Activities of Laima Liucija ANDRIKIENĖ
Plenary speeches (641)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Iran: the case of Roxana Saberi
Iran: the case of Roxana Saberi
Active inclusion of people excluded from the labour market (A6-0263/2009, Jean Lambert)
Conclusions of the UN Conference on Racism (‘Durban II’ – Geneva) (debate)
Human rights in the world 2008 and the EU's policy on the matter (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Opening of international negotiations in view of adopting an international treaty for the protection of the Arctic (debate)
Explanations of vote
Conclusions of the European Council (19-20 March 2009) (debate)
Bi-annual evaluation of the EU-Belarus dialogue (debate)
EIB and EBRD annual reports for 2007 - Community guarantee to the European Investment Bank (debate)
Eastern Partnership (debate)
50th anniversary of the Tibetan uprising and dialogue between the Dalai Lama and the Chinese Government (debate)
Guinea Bissau
Voting rights for non-citizens of Latvia in local elections (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Guinea
Press freedom in Kenya
EU Annual report on human rights - French initiative at the UN on the decriminalisation of homosexuality (debate)
Outcome of the European Council on 11-12 December 2008 - French Presidency’s term of office (debate)
Death penalty in Nigeria
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Conditions of entry and residence of third-country nationals for the purposes of highly qualified employment - Single application procedure for residence and work
Question Time (Council)
Venezuela
EU-Russia relations (debate)
Coup in Mauritania
Albino killings in Tanzania
Evaluation of EU sanctions as part of the EU's actions and policies in the area of human rights (debate)
Explanations of vote
Allegation of mass graves in Indian-administrated Kashmir
The death penalty, particularly the case of Troy Davis
Explanations of vote
Environmental impact of the planned gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea to link up Russia and Germany (debate)
Explanations of vote
Rules for the operation of air services in the Community (recast) (debate)
Burma: continued detention of political prisoners
Iran: execution of juvenile offenders
Tragic situation in Burma (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Human Rights in the World 2007 and the EU's policy on the matter - EU Election Observation Missions (debate)
Cost of obtaining a visa for Belarusian and Ukrainian citizens (debate)
Kosovo (debate)
Seventh Human Rights Council of the United Nations (debate)
Justice for the "Comfort Women"
Comfort women (vote)
EU/China summit - EU/China human rights dialogue (debate)
Annual report of the European Union on Human Rights (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Strengthening the European Neighbourhood Policy - Situation in Georgia (debate)
Trade and economic relations with Ukraine (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Commission Question Time
Implementation of the Council decision on the moratorium against death penalty (debate)
Burma
Human rights dialogues and consultations on human rights with third countries (debate)
Explanations of vote
Framework decision on combating racism and xenophobia (debate)
Explanations of vote
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Explanations of vote
United Nations Human Rights Council (debate)
One-minute speeches (Rule 144)
Explanations of vote
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
The attack on Galina Kozlova, member of the board of the Mari national organisation Mari Ušem and editor of the literary magazine Ontšõko (debate)
Explanations of vote
Council Question Time
Council Question Time
Commission Question Time
Dialogue between the Chinese government and Envoys of the Dalai Lama (debate)
EC-Russia short-stay visa agreement – EC-Russia readmission agreement (debate)
One-minute speeches (Rule 144)
Explanations of vote
Council Question Time
Council Question Time
A Baltic Sea Strategy for the Northern Dimension (debate)
Council Question Time
Council Question Time
Moldova (Transnistria), Georgia (South Ossetia) (debate)
Commission Question Time
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Establishment, operation and use of SIS II (regulation) – Establishment, operation and use of SIS II (decision) – Access to SIS II by the services responsible for issuing vehicle registration certificates (debate)
One-minute speeches (Rule 144)
Council Question Time
Council Question Time
17th EU-Russia Summit (26 May 2006) (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Human Rights in the World in 2005 and EU policy (debate)
Council Question Time
Commission Question Time
Elections in Ukraine (debate)
Transitional arrangements restricting the free movement of workers on EU labour markets (debate)
Guidelines for trans-European energy networks (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Human rights in Moldova and in Transnistria in particular (debate)
2005 enlargement strategy paper (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Belarus in the run-up to the presidential elections on 19 March (debate)
EU forestry strategy (debate)
Council Question Time
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Draft general budget 2006, as modified by the Council (all sections) - Mobilisation of the flexibility instrument - Draft amending budget No 8/2005
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Draft general budget for 2006 (Section III) - Draft general budget for 2006 (Other sections)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Education as the cornerstone of the Lisbon process
Explanations of vote
European Union general budget for 2006
Competitiveness of audiovisual and information services: protection of minors and human dignity
Explanations of vote
European Council/Luxembourg Presidency
Explanations of vote
Parliament's estimates for 2006
Potato starch quotas
Human rights in the world 2004 and the EU's policy
Commission's annual policy strategy for 2006
Elections in Moldova
Constitution for Europe (continuation)
Financial perspective (continuation)
Turkey's progress towards accession
EU-Russia Summit
Result of the referendum and elections in Belarus
Stocktaking of the Prodi Commission
Situation in Belarus
EU priorities for the 25th session of the UN Human Rights Council (debate)
Situation in Ukraine (debate)
Situation in Ukraine (debate)
Protection against dumped and subsidised imports from countries not members of the EU (debate)
Respect for the fundamental right of free movement in the EU (RCB7-0016/2014, B7-0016/2014, B7-0023/2014, B7-0024/2014, B7-0025/2014, B7-0026/2014, B7-0027/2014)
EU citizenship for sale (RCB7-0015/2014, B7-0015/2014, B7-0017/2014, B7-0028/2014, B7-0029/2014, B7-0030/2014, B7-0031/2014)
Recent elections in Bangladesh
Future of EU-ASEAN relations (A7-0441/2013 - Reinhard Bütikofer)
Public procurement (A7-0007/2013 - Marc Tarabella)
Access of goods and services to public procurement markets (A7-0454/2013 - Daniel Caspary)
Review of the Lithuanian Presidency (debate)
CO2 emissions from new light commercial vehicles (A7-0168/2013 - Holger Krahmer)
Carbon capture and storage technology (A7-0430/2013 - Chris Davies)
eHealth Action Plan 2012-2020 (A7-0443/2013 - Pilar Ayuso)
Food crisis, fraud in the food chain and the control thereof (A7-0434/2013 - Esther de Lange)
Plastic waste in the environment (A7-0453/2013 - Vittorio Prodi)
Access of goods and services to public procurement markets (debate)
Eco-innovation - jobs and growth through environmental policy (A7-0333/2013 - Karin Kadenbach)
Payment accounts (A7-0398/2013 - Jürgen Klute)
Organ harvesting in China (debate)
Situation in Sri Lanka (debate)
Partnership instrument for cooperation with third countries (A7-0446/2013 - Antonio López-Istúriz White)
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund 2014-2020 (A7-0005/2013 - Marian Harkin)
Women with disabilities (A7-0329/2013 - Angelika Werthmann)
EU-Morocco Fisheries Partnership Agreement: protocol setting out fishing opportunities and financial contributions (A7-0417/2013 - Carmen Fraga Estévez)
Negotiations for an EU-Canada strategic partnership agreement (A7-0407/2013 - Elisabeth Jeggle)
Cloud computing (A7-0353/2013 - Pilar del Castillo Vera)
Volunteering and voluntary activity in Europe (A7-0348/2013 - Marco Scurria)
Outcome of the Vilnius Summit and the future of the Eastern Partnership, in particular as regards Ukraine (debate)
Common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action - Instrument for stability - Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide - Partnership instrument for cooperation with third countries - Establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation - European neighbourhood instrument - Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (debate)
Human rights in the world 2012 and EU policy on the matter (debate)
Location of the seats of the European Union's institutions (A7-0350/2013 - Ashley Fox, Gerald Häfner)
Multiannual financial framework 2014-2020 (A7-0389/2013 - Jean-Luc Dehaene, Ivailo Kalfin)
Erasmus for all programme (A7-0405/2012 - Doris Pack)
Connecting Europe Facility (A7-0021/2013 - Adina-Ioana Vălean, Dominique Riquet, Inés Ayala Sender)
Draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014 - all sections (A7-0328/2013 - Monika Hohlmeier, Anne E. Jensen)
Application and enforcement of international trade rules (A7-0308/2013 - Niccolò Rinaldi)
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (A7-0282/2013 - Alain Cadec)
Organised crime, corruption, and money laundering (A7-0307/2013 - Salvatore Iacolino)
Nacrt općeg proračuna Europske unije za financijsku godinu 2014. - svi dijelovi (A7-0328/2013 - Monika Hohlmeier, Anne E. Jensen) HR
Primjena i provedba međunarodnih trgovinskih pravila (A7-0308/2013 - Niccolò Rinaldi) HR
Europski fond za pomorstvo i ribarstvo (A7-0282/2013 - Alain Cadec) HR
Organizirani kriminal, korupcija i pranje novca (A7-0307/2013 - Salvatore Iacolino) HR
Drug precursors (A7-0153/2013 - Anna Hedh)
Macro-financial assistance to the Kyrgyz Republic (A7-0334/2013 - Vital Moreira)
In vitro diagnostic medical devices (A7-0327/2013 - Peter Liese)
Ship recycling (A7-0132/2013 - Carl Schlyter)
European statistics on demography (A7-0050/2013 - Csaba Sógor)
European Neighbourhood Policy, working towards a stronger partnership: EP's position on the 2012 progress reports (debate)
EU trade policy towards countries of the Eastern Partnership (debate)
Clashes in Sudan and subsequent media censorship (debate)
Recent violence in Iraq (debate)
Recognition of professional qualifications and administrative cooperation through the Internal Market Information System (A7-0038/2013 - Bernadette Vergnaud)
EU-Armenia agreement on the facilitation of the issuance of visas (A7-0290/2013 - Edit Bauer)
Corruption in the public and private sectors: the impact on human rights in third countries (A7-0250/2013 - Ana Gomes)
EU-Mauritania fishing opportunities and financial contribution protocol (A7-0184/2013 - Gabriel Mato Adrover)
Fisheries restrictions and jurisdictional waters in the Mediterranean and Black Sea - conflict resolution (A7-0288/2013 - Nikolaos Salavrakos)
EU-Taiwan trade relations (debate)
Discriminatory customs procedures against Lithuanian trucks at the Russian border (debate)
Measures for the recovery of European eel stocks (A7-0242/2013 - Isabella Lövin)
Union Customs Code (A7-0006/2013 - Constance Le Grip)
Implementation of the EU youth strategy 2010-2012 (A7-0238/2013 - Georgios Papanikolaou)
Tackling youth unemployment: possible ways out (A7-0275/2013 - Joanna Katarzyna Skrzydlewska)
Internal market for services (A7-0273/2013 - Anna Maria Corazza Bildt)
Negotiations for an EU-Malaysia partnership and cooperation agreement (A7-0235/2013 - Emilio Menéndez del Valle)
Property consequences of registered partnerships (A7-0254/2013 - Alexandra Thein)
European transport-technology strategy for Europe's future sustainable mobility (A7-0241/2013 - Michael Cramer)
Right of access to a lawyer in criminal proceedings and right to communicate upon arrest (A7-0228/2013 - Elena Oana Antonescu)
Insider dealing and market manipulation (market abuse) (A7-0347/2012 - Arlene McCarthy)
Making the internal energy market work (A7-0262/2013 - Jerzy Buzek)
Implementation and impact of the energy efficiency measures under the cohesion policy (A7-0271/2013 - Mojca Kleva Kekuš)
A strategy for fisheries in the Adriatic and Ionian seas (A7-0234/2013 - Guido Milana)
More efficient and cost-effective interpretation in the European Parliament (A7-0233/2013 - Esther de Lange)
Online gambling in the internal market (A7-0218/2013 - Ashley Fox)
Programme of activities of the Lithuanian Presidency (debate)
Promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief (A7-0203/2013 - Laima Liucija Andrikienė) (vote)
Stepping-stone Economic Partnership Agreement between the EC and Central Africa (A7-0190/2013 - David Martin)
Promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief (A7-0203/2013 - Laima Liucija Andrikienė)
A broader Transatlantic partnership (A7-0173/2013 - Francisco José Millán Mon)
Fund for European aid to the most deprived (A7-0183/2013 - Emer Costello)
Establishment of an evaluation mechanism to verify application of the Schengen acquis (A7-0215/2013 - Carlos Coelho)
Freedom of press and media in the world - Annual Report on human rights and democracy in the world 2012 and the European Union's policy on the matter - Promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief
Freedom of press and media in the world - Annual Report on human rights and democracy in the world 2012 and the European Union's policy on the matter - Promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief
EU trade and investment agreement negotiations with the US (B7-0187/2013, B7-0195/2013)
Fight against tax fraud, tax evasion and tax havens (A7-0162/2013 - Mojca Kleva Kekuš)
Implementation of the audiovisual media services directive (A7-0055/2013 - Piotr Borys)
Asset recovery to Arab Spring countries in transition (debate)
Offshore oil and gas prospection, exploration and production activities (A7-0121/2013 - Ivo Belet)
Renewable energy in the European internal energy market (A7-0135/2013 - Herbert Reul)
Amendment of the EC-Ukraine Agreement on the facilitation of the issuance of visas (A7-0059/2013 - Claude Moraes)
EU-Moldova Agreement on the facilitation of the issuance of visas (A7-0128/2013 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Ship recycling (A7-0132/2013 - Carl Schlyter)
Vietnam, in particular freedom of expression (debate)
Human rights situation in Kazakhstan
European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) (A7-0056/2013 - Giles Chichester)
Fishing opportunities and financial contribution provided for by the EU-Mauritius Fisheries Partnership Agreement (A7-0127/2013 - Antolín Sánchez Presedo)
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2012/023 IT/Antonio Merloni SpA (A7-0111/2013 - Frédéric Daerden)
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2011/016 IT/Agile (A7-0133/2013 - Angelika Werthmann)
Scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading (A7-0060/2013 - Peter Liese)
Credit institutions and prudential supervision (A7-0170/2012 - Othmar Karas)
Groundhandling services at European Union airports (A7-0364/2012 - Artur Zasada)
Advancing development through trade (A7-0054/2013 - Alf Svensson)
Energy roadmap 2050 (A7-0035/2013 - Niki Tzavela)
Risk and safety assessments of nuclear power plants in the European Union ("stress tests") (B7-0086/2013)
Strengthening the fight against racism, xenophobia and hate crime (B7-0121/2013, B7-0122/2013, B7-0123/2013, B7-0124/2013, B7-0125/2013)
Protection of public health from endocrine disrupters (A7-0027/2013 - Åsa Westlund)
Integration of migrants, its effects on the labour market and the external dimension of social security coordination (A7-0040/2013 - Nadja Hirsch)
Asbestos-related occupational health threats and prospects for abolishing all existing asbestos (A7-0025/2013 - Stephen Hughes)
Statute for a European mutual society (A7-0018/2013 - Luigi Berlinguer)
Situation in Egypt
Nuclear threats and human rights in North Korea (B7-0132/2013, B7-0134/2013, B7-0135/2013, B7-0136/2013, B7-0137/2013, B7-0138/2013)
EU-China relations (A7-0434/2012 - Bastiaan Belder)
Global cotton value chain (B7-0092/2013)
22nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (B7-0055/2013, B7-0055/2013, B7-0058/2013, B7-0059/2013, B7-0060/2013, B7-0061/2013, B7-0062/2013) (vote)
European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (A7-0029/2013 - Kartika Tamara Liotard)
Governance of the single market (A7-0019/2013 - Andreas Schwab)
European Investment Bank - 2011 annual report (A7-0016/2013 - Mario Mauro)
Laos: the case of Sombath Somphone
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A7-0010/2013 - Pervenche Berès)
Transparency of measures regulating the prices of medicinal products for human use (A7-0015/2013 - Antonyia Parvanova)
Common fisheries policy (A7-0008/2013 - Ulrike Rodust)
Elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls (B7-0049/2013)
22nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (debate)
Improving access to finance for SMEs (A7-0001/2013 - Philippe De Backer)
EU-Iraq partnership and cooperation agreement (A7-0411/2012 - Mario Mauro)
State aid modernisation (B7-0024/2013)
Recent casualties in textile factory fires, notably in Bangladesh (B7-0004/2013, B7-0004/2013, B7-0005/2013, B7-0010/2013, B7-0020/2013, B7-0021/2013, B7-0022/2013)
Human rights situation in Bahrain
Human rights situation in Bahrain (B7-0029/2013, B7-0029/2013, B7-0030/2013, B7-0038/2013, B7-0039/2013, B7-0040/2013, B7-0042/2013)
Classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations (A7-0391/2012 - Eija-Riitta Korhola)
Conclusion of the Nagoya-Kuala Lumpur Supplementary Protocol on Liability and Redress to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (A7-0429/2012 - Matthias Groote)
Credit rating agencies (A7-0221/2012 - Leonardo Domenici)
Multi-annual plan for cod stocks in the Baltic Sea (A7-0395/2012 - Jarosław Leszek Wałęsa)
Youth guarantee (B7-0007/2013)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2011 and the European Union's policy on the matter - EU's human rights strategy (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Negotiations for an EU-Kazakhstan enhanced partnership and cooperation agreement (debate)
Negotiations for an EU-Kazakhstan enhanced partnership and cooperation agreement (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Discrimination against girls in Pakistan, in particular the case of Malala Yousafzai
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
EU-Russia trade relations following Russia's accession to the WTO (debate)
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the EC and Israel on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of Industrial Products (CAA) (debate)
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the EC and Israel on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of Industrial Products (CAA) (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Azerbaijan: the case of Ramil Safarov
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
EU-Israel agreement on conformity assessment and acceptance of industrial products (debate)
Venezuela: possible withdrawal from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Outcome of the presidential elections in Russia (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Situation in Syria (debate)
19th session of the UN Human Rights Council (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Question Hour with the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Iran and its nuclear programme (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Human rights (debate)
EU-Russia Summit (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Situation in Yemen, Bahrain, Syria and Egypt (debate)
Question Time (Commission)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Trade in agricultural and fishery products between the EU and Palestine (debate)
EU-Taiwan trade (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Situation in Syria (debate)
State of play of the Middle East peace process (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
EU-Russia summit (debate)
Sri Lanka: follow-up of the UN report (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Lessons to be drawn for nuclear safety in Europe following the nuclear accident in Japan
Situation in Syria, Bahrain and Yemen
Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy - Eastern Dimension - Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy - Southern Dimension
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
16th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (Geneva, 28 February - 25 March 2011) (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Situation in Egypt (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Question Time (Commission)
Agreements on trade in bananas - Repeal of Council Regulation (EC) No 1964/2005 on the tariff rates for bananas - Agreements on trade in bananas (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Interim Partnership Agreement between the EC and the Pacific States - Interim Partnership Agreement between the EC and the Pacific States (debate)
Human rights in the world 2009 and EU policy on the matter (A7-0339/2010, Laima Liucija Andrikienė) (vote)
Human rights in the world 2009 and EU policy on the matter (A7-0339/2010, Laima Liucija Andrikienė) (vote)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Human rights in the world 2009 and EU policy on the matter (debate)
Human rights in the world 2009 and EU policy on the matter (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Ukraine (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Upcoming EU-US summit and Transatlantic Economic Council - EU-US Data Protection Agreement (debate)
Amendment of Regulation (EC) No 539/2001 listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders of Member States and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement (debate)
Implemented reforms and developments in the Republic of Moldova (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Protection of animals used for scientific purposes (debate)
Arms exports (debate)
Question Time (Council)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
European External Action Service (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Israeli military operation against the humanitarian flotilla and the Gaza blockade (debate)
Annual report on human rights (2008) - EU policies in favour of human rights defenders - Trade in goods used for torture - (debate)
Explanations of vote
Question Time (Commission)
Religious freedom in Pakistan
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Institutional aspects of accession by the European Union to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms - Review Conference of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court in Kampala, Uganda (debate)
European Investment Bank (EIB) - Annual Report 2008 (debate)
Mass atrocities in Jos, Nigeria, in January and March (debate)
Explanations of vote (continuation)
Explanations of vote (continuation)
Explanations of vote (continuation)
Explanations of vote (continuation)
Explanations of vote
Situation in Tibet (debate)
Situation in Tibet (debate)
2008 annual report on the CFSP - The implementation of the European Security Strategy and the Common Security and Defence Policy - Non-proliferation Treaty (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Regulation applying a scheme of generalised tariff preferences (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Parliament’s priorities for the UN Human Rights Council (Geneva, 1-26 March 2010) (debate)
Venezuela
2009 progress report on Croatia - 2009 progress report on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - 2009 progress report on Turkey (debate)
Situation in Ukraine (debate)
Effects of the economic crisis on world trade (debate)
Presentation of the programme of the Spanish Presidency (continuation of debate)
Recent earthquake in Haiti (debate)
Situation in Yemen (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Azerbaijan: freedom of expression
Azerbaijan: freedom of expression (vote)
China: Minority rights and application of the death penalty
Democracy building in external relations (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Situation in Taiwan following the recent typhoon (debate)
Murder of human rights activists in Russia
China (debate)
Reports (4)
REPORT on a European Parliament recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the Eastern Partnership, in the run-up to the November 2017 Summit PDF (302 KB) DOC (64 KB)
REPORT Report on the development of the UN Human Rights Council, including the role of the EU PDF (190 KB) DOC (107 KB)
REPORT with a proposal for a European Parliament recommendation to the Council on the draft EU Guidelines on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief PDF (190 KB) DOC (96 KB)
