include a revised declaration of competences including all policy areas in which the EU has legislated or adopted soft law measures that have an impact on persons with disabilitiesdisabled people;
Amendment 253 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to prepare the post-2020 Strategy with the close and systematic involvement of persons with disabilitiesdisabled people and of their representative organisations, and to ensure their accessible and meaningful participation in the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the post-2020 Strategy also through funding their capacity-building;
Amendment 274 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the need for continuous monitoring of the implementation of the UNCRPD; calls for the collection of robust, disaggregated, comparable data on the situation of persons with disabilities to facilitate proper monitoring of progress; urges the Commission to provide adequate resources to the EU CRPD Framework to enable it to perform its functions independently and adequately;For that purpose, calls for:
Amendment 282 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 6 – indent 1 (new)
- the collection of robust, disaggregated, comparable data on the situation of disabled people to facilitate proper monitoring of progress,
Amendment 285 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 6 – indent 3 (new)
- a flexible mechanism that can provide incentives for the optimal implementation of the CRPD. To that extent, commends initiatives like the Access City Awards and calls for relevant initiatives on the national level;
Amendment 300 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to systematically mainstream the rights of persons with disabilitiesdisabled people in all the relevant EU laws, policies and programmes;
Amendment 318 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Commission to safeguard the UNCRPD-compliant use of EU funds and to ensure that EU funds, in a specific time period of five years, will not contribute to the construction or refurbishment of institutional care settings or any other kind of settings that could easily turn into an institution;
Amendment 327 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of legislative and non-legislative proposals regarding the Independent Living strategy that reflects the European Way of Life for the disabled people, by mainstreaming best practices - concerning Independent Living and Personal Assistance, - regarding the assistance for starting a family, - in the field of employment, - in removing all barriers (physical, intellectual, psychological, financial), that prevent disabled people from accessing quality and affordable healthcare services, and provide information in accessible formats, especially for people with lifelong disabilities, - in familiarising disabled and non- disabled people with the social model of disability and combating all stereotypes, like in the area of sexuality, through the development of campaigns and cooperation with the creative industries;
Amendment 364 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission to develop a comprehensive campaign in accessible format to raise awareness of the UN CRPD among the persons with disabilitiesdisabled people and the society in general, and promote, coordinate and create educational material that can be used by the national systems;
Amendment 371 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Calls on the Commission to ensure the EU Disability Strategy post-2020 includes the end of acts of gender-based violence, such as forced sterilisation and forced institutionalisation;
Amendment 381 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 9 c (new)
9 c. Calls on the Commission to create, in cooperation with the private sector, one portal that collects all the instruments provided for the optimal social participation of disabled people,
Amendment 387 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Member States to re- affirm their commitment to promoting, protecting and ensuring the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, including the right to free movement and residence, by all disabled people, and to promoting respect for their inherent dignity also by implementing the post-2020 Strategy and to allocate adequate human and financial resources to its implementation;
Amendment 395 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Calls on the Commission to ensure that the post-2020 Strategy will specially promote guaranteed access to employment, trainings, inclusive education, to affordable quality healthcare services, to digital services, to sport activities for disabled people;
Amendment 424 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the European Commission and all Member States to ratify the Optional Protocol of the UNCRPD;
Amendment 429 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to promote the term 'disabled people' rather than persons with disabilities and replace it in official documents and websites;
Amendment 446 #
2019/2975(RSP)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Calls on the Member States to grant voting rights to every disabled person regardless of intelligence impairments or their ability capacity and facilitate them in the voting process;
Amendment 48 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Recital D
D. whereas the excessive and incorrecinefficient use of antibiotics, particularly in livestock farming, and more generally poor practices in both human and veterinary medicine, have progressively rendered antimicrobial resistance a massive threat to human and animal health;
Amendment 60 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Recital G
G. whereas there is sufficient evidence that action should be taken to reduce the riskenvironmental impact from some pharmaceuticals in substances, which can pose a risk to the environment;
Amendment 77 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Paragraph 3