REPORT Report on the Annual Report on Human Rights in the World 2009 and the European Union's policy on the matter PDF (546 KB) DOC (520 KB)
Shadow reports (11)
REPORT on Blockchain: a forward-looking trade policy PDF (371 KB) DOC (74 KB)
REPORT on harnessing globalisation: trade aspects PDF (543 KB) DOC (108 KB)
REPORT on private security companies PDF (453 KB) DOC (66 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EC) No 471/2009 on Community statistics relating to external trade with non-member countries as regards conferring of delegated and implementing powers upon the Commission for the adoption of certain measures PDF (187 KB) DOC (292 KB)
RECOMMENDATION FOR SECOND READING on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council providing further macro-financial assistance to Georgia PDF (175 KB) DOC (109 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a Protocol to the Euro Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the State of Israel, of the other part, on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of Industrial Products (CAA) PDF (139 KB) DOC (65 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on protection of geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs PDF (137 KB) DOC (65 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union, of the one part, and the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, of the other part, providing further liberalisation of agricultural products, processed agricultural products and fish and fishery products and amending the Euro-Mediterranean Interim Association Agreement on trade and cooperation between the European Community, of the one part, and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) for the benefit of the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, of the other part PDF (152 KB) DOC (64 KB)
REPORT Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 1964/2005 on the tariff rates for bananas PDF (160 KB) DOC (90 KB)
REPORT Recommendation on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a Geneva Agreement on Trade in Bananas between the European Union and Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and Venezuela and of an Agreement on Trade in Bananas between the European Union and the United States of America PDF (169 KB) DOC (98 KB)
REPORT Report with a proposal for a European Parliament recommendation to the Council on the 65th Session of the United Nations General Assembly PDF (208 KB) DOC (124 KB)
Opinions (7)
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Union Resettlement Framework and amending Regulation (EU) No 516/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council
OPINION Draft opinion on the budgetary control of EU funds in Afghanistan
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Partnership Instrument for cooperation with third countries
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action
OPINION on defining a new development cooperation with Latin America
OPINION on on the recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the negotiations of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement
OPINION Progress towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals: mid-term review in preparation of the UN high-level meeting in September 2010
Shadow opinions (6)
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council Establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument
OPINION on strengthening the competitiveness of the internal market by developing the EU customs union and its governance
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III)
OPINION on the proposal for a Council regulation establishing a European Instrument for Nuclear Safety complementing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument on the basis of the Euratom Treaty
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for screening of foreign direct investments into the European Union
OPINION on an integrated European Union policy for the Arctic
Institutional motions (186)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on China, notably the situation of religious and ethnic minorities PDF (153 KB) DOC (62 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Brunei PDF (152 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on China, notably the situation of religious and ethnic minorities PDF (152 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Brunei PDF (140 KB) DOC (49 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the emergency situation in Venezuela PDF (151 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the emergency situation in Venezuela PDF (139 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Kazakhstan PDF (154 KB) DOC (62 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Iran, notably the case of human rights defenders PDF (150 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of human rights in Guatemala PDF (161 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on a European human rights violations sanctions regime PDF (153 KB) DOC (55 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Human rights situation in Kazakhstan PDF (166 KB) DOC (55 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Situation of human rights in Guatemala PDF (143 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Iran, notably the right of human rights defenders PDF (145 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on a European human rights violations sanctions regime PDF (144 KB) DOC (49 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on women’s rights defenders in Saudi Arabia PDF (160 KB) DOC (63 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zimbabwe PDF (159 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Chechnya and the case of Oyub Titiev PDF (152 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on women's rights defenders in Saudi Arabia PDF (142 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zimbabwe PDF (154 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Chechnya and the case of Oyub Titiev PDF (144 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Azerbaijan, notably the case of Mehman Huseynov PDF (155 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sudan PDF (153 KB) DOC (60 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Tanzania PDF (281 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Egypt, notably the situation of human rights defenders PDF (303 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Iran, notably the case of Nasrin Sotoudeh PDF (282 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Egypt, notably the situation of human rights defenders PDF (271 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Tanzania PDF (293 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Iran, notably the case of Nasrin Sotoudeh PDF (268 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Bangladesh PDF (293 KB) DOC (60 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Cuba PDF (286 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Vietnam, notably the situation of political prisoners PDF (286 KB) DOC (59 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Bangladesh PDF (292 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Vietnam, notably the situation of political prisoners PDF (264 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Cuba PDF (273 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Sea of Azov PDF (148 KB) DOC (56 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Venezuela PDF (152 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Sea of Azov PDF (267 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Venezuela PDF (266 KB) DOC (48 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on mass arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Kazakhs in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region PDF (151 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the deterioration of media freedom in Belarus, notably the case of Charter 97 PDF (155 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on mass arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Kazakhs in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region PDF (361 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on deterioration of media freedom in Belarus, notably the case of Charter 97 PDF (268 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Myanmar, notably the case of journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo PDF (153 KB) DOC (60 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Cambodia, notably the case of Kem Sokha PDF (158 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Uganda, arrest of parliamentarians from the opposition PDF (148 KB) DOC (56 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on autonomous weapon systems PDF (274 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Myanmar, notably the case of journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo PDF (140 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Cambodia, notably the case of Kem Sokha PDF (159 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Uganda, arrest of parliamentarians from the opposition PDF (144 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the migration crisis and humanitarian situation in Venezuela and at its terrestrial borders with Colombia and Brazil PDF (288 KB) DOC (58 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the migration crisis and humanitarian situation in Venezuela and at its borders PDF (268 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on autonomous weapon systems PDF (258 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of Rohingya refugees, in particular the plight of children PDF (291 KB) DOC (59 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Russia, notably the case of Ukrainian political prisoner Oleg Sentsov PDF (161 KB) DOC (49 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Georgian occupied territories 10 years after the Russian invasion PDF (282 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Situation of Rohingyas refugees, in particular the plight of children PDF (144 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Russia, notably the case of Ukrainian political prisoner Oleg Sentsov PDF (147 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on human rights situation in Bahrain, notably the case of Nabeel Rajab PDF (169 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Georgian occupied territories 10 years after the Russian invasion PDF (264 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sudan, notably the situation of Noura Hussein Hammad PDF (156 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation on women’s rights defenders in Saudi Arabia PDF (162 KB) DOC (61 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of imprisoned EU-Iranian dual nationals in Iran PDF (159 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sudan, notably the situation of Noura Hussein Hammad PDF (151 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on women's rights activists in Saudi Arabia PDF (160 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Situation of imprisoned EU-Iranian dual nationals in Iran PDF (144 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Philippines PDF (159 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Belarus PDF (155 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Gaza Strip PDF (152 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Philippines PDF (137 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Belarus PDF (151 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Situation in Gaza PDF (142 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Syria PDF (408 KB) DOC (62 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Syria PDF (260 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on executions in Egypt PDF (292 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on child slavery in Haiti PDF (154 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Russia, the case of Oyub Titiev and the Human Rights Centre Memorial PDF (285 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the current human rights situation in Turkey PDF (289 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Venezuela PDF (279 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on executions in Egypt PDF (350 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on child slavery in Haiti PDF (142 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the current human rights situation in Turkey PDF (260 KB) DOC (45 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Russia, the case of Oyub Titiev and the Human Rights Centre Memorial PDF (145 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Democratic Republic of the Congo PDF (161 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Nigeria PDF (285 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of the human rights activists Wu Gan, Xie Yang, Lee Ming-che and Tashi Wangchuk, and the Tibetan monk Choekyi PDF (290 KB) DOC (56 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Democratic Republic of Congo PDF (158 KB) DOC (56 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of human rights activists Wu Gan, Xie Yang, Lee Ming-cheh, Tashi Wangchuk and the Tibetan monk Choekyi PDF (157 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Nigeria PDF (151 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on El Salvador: the cases of women prosecuted for miscarriage PDF (267 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Cambodia: notably the dissolution of CNRP Party PDF (283 KB) DOC (56 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on freedom of expression in Vietnam, notably the case of Nguyen Van Hoa PDF (280 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Afghanistan PDF (401 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on El Salvador: the cases of women prosecuted for miscarriage PDF (149 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Cambodia: the banning of the opposition PDF (139 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Freedom of expression in Vietnam, notably the case of Nguyen Van Hoa PDF (264 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Afghanistan PDF (275 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Madagascar PDF (291 KB) DOC (59 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on freedom of expression in Sudan, notably the case of Mohamed Zine al-Abidine PDF (155 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on terrorist attacks in Somalia PDF (162 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Madagascar PDF (154 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Freedom of expression in Sudan, notably the case of Mohamed Zine El Abidine PDF (151 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Terrorist attacks in Somalia PDF (155 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Maldives PDF (287 KB) DOC (56 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of Crimean Tatar leaders Akhtem Chiygoz, Ilmi Umerov and the journalist Mykola Semena PDF (284 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on situation in the Maldives PDF (145 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of Crimean Tatar leaders Akhtem Chiygoz, Ilmi Umerov and journalist Mykola Semena PDF (152 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Moldova PDF (265 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Myanmar, in particular the situation of Rohingyas PDF (153 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Laos, notably the cases of Somphone Phimmasone, Lod Thammavong and Soukane Chaithad PDF (148 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Gabon: repression of the opposition PDF (162 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Cambodia, notably the case of Kem Sokha PDF (151 KB) DOC (57 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Myanmar, in particular the situation of Rohingyas PDF (140 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Gabon, repression of the opposition PDF (271 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Laos: notably the cases of Somphone Phimmasone, Lod Thammavong and Soukane Chaithad PDF (137 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Cambodia: notably the case of Mr Kem Sokha PDF (137 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Burundi PDF (156 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Eritrea, notably the cases of Abune Antonios and Dawit Isaak PDF (169 KB) DOC (63 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo and Lee Ming-che PDF (153 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Burundi PDF (151 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Eritrea, notably the cases of Abune Antonios and Dawit Isaak PDF (151 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo and Lee Ming-Che PDF (146 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Indonesia PDF (157 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Pakistan, notably the situation of human rights defenders and the death penalty PDF (278 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Mukhtarli PDF (151 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the humanitarian situation in Yemen PDF (162 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on human rights situation in Indonesia PDF (142 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Pakistan, notably the situation of human rights defenders and the death penalty PDF (147 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Afgan Mukhtarli and situation of media in Azerbaijan PDF (142 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Ethiopia, notably the case of Dr Merera Gudina PDF (163 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zambia, particularly the case of Hakainde Hichilema PDF (153 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on South Sudan PDF (164 KB) DOC (56 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Ethiopia, notably the case of Dr Merera Gudina PDF (144 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zambia, particularly the case of Hakainde Hichilema PDF (151 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on South Sudan PDF (147 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Belarus PDF (288 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Bangladesh, including child marriages PDF (152 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Russia, the arrest of Alexei Navalny and other protestors PDF (158 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Bangladesh, including child marriages PDF (144 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Belarus PDF (154 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Russia, the arrest of Alexei Navalny and other protestors PDF (143 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zimbabwe, the case of Pastor Evan Mawarire and other cases of restriction of freedom of expression PDF (150 KB) DOC (48 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Ukrainian prisoners in Russia and the situation in Crimea PDF (157 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zimbabwe, the case of Pastor Evan Mawarire PDF (148 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Ukrainian political prisoners in Russia and situation in Crimea PDF (151 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of human rights and democracy in Nicaragua – the case of Francisca Ramirez PDF (149 KB) DOC (48 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Guatemala, notably the situation of human rights defenders PDF (165 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on executions in Kuwait and Bahrain PDF (155 KB) DOC (79 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of human rights and democracy in Nicaragua, the case of Francesca Ramirez PDF (158 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Guatemala, notably the situation of human rights defenders PDF (149 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on executions in Kuwait and Bahrain PDF (145 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Burundi PDF (152 KB) DOC (56 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Central African Republic PDF (162 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Indonesia, notably the case of Hosea Yeimo and Ismael Alua PDF (148 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Central African Republic PDF (292 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Burundi PDF (275 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Indonesia, notably the cases of Hosea Yeimo, Ismael Alua and the Governor of Jakarta PDF (265 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of the Larung Gar Tibetan Buddhist Academy and Ilham Tohti PDF (163 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Rohingya minority in Myanmar PDF (157 KB) DOC (58 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on mass graves in Iraq PDF (158 KB) DOC (57 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Rohingya minority in Myanmar PDF (147 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the cases of the Larung Gar Tibetan Buddhist Academy and Ilham Tohti PDF (148 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on mass graves in Iraq PDF (144 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Ildar Dadin, prisoner of conscience in Russia PDF (154 KB) DOC (48 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Guarani-Kaiowá in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso Do Sul PDF (149 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Gui Minhai, jailed publisher in China PDF (157 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Belarus PDF (289 KB) DOC (83 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Guarani-Kaiowa in the Brazilian State of Mato Grosso PDF (263 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Ildar Dadin, prisoner of consience in Russia PDF (274 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Gui Minhai, jailed publisher in China PDF (275 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Belarus PDF (264 KB) DOC (65 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on nuclear security and non-proliferation PDF (159 KB) DOC (88 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on nuclear security and non-proliferation PDF (261 KB) DOC (63 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Thailand, notably the situation of Andy Hall PDF (153 KB) DOC (80 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sudan PDF (167 KB) DOC (89 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Rwanda, the case of Victoire Ingabire PDF (291 KB) DOC (83 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Thailand, notably the case of Andy Hall PDF (276 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sudan PDF (272 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Rwanda, the case of Victoire Ingabire PDF (464 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zimbabwe PDF (289 KB) DOC (80 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Philippines PDF (289 KB) DOC (84 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Somalia PDF (295 KB) DOC (91 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Zimbabwe PDF (287 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Philippines PDF (265 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Somalia PDF (418 KB) DOC (52 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Bahrain PDF (157 KB) DOC (83 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Bahrain PDF (386 KB) DOC (70 KB)
Oral questions (2)
Major interpellation - Violation of fundamental human rights of women in Pakistan PDF (195 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Commission's answers to written questions PDF (205 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Written explanations (205)
European Border and Coast Guard (A8-0076/2019 - Roberta Metsola)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the European Border and Coast Guard. Two years ago, Frontex was expanded to become the European Border and Coast Guard (EBCG) Agency that it is today. The Agency’s new mandate and increased resources are a clear and strong response to the challenges faced at the EU’s external borders as a result of the migration crisis, but also relate to the difficulty in encouraging greater solidarity among Member States.The EBCG proposal addresses the need to ensure proper control of the Schengen external borders as a precondition to managing migration effectively, to ensure a high level of security within the system while safeguarding free movement of persons within the Union. The necessary operational support has to be provided to ensure that EU solidarity is effectively delivered whenever it is needed.I support the rapporteur that this will enhance solidarity between the Member States, reinforce integration regarding border management and contribute to preventing crisis situations at the external borders. The proposal responds to the weaknesses identified due to insufficient contributions of border guards and technical equipment by Member States and hence the lack of flexibility in redeployment by the Agency.