3. Notes however with concern the veryTakes note of the soft nature of the measurerecommendations included in the communication; considers that legislative measures are needed in addition to non-legislative measures to properly tackle pharmaceutical pollution as these are driven by objectives to pursue, whereas the measures to be taken are of member state competence; considers that effective measures are needed to mitigate the impacts of pharmaceuticals in the environment;
Amendment 89 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that a holisticmulti-stakeholder approach is needed to tackle pharmaceutical pollutionthe impacts of pharmaceuticals in the environment, taking into account the entire life cycle of drugs; stresses that regulatory actions have to be taken in line with the precautionary principle; highlights that the polluter pays principle should apply, primarily covering the manufacturing process, but by designing and implementing a policy mix that combines source-directed, use-oriented and end-of-pipe-measures using a combination of voluntary, economic and regulatory instruments; and also incentiviszing better prescription practices and consumer behaviour;
Amendment 152 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on Member States and the Commission to support the research and development of pharmaceuticals intrinsically less harmful for the environment (‘greener pharmaceuticals’), which degrade more readily, into harmless substances, in wastewater treatment plants and the environment;
Amendment 202 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Paragraph 27
27. Considers that the overall per capita drug consumption should be reduced, without jeopardising patients’ healthpharmaceutical consumption should be monitored transparently in order to support and encourage responsible use of medicines based on evidence in order to avoid over- consumption; is of the opinion that the overall per animal veterinary medicines consumption should also decrease;
Amendment 232 #
2019/2816(RSP)
Paragraph 32
32. Is concerned that monitoring of pharmaceuticals in the environment is still very limited; stresses the need to strengthen post-marketing control mechanisms into comprehensive monitoring, also with regard to environmental effects, as the current surveillance system (pharmacovigilance) is notsuch as environmental monitoring, to adequately and systematically covering the environmental data deficit;
Amendment 6 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11
Citation 11
– having regard to the Presidency conclusEU-Western Balkans Summit Declarations of the Thessaloniki European Council of 19 and, 201 June 2003, concerning the prospect of the Western Balkan countries joining the European Union,
Amendment 71 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to enhance the accession process by ensuring that it strengthens fundamental values and brings sustainable democratic and economic transformation and social convergence, and by making sure that the internal reform of the EU and its enlargement run in parallel; Good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation remain essential elements of the Enlargement Process, as well as of the Stabilization and Association Process;
Amendment 85 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to ensure that the enhanced methodology sustains fully-fledged EU membership as the final goal and that the EU sets clear andmore predictable rules and criteria and applies them consistently, thus restoring its credibilityand credible criteria based on positive and negative conditionality, and reversibility making the accession process more dynamic and subject to strict and continuous evaluation;
Amendment 99 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) to provide clear and consistent accession benchmarks as well as continued support throughout the process, and to improve the measuring of progress, ensuring that each accession country is assessed on the basis of itsbased on strict and fair conditionality and the principle of own merits;
Amendment 146 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
Amendment 180 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n
Paragraph 1 – point n
(n) to immediately open accession negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia before the upcoming EU- Western Balkans Summit of Zagreb, in May 2020, based on the positive evaluation of the progress made and of the fulfilment of the conditions identified by the EU;
Amendment 193 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) to grant visa liberalisation to Kosovo1a, as the benchmarks have been fulfilled; __________________ 1athis designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and in line with UNSCR 1244/199 and ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of independence;
Amendment 200 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) to bring the primacy of democracy and the rule of law back to the very centre of the enlargement process by opening first and closing last the chapters related to the judiciary, corruption and organised crime, as well as those related to respect for humanthe protection of human rights including rights belonging to minorities and property rights and media freedom;
Amendment 256 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point x
Paragraph 1 – point x
(x) to increase EU engagement in solving outstanding bilateral issues and to urge the Western Balkan countries to commit to reconciliation and peaceful solutions to longstanding disputes;
Amendment 275 #
2019/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z
Paragraph 1 – point z
(z) to promote and actively support the implementation of anti-discrimination policies and to insist on the prosecution of hate crimes; to encourage swifter progress towards gender equality, and in tackling discrimination and ensuring social inclusion of ethnicnational and religious minorities, people with disabilities, Roma and LGBTQI+ people by establishing inclusive policies to protect the fundamental rights of citizens;
Amendment 3 #
2019/2176(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas, in its report of 21 November 2018 following the fact-finding visit, the Committee on Petitions established that the return of Varosha to its lawful inhabitants is a matter of enforcement of the resolutions tabled by the existing UN Security Council, the only supranational organisation par excellence that can exert real pressure on Turkey;
Amendment 4 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to its recent Resolution of 26 November 2020 on escalating tensions in Varosha following the illegal actions by Turkey and the urgent need for the resumption of talks,
Amendment 7 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
- having regard to the Negotiating Framework for Turkey of 3 October 2005, and to the fact that, as is the case for all candidate countries, Turkey’s accession to the EU depends on full compliance with the Copenhagen criteria, and to the need to normalize its relations with all EU Member States , including the Republic of Cyprus;
Amendment 11 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
- having regard to the declaration issued by the European Community and its Member States on 21 September 2005, following the declaration made by Turkey upon signature on 29 July 2005 of the Ankara Protocol, including the provision that recognition of all Member States is a necessary component of the accession process, and the need for Turkey to fully implement the Additional Protocol to the Ankara Agreement in relation to all Member States, by removing all obstacles to the free movement of goods, without restrictions or discrimination,
Amendment 15 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
Amendment 20 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6
Citation 6
- having regard to the Council conclusions of 26 June 2018 and 18 June 2019 on enlargement and stabilisation and association process, to the Council Conclusions of 15 July and 14 October 2019 on Turkey’s illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, to the European Council conclusions of 12 December 2019, 1-2 and 15-16 October 2020, to the statements of the EU Foreign Ministers of 15 May 2020 and 14 August 2020 on the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, to the outcome of the informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers (Gymnich) of 28 August 2020, and to all previous relevant Council and European Council conclusions,
Amendment 21 #
2019/2176(INI)
- having regard to the Council conclusions of 26 June 2018 and 18 June 2019 on enlargement and stabilisation and association process, to the Council Conclusions of 15 July and 14 October 2019 on Turkey’s illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, to the European Council conclusions of 12 December 2019, 1-2 and 15-16 October 2020, to the statements of the EU Foreign Ministers of 15 May 2020 and 14 August 2020 on the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, to the outcome of the informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers (Gymnich) of 28 August 2020, and to all previous relevant Council and European Council conclusions,
Amendment 48 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas being a candidate country presumes a willingnessthe commitment to progressively approachlign in all aspects with the values, interests, standards and policies and the acquis of the EU;
Amendment 74 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas, in spite of this principled stance by Parliament and all of the current circumstances, the European Council, in its conclusions of 1-2 October 2020, offered Turkey a renewed and broad positive agenda, provided that constructive efforts by Turkey to stop illegal activities vis-à-vis Greece and Cyprus are sustained, in a further attempt to restore our relations;
Amendment 75 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas, in spite of this principled stance by Parliament and all of the current circumstances, the European Council, in its conclusions of 1-2 October 2020, offered Turkey a renewed and broad positive agenda, provided that constructive efforts by Turkey to stop illegal activities vis-à-vis Greece and Cyprus are sustained, in a further attempt to restore our relations;
Amendment 80 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas, the European Council, in the same conclusions, highlighted that, in case of renewed unilateral actions or provocations in breach of international law by Turkey, the EU will use all the instruments and the options at its disposal, including in accordance with Article 29 TEU and Article 215 TFEU, in order to defend its interests and those of its Member States, and take decisions as appropriate at the latest at its December meeting;
Amendment 81 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas, the European Council, in the same conclusions, highlighted that, in case of renewed unilateral actions or provocations in breach of international law by Turkey, the EU will use all the instruments and the options at its disposal, including in accordance with Article 29 TEU and Article 215 TFEU, in order to defend its interests and those of its Member States, and take decisions as appropriate at the latest at its December meeting;
Amendment 133 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is deeply concerned that, over the years, the lack of progress in Turkey’s convergence has now transformed into a full withdrawal, marked by a stark regression in three main areas: backsliding on the rule of law and fundamental rights, adopting regressive institutional reforms and pursuing a war-mongering and confrontational foreign policy; is further concerned by the fact that this regression has increasingly been accompanied by an explicit anti-EU narrative; calls, in this context, on Turkey to reassess the sincerity of its commitment to the EU path, as an indispensable component of the viability of the entire accession process;
Amendment 173 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets the current lack of understanding between the EU and Turkey, but reaffirms its firm conviction that Turkey ithe EU has a strategic neighbourinterest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey with which the EU wishes to have the best possible relations; Pursuing dialogue in good faith and abstaining from unilateral actions which run counter to the EU interests and violate international law, the sovereignty and the sovereign rights of EU Member States is an absolute requirement in this regard;