Market surveillance and compliance of products (A8-0277/2018 - Nicola Danti)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on market surveillance and compliance of products. Free movement of goods is the most developed of all the four fundamental freedoms. This pillar rests on consumers’ trust: European consumers must be able to trust that the products they buy are safe and compliant, irrespective of who the manufacturer is, in which Member State they may buy it, and by which means (traditional or online sale).Growing imports to the EU, the increasing complexity of the value chains, the increased number of products circulating within the single market, and the increase in e-commerce activities, as well as the new technologies pose new challenges for Member States’ market surveillance authorities and for the EU institutions. There is a clear evidence that only proper, effective and coordinated market surveillance in the EU could respond to these challenges and ensure that only safe and compliant products are reaching the final consumers.
Promoting fairness and transparency for business users of online intermediation services (A8-0444/2018 - Christel Schaldemose)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on promoting fairness and transparency for business users of online intermediation services. I support the rapporteur that there is an apparent need for a uniform and targeted set of mandatory rules to ensure a viable business environment in the future. In today’s online platform environment several critical imbalances exist between platforms on the one hand and business users on the other hand. These imbalances are ultimately to the detriment of the consumer as they can lead to reduced competition, which in turn leads to a narrower variety of goods and services as well as higher consumer prices.The Commission’s proposal does in many ways adequately address the lack of transparency concerning many online platforms, but it does too little to address the issues of the lack of fairness in the same online platform environment. Therefore, it is crucial that the current deficit of fairness is addressed in greater detail than in the Commission’s proposal and that more measures are taken to better address the issue.
Better enforcement and modernisation of EU consumer protection rules (A8-0029/2019 - Daniel Dalton)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on better enforcement and modernisation of EU consumer protection rules. There is a clear need to find a balance between the rights afforded to consumers and the expectations then made of businesses. As we move ahead with the digital single market strategy, we also must ensure that the legislative foundations elsewhere support citizens and business as they move online. In this area in particular, the sale of goods online is facilitated by the ability of consumers to exercise the right of withdrawal simply and easily. Any shift in roles risks deterring purchasers from the online sales channel, which would be worse for all parties.
EU Accession to the Geneva Act on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications (A8-0187/2019 - Virginie Rozière)
I voted in favour of the recommendations on EU accession to the Geneva Act on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications. The contracting parties to the agreement undertake to protect, on their territories, the appellations of origin of products of the other countries within the Special Union which are recognised and protected as such in the country of origin. Seven Member States are parties to the Lisbon Agreement, namely Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, France, Italy, Hungary, Portugal and Slovakia. Three other Member States have signed but not ratified the Lisbon Agreement, namely Greece, Spain and Romania.I welcome the Council’s decision to approve the Union’s accession to the Geneva Act, as well as the fact that the Member States have been given the opportunity to accede to the act in the interests of the Union, with the Union retaining exclusive competence. The Union will thus enjoy voting rights, whilst being able to take proper account of the specific situation of the Member States that are already contracting parties to the Lisbon Agreement.
Protection of persons reporting on breaches of Union law (A8-0398/2018 - Virginie Rozière)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the protection of persons reporting on breaches of Union law. The debate in Europe on how best to protect whistle-blowers has moved forward significantly in recent decades. In the light of numerous studies and feedback on experiences, it is now commonly accepted that whistle-blowers play a positive role in preventing and remedying acts prejudicial to the public interest. However, the potential benefits of whistle-blowing are a long way from being fully exploited since many witnesses of acts prejudicial to the public interest in a professional context do not systematically report them. The reasons for this reticence are multiple and range from lack of knowledge of the reporting options available to fear of reprisals if they speak out. This has damaging consequences for society as a whole, as a wide variety of such attacks on the public interest, whether they concern the environment, the fight against tax evasion or corruption, or public health, continue to occur, thus undermining the public’s right to information. I support the rapporteur that the reporting channels set out in the proposal for a directive present sufficient safeguards as to robustness and independence. They could, however, be improved by providing for a notification of receipt of a report.
OLAF investigations and cooperation with the European Public Prosecutor's Office (A8-0179/2019 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) investigations and cooperation with the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. The creation of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is one of Parliament’s key achievements during the current legislature. We expect that it will be a game changer in terms of protecting the EU’s financial interests. It will also have a far-reaching impact on the EU’s institutional set-up for combating fraud and irregularities, with OLAF being the body most affected.I support the Commission’s proposal. However, as indicated by the rapporteur in the resolution, further measures need to be taken to prepare the ground better for the EPPO. Furthermore, the work done by OLAF with its current legal basis has shown several severe shortcomings. The evaluation report underlines how efficiency in fighting fraud and irregularities is hampered by problems inherent in the regulation. Moreover, in 2014 the Commission put forward a legislative proposal to create a controller of procedural guarantees, which has not been taken up yet.
Establishing the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment (A8-0460/2018 - Jiří Pospíšil)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on establishing the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment. The proposed instrument, as a part of a new Integrated Border Management Fund (IBMF) in the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2021-2027, aims to reinforce controls on goods entering and exiting the Union’s borders by providing funding for the purchase, maintenance and upgrade of customs control equipment. This includes, for example, new scanners, automated number-plate detection systems and mobile laboratories for sample analysis.The instrument is a new financial tool developed in response to requests from Member States and it is therefore based on their needs as regards better management of external and internal borders. The Commission proposal is useful and well set out. Nevertheless, I support remarks and recommendations in the resolution which seek to make the text clearer and more coherent.
Interoperability between EU information systems in the field of police and judicial cooperation, asylum and migration (A8-0348/2018 - Nuno Melo)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution and I welcome the proposals by the Commission on establishing a framework for interoperability between EU information systems. European Union citizens expect the EU to deliver on effective asylum and migration management, on proper external border management and on addressing ongoing threats to internal security. The refugee crisis and the series of terrorist attacks over the past years have shown the urgency of enhancing relevant information sharing. Delivering on these issues is important in order to maintain public trust in the Union migration and asylum system, Union security measures and the Union capabilities to manage the external borders.I support the rapporteur’s contention that the opportunities offered by interoperability, as a measure to enhance security and external border protection, need to be balanced with the obligation to ensure that interferences with fundamental rights, which may derive from the new interoperability environment, are limited to what is strictly necessary genuinely to meet the objectives of general interest pursued, subject to the principle of proportionality. Interoperability components offer an opportunity to increase the protection of fundamental rights.
Type-approval requirements for motor vehicles as regards general safety (A8-0151/2019 - Róża Gräfin von Thun und Hohenstein)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution. This legislative initiative is part of the third ‘Europe on the Move’ mobility package and proposes a revision of the current framework to adapt it to changes in mobility resulting from societal trends (e.g. more cyclists and pedestrians, an aging society) and technological developments. The integration of technical progress is at the basis of the proposal, particularly in the areas of tyre-pressure monitoring systems and intelligent speed assistance.In 2017 the number of fatalities on EU roads reached 25 300 people. An additional 135 000 people were seriously injured. I support the rapporteur that these frightening figures need to be reduced significantly. The fatalities on EU roads decreased by over 40% during the years 2001-2010. However, reaching the EU target for 2020, to halve the number of road deaths in the EU by 2020 from the 2010 baseline, will be extremely difficult to achieve without further decisive action. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reduce the number of fatalities and casualties on EU roads, and specific focus should be put on protecting pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users, who accounted for almost half of road victims in 2017.
GATS: necessary compensatory adjustments resulting from the accession of Czechia, Estonia, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Malta, Austria, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden to the EU (A8-0067/2019 - José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra)
I voted in favour of this resolution. The schedule of commitments of the EU and its Member States in the GATS (General Agreement on Trade in Services) dates back to 1994 and covers only those 12 Member States that were members of the EU at that time. The 13 Member States that have joined the EU since, i.e. in 1995 and in 2004, continued to maintain their own individual GATS commitments, which were adopted prior to their accession to the EU. In accordance with the terms of Article XXI of the GATS, the European Communities and its Member States submitted a communication pursuant to Article V of the GATS, whereby it notified its intention to modify the specific commitments in order for it to cover the 13 Member States that joined the European Union in 1995 and 2004. I support the rapporteur that the schedule is needed to enter into force to ensure that all the Member States concerned are covered by the same horizontal limitations, that their commitments are not in breach of the acquis communautaire and to advance in further consolidation processes.
Agreement to prevent unregulated high seas fisheries in the Central Arctic Ocean (A8-0016/2019 - Norica Nicolai)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the agreement to prevent unregulated high seas fishing in the Central Arctic Ocean. The joint programme of scientific research and monitoring which will be established within two years of entry into force of this agreement will have as its objective to increase knowledge of the living marine resources of the Central Arctic Ocean and its ecosystems. The joint programme will be developed and implemented by the parties and has to take into consideration the scientific information provided by other bodies and programmes, as well as indigenous and local knowledge. It is important to underline that this agreement has a twofold objective, firstly to further explore and better understand the biodiversity and ecosystem of the Central Arctic Ocean and secondly to fight and prevent unregulated fishing in that area. These two objectives were of the utmost importance for the European Parliament, together with a moratorium on commercial fishing. Considering the melting of the ice cap and the ever growing areas available for exploration in the Arctic Ocean, signing this agreement will postpone and prevent any unilateral commercial fishing licensing.
Multiannual plan for stocks fished in the Western Waters and adjacent waters, and for fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0310/2018 - Alain Cadec)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the Multiannual plan for stocks fished in the Western Waters and adjacent waters, and for fisheries exploiting those stocks. The multiannual plans for a regionalised approach to fisheries management and conservation that have been formulated by the Commission and co-legislators, in particular, for the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, provide a good starting point for the multiannual Western Waters management plan. The Baltic Sea plan has adopted a multiannual approach to fisheries management on the basis of reference points for fishing mortality and biomass of stocks. These reference points, as quantified by the co-legislators on the basis of regularly updated scientific advice are set down in the regulation and should be promptly and regularly updated by the co-legislators accordingly. I support the Rapporteur that fisheries management should be based on the best scientific advice available. At the same time, the European Parliament must have a greater scope to oversee this process and to preserve its role as co-legislator for the purposes of multiannual fisheries management.
Union Civil Protection Mechanism (A8-0180/2018 - Elisabetta Gardini)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the Union Civil Protection Mechanism. Natural disasters in Europe and worldwide are increasing significantly, both because of the frequency with which they occur and their intensity, and pose a serious threat to our societies, economies and ecosystems. I support the Rapporteur that the future mechanism should acquire further capacities compared to those currently existing in the Member States, in addition to having its own capacities. A genuine European Civil Protection Capacity should be established. This new Capacity will fill the gaps identified in the national response systems. The intention is not to take over or duplicate the work of the Member States, but to complement it where necessary.
Accession of Ecuador and Ukraine to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0452/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the Resolution on the accession of Ecuador and Ukraine to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. The Hague Convention of 25 October 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is a vitally important instrument. It has been ratified by all EU Member States.As the matter of international child abduction falls within the exclusive external competence of the European Union, the decision whether to accept the accession of Ecuador and Ukraine has to be taken at EU level by means of a Council decision. I support the rapporteur’s view that the accession of Ecuador and Ukraine to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is to be welcomed. It is particularly important for settling cases of international child abduction that arise when a couple has separated. If the mother and father are from different states, there is a temptation to exploit the lack of cooperation between those states in order to secure custody of the child.
Accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0458/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the Resolution on the accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. The Hague Convention of 25 October 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is a vitally important instrument. It has been ratified by all EU Member States.As the matter of international child abduction falls within the exclusive external competence of the European Union, the decision whether to accept the accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan has to be taken at EU level by means of a Council decision. I support the rapporteur’s view that the accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is to be welcomed.
Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the EU, Greenland and Denmark (A8-0480/2018 - Maurice Ponga)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the EU, Greenland and Denmark. Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) have been associated with the European Union (EU) since the entry into force of the Treaty of Rome. I agree with the Rapporteur that it is important to strengthen the political dimension of the association between the EU and the OCTs and increase dialogue between the EU and the OCTs on cooperation and regional integration issues. In order to make dialogue and cooperation more effective, the Commission should, if necessary, provide for specific measures to ensure the OCTs’ participation in Union programmes and facilitate access for such participation by establishing an up-to-date, dedicated gateway for the OCTs.
Annual report 2017 on the protection of the European Union’s financial interests- fight against fraud (A8-0003/2019 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Annual report 2017 on the protection of the European Union’s financial interests – fight against fraud. Sound public spending and the protection of the EU’s financial interests should be key elements of EU policy in order to increase the confidence of citizens by ensuring that their money is used properly and effectively. We can note with satisfaction that the total number of fraudulent and non-fraudulent irregularities reported in 2017 (15 213 cases) was 20.8% lower than in 2016 (19 080 cases) and that their value had decreased by 13% (from EUR 2.97 billion in 2016 to EUR 2.58 billion in 2017). Regarding the fight against corruption, I support the Rapporteur deploring the fact that the Commission no longer deems it necessary to publish the anti-corruption report. It is regretful that further reduced monitoring by the Commission, with data available for only very few countries, concentrates mostly on the economic impact of corruption and almost completely overlooks the other dimensions corruption can affect, such as the trust of citizens in public administration and even the democratic structures of the Member States.