Amendment 174 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets the current lack of understanding between the EU and Turkey, but reaffirms its firm conviction that Turkey ithe EU has a strategic neighbour and ally with which the EU wishes to have the best possible relations; interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey with which the EU should build the best possible relations; Pursuing dialogue in good faith and abstaining from unilateral actions which run counter to the EU interests and violate international law, the sovereignty and the sovereign rights of EU Member States is an absolute requirement in this regard;
Amendment 219 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Believes that this fundamental area, which is at the core of the accession process, cannot be disconnected and isolated from overall relations and that it remains along with the full respect of international law and the fundamental principle of good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation, the main obstacles to progress on any positive agenda that could be offered to Turkey;
Amendment 220 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Believes that this fundamental area, which is at the core of the accession process, cannot be disconnected and isolated from overall relations and that it remains along with the full respect of international law and the fundamental principle of good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation, the main obstacles to progress on any positive agenda that could be offered to Turkey;
Amendment 230 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes with deep concern that, despite the formal lifting of the state of emergency in July 2018, its impact on democracy and fundamental rights continues to be strongly felt; , as, inter alia, a plethora of legal provisions and restrictive elements of the emergency rule have been integrated into law
Amendment 234 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes with deep concern that, despite the formal lifting of the state of emergency in July 2018, its impact on democracy and fundamental rights continues to be strongly felt;, as, inter alia, that a plethora of legal provisions and restrictive elements of the emergency rule have been integrated into law.
Amendment 357 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Amendment 396 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Strongly condemns the Turkish decision to convert such an emblematic World Cultural Heritage Monument, as Hagia Sophia Museum, to a mosque and calls on the Turkish authorities to urgently reverse their decision;
Amendment 397 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Strongly condemns the Turkish decision to convert such an emblematic World Cultural Heritage Monument, as Hagia Sophia Museum, to a mosque and calls on the Turkish authorities to urgently reverse their decision;
Amendment 440 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Is concerned about the ever more frequent use of a hyper-nationalist and war- mongering narrative among the ruling elite that increasingly gives rise to antagonistic approaches towards the EU or its Member States; is concerned about the increasing clout of religious conservatism in political life;
Amendment 450 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Amendment 462 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Strongly condemns the removal of 47 democratically elected mayors from office on the basis of questionable evidence and, in particular, their arbitrary replacement by unelected trustees appointed by the central government; strongly believes these unlawful decisions constitute a direct attack on the most basic principles of democracy, depriving millions of voters of their democratically elected representation;
Amendment 463 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Strongly condemns the removal of 47 democratically elected mayors from office on the basis of questionable evidence and, in particular, their arbitrary replacement by unelected trustees appointed by the central government; strongly believes these unlawful decisions constitute a direct attack on the most basic principles of democracy, depriving millions of voters of their democratically elected representation;
Amendment 468 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. RWhile recallsing the laudable role played by Turkeysubstantial efforts Turkey has made in responding to the migrationrefugee crisis resulting from the war in Syria; takes the view that the EU should continue to give the necessary support to Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey; supports an objective assessment of, the EP strongly rejects Turkey's instrumentalisation of migratory pressure for political purposes that took place at the EU’s external borders in late February-March 2020; takes the view that the EU should continue to give the necessary support to Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey in line with strict conditionality, including for respecting the principles of the United Nations Charter and International Law, and monitoring mechanisms of Turkey’s performance; underlines that Turkey has to fully and effectively implement the provisions of both the 2016 EU – Turkey Statement and the EU – Turkey Readmission Agreement with regard to all Member States; supports the EU-Turkey Statement and underlines the importance of both parties’Turkey’s compliance with theirits respective commitments;
Amendment 493 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Is alarmed by the fact that Turkey’s foreign policy increasingly collides with the priorities and goals of EU’s common foreign and security policy; notes with deep concern that the rate of Turkey’s alignment with the common foreign policy of the EU is constantly deteriorating and is at present reduced to 14%, which is a historic low.
Amendment 494 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Is alarmed by the fact that Turkey’s foreign policy increasingly collides with the priorities and goals of EU’s common foreign and security policy; notes with deep concern that the rate of Turkey’s alignment with the common foreign policy of the EU is constantly deteriorating and is at present reduced to 14%, which is a historic low;
Amendment 502 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Stresses that a modernisation of the Customs Union could be beneficial for both parties and would keep Turkey economically and normatively anchored to the EU; reiterates that this would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and fundamental freedoms and the full respect of international law and the fundamental principle of good neighbourly relations; highlights that it seemis unrealistic to envisage any modernisation of the Customs Union givenas long as Turkey continues to move further away from the cEurrent circumstances; recalls that the current Customs Union will not achieve its full potential until Turkey fullyopean Union, in accordance with Council conclusions of 26 June 2018 and 18 June 2019 recalls that the current Customs Union needs to be implemented by Turkey in a full and non- discriminatory way; this is not the case as long as Turkey has been systematically refusing to implements the Additional Protocol in relation to all Member States; and it has been systematically violating critical provisions of the current Customs Union; calls on Turkey to eliminate immediately all the technical barriers, the localisation schemes and domestic requirements that discriminate against EU products and still prevent the free movement of goods in profound breach of the Customs Union obligations;
Amendment 530 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is deeply concerned by the ongoing dispute in the Eastern Mediterranean and the related risk of a military escalation;Turkey’s unprecedented illegal and aggressive behaviour in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea, its warmongering rhetoric and the related risk of a military escalation by an EU candidate country against EU Member States ; strongly condemns Turkey’s violations of Greek national airspace, including over flights of inhabited areas, and territorial sea, a conduct which not only constitutes a serious, ongoing violation of international law, but also creates the risk of an armed incident ;strongly condemns Turkey’s illegal activities in Greek and Cypriot waters, which violate bothe sovereignty, the sovereign rights of EU Member States and international law; expresses its full solidarity with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus; urges Turkey to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes and to refrain from any unilateral and illegal action or threat; expresses its grave concern for the illegal Turkish fishing activities within Greek territorial waters in the Aegean Sea and the unregulated and unreported fishing activities of Turkish fishing fleet in international waters in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean; urges Turkey to fully respect international law and the law of the sea, to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes and to refrain from any unilateral and illegal action or threat; notes that the Council’s Conclusions of 15 July 2019 in light of Turkey’s continued and new illegal drilling activities , not to hold the Association Council and further meetings of the EU-Turkey high-level dialogues for the time being, along with the Council’s Decision 2019/1894, of11 November 2019, to impose restrictive measures in view of Turkey’s unauthorized drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, are the first instances where such reactions were deemed necessary in view of the conduct of a candidate country;
Amendment 536 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is deeply concerned by the ongoing dispute in the Eastern Mediterranean and the related risk of a military escalation; strongly condemns Turkey’s illegal activities in Greek and Cypriot waters, which violate both the sovereign rights of EU Member States and international law; expresses its full solidarity with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus; urges Turkey to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes and to refrain from any unilateral and illegal action or threat; recognises the right of the Republic of Cyprus to enter into bilateral agreements concerning its exclusive economic zone, explore and exploit its natural resources and calls on Turkey to respect relevant international law (UNCLOS); urges Turkey to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes, and to refrain from any threat or action which might have negative effects on good neighbourly relations. Urges Turkey to show restraint and to respect Cyprus’ sovereignty over its territorial sea and Cyprus’ sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone.