Situation in Venezuela (B8-0082/2019, B8-0083/2019, B8-0084/2019, B8-0085/2019, B8-0086/2019, B8-0087/2019)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the situation in Venezuela. The elections held on 20 May 2018 were conducted without complying with the minimum international standards for a credible process and failed to respect political pluralism, democracy, transparency and the rule of law. The EU, together with other regional organisations and democratic countries, recognised neither the elections nor the authorities put in place by this illegitimate process and has repeatedly called for ‘the restoration of democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela through a credible political process’.However, on 10 January 2019 Nicolás Maduro illegitimately usurped presidential power before the Supreme Court of Justice, in breach of the constitutional order. The EU cannot be silent when Venezuelan people are being deprived of their fundamental rights and freedoms, when rule of law and democracy are undermined by the clear dictatorship. I support the resolution which recognises Mr Guaidó as the legitimate interim president of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in accordance with the Venezuelan Constitution, as stated in Article 233 thereof, and expresses its full support for his roadmap.
Annual report on competition policy (A8-0474/2018 - Michel Reimon)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the annual report on competition policy. A competition policy aimed at ensuring a level playing field in all sectors is a cornerstone of the European market economy and a key factor in guaranteeing the proper functioning of the internal market. I welcome the Commission report on Competition Policy 2017, as well as its efforts and activities to ensure the effective application of competition rules in the Union for the benefit of all EU citizens, especially those in weak consumer positions. It is important that the Commission continues ensuring the full enforcement of EU competition rules, with particular attention to the difficulties faced by SMEs, and avoids the uneven application thereof in the Member States.
Nuclear decommissioning assistance programme of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania (A8-0413/2018 - Rebecca Harms)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Nuclear decommissioning assistance programme of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania. Closing the Ignalina nuclear power plant is a unique challenge for the European nuclear safety, both due to the size of the plant and the technical characteristics of the reactors. The plant was imposed on Lithuania during the Soviet occupation and was designed to serve a much broader region. The task of closing the plant safely and efficiently is far too arduous for a country of the size and economic capacity of Lithuania. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that the adequate funding for the programme is ensured. The Ignalina decommissioning programme is approaching a highly challenging stage – dismantling of the graphite reactor core Unit 1 and Unit 2. Failure to guarantee sufficient funding would result in the 4-year suspension of the Unit 2 dismantling, would eventually increase significantly the overall cost of the entire project and jeopardise the nuclear safety of Europe. Therefore, I strongly support the request for the EU’s contribution in the next MFF to be increased to EUR 780 million.
Cross-border restitution claims of works of art and cultural goods looted in armed conflicts and wars (A8-0465/2018 - Pavel Svoboda)
I voted in favour of the resolution. In recent years, the subject of looted art and the restitution of cultural property has come to the fore of historical enquiry and public consciousness alike. The problem of looted cultural goods, which were plundered in wartime through acts of violence, confiscation or by apparently legal transactions or auctions, remain part of human history.Looting in colonial times, as well as looting in Syria and Iraq, are still a massive problem. Experts based at local, national and international institutions such as ministries, museums, auction houses, archives, galleries or even private collectors have begun adopting measures designed to motivate the art world to adopt fair practices for identifying, recovering and restituting looted art. The field, however, remains compartmentalised along national, institutional and professional lines and still displays a marked tendency to focus on specific cases or collections.I support the call on the Commission to consider taking legislative action to strengthen the legal system for cross-border restitution claims of works of art and cultural goods looted in armed conflicts and wars on the basis of private international law instruments.
Protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States (A8-0469/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Petri Sarvamaa)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the protection of the Union’s budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States. Concerns about weaknesses in national checks and balances possibly undermining the respect of the fundamental values enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union have been a matter of recent public debate. In that context, it has been suggested that the lack of respect of fundamental values should have consequences that include the suspension of disbursements from the EU budget. I support the Commission’s proposal that in order to protect its financial interests from the risk of financial loss caused by generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law, the EU should be able to impose appropriate measures that include suspending, reducing and restricting access to EU funding in a manner proportionate to the nature, gravity and scope of the deficiencies.
Establishing the Rights and Values programme (A8-0468/2018 - Bodil Valero)
I voted in favour of the resolution on establishing the Rights and Values programme. In the European Parliament resolution of 19 April 2018 on the need to establish a European Values Instrument to support civil society organisations which promote fundamental values within the European Union at local and national level, the European Parliament urged the Commission to propose a European Values Instrument as part of the MFF 2021-2027, designed to provide financial support for civil society at the local and national level to counter the backlash against democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights in the EU. The instrument would be complementary to already existing programmes and have a funding level corresponding to the EU spending on value-promotion in third countries. I support the rapporteur that more support should be given to grassroots projects promoting European values as defined in Article 2 of the EU Treaty – particularly democratic standards, the rule of law and fundamental rights – as a prerequisite for an open and inclusive society. Such funding should cover, as appropriate, the variety of activities of civil society organisations such as service provision, watchdog activities, advocacy, litigation, campaigning, human rights and civic education and awareness raising.
Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (A8-0415/2018 - Barbara Kappel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank. We, Members of the EP, congratulate the EIB on 60 years of successful operations, during which it has invested EUR 1.1 trillion and financed 11 800 projects in 160 countries as the world’s biggest multilateral borrower and lender. It is important to underline the role played by the EIB as the EU’s bank, being the only international financial institution that is entirely owned by EU Member States and is fully guided by EU policies and standards. Amongst other important activities, it is necessary to welcome the strong support of the EIB Group for SMEs and mid-caps with a total investment of EUR 29.6 billion, which has had a positive impact on 287 000 companies employing 3.9 million people.
Differentiated integration (A8-0402/2018 - Pascal Durand)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the differentiated integration. Differentiated integration in the EU takes many different forms: opt-outs, enhanced cooperation initiatives, permanent structured cooperation and intergovernmental formations outside the Treaty framework. In fact, the landscape of flexible solutions allowing some Member States to move forward with deeper integration in a certain policy area has become so varied that it is getting increasingly difficult to identify all cases of differentiated integration and to make sense of them, not only for European citizens but also for policy-makers. While differentiated integration could be seen as a positive instrument for the advancement of European integration at the pace and in the form most appropriate for the current political climate, its use and the forms that it can take should be simplified and streamlined in order to improve its democratic legitimacy. I support the Rapporteur that differentiation should reflect the idea that Europe does not work on a one-size-fits-all approach, but can adapt to the needs and wishes of its citizens. Therefore, differentiation should be a constitutional tool to ensure flexibility when needed without compromising the entire political system and equality between citizens.
Establishing a dedicated financial programme for decommissioning of nuclear facilities and management of radioactive waste (A8-0441/2018 - Peter Kouroumbashev)
The Kozloduy and Bohunice programmes were established in the context of the negotiations for accession to the EU of Bulgaria and Slovakia. The current proposal follows up on the Union commitment to provide financial support to both Member States in decommissioning respectively the Kozloduy nuclear power plant units 1-4 and the Bohunice VI nuclear power plant. The aim of this proposal for a Council regulation is to address the challenges of the decommissioning of nuclear facilities and the management of the arising waste under a common instrument in order to optimize synergies and knowledge sharing. In order to achieve consistency in EU law the decommissioning of Kozloduy and Bohunice power plants should be considered under the same legal framework as the decommissioning of Ignalina power plant in Lithuania, however, taking into account specific situation of each nuclear power plant. This would facilitate the efforts of the Union in setting up the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and allow for a more objective European approach towards energy and in particular to nuclear challenges.
EU Emergency Travel Document (A8-0433/2018 - Kinga Gál)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU emergency travel document. Almost seven million EU citizens travel to or live in places outside the EU where their own country does not have an embassy or consulate and the number of unrepresented EU citizens is expected to increase to at least ten million by 2020. EU citizens resident in the territory of a non-EU country where their Member State of origin does not have representation are entitled to the protection of the diplomatic and consular authorities of any other Member State on the same conditions as that state’s nationals. I support the Rapporteur’s view that the Union should contribute to the protection of its citizens. The fundamental right to consular protection of unrepresented citizens of the Union under the same conditions as nationals, enshrined in Article 46 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, is an expression of European solidarity.
Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017 (A8-0466/2018 - Josep-Maria Terricabras)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017. The European Union (EU) is based on the values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, all of them enshrined in its Charter of Fundamental Rights. The promotion and safeguard of these principles makes Europe unique and a worthy political project where the citizens are at its core. I support the Rapporteur that only by placing the well-being of the people and the respect of their personal, civil, political, economic and social rights at the centre of the European Union’s policies and decisions, that we will manage to counteract Euroscepticism and (re)engage with those citizens who are still struggling to overcome the consequences of the economic crisis and the severe austerity measures imposed by the EU for some years.
Establishing, as part of the Integrated Border Management Fund, the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment (A8-0460/2018 - Jiří Pospíšil)
I voted in favour of the report on the establishment, as part of the Integrated Border Management Fund, of the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment. The proposed instrument for financial support for customs control equipment, as part of the new Integrated Border Management Fund (IBMF) in the MFF for the period 2021-2027, aims to reinforce checks on goods entering and exiting the Union’s borders by providing funding for the purchase, maintenance and upgrading of customs control equipment such as new scanners, automated number plate detection systems and mobile laboratories for sample analysis. The instrument is a new financial tool developed in response to prior requests from the Member States and is therefore based on their needs as regards better management of both external and internal borders. I support the rapporteurʼs view that the proposal is useful and well drafted. The Customs Union is a cornerstone of the European Union, one of the largest trading blocs in the world, and is essential for the proper functioning of the single market for the benefit of both EU businesses and citizens. I believe that the instrument will provide much-needed support for efficient functioning of the Customs Union.
Conclusion of the EU-Albania status agreement on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in Albania (A8-0463/2018 - Bodil Valero)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the conclusion of the EU-Albania status agreement on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in Albania. The conclusion of formal, legally binding agreements within the framework of cooperation with third countries is of crucial importance for ensuring transparency, public scrutiny and democratic oversight of such cooperation. However, any agreements concluded between the European Union and third countries on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency should be carefully considered, have added value and be strictly necessary and proportionate in terms of purpose and content. I support the rapporteurʼs view that the proposed status agreement is consistent with the model status agreement. However, as this agreement enters the implementation phase, it is important that the European Border and Coast Guard Agency should promptly inform the European Parliament about the activities conducted as part of the implementation of the status agreement.
EU-Kyrgyzstan comprehensive agreement (A8-0450/2018 - Cristian Dan Preda)
I voted in favour of the recommendation on the EU-Kyrgyzstan comprehensive agreement. I support the rapporteurʼs view that it is important to negotiate and conclude – without delay – an ambitious, comprehensive and balanced partnership and cooperation agreement (PCA) between the EU and Kyrgyzstan. The current agreement has been in place since 1999, and it is high time for a new agreement to form the basis for strong and lasting relations and the stable, secure and sustainable development of both parties. The new agreement should identify strategic short- and long-term perspectives and establish a number of well-defined structured goals for cooperation with Kyrgyzstan. It is necessary to invest additional efforts and deepen the relationship in order to make the EU more visible and more effective in the country and in the region.
Autonomous driving in European transport (A8-0425/2018 - Wim van de Camp)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the Autonomous driving in European transport. Our mobility system is undergoing profound changes to become more digital, safer and cleaner. Further automation of vehicles in all transport modes, and namely regarding connected and automated road vehicles, together with advances in information and communication technologies provide rich opportunities to improve traffic flows, increase safety for all users and reduce the environmental impacts of transport. It is imperative to continue and intensify at all levels the related efforts: regarding the regulatory framework, research and innovation, real-life testing and deployment of vehicles and road and communication infrastructure. It is key for Europe to stay at the forefront of this field, in order to reap the benefits of automated road transport and to successfully compete with the enormous thrust of efforts elsewhere in the US, China or Japan. I support the Rapporteur that it is necessary to address in a prompt manner outstanding issues in data protection, vehicle and route data use, and cybersecurity. Moreover, standardisation efforts at international level, namely in the framework of the UNECE and Vienna Convention, need to be further coordinated and help to ensure seamless interoperability of vehicles across borders.
EU guidelines and the mandate of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU (A8-0449/2018 - Andrzej Grzyb)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU guidelines and the mandate of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU. Freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief (FoRB) is a universal human right, a value of the EU and an important and undeniable pillar of dignity, greatly impacting on all individuals, their personal identity and development and on societies. It is deeply worrying that recent years have seen a dramatic rise in violations of FoRB worldwide and the persecution of believers and non-believers. We welcome the fact that the Special Envoy has developed effective working networks within the Commission as well as with the Council, the European Parliament, and other stakeholders. It is important that the Special Envoy continues focusing on promoting freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief, and the rights to non-belief, apostasy and the espousal of atheistic views, also paying attention to the situation of non-believers at risk.
Expedited settlement of commercial disputes (A8-0396/2018 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
I voted in favour of this resolution. Settlement of commercial disputes is far too slow in the EU. The World Bank estimates that in a number of Member States, it may well take up to 3-4 years to enforce a commercial contract. The choice of law in commercial contracts is not evenly distributed between the different Member States. This has many reasons, but as an effect, judges and legal practitioners in some countries get less experience in commercial matters, and also the development of jurisprudence in those countries is not as rich. I support the Rapporteur that a number of measures could be taken to support a more even distribution of choice of law and of development of and competence in commercial law in those Member States. The most obvious measure would be possible changes to the Rome I regulation regarding the rules on the choice of an applicable law aiming at achieving a stronger connection between the purpose and aim of agreements and the law chosen within the EU. The Commission should further study the establishment of a European Commercial Court to supplement the courts of the Member States specialised in the settlement of commercial disputes.
Establishing the Digital Europe programme for the period 2021-2027 (A8-0408/2018 - Angelika Mlinar)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Establishment of the Digital Europe programme for the period 2021-2027. The Digital Europe Programme for the period 2021-2027 proposed by the Commission on 6 June 2018 should bring benefits to European businesses and citizens, reinforce Europe’s capacities in key digital technology areas through large-scale deployment and widen their diffusion and uptake in both areas of public interest and private sector. However, taking into account the specificity of certain objectives, on top of the digital transformation, the Programme overall aim is to create capabilities and reinforce strategic autonomy of the EU. The current state of digitalisation of EU economy, industry and society is not sufficient to answer to the political ambition of the Digital Single Market. There is still an important gap to cover through substantial and better European investment, in order to achieve the common goal and fully benefit from the EU added value. This proposal is the first pan-European digital programme and it should be seen as a major step for strengthening and improving Europe’s leading position.
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going challenges of migration, refugee inflows and security threats (A8-0455/2018 - Daniele Viotti)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going challenges of migration, refugee inflows and security threats. Flexibility Instrument is intended to allow the financing, for a given financial year, of clearly identified expenditure which could not be financed within the limits of the ceilings available for one or more other headings. I support the agreement between the Parliament and the Council to further mobilise the Flexibility Instrument by EUR 178 715 475, following the proposal by the Commission to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument to supplement the financing available in the general budget of the Union for the financial year 2019 beyond the ceiling by the amount of EUR 985 629 138 to finance measures in the field of migration, refugees and security.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (A8-0366/2018 - Pedro Silva Pereira)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement. The negotiations between the European Union (EU) and Japan for an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), launched on 25 March 2013, were concluded on 8 December 2017. On 17 July 2018, the EU and Japan signed the EPA, as well as the Strategic Partnership Agreement, at the EU-Japan Summit in Tokyo. I agree with the Rapporteur that the EU-Japan EPA is of major strategic importance. The agreement represents a balanced and comprehensive outcome of significant economic value for the EU, its citizens and businesses. The agreement provides for new market opportunities, in particular for sectors, which are usually not the main beneficiaries of trade agreements (such as agriculture). There are a number of new concepts in this EPA, such as the commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change and dedicated chapters on corporate governance and SMEs. The agreement also fully respects the right to regulate and protects public services. It is important to stress that this agreement has the potential to contribute to sustainable growth and decent jobs while promoting the Union’s values and upholding high standards in areas like food safety, environmental protection and labour rights.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (A8-0392/2018 - David McAllister)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the annual report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy. The EU’s security environment is now more volatile, unpredictable, complex and ambiguous than at any time since the end of the Cold War, confronted with interstate conflicts, natural disasters, terrorism, failed states, cyber-attacks and hybrid warfare.Therefore, current EU policies may no longer suffice to promote a stable and prosperous neighbourhood. The EU has a growing responsibility to safeguard its own security while defending its interests and values. I agree with the Rapporteur that no single EU Member State can respond effectively to today’s global challenges on its own. 28 Member States working together towards coherent and unified positions and representing 500 million citizens provide more leverage in international negotiations, in promoting human rights and accountability, and in setting international regulations and political, democratic, environmental, social and economic standards.It is regretful that fact that the Member States all too often prioritise their national interests, regardless of the possible consequences at a European level, thereby undermining the EU’s unity, consistency and effectiveness, and as a result its credibility as a global player.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0375/2018 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy. The rules-based world order is being increasingly challenged, in the EU neighbourhood and beyond, at both the political-military level and, more recently, the commercial-economic level. These systemic challenges are being accompanied by the continuous deterioration of the strategic international environment, which is confronted with interstate and intrastate conflicts and violence, terrorism, state failure, cyber and hybrid attacks on the foundational pillars of our societies, the effects of climate change and natural disasters.I agree with the Rapporteur that these challenges are too vast to be successfully met by any single country, and that it is vital for the EU to respond to these challenges rapidly, consistently, effectively, with one voice and in concert with allies, partners and other international organisations.