Amendment 547 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is deeply concerned by the ongoing dispute in the Eastern Mediterranean and the related risk of a military escalation; strongly condemns Turkey’s illegal activities in Greek and Cypriot waters, which violate both the sovereign rights of EU Member States and international law; expresses its full solidarity with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus; urges Turkey to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes and to refrain from any unilateral and illegal action or threat;
Amendment 556 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Condemns the partial reopening of Varosha beach, which undermines mutual trust and therefore the prospect of the resumption of direct talks on the comprehensive resolution of the Cyprus issue; calls on Turkey to reverse this action; reiterates its support for a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality, in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, the EU acquis, and on the basis of respect for the principles on which the Union is founded; reiterates its call on Turkey to commit and contribute to a comprehensive settlement, to begin withdrawing its troops from Cyprus, to transfer the sealed-off area of Famagusta to the UN and its lawful inhabitants in accordance with UNSC Resolution 550(1984), as an effort to pave the way for a democratic comprehensive settlement, and to refrain from actions altering the demographic balance on the island; praises the important work of the Committee on Missing Persons; recognises the right of the Republic of Cyprus to enter into bilateral agreements concerning its exclusive economic zone; urges Turkey to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes, and to refrain from any threat or action which might have negative effects on good neighbourly relations;
Amendment 560 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. CStrongly condemns the partial reopening of Varosha beach, which violates international law and UN Security Council Resolutions 550 and 789 and undermines mutual trust and therefore the prospect of the resumption of direct talks on the comprehensive resolution of the Cyprus issue; underlines the importance of the status of Varosha and calls on Turkey to immediately reverse this action; reiterates its support for a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality, as set out in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions;, in accordance with International law, the EU acquis and the principles on which the Union is founded;
Amendment 561 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. CStrongly condemns the partial reopening of Varosha beach, which violates international law and UN Security Council Resolutions 550 and 789 and undermines mutual trust and therefore the prospect of the resumption of direct talks on the comprehensive resolution of the Cyprus issue; underlines the importance of the status of Varosha and calls on Turkey to immediately reverse this action; reiterates its support for a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality, as set out in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, in accordance with International law, the EU acquis and the principles on which the Union is founded;
Amendment 571 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. CStrongly condemns the partial reopening of Varosha beach, which undermines mutual trust and therefore the prospect of the resumption of direct talks on the comprehensive resolution of the Cyprus issue; calls on Turkey to reverse this action; reiterates its support for a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality;
Amendment 575 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Calls on the Turkish Government to halt its plans for the construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant; requests that the Turkish Government join the Espoo Convention; asks the Turkish Government to involve, or at least consult, the governments of its neighbouring countries, such as Greece and Cyprus, during any further developments in the Akkuyu venture.
Amendment 635 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. RegretsCondemns the fact that, rather than calling for an end to the violence and for a resumption of peaceful negotiations supporting the efforts of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group, Turkey instead decided to unconditionally sustain the military actions of one of the sides in the recent conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 677 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Takes the view that enhancing communication and dialogue at all levels are key to restoring mutual trust between the EU and Turkey; deplores the continuous and unjustified refusal of the Turkish side to reinstate the normal functioning of the EU- Turkey Joint Parliamentary Committee; at the same time, recalls that the Council’s decision of 15 July 2019 not to hold the EU – Turkey Association Council and further meetings of the EU – Turkey high level dialogues by virtue of Turkish illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, remains valid;
Amendment 687 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33a. Takes into account not only the absence of any progress in engaging with Turkey, but also the renewed escalation on the Turkish side by unilateral actions and provocations in breach of international law by the latter, and calls on the Council to develop a list of further restrictive measures that should be sectoral and targeted; in this spirit, recalls the European Council’s conclusions of 1- 2 October 2020 that the EU will use all the instruments and the options at its disposal, including in accordance with Articles 29 TEU and 215 TFEU, in order to defend its interests and those of its Member – States;
Amendment 688 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33a. Takes into account not only the absence of any progress in engaging with Turkey, but also the renewed escalation on the Turkish side by unilateral actions and provocations in breach of international law by the latter, and calls on the Council to develop a list of further restrictive measures that should be sectoral and targeted; in this spirit, recalls the European Council’s conclusions of 1- 2 October 2020 that the EU will use all the instruments and the options at its disposal, including in accordance with Articles 29 TEU and 215 TFEU, in order to defend its interests and those of its Member – States;
Amendment 63 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that progress in accession under the revised enlargement methodology depends on lasting, in-depth and irreversible reforms across fundamental areas, in particular the rule of law and the fight against corruption, judiciary and fundamental rights, good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation;
Amendment 87 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines the importance of implementing the electoral reform measures codified in July 2020, which are in line with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) recommendations; welcomes the commitment tolooks forward to the implementation of the forthcoming Venice Commission opinion regarding the amendments to the Electoral Code adopted in October 2020, in line with the relevant commitment expressed by the Albanian government;
Amendment 100 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Commends the steady progress made in implementing the comprehensive judicial reform, underpinned by the unprecedented vetting process and the establishment of the relevant institutions and specialised bodies, enablingand calls for the acceleration of these procedures in order to achieve a tangible shift towards an accountable and independent judiciary;
Amendment 110 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Welcomes the fact that, as a first step, the High Court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing the admissibility of more than a thousand cases, and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges, in order to become fully functional;
Amendment 157 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Recalls the importance of measures ensuring the pUrges to swiftly adopt the remaining five by-laws to ensure full implementation of the 2017 framework Law on the Protection of nNational mMinorities, including and the related rights to free self- identification, the use of minority languages and property rightthe right to education in minority languages;
Amendment 162 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
24b. Welcomes the law on the census (Nr.140/2020), voted by the Parliament on the 26th of November and calls on Albania to take all the necessary steps, e.g. preparation of the questionnaire and the manual, in order to effectively implement it;
Amendment 165 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Encourages Albania to make further progress on measures consolidating property rights, implementing the law on transitional ownershipprocedures ownership, mainly by advancing in a transparent manner the process of registration of properties, and completing the comprehensive land sector reform;
Amendment 252 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45
Paragraph 45
45. Welcomes Albania’s unremitting efforts in promoting good neighbourly relations and regional integration;
Amendment 255 #
2019/2170(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Commends the constructive steps towards the resolution of outstanding bilateral issues, including a joint undertaking by Greece and Albania to resolve a dispute over their Ionian maritime border through ifer the delimitation of the maritime zones to the International jCourt of Justice;
Amendment 26 #
2019/0273(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) In the face of blockage of dispute settlement and in the absence of a definitive judicial ruling, the Union will be unable to enforce international trade agreements. Therefore, it is appropriate to extend the scope of Regulation (EU) No 654/2014 to such situations.
Amendment 27 #
2019/0273(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) To this end, the Union should be able to expeditiously suspend obligations under international trade agreements, including regional or bilateral agreements, when effective recourse to a binding dispute settlement mechanism is not possible because the third country has rendered it impossible for the Union to do so, provided the Union has appropriately challenged those measures in front of the relevant dispute settlement body.
Amendment 32 #
2019/0273(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7 a (new)
Recital 7 a (new)
(7a) Given mounting tension in international trade and in the context of the crisis facing the WTO, the Union should be able to react swiftly in the event of unreasonable or discriminatory measures taken against it. The Union should be able to impose provisional measures in the event of a clear violation of trade obligations by a third country, which causes or threatens to cause serious injury to the Union's commercial interests or jeopardises its strategic autonomy.
Amendment 49 #
2019/0273(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point ba (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point ba (new)
Regulation (EU) No 654/2014
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(ba) the following point (da) is inserted: (da) In the event of the adoption by a third country of unreasonable or discriminatory measures, a clear violation of its trade obligations towards the Union, which could cause or threaten serious injury to the Union's commercial interests or jeopardise strategic autonomy, provided that the Union has appropriately challenged those measures in front of the relevant dispute settlement body.
Amendment 55 #
2019/0273(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) No 654/2014
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b b
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b b
(bb) where measures are taken to restrict the trade with a third country in situations under Article 3(aa), Article 3(bb), or Article 3(bb), (e) such measures shall be commensurate to the nullification or impairment of the Union’s commercial interests caused by the measures of that third country;
Amendment 2 #
2019/0164(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and, the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of Palestine, to the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and to the Palestinian Legislative Council.
Amendment 157 #
2012/0060(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) When assessing whether restrictive and/or discriminatory procurement measures or practices exist in a third country that could result in the impairment of access of Union goods, services or economic operators to the procurement or concession markets, the Commission should examine to what degree laws on public, rules or other measures on procurement and concessions of the country concerned ensure transparency in line with international standards in the field of public procurement, and do not result in serious and preclude any discriminaurring restrictions against Union goods, services andor economic operators. In addition, it should examine to what degree individual contracting authorities or contracting entities maintain or adopt discriminatoryrestrictive practices against Union goods, services andor economic operators.
Amendment 174 #
2012/0060(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19 a (new)
Recital 19 a (new)
(19a) The determination whether an investigation is in the interest of the Union should be based on an appreciation of all the various interests taken as a whole, including the interests of the domestic industry, users and consumers. The Commission should weigh up the consequences of starting an investigation against its impact, and the potential measures that could be adopted under this Regulation, on EU’s broader interests. The general objective of opening third country markets and improving market access opportunities for EU economic operators should be given special consideration. The objective of limiting any unnecessary administrative burden for contracting authorities and contracting entities as well as economic operators should also be taken into account.
Amendment 431 #
2012/0060(COD)
Amendment 438 #
2012/0060(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 a (new)
Article 9 a (new)