EU-Ukraine Association Agreement (A8-0369/2018 - Michael Gahler)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. While Ukraine has been making progress on the path towards European integration, registering important achievements in the first electoral period after the Revolution of Dignity, more difficult tasks still need to be addressed. Public support for modernisation and reform is suffering on account of people’s disappointment at deteriorating social conditions, uncertainty about the future, dissatisfaction with the government’s reform policy, the continuing power of the oligarchs and the persistence of endemic corruption in state institutions. Despite all difficulties and war in the eastern part of the country, Ukraine deserves particular praise for reforms in the areas of energy, health, pensions, education, public administration, decentralisation, public procurement, defence and security, and the banking sector, and for securing macro-economic stabilisation. However, there is an urgent need for greater political oversight, synergy and coordination of the European integration process at the highest political level and for a greater focus on reforms that bring tangible benefits to citizens.
Education in the digital era: challenges, opportunities and lessons for EU policy design (A8-0400/2018 - Yana Toom)
I voted in favour of the resolution on ʻeducation in the digital era: challenges, opportunities and lessons for EU policy designʼ. Technology is evolving at a faster rate than ever before and is transforming many aspects of our lives. This also holds true for the labour market: the introduction of different technologies is changing the majority of professions across all industries. These implications require a proper response from our educational systems if we are to educate the citizens, employees, employers and entrepreneurs of the future. With all these rapid technological changes, education systems are struggling to adapt, not only in terms of how to use the technologies, but also in terms of teaching the necessary skills and of training for teachers and trainers to do that. I support the rapporteurʼs view that these developments give us the opportunity to rethink education in the digital era. Education in digital skills starts at school and, unfortunately, not all schools are even connected, despite the calls and possibilities for funding at EU level. The digital transformation of education and the economy needs a proper policy response. Without such a response, there is a risk that a new social divide will emerge.
Coordination of social security systems (A8-0386/2018 - Guillaume Balas)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the coordination of social security systems. The Commission’s proposed revision aims to facilitate mobility by ensuring that individuals do not lose their rights when moving within Europe (EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) and to ensure the continuity of social security when moving from one national legislation to another. It is legitimate for the country receiving the social security contributions also to be responsible for paying unemployment benefits. However, I support the rapporteurʼs view that further clarifications are needed regarding these provisions, so that the changes proposed by the Commission do not create practical, administrative, linguistic or training difficulties, as well as regarding the competence of the public employment service.
Establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) (A8-0397/2018 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the Establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE). Proper implementation of EU environmental and climate legislation and policy, combined with the requisite funding, is necessary to meet the overarching environment and climate objectives and international commitments of the EU and the Member States. A key demand for the European Parliament has been to assure a sufficient level of funding for the MFF for 2021-2027 and a greater concentration of budgetary resources in areas that demonstrate a clear European added value and stimulate sustainable economic growth. As the only programme dedicated specifically to environment and climate action, LIFE remains a crucial, effective and efficient financial instrument to help contribute to achieving the EU’s objectives. I support the Rapporteur, that a doubling of the financial envelope for the LIFE programme is therefore required and justified, as has been reiterated by the European Parliament.
Humanitarian Visas (A8-0423/2018 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on humanitarian visas. I support this clear request by Parliament for a legislative proposal establishing a European Humanitarian Visa system. The Commission should present such a proposal by the end of March 2019.This period might appear short. It is, however, fully justified given the urgency of the matter, the extended debates which have taken place, the studies undertaken and the detailed recommendations made in this report. I support the rapporteur’s contention that it is high time to find innovative solutions addressing both the needs of persons seeking protection and those of Member States. The current thinking as regards the visa acquis, on the one hand, and the asylum acquis, on the other, is artificial and unsuited to today’s realities. A courageous step is necessary in order for the EU to live up to its values.
Rail passengers' rights and obligations (A8-0340/2018 - Bogusław Liberadzki)
I voted in favour of this report as one of the key achievements in the railway sector is the establishment of a legal framework for the protection of passengers’ rights as part of EU consumer rights. However, several Member States still grant exemptions to some articles of the Regulation due to lack of financial means for upgrading neglected rail infrastructure or outdated rolling stock. Therefore, improvements and modernisation of the railway sector should remain permanent goals for the sector, including the protection of railway passengers. I also welcome, among other things, the proposal of the Commission in particular with regard to the provision of assistance to people with reduced mobility or disabilities and to compensation in case of travel disruptions.This update of the regulation provides momentum to further improve the EU railway system and set an even clearer framework for the relationship between the carriers and the customers. It has to be underlined that in order to be competitive, the railway sector has to provide excellent and modern services to customers at an affordable price. It is of utmost importance for ensuring sustainability of transport and social cohesion that new passengers are attracted to rail transport.
Persistent organic pollutants (A8-0336/2018 - Julie Girling)
I voted in favour of this report as it is the latest update of the 2004 report in line with the decisions made at the 2015 and 2017 Stockholm Convention COP meetings. The update lays out a new role for the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and their adequately funded activities, supporting the work of the Commission in the preparation of dossiers on substances.The update is aimed in general at aligning the text with that of the REACH regulation in order to ensure clarity and consistency for all actors, including citizens and industries whose activities are affected by this update. The use of impact assessments to assess POP proposals where appropriate is also in keeping with the Better Regulation Guidelines.The EU’s decisions on the safety of chemicals have far-reaching consequences. We have to consider not only the technical and scientific aspects of new proposals but also the socio-economic effects of POPs listings. It is important that all steps are taken to ensure decisions made are based on scientific evidence.
Interim report on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 – Parliament's position with a view to an agreement (A8-0358/2018 - Jan Olbrycht, Isabelle Thomas, Janusz Lewandowski, Gérard Deprez)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this interim report on the future MFF as the EU must provide itself with the necessary budgetary means to attain its objectives, political priorities and carry through its policies, especially long-standing ones enshrined in the Treaties, such as cohesion policy and the common agricultural and fisheries policies. The 2021-2027 MFF must guarantee the EU’s responsibility for and ability to meet emerging needs, additional challenges and new international commitments. The EU has to ensure a strong and credible EU budget for the benefit of citizens over the next seven-year period and avoid a repetition of previous mistakes and the serious problems linked to the underfinancing of the 2014-2020 MFF.This report will be the outline for Parliament’s negotiating mandate on every aspect of the Commission proposals.I also emphasise the importance of nuclear safety and the need to increase the amount allocated to the nuclear decommissioning assistance programme for the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania in order to adequately meet the technological challenge of dismantling the Chernobyl-type graphite reactor cores, as well as to prevent radiological risks and further reduce the hazard for EU citizens.
State aid rules: new categories of State aid (A8-0315/2018 - Sander Loones)
I voted in favour of this report on state aid rules and new categories of state aid. I welcome the initiative of the Commission to improve the interplay of EU funding programmes with state aid rules. National or regional authorities often do not have appreciation of the fact that EU funds are not automatically excluded from state aid rules nor automatically qualified. Only the differences in the legal status of directly paid EU funds to the final beneficiaries and indirectly paid EU funds via national authorities are clearly defined for now.The update of the EU State aid Enabling Regulation will resolve the misleading confusion and it will allow the Commission to modify the General Block Exemption Regulation. In this way, nationally managed funds and centrally managed EU funds can be combined as easily as possible, without distorting competition in the Single Market.The two new included categories in the Enabling Regulation (national funds combined with EU centrally managed funds; and projects by EU European Territorial Cooperation programmes) will contribute to administrative simplification as additional checks under overlapping rules will be avoided.
Arms export: implementation of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP (A8-0335/2018 - Sabine Lösing)
I voted in favour of this report which acknowledges the European defence market as an instrument to guarantee the security and defence of Member States and EU citizens and it also contributes to the implementation of the CFSP and the CSDP. But the Member States have to overcome the current lack of efficiency in defence spending due to duplication, fragmentation and lack of interoperability, and to aim for the EU to become a security provider also by better controlling arms exports. In any case EU Member States have the legitimate right to acquire military technology for the purposes of self-defence but it is also the only union of states that has a legally binding framework through which arms export control is being improved, including in crisis regions and countries with a questionable human rights record. Therefore I welcome other non-European third countries who have joined the arms export control system on the basis of the Common Position and are willing to join in the near future. Finally, export licensing risk assessments and the implementation of end-user controls, post-shipment controls and on-site inspections have to be strengthened and better coordinated between EU delegations, the EEAS and the Member States.
Empowering competition authorities and ensuring the proper functioning of the internal market (A8-0057/2018 - Andreas Schwab)
I voted in favour of this report aimed at empowering the competition authorities of the Member States to apply the regulation more effectively and ensure the proper functioning of the internal market, given that this strengthens the role of the competition authorities of the Member States to be more effective so that competition is not distorted in the internal market and businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, are not disadvantaged by national legislation. The competition authorities should have more power to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market and adequate rules, particularly with regard to its independence and resources, powers of investigation and imposition of sanctions, among other aspects. The application of the principle of subsidiarity is important, although there must be some harmonizing control from the EU institutions to ensure that the objectives are reached in terms of improving the internal market.
European Electronic Communications Code (A8-0318/2017 - Pilar del Castillo Vera)
I voted in favour of this report as the time has come to maximise the opportunities that more advanced digital technologies bring. The Commission proposal to add infrastructure at the core of the framework is the right approach. Since the 2009 review, the market has changed dramatically. New players have emerged as consumers and businesses increasingly rely on data services.The smart world of today needs increased connectivity and wavelengths and very high capacity fixed and mobile networks. Therefore, the EU needs a framework based on connectivity to improve its society to become a gigabit society. The necessary investment, however, is estimated at EUR 500-600 billion and the private sector would have to provide the largest share, which requires a framework that has to ensure predictability and long-term investment. Therefore, investment, competition and regulation must form the backbone for the establishment of a universal VHCN and 5G broadband infrastructure. The EU has the necessary assets and economies of scale for cloud computing, big data, data-driven science, robotics, artificial intelligence and the internet of things to fully develop. The EU has a real opportunity and is perfectly equipped to be a data economy leader, the key competitive advantage of this century.
Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (A8-0305/2017 - Evžen Tošenovský)
I voted in favour of the report for the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC).As BEREC is not an EU agency and consists of a Board of Regulators, composed of the representatives of the national regulatory authorities (NRAs) established in each Member State, it is well anchored in the realities of 28 national telecoms markets to provide relevant expertise. BEREC is aiming to ensure a consistent implementation of the regulatory framework for electronic communications, for instance, through dissemination of best practices and issuing guidelines and opinions, it provides advice to the NRAs and EU institutions and it carries out other tasks assigned to it by the regulatory framework. The key element of the Commission proposal is the proposal to convert BEREC and BEREC Office into a single EU Agency. The Board of Regulators would become the Management Board of the Agency and the Administrative Manager of the Office would become the Executive Director. Under the Commission proposal, this merger would provide BEREC with an appropriate and efficient governance structure, a mandate and the tools it needs to ensure consistent implementation of the regulatory framework.
CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles (A8-0354/2018 - Bas Eickhout)
I voted against the report for laying down performance standards for CO2 emissions for new heavy-duty vehicles because the position adopted in the Committee puts at risk the European electricity sector and the road transport sector, setting reduction levels above what the Commission has considered as optimal in its impact assessment. Also, the sanctions-based mechanism established against manufacturers that do not reach the stated objectives seems to be too excessive. The final proposal of the Parliament seems very unbalanced. I still think that the best tool to achieve the decarbonisation of transport and thus mitigate the effects of climate change should go hand in hand with industry, social entities and institutions, never against or without any of the parties.
Need for a comprehensive Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights mechanism (B8-0523/2018, B8-0524/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution because the elaboration of a proposal on the need for a comprehensive mechanism for democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights has been a longstanding demand from the European Parliament, while the Council and the Commission have repeatedly ignored this request. Such a mechanism is more urgently needed now than ever before, but first of all, an interinstitutional agreement for a comprehensive, permanent and objective EU mechanism for the protection of democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights is needed.There should be regular mechanisms for monitoring compliance in the Member States with respect to fundamental freedoms and the values on which the EU is based, beyond the activation of Article 7, which should be an extraordinary mechanism. Subsidiarity should not be understood, in this case, as a freedom to exercise the power within a state, but the extension of the values of freedom, justice and equality.
Humanitarian visas (A8-0328/2018 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
I voted in favour of the report with recommendations to the Commission on humanitarian visas because I believe it is a step forward in achieving a common asylum and migration policy, given that now decisions taken by the Member States leave the EU only in a coordinating role, without real power. There are no provisions in the EU law as to how a refugee should actually arrive, leading to a situation that almost all arrivals take place in an irregular manner. Therefore, we must move forward in the fight against the human smugglers that put at risk the lives of thousands of people fleeing the war and provide European humanitarian visas, with common criteria.It is high time to find innovative solutions addressing both the needs of persons seeking protection and Member States. The current thinking as regards the visa acquis on the one side and the asylum acquis on the other is not adequately shaped and not adapted to today’s realities. The EU should take a step forward in order to put into practice its values.
Multiannual plan for small pelagic stocks in the Adriatic Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0337/2018 - Ruža Tomašić)
I voted in favour of this report, and I welcome the multiannual plan for the Adriatic Sea as it will provide a tool for multiannual management of biological marine resources to help rebuild stocks and return the fisheries sector to a sustainable level. Scientists have assessed the status of sardine and anchovy stocks, and the current level of fishing in the Adriatic Sea constitutes overexploitation. Therefore, the adoption of the report is timely and I support the measures intended to improve the state of stocks, with particular emphasis on spatial protection of areas in which to preserve juvenile fish and protect a stock while it is spawning. The joint management of small pelagic stocks, for example sardine and anchovy, is also very important as the two species share the same ecological niche and their biomass is altering.
The rule of law in Romania (B8-0522/2018)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution as it is fundamentally important to guarantee that the common European values are upheld in full, and that fundamental rights are guaranteed in Romania and throughout the EU. The redrafted law relating to Romanian judicial and criminal legislation and specifically its potential structurally to undermine the independence of the judicial system, lessening the capacity to fight corruption effectively in Romania, and to weaken the rule of law, is causing huge concerns.Corruption remains a challenge in the EU. Whilst the nature and scope of corruption may differ from one Member State to another, it harms the EU as a whole, its economy and society, hampers economic development, undermines democracy and damages the rule of law. The Romanian authorities should put in place safeguards to ensure there is a transparent and legal basis for any institutional cooperation and should avoid any interference that upsets the system of checks and balances. Any measures which would decriminalise corruption in office should be countered, and the national anti-corruption strategy should be applied immediately.
Minimum standards for minorities in the EU (A8-0353/2018 - József Nagy)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it reiterates the obligation on the Member States to ensure full access for minorities to their human rights, irrespective of whether they are individuals or communities. Protection of minorities is a key element of the Copenhagen criteria for Member States and candidate countries. However, there is no guarantee that the candidate countries, when they become Member States, will comply with the commitments they make in line with the Copenhagen criteria. The EU still lacks effective measures to monitor and ensure respect for minority rights and the protection of minorities in the EU.The EU must constantly monitor Member States’ compliance with the Copenhagen criteria before and after joining the Union, ensuring that the rights of minorities to maintain, protect and enhance their identity are observed, and that minorities can participate effectively in social, economic, cultural and public life. The Commission should therefore draw up a common framework of EU minimum standards for the protection of minorities, with measurable milestones and regular reporting.
Digitalisation for development: reducing poverty through technology (A8-0338/2018 - Bogdan Brunon Wenta)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as investing in digitalisation can be a strong engine for inclusive growth in developing countries, especially if these investments reach everyone regardless of gender, geography or economic status. Digitalisation is global and it affects all aspects of our lives. With further commitment to this process from the developing countries themselves, as well as with strong support from the European Union, the international community and the public and private sector, it is possible to reduce the digital and economic division where people are left behind, although new technologies create opportunities. The internet is not only a place for goods and services, but it also helps people to exercise their economic, civic and political rights. In developing countries, modern communications technology is a necessity and can allow people to participate successfully in the changing world.
Import of cultural goods (A8-0308/2018 - Alessia Maria Mosca, Daniel Dalton)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the import of cultural goods. Lately it has come into the spotlight that general rules applicable to the trade in goods do not address all of the specificities of the import of cultural goods. Illicit trafficking in cultural goods is linked to organised crime, terrorism financing, money laundering and tax evasion and also results in the loss of cultural heritage in third countries. I support the rapporteurs’ view that the Commission proposal would extend that protection to the cultural heritage of third countries, which is not harmonised at EU level. Common rules on the export of cultural goods do already exist under EU regulation. It is important to ensure a proper balance between the objective of curbing the illicit import of cultural goods and the need to ensure that proposed controls and additional obligations do not pose an undue burden to licit economic operators in art market and to customs authorities. Moreover, adequate technical assistance and support should be given to the micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises operating in art market.
Protection of the EU’s financial interests - Recovery of money and assets from third-countries in fraud cases (A8-0298/2018 - Cătălin Sorin Ivan)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Protection of the EU’s financial interests - Recovery of money and assets from third-countries in fraud cases. The protection of the EU’s financial interests should be a key element of EU policy aimed at increasing the confidence of citizens by ensuring that their money is used properly and effectively. However, the diversity of legal and administrative systems in the Member States presents a challenging environment for combating fraud, in the absence of uniform legislation at European level to combat organised crime. I support the Rapporteur that there is the need, for the purposes of prevention, to avoid transfers of funds through financial intermediaries operating in non-transparent and uncooperative jurisdictions. The Commission should undertake a risk assessment of EU laws that facilitate illegal money transfer outside of the EU, and remove the sensitive points in those laws.
Unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships in the food supply chain (A8-0309/2018 - Paolo De Castro)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships in the food supply chain. In an agricultural policy environment that has become distinctly more market oriented, the good and fair governance of the agricultural and food supply chain has become crucial for all the actors involved, and especially for agricultural producers. The latter are particularly vulnerable to unfair trading practices (UTPs) as they often lack bargaining power that would match that of their partners that buy their products. This is mainly due to the limited alternatives they have for getting their products to final consumers, as well as to the structural weakness of the farming system compared to its downstream partners. The present Commission proposal on UTPs corresponds to a strong and longstanding demand from the European farming community and a long felt belief that farmers should be better protected against abusive practices from processors and retailers. It could be a long expected legislative instrument to defend agricultural producers’ bargaining position in the agricultural and food supply chain.
Veterinary medicinal products (A8-0046/2016 - Françoise Grossetête)
I voted in favour of the resolution on Veterinary medicinal products. The Commission’s draft regulation is a move in the right direction that the veterinary medicines market should be separated from the human medicines market, which works very differently. The Commission is right to stress the importance of product availability and simpler administrative procedures without sacrificing the principles of public health and the protection of the environment.Nonetheless, the Commission has not gone far enough on some points and the draft contains a number of loopholes. I support the Rapporteur that it should be much more ambitious in its measures relating to antibacterial resistance and should, in particular, provide clear definitions on the different kinds of treatment (curative, control and preventative) and ban the prophylactic use of antibiotics. It is essential that the rules on medicinal products for human use and the rules on medicinal products for veterinary use agree on this point.
Manufacture, placing on the market and use of medicated feed (A8-0075/2016 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the manufacture, placing on the market and use of medicated feed. Medicated feed is an efficient and economic tool for treating groups of animals. The manufacturing standards applied in its production guarantee that the medicine is distributed in a homogeneous and stable manner in the feed. In this way, each animal has access to the same quantity of medicine and in the correct quantities for the treatment to be effective. In this regard, it is important to update Directive 90/167/EEC and replace it with a regulation, which would be appropriate given that it is widely agreed that at present the differences among Member States in regulating medicated feed have become too wide.
Promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles (A8-0321/2018 - Andrzej Grzyb)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles. The proposal for a directive amending Directive 2009/33/EU on the promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport, by setting minimum targets in public procurement for clean vehicles, aims at the promotion of the clean transport, fostering new and clean technologies and in the long-term reduction of emissions of air pollutants and CO2. The amended Directive should also contribute to the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure, as well as to compliance of vehicles with the requirements of the latest standards of emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases.The proposed Directive uses public procurement to stimulate demand for clean road transport vehicles. EU manufacturers, however, also need to be protected from unfair competition. Therefore, I agree with the Rapporteur that road transport vehicles which are produced by manufacturers based in third countries where EU manufacturers do not have the access to tenders by way of public procurement for the purchase, lease, rent or hire-purchase of road transport vehicles, should not be counted towards the achievement of minimum procurement targets.
Deployment of infrastructure for alternative fuels in the EU: time to act! (A8-0297/2018 - Ismail Ertug)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Deployment of infrastructure for alternative fuels in the EU: time to act! Transport is the only major economic sector in the EU where greenhouse gas emissions have increased since 1990. It is responsible for 23% of CO2 emissions, and this share is still growing. In order to fulfil its commitments to fight climate change, protect the environment and to strengthen its energy independence, Europe will have to increase efforts in decarbonising its economy. In 2014, Directive 2014/94/EU on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure was adopted. Unfortunately, the binding targets for each Member State as foreseen in the European Commission’s proposal were deleted. The evaluation of the National Framework Plans (NFP), showed, that the ambition and effort differs widely between Member States and that the NFPs. As there are different modes, different types and environments of transport which have their own specific requirements as regards fuels and powertrain technologies, a mix of alternative fuels is the most promising approach in the medium term. Energy should also be used as efficiently as possible to decarbonise.
General budget of the European Union for 2019 - all sections (A8-0313/2018 - Daniele Viotti, Paul Rübig)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the general budget of the European Union for 2019 – all sections. Europe’s citizens expect the Union to ensure economic growth and foster job creation evenly within all its regions. In order to meet those expectations, investments in research and innovation, digitalisation, education, infrastructure and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are needed, as well as fostering of employment, particularly among the young people of Europe. I support the rapporteurs in their disapproval of the Council position to cut the very programmes that are designed to make the Union economy more competitive and innovative. Many of those programmes, for example Horizon 2020, are heavily oversubscribed, which shows a poor use of resources and means that many excellent projects do not receive funding. Moreover, ahead of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union, the Union needs the necessary financial resources to respond to citizens’ expectations, to allow the Union to effectively tackle the numerous abovementioned priorities and challenges it faces and to improve the day-to-day life of its citizens.
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0300/2018 - Marco Valli)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Council and Council. Parliament refuses to grant the Secretary-General of the Council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Council and of the Council for the financial year 2016. It is regrettable that the Council has not replied to the observations made by Parliament in its discharge resolution of 18 April 2018. Following the trend from previous years, and despite occasional exchanges of information between the buildings departments of the two institutions, the Council continues not to provide detailed information on its buildings policy in its annual financial report. I support the rapporteur’s view that buildings policy and related expenditure need to be clear, and that the public must have full access to this information as a sign of transparency vis-à-vis Union citizens.
Launch of automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Ireland (A8-0344/2018 - Branislav Škripek)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the launch of automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Ireland. The purpose of the draft Council implementing decision is to authorise Ireland to receive and supply personal data in respect of dactyloscopic data, with the aim of facilitating and strengthening cross-border cooperation between the competent authorities in combating terrorism and cross-border crime.The decision sets out a number of general provisions on data protection which a Member State must implement before it can take part in the automated data exchange. In accordance with Council Decision 2008/616/JHA, verification that these conditions have been met is to be established by an evaluation report, which is to be based on a questionnaire, an evaluation visit and a pilot run. I support the rapporteur’s view that, as Ireland has met all necessary requirements, automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data can be launched.
Reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment (A8-0317/2018 - Frédérique Ries)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment. The amount of plastic marine litter in oceans and seas is growing, to the detriment of ecosystems, biodiversity and potentially, human health, and causes widespread concern. At the same time, valuable material that could be brought back into the economy is lost, once littered. Plastic makes up 80-85% of the total number of marine litter items, measured through beach counts. Europe has a responsibility to tackle marine litter originating from Europe and it has also committed to act at a global level, notably through the G7 and G20 but also through the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This initiative will place the EU at the forefront of global efforts, giving credibility and strength to its international action in the field. We look forward to the full implementation of this initiative.
Establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System in the field of border checks (A8-0347/2017 - Carlos Coelho)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System in the field of border checks. The current Schengen Information System II (‘SIS II’) legal framework although agreed by 2006/2007 only became applicable on 9 April 2013 when the SIS II system was ready. However, there is still much room for improvement by Member States. The assessment accompanying the current proposals and the evaluations and recommendations on the Schengen Evaluation Mechanism sometimes point to serious issues regarding the non- or wrong implementation of the SIS II legal framework. This is particularly worrisome regarding terrorism. Therefore, I welcome the Commission’s proposals, as they further strengthen the SIS, underlining its truly European nature, maintaining its main characteristics and addressing some of the shortcomings at national level. I also support the rapporteur that further improvements can still be made and urge the Commission and Council to consider those improvements.
Use of the Schengen Information System for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals (A8-0348/2017 - Jeroen Lenaers)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Use of the Schengen Information System for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals. The use of the Schengen Information System for information sharing on return decisions is another small but crucial step in a series of Union measures with the aim of improving the effectiveness of the return of illegally staying third-country nationals. The Union has to improve the effectiveness of its return policy. It is crucial in order to maintain public trust in the Union migration and asylum policy. This proposal will set up for the first time a Union-wide system for sharing information between Member States on return decisions and will therefore allow for monitoring whether third-country nationals subject to those decisions have left the territory of the Member States and implementation of Union wide return decisions. I support the Rapporteur that this improvement should thereby increase the effectiveness of Union return policies.
Harmonisation of the structures of excise duties on alcohol and alcoholic beverages (A8-0307/2018 - Miguel Viegas)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the harmonisation of the structures of excise duties on alcohol and alcoholic beverages. Directive 92/83/EEC on the structures of excise duty on alcohol and alcoholic beverages sets out the common rules on the structures of excise duty applied to alcohol and alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine. However, the Directive has not kept pace with the challenges and opportunities offered by new technologies and developments within the alcohol industry. The large variation in duty levels between Member States, which provides a strong incentive for tax evasion, and other weaknesses in the design of the tax necessitate the use of burdensome administrative procedures for both tax administrations and economic operators. These disproportionate administrative and compliance costs for economic operators restrict the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises in intra-EU trade in alcohol and alcoholic beverages. I support the Commission proposal, since the objectives of this Directive, namely to reduce the compliance burden of economic operators and administrative burden for tax administrations, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States but can rather, by reason of the effects of the action, be better achieved at Union level.
Discharge 2016: European Asylum Support Office (EASO) (A8-0299/2018 - Bart Staes)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on Discharge 2016: European Asylum Support Office (EASO), with which Parliament approves the closure of the accounts of the European Asylum Support Office for the financial year 2016. I support the rapporteur in welcoming the action already undertaken by the ad interim Executive Director to improve the governance structure of the EASO, restore transparency and build trust, as well counteracting the previously detected deficiencies in the legality and regularity of transactions.In this regard, the EASO needs to prepare a comprehensive and detailed roadmap, including a clear plan for restoring trust in management, especially bearing in mind that competent and effective management is key in view of the challenges the Office faces generally. In particular, it is important to make sure that the recruitment and training of the significant number of new staff provided for in 2018 and 2019 is of such a level that the EASO will have well motivated and high-quality personnel at its disposal, that there will be less staff turnover and that knowledge and experience are retained.
Electronic publication of the Official Journal of the European Union (A8-0323/2018 - Pavel Svoboda)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the electronic publication of the Official Journal (OJ) of the European Union. The aim of the proposal is to update the procedure for authenticating the electronic version of the OJ by an electronic signature and to introduce the possibility of authenticating a document with an advanced electronic seal.According to the Commission, the use of such an advanced electronic seal would make it possible to automate the electronic signature and accelerate the procedure for publication of the OJ on the EUR-Lex database. The use of an electronic seal rather than a signature would make a difference in legal terms, since the authentication method for a signature involves a specific natural person, whereas when a seal is used it is created by a legal person with no indication of who within that legal person was responsible for authenticating the document.
EU-Bahamas Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0304/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Bahamas Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver. This agreement on the waiver of short-stay visas crowns the deepening of relations between the European Union and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, which is politically highly significant in the context of the Cotonou Agreement. The amending agreement ensures legal coherence as well as harmonisation among Member States, by adhering to the new definition of short-stay provided by the Schengen Borders Code amendment, which gives a clearer interpretation of ʻshort-stayʼ. I support the rapporteurʼs view that the visa waiver will have a positive impact on rapprochement between the peoples of Europe and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The new visa waiver agreement will enable citizens to derive full benefit from the ACP-EU partnership and to participate in it by travelling at a reduced, economical and practical cost under a clearer and more coherent legal framework.
EU-Mauritius Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0303/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Mauritius Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver. This amending agreement on the waiver of short-stay visas crowns the deepening of relations between the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius, which is politically highly significant in the context of the Cotonou Agreement. Mauritius has a very good record of growth. Despite the country’s isolation from major world markets, it is among the most successful small developing countries in diversifying its economy out of dependence on one agricultural commodity (sugar) into manufacturing, tourism, horticulture and, lately, financial services and ICT. The amended visa waiver agreement will enable citizens not only to derive full benefit from the ACP-EU partnership, but also to continue to participate in it by travelling at a reduced, economical and practical cost under a clearer and more coherent legal framework.
EU-Antigua and Barbuda Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0305/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Antigua and Barbuda Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver. The EU’s political dialogue with the various Pacific ACP countries and Antigua and Barbuda in particular is gradually increasing. This agreement may enable us to continue our partnership under a clear legal framework. The amending visa exemption will continue sending out a positive message of support for the country and the efforts it is making.
EU-Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0306/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver. St Kitts and Nevis is a member of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States, Association of Caribbean States, Caribbean Community, Non-Aligned Movement, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, Organization of American States, United Nations and World Trade Organization. The EU’s political dialogue with the various ACP countries and the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis in particular is gradually increasing. The visa waiver will have an important impact on rapprochement between the peoples of Europe and the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The new visa waiver agreement will enable citizens to not only derive full benefit from the ACP-EU partnership but continue to participate in it by travelling at a reduced, economical and practical cost under a clearer and more coherent legal framework.
EU-Barbados Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0301/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Barbados Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver. This amending agreement on the waiver of short-stay visas simultaneously represents a culmination of the deepening of relations between the European Union and Barbados, which is politically highly significant in the context of the Cotonou Agreement. The amending agreement ensures legal coherence as well as harmonisation among Member States, by adhering to the new definition of short-stay as is provided by the Schengen Borders Code amendment, which provides a clearer interpretation of the term. Barbados has an exceptionally high quality of life rating for a developing country. The economy, formerly a sugar monoculture, was developed over three decades to achieve a balance of growth and social development, and diversified into three main sectors: services, light industry and sugar. I support the Rapporteur that the new visa waiver agreement will enable citizens not only to derive full benefit from the ACP-EU partnership but also to participate in it by travelling at a reduced, economical and practical cost under a clearer and more coherent legal framework.
EU-Seychelles Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0302/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the EU-Seychelles Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver. Despite having one of the highest per capita incomes in Africa, the Seychelles is vulnerable economically, due to its small size, isolation, limited natural resources and dependence on tourism, which accounts for the bulk of foreign-exchange earnings. Though tourism worldwide grew strongly and cheaper long-haul flights made destinations such as the Seychelles more accessible, the industry became increasingly competitive. Imports needed for tourism were in large part responsible for the country’s trade deficit. The EU’s political dialogue with the various ACP countries and the Seychelles in particular is gradually increasing. I support the Rapporteur that this agreement may allow us to continue our partnership under a clear legal framework. The amending visa exemption will continue to send out a positive message of support for the country and the efforts it is making.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/002 PT/Norte – Centro – Lisboa wearing apparel (A8-0311/2018 - José Manuel Fernandes)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/002 PT/Norte – Centro – Lisboa wearing apparel. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund has been created in order to provide additional assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns. On 10 September 2018, the Commission adopted a proposal for a decision on the mobilisation of the EGF in favour of Portugal to support the reintegration in the labour market of workers made redundant by two enterprises operating in the economic sector in the two regions of Norte, Centro and Lisboa in Portugal. Those redundancies are linked to major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation, notably the serious economic disruption undergone by the wearing apparel sector. The increase of imports into the EU put a downward pressure on prices, which had a negative effect on the financial position of enterprises in the textiles sector in the EU and triggered a general trend in the textiles and clothing industry to offshore production to lower cost countries outside the EU. Therefore, the support from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund is very much needed by the workers in Portugal.
Resources for economic, social and territorial cohesion and resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal (A8-0282/2018 - Iskra Mihaylova)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on Resources for economic, social and territorial cohesion and resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal. The proposal is of high importance as it concerns the funding for the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) in 2018. The YEI provides support to young people living in regions where youth unemployment was higher than 25% in 2012. In 2017, funds were increased for regions where youth unemployment was higher than 25% in 2016. The YEI supports young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs), including the long-term unemployed and those not registered as job-seekers. It ensures that, in those parts of Europe facing the greatest challenges, young people can receive targeted support. I support the present proposal to frontload some of the 2020 appropriations for the YEI to 2018. An increase in the budgetary means for the YEI in 2018 was agreed in the budgetary negotiations for 2018. The increase is considerable, namely by an amount of EUR 116.7 million, which brings the total YEI budget for 2018 to EUR 350 million. It is important that the EP adopted the proposal by using rapid adoption procedure.
Alignment of reporting obligations in the field of environment policy (A8-0324/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the alignment of reporting obligations in the field of environment policy. The Commission intention to streamline the alignment of reporting obligations for environment-related legislation, updating specific provisions of 10 sectoral directives and regulations is very much needed as it comes at a conducive moment when efforts are being made to simplify the environmental legislation, including reporting provisions, that has been gradually increasing since the 1970s. This proposal is aimed to increase transparency, provide an evidence base for future evaluations, and to simplify and reduce the administrative burden for Member States and the Commission. With these improvements, data will be better collected and processed, offering faster comprehensive assessments for decision—makers in Members States and at Union level.
The role of employee financial participation in creating jobs and reactivating the unemployed (A8-0293/2018 - Renate Weber)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the role of employee financial participation in creating jobs and reactivating the unemployed. In the last 30 years, employee financial participation (EFP) has developed a lot through Europe. In 2018, there are around 10 million employee shareholders in Europe, and 2017 was a record year for EFP with nearly EUR 400 billion held by employees. Nevertheless, the development of employee share ownership is geographically unbalanced within the European Union, with a lag of 30-40 years between lead and late European countries. These differences between Member States can be explained by the existence or not of adequate legislation. I agree with the Rapporteur that without asking for new legislative instruments at EU level, this INI report would help to make a step forward towards the development of EFP in Europe by highlighting the potential of these schemes for both workers and their employers. The report rightly suggests a number of measures which could be taken at Union level to facilitate EFP, such as the need for awareness—raising campaigns, exchanges of best practices platforms, citizens’ financial education, more transparency and information, more incentives and a reflection on transnational obstacles.
Public procurement strategy package (A8-0229/2018 - Carlos Coelho)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it welcomes the updated strategy on public procurement for the EU, which can stimulate better implementation of the public procurement rules in the Member States and accelerate national reforms as necessary. In addition to that the new Directives not only set the rules with which public authorities need to comply in order to justify how they spend taxpayers’ money. Moreover, the Directives provide enormous opportunities for the Member States to attain strategic goals and pursue policies through public spending. But the full potential of public procurement in helping to build a competitive social market economy is yet to be unlocked. About four years after the formal adoption of the Directives, there is no clear picture, nor full overview of how the Directives are being transposed and implemented in the different Member States. This is unfortunately due to the fact that considerable delays occurred regarding the transposition in many Member States, also to the extent that the Commission had to start infringement procedures for a few of them.
EU Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust) (A8-0320/2017 - Axel Voss)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it calls on the improvement and effectiveness of the functioning of Eurojust. Since it was set up, this EU agency has facilitated coordination and cooperation between national investigative and prosecutorial authorities in dealing with cases affecting a number of Member States. By rapidly solving legal problems and identifying competent authorities in other countries, Eurojust has facilitated the execution of requests for cooperation and the application of mutual recognition instruments, thereby improving cross-border prosecution.I also support the Council decision on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), but the principles of proportionality and subsidiarity have to be respected, competences between Eurojust and the EPPO have to be aligned in the proposal and data protection provisions need to be updated. In the end, these necessary reforms will lead to more transparency.
Mutual recognition of freezing and confiscation orders (A8-0001/2018 - Nathalie Griesbeck)
I voted in favour of this report as the three legislative proposals contained in this legislative package will enable the EU’s legal framework in the areas of money laundering, illegal movements of cash and the freezing and confiscation of assets to be supplemented and reinforced, thereby constituting a more powerful and better-coordinated European response in this field. Freezing and confiscation of the proceeds of crime are among the most effective means of combating organised crime. Money coming from and going to criminal organisations needs to be blocked. Having a mutual recognition instrument is of fundamental importance, given that the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation in criminal matters in the EU. However, fundamental rights have to be respected and procedures simplified and clarified. It is also of importance that the new instrument has to be harmonised with the other European legislative instruments.
Free flow of non-personal data in the European Union (A8-0201/2018 - Anna Maria Corazza Bildt)
I voted in favour of this report this regulation on the Free flow of non-personal data de facto establishes data as the fifth freedom in the Single Market. With the emergence of new technologies such as cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence, the possibility to move data freely has become a key issue for European companies. But localisation requirements put in place by Member States reduce competition and increase storage costs by an estimated 120 percent. However, by removing these requirements the EU could highly benefit from that. I support the simplification and clarification of this regulation making it easy to apply. Moreover it is important that the text of the regulation is legally certain and future proof in order to maximise the benefits of free movement of data.
The EU's input on a UN binding instrument on transnational corporations with respect to human rights (B8-0443/2018, B8-0472/2018, B8-0473/2018, B8-0474/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution as I am convinced that globalisation and increasing internationalisation of business activities and supply chains make the role that corporations play in ensuring respect for human rights more important and create a situation in which international norms and rules are crucial to avoid human rights violations in third countries. I firmly believe that the private sector is an important partner in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in mobilising additional resources for development. Given the increasing role in development cooperation of the private sector, their actors must align with development effectiveness principles and abide by the principles of corporate accountability throughout the whole life cycle of projects. Moreover, I fully support the implementation of the UNGPs and all States shall elaborate and adopt national action plans for the swift, effective and comprehensive implementation of the said principles. However, a global approach to the way in which transnational corporations abide by human rights law is still lacking.
Situation in Yemen (RC-B8-0444/2018, B8-0444/2018, B8-0445/2018, B8-0446/2018, B8-0447/2018, B8-0448/2018, B8-0449/2018, B8-0450/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution as I am gravely concerned about the continued deterioration of the situation in Yemen and the devastating humanitarian impact of the conflict on civilians. I condemn every attack against civilians and express my grave distress at the level of violence in Yemen. With this resolution we call on all parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of civilians and to comply with international humanitarian law and international human rights law. All parties have to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law to allow and facilitate safe, rapid and unhindered access for humanitarian supplies and personnel to all people in need in all affected areas.
Fighting customs fraud and protecting EU own resources (B8-0400/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution as the Commission has to take up all measures to recover uncollected EU own resources to provide revenue for the EU budget. Moreover, the Commission has to ensure that Member States fully comply with the provisions of the Union Customs Code, which entered into force on 1 May 2016, and to clarify any provisions that may lead to confusion. The Commission and the Member States have also to make sure that the application of the common rules by customs authorities is organised in such a manner that fraud, including carousel fraud, is effectively prevented and controls are reinforced at ports, airports and land borders and on the internet.
Harmonising and simplifying certain rules in the VAT system (A8-0280/2018 - Jeppe Kofod)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as the harmonisation of the different national VAT systems is an important long-term task, which should simplify the life of our companies, reduce their compliance costs and reduce cross-border fraud. This report aims in the right direction as it introduces a series of fundamental principles or ‘cornerstones’ for the future definitive VAT system, and four ‘quick fixes’ to improve the day-to-day functioning of the current VAT system, tackling the VAT identification number, chain transactions, call-off stock situations and proof of intra-Community supply. In particular, companies considered as financially reliable may, under certain conditions, obtain from their national tax authorities a status of ‘certified taxable person’, a reliable taxpayer recognised as such by Member States, and thus benefit from simplified procedures.
VAT: period of application of the reverse charge mechanism and of the Quick Reaction Mechanism (A8-0283/2018 - Sirpa Pietikäinen)
I voted in favour of this report, as it endorses the Commission’s proposal authorising the Member States to prolong the possibility for Member States to apply the reverse charge mechanism to combat existing fraud in supplies of goods and services included in Article 199a of the VAT Directive and the possibility to use the Quick Reaction Mechanism, which have proven to be effective tools for combating VAT fraud. It appears that the measures included in Articles 199a and 199b of the VAT Directive have been useful as temporary and targeted measures. Their expiration on 31 December 2018 would deprive Member States of an efficient tool to fight fraud. It is therefore appropriate to prolong the measures included in Articles 199a and 199b until 30 June 2022, the date on which the definitive regime for intra-Union B2B supplies of goods should enter into force.
Administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties as regards the content of electronic register (A8-0285/2018 - Ivana Maletić)
I voted in favour of this report, as it endorses the Commission’s proposal to make the legal framework for cooperation between Member States on the movement of goods subject to excise duties. It allows the automation of the control of these movements, thus facilitating the task of administrations. In detail, the objective of the proposal is to introduce the obligation of registration of economic operators moving goods. In the absence of that proposal, the full automation of movements of goods released for consumption will not be possible. Moreover, this proposal respects fundamental rights, particularly the right to privacy though the existing provision on data protection.
Health technology assessment (A8-0289/2018 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report because a European citizen confronted with a disease has to benefit from the most innovative therapies. The Commission’s proposal is timely and represents a high degree of added value for the EU. It constitutes a further step towards closer EU integration in the important area of health.The fundamental aim of the proposal is to introduce joint clinical assessment of health technologies at EU level. The evaluation of new treatments is currently carried out at national level, with little coordination between Member States, and the associated costs and administrative procedures are multiplied for pharmaceutical companies. This reduces the number of new treatments available and delays their launch. The consequences are serious: because of this, Europe performs, for example, significantly worse than the USA in the fight against cancer. This report will, in particular, make it possible to pool clinical trials at European level and to benefit more quickly from the best new treatments.
Emission performance standards for new passenger cars and for new light commercial vehicles (A8-0287/2018 - Miriam Dalli)
. ‒ I voted against the Commission proposal, as it sets too ambitious targets for reducing CO2 emissions for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles. Thus, they will have to emit 40% less CO2 by 2030 compared to the 2021 targets. Transport is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions and, with this regulation, the EU shows that it takes seriously its commitments made at COP21, but more has to be done. Electricity and electric cars are definitely part of the solution, but only a variety of solutions will achieve both ambitious and realistic goals.
Rates of value added tax (A8-0279/2018 - Tibor Szanyi)
I voted in favour of this report as it aims to further harmonise national VAT systems which will simplify the life of European companies. The fragmentation of the VAT system has created a great obstacle for the well-functioning of the Single Market. That is why an EU-level VAT regulation is needed to replace the current transitional arrangements and guarantee equal treatment to all Member States. This report supports better European coordination with regard to the VAT rates applicable to the various products. The report also proposes setting up a single information portal for companies on the various European and national rules in this area. This is an excellent initiative for our companies, which will simplify their efforts when they want to export to other European markets.
International Financial Reporting Standards: IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (B8-0442/2018)
I voted in favour of this report as it should help reduce uncertainties for European economic players. The IFRS 17 will necessitate a fundamental change in accounting for insurance contracts, but this change will bring greater consistency and transparency and seek to deliver increased comparability. The implementation efforts for this standard are already in progress and the International Accounting Standards Board is providing implementation support, in particular by setting up a Transition Resource Group for IFRS 17. This standard will provide more precise information on insurance contracts and improve their comparability. However, its implementation raises some concerns within the sector. That is why this resolution calls on the Commission and the economic actors involved in the design of this new standard to make certain clarifications on specific points.
Distributed ledger technologies and blockchains: building trust with disintermediation (B8-0397/2018)
I voted in favour of this report as it highlights the benefits that distributed ledger technologies, such as blockchain, can bring. DLT reduces intermediation costs in a trusted environment between the transacting parties and allows peer-to-peer exchange of value that can empower citizens, disrupt legacy models, improve services and reduce costs throughout value chains, in a wide range of key sectors, such as energy, transport, healthcare and education. DLT technologies could potentially affect all sectors of the economy and that is why I also support Parliament’s calling on the Commission to carry out an impact assessment on the potential of DLT-based solutions.
EU Agenda for Rural, Mountainous and Remote Areas (B8-0399/2018)
I voted in favour of this report, which calls on the Commission to take into better account the specific needs of rural, mountainous and remote areas. As cities in the EU territory are growing, we must not forget those areas, as they often have insufficiently supported and exploited resources and assets. The European economy, cities, industry, tourism and our citizens largely depend on these areas for food, land use, energy, water, clean air and raw materials. That is why we have to tackle their specific needs, promote cohesion, foster good neighbouring relations and make full use of the possibilities arising from cross-border cooperation, macro-regional strategies and other instruments for a balanced territorial development in Europe, in order to stabilise and counterbalance negative trends in local markets, demographic dynamics and natural assets.
Third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement (A8-0290/2018 - Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg)
I voted in favour of this report, which aims to bring together in one and the same text a number of previously dispersed provisions, without any change in their substance. The EU has granted several third countries a right whereby their nationals are exempted from visas when travelling on our territory. This is an essential part of the Unionʼs external action and is often accompanied by reciprocal concessions granted by those states. This report is a step towards administrative simplification and clarification of Union law so as to make it clearer and more accessible to citizens, which I fully support.
EU-Morocco Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: terms and conditions for the participation of Morocco in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0281/2018 - Aldo Patriciello)
I voted in favour of this report, as it allows Morocco to join the PRIMA tool. Its specific objective is very important for coordinating and strengthening the separate national research and innovation programmes in these sectors by providing a comprehensive and integrated approach. In this way PRIMA is an example of what EU science diplomacy is able to achieve for the common good. I welcome the new developments through this report, which enables a leading Mediterranean partner of the Union to integrate into and strengthen the PRIMA tool. Given the demographic trends in the Mediterranean, this important tool brings together the research capacities of the Union and of participating Mediterranean countries to bear on facilitating the development and the implementation of innovative and integrated solutions for more efficient, safer, more secure and more sustainable agro-food and water provision and management systems in the Mediterranean area.
EU-Canada air transport agreement (A8-0254/2018 - Francisco Assis)
I voted in favour of this report as it enables the conclusion of the air transport agreement negotiated between the EU and Canada. This agreement was already signed in 2009 and is in force but had to be amended, in particular following the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty and a decision of the EU Court of Justice. Canada is one of our key partners, as shown by the success of CETA. This air transport agreement includes a gradual phasing-in of traffic rights and investment opportunities, as well as far-reaching cooperation on a number of issues including safety, security, social matters, consumer interests, environment, air traffic management, state aids and competition, as well as excellent development opportunities for the European airline industry. All EU airlines will be able to operate direct flights to Canada from anywhere in Europe without any restrictions on routes, prices, or the number of weekly flights between Canada and the EU.
Inclusion of the Italian municipality of Campione d’Italia and the Italian waters of Lake Lugano in the customs territory of the Union (A8-0284/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
I voted in favour this report as it aims to include the Italian municipality of Campione d’Italia and the Italian waters of Lake Lugano in the EU customs territory and in the territory of the Union. For geographic reasons, such as isolation and economic disadvantage, the two Italian exclaves within the territory of Switzerland have been historically justified by their exclusion from the EU customs territory. However, Italy now considers this exclusion to be no longer necessary. In view of their special situation, the territories will be subject to a special status, in particular as regards VAT rules, in order not to be subject to unfair competition with the neighbouring Swiss economy. Therefore, I support this request of the Italian government, which only requires a formal change in the VAT Directive.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/001 NL/Financial service activities (A8-0294/2018 - Ivana Maletić)
I voted in favour of this report, as it makes possible the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for the reclassification of 450 licensed Dutch employees in financial services in 2017. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund has been created in order to provide additional assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns. Studies also show that the reclassification of employees is more effective than training for people that are already unemployed. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund must in no way exempt companies from their obligations towards the employees they dismiss. It is the employees who benefit from these measures and not their employers.
Provision of audiovisual media services (A8-0192/2017 - Sabine Verheyen, Petra Kammerevert)
I voted in favour of this report, which aims to update the European Directive on Audiovisual Services. The current version dates from 2010, but the audiovisual landscape has changed a lot since then. Thus, television channels, content producers, sharing platforms or video-on-demand services such as Netflix are increasingly competing in the same market, with regulatory frameworks that remain different. This text therefore extends European audiovisual rules to online video sharing platforms (such as Youtube or Facebook). They should also have simple and effective tools for reporting inappropriate content, including videos broadcast by terrorist groups.
Draft Amending Budget No 5/2018: cancellation of the reserve related to the support to Turkey from the Instrument for Pre-Accession and reinforcement of the European Neighbourhood Instrument and of the Humanitarian Aid for orther urgent actions (A8-0292/2018 - Siegfried Mureşan)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report, as a part of the 2018 budget, EUR 70 million in commitment appropriations and EUR 35 million in payment appropriations for Turkey under the pre-accession instrument had been earmarked. They were to be released on the condition that sufficient progress has been made on human rights and fundamental freedoms. But Turkey is not moving in the right direction, quite the contrary. Therefore, the proposed cancellation of the budgetary reserve is justified and necessary. This money will be used for the European Neighbourhood Policy and for humanitarian actions, but the cancelation should not come at the expense of the Turkish civil society.
Listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement (Kosovo) (A8-0261/2016 - Tanja Fajon)
I voted against the resolution on a visa free regime for Kosovo. I agree with the Commission that Kosovo is making a visible progress for the fulfilment of the requirements of the 2012 roadmap which identified all the legislation and other measures that Kosovo needed to adopt and implement to advance towards visa liberalisation. However, the statehood of the country is not recognised by all EU Member States. The recognition of a state should be one of the main prerequisite for a visa free regime with a particular country. Therefore, I believe that Kosovo people should be granted a visa free regime only after full recognition of Kosovo statehood by all EU Member States.
July 2018 fires at Mati in the Attica Region, Greece and the EU response
I voted in favour of the resolution on July 2018 fires at Mati in the Attica region, Greece and the EU response. This tragic event shows the shortcomings of the risk assessment mechanisms at the EU level. It is important that Member States take full advantage of the EU funding from cohesion funds for fire prevention and emergency response and inform the public about the risk of forest fires. There is a clear the need for a more scientific research in risk assessment mechanisms, prevention and early detection systems and other means of combating natural disasters, and for improved sharing of experiences and best practices among regions and Member States.
The threat of demolition of Khan al-Ahmar and other Bedouin villages
I voted in favour of the resolution on the threat of demolition of Khan al-Ahmar and other Bedouin villages. Khan al-Ahmar is one of the 46 Bedouin communities that the UN considers to be at high risk of forcible transfer in the central West Bank. However, the Israeli High Court ruled that the entire cluster of structures of Khan al-Ahmar had been built illegally, in violation of the planning and zoning laws, and therefore had to be demolished. It is important to underline that the forcible transfer of residents of an occupied territory, unless the security of the population or imperative military reasons so demand, is prohibited under the Fourth Geneva Convention, and constitutes a grave breach of international humanitarian law. Moreover, the demolition of Khan al-Ahmar would further threaten the viability of the two-state solution and undermine prospects for peace. It is essential that the EU would continue to speak with one voice on this matter.
A European Strategy for Plastics in a circular economy (A8-0262/2018 - Mark Demesmaeker)
I voted in favour of the resolution on a European Strategy for Plastics in a circular economy. Plastic is an important and valuable material which has a useful place in our society and economy. However, the way in which plastics are produced and used today is both unaffordable and unsustainable. The key challenge therefore is to manage plastics in a sustainable way throughout the whole value chain and thus change the way in which we produce and use plastics. Innovation, research and development, and investments in infrastructure are critical if the EU wants to succeed in developing a new plastics economy. The Commission’s announcement to invest an additional €100 million to drive investment towards circular solutions under Horizon 2020 is encouraging. I support the rapporteur supports the development of a Strategic Research Innovation Agenda on plastics which should also look beyond 2020.
Options to address the interface between chemical, product and waste legislation (B8-0363/2018)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the options to address the interface between chemical, product and waste legislation. Moving towards a circular economy requires strict application of the waste hierarchy and, where possible, phasing out of substances of concern, in particular where safer alternatives exist or will be developed, so as to ensure the development of non-toxic material cycles, which will facilitate recycling and are essential for the sound development of a functioning secondary raw materials market. A truly circular economy products must be designed for upgradeability, durability, reparability, reusability and recyclability, and with minimal use of substances of concern. It is important that the primary aim of the Commission would be to prevent hazardous chemicals from entering the material cycle, to achieve full consistency between the laws implementing waste and chemicals policies and to ensure better implementation of current legislation, while addressing those regulatory gaps that could act as barriers to a sustainable EU circular economy including, in particular, with respect to imported articles.
A European One Health Action Plan against Antimicrobial Resistance (A8-0257/2018 - Karin Kadenbach)
I voted in favour of the resolution on a European One Health Action Plan against Antimicrobial Resistance. For three years the Commission has been postponing the presentation of the Strategic Approach to pharmaceuticals in the environment despite mounting evidence regarding the severity of the problem. I firmly support the introduction of an operational strategy for the EU One Health Action Plan against AMR. This operational strategy should incorporate all of the ambitious recommendations put forward by the Parliament and ensure that the Commission does not just make an Action Plan but actually takes action.
Europe on the Move: an agenda for the future of mobility in the EU (A8-0241/2018 - István Ujhelyi)
I voted in favour of the resolution on Europe on the Move: an agenda for the future of mobility in the EU. The mobility sector plays a key role in the European economy and society. With the development of automated cars, digitalisation and the necessity to develop cleaner transport, the sector is undergoing profound changes which affect all aspects of our societies. The automotive industry is one of the main driving forces in the European economy, accounting for almost 7% of the EU’s Gross Domestic Product and providing employment to 12.2 million people. It is vital to ensure that this industry has the workers it needs to stay at the forefront of technological advances and to maintain its strong position on the global market. Therefore, the transport transition needs to be managed and facilitated in a way that makes the optimal use of the new opportunities from the point of view of all users of mobility sector. I support the Rapporteur that a particular attention should be put on the need to ensure that the mobility revolution does not leave any areas or social groups behind, such as rural areas.
Implementation of the Plant Protection Products Regulation (A8-0268/2018 - Pavel Poc)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Implementation of the Plant Protection Products Regulation. The EU is the appropriate level at which regulatory action in the field of pesticides should continue to take place and environmental measures aimed at preventing, limiting and containing the spread of pathogens and pests have to remain the focus of all current and further actions. However, effective implementation cannot be achieved without better harmonisation with EU policies and without increased incentives to promote alternative solutions. Enforcement of regulatory decisions under the Regulation is insufficient and better controls of the spread of pathogens and pests at national level are needed.
Dual quality of products in the Single Market (A8-0267/2018 - Olga Sehnalová)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the dual quality of products in the Single Market. I support the rapporteur that the principle of equal access to high-quality goods in a non-discriminatory way in the Single Market should be a true right of all European citizens. If this is not the case, the essence of the functioning of the Single Market and consumer trust in the Single Market could be seriously damaged. Recent initiatives announced by the Commission to address this issue, in particular its commitment to deliver a common testing methodology at European level, are very welcome and should be implemented without further delay.
Nominal quantities for placing on the Union market of single distilled shochu (A8-0255/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on nominal quantities for placing on the Union market of single distilled shochu. This proposal is an amendment to Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 on the definition, description, presentation and labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks. It aims at introducing a derogation from Union rules concerning bottle sizes for single distilled shochu, a spirit drink produced by pot still and bottled in Japan that is traditionally sold in bottles of sizes of four go （合 or one sho （升). The derogation is proposed in order to implement the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, which is currently in the process of ratification at EU level. I support the initiative, which shows EU readiness to cooperate constructively with a partner country and protect its products with geographical indications.
Amendment to the US-EU Memorandum of Cooperation (deployment of air traffic management systems) (A8-0214/2018 - Rolandas Paksas)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on the amendment to the US-EU Memorandum of Cooperation (deployment of air traffic management systems). Sharing the common goal to develop safer and more efficient air transport, the EU and the USA signed the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between the United States of America and the European Union in civil aviation research and development in 2011. Cooperation under the MoC has now reached a high level of maturity and has delivered important results in terms of promoting global interoperability of air traffic management (ATM) systems. Consequently the scope of cooperation now needs to be extended to topics relating to the deployment of ATM systems and encompassing all phases of ATM modernisation, in particular. I support the rapporteur’s view that it is in the EU’s interest to give consent to the modernisation of the EU-US MoC.
Agreement on Air Transport between Canada and the EU (accession of Croatia) (A8-0256/2018 - Francisco Assis)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Agreement on Air Transport between Canada and the EU (accession of Croatia). On 1 July 2013, the Republic of Croatia acceded to the EU and became its 28th Member State. In accordance with the Act of Accession of the Republic of Croatia, Croatia will accede to the agreements concluded or signed before the accession of Croatia by the EU Member States and the European Union with one or more third countries. I believe the Agreement on Air Transport between Canada and the EU will be beneficial for Croatia and will expand its commercial cooperation with Canada.
Copyright in the Digital Single Market (A8-0245/2018 - Axel Voss) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Autorių teisės bendrojoje skaitmeninėje rinkoje. Manau, kad Autorių teisių direktyva ir jame esantis 11 straipsnis yra gyvybiškai svarbus užtikrinant žiniasklaidos laisvę Europoje. Jis suteiks leidėjams nuosavybės teisę į jų internetinį turinį, kai šiuo metu internetinės platformos naudoja šį turinį nemokamai. Šiuo metu interneto gigantai neatlygintinai naudojasi žurnalistų, leidėjų darbo vaisiais. Dėl to, Europoje leidėjų skaičius drastiškai mažėja, reakcijos tuštėja. Tam turime užkirsti kelią, užtikrinti, kad autorių teisės yra apsaugotos. Džiaugiuosi, kad Europos Parlamentas priėmė šią rezoliuciją, kuri yra žingsnis pirmyn link autorių teisių apsaugos.
Controls on cash entering or leaving the Union (A8-0394/2017 - Mady Delvaux, Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the proposal for a regulation on controls on cash entering or leaving the European Union. I support the rapporteur that in the context of the fight against terrorism and organised crime, strong measures must be taken at the European level in order to stop the financing of these criminal activities, and therefore to put an end to the exploitation by criminals of different national rules related to cash controls. The Regulation on cash controls adopted in 2005 to control cash movements entering or leaving the Union must be strengthened in light of recent events, when it has become clear that money-launderers and terrorist financiers have managed to find ways to circumvent the European rules on cash controls.
Countering money laundering by criminal law (A8-0405/2017 - Ignazio Corrao)
I voted in favour of the resolution on countering money laundering by criminal law. Money laundering and the related financing of terrorism and organised crime remain significant problems at the Union level. Therefore, it is important to apply measures allowing for more efficient and swifter cross-border cooperation between the competent national and Union authorities and with the Union agencies responsible, which will improve the exchange of information and allow the identification of the instigators of terrorism. Measures adopted solely at national or even at Union level, without taking into account international coordination and cooperation, have very limited effect. I support the rapporteur that the current Union legal framework is neither comprehensive nor sufficiently coherent to be fully effective. The differences in national legal frameworks can be exploited by criminals and terrorists, who can choose to carry out their financial transactions in Member States where they perceive measures to counter money laundering to be weakest. Therefore, actions at the EU level are urgently needed such as the creation of a strengthened Union legal framework making it possible to deal more effectively with terrorist funding.
The situation in Hungary (A8-0250/2018 - Judith Sargentini)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the situation in Hungary. This is the first time since its founding that the Parliament has decided to write a report investigating the need to trigger an Article 7(1) TEU procedure. I strongly believe that by voting in favour of the resolution members of the European Parliament voted in in favour of the European values. With this resolution the EP does not seek to punish the Hungarian people but to express its concerns regarding the policies of the Hungarian Government and find a way for a dialogue. Close friends do not shy away from telling each other the unpleasant truth. Obviously there is a need for the EU to come forward with appropriate measures to restore inclusive democracy, the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights in Hungary.
Autonomous weapon systems (RC-B8-0308/2018, B8-0308/2018, B8-0309/2018, B8-0355/2018, B8-0359/2018, B8-0360/2018, B8-0361/2018, B8-0362/2018)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Autonomous weapon systems. I join the call on the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR), the Member States and the European Council to develop and adopt, as a matter of urgency and prior to the November 2018 meeting of the High Contracting Parties to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, a common position on lethal autonomous weapon systems, as well as to work towards the start of international negotiations on a legally binding instrument prohibiting lethal autonomous weapon systems. If the EU seeks to pursue its ambition to be a global actor for peace, it has to expand its role in global disarmament and non-proliferation efforts, and to strive its actions and policies for the maintenance of international peace and security, ensuring respect for international humanitarian and human rights law and the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
State of EU-US relations (A8-0251/2018 - Elmar Brok) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl ES ir JAV santykių padėties. Europos Sąjungos ir JAV transatlantiniai ryšiai buvo, yra ir bus ypatingai svarbūs ne tik mums, bet visam pasauliui. ES ir JAV partnerystė visada buvo stipri, grindžiama abipusių vertybių bei sutartų taisyklių. Deja, pastaruoju metu gyvename kitokioje realybėje. Iš kitos Atlanto pusės skrieja pareiškimai, kad Europos Sąjunga yra priešas, kad Europos Sąjunga yra blogiau nei Kinija. ES turi savo interesus šiuose santykiuose ir mūsų pareiga yra juos ginti dėl ES piliečių gerovės. ES turi stengtis išsaugoti gerus santykius bei išnaudoti visas galimybes, kad jie būtų plėtojami remiantis nusistovėjusiomis taisyklėmis, kurių turi būti laikomasi ir kurios, reikalui esant, gali būti koreguojamos remiantis abipusiu sutarimu.
State of EU-China relations (A8-0252/2018 - Bas Belder) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl ES ir Kinijos santykių padėties. Noriu dar kartą atkreipti dėmesį į OBOR strategiją, kurią Kinija pristato kaip ekonominio bendradarbiavimo strategiją. Visgi, ji yra Kinijos nacionalinio saugumo ir gynybos žinybų kūrinys, tai ekonominės ekspansijos strategija, kurios tikslas – Kinijos dominavimas pasaulyje, nauja pasaulio tvarka, JAV ekonominės galios ir įtakos pasaulyje mažinimas. Negana to, ja siekiama supriešinti Europos Sąjungą ir JAV. Kinijos dominavimo pasaulyje siekį rodo tai, kaip kinai perima strateginius ekonominius objektus Europoje: Pirėjo jūrų uostas – jau kinų valstybinės kompanijos rankose, Portugalijos elektros energijos gamyba ir perdavimas – taip pat kinų rankose, o formatu „16+1“ jau nusitaikyta į Rytų ir Vidurio Europos valstybes – Europos Sąjungos nares.Kinija virsta Europos Sąjungos vidaus jėga, kurią privalome sustabdyti. Kinija – ir gerbtina, ir laukiama partnerė, bet abipusiškumas, skaidrumas ir taisyklių laikymasis yra būtini sėkmingai partnerystei.
Common system of value added tax as regards the special scheme for small enterprises (A8-0260/2018 - Tom Vandenkendelaere)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the common system of value added tax as regards the special scheme for small enterprises. I support the rapporteurʼs view that the Commission’s proposal will ease the VAT compliance burden on SMEs. Small businesses bear proportionally higher VAT compliance costs than larger businesses, which not only violates the principle of fair taxation, but also hampers entrepreneurship. Therefore, this initiative aims to foster entrepreneurship across the Union by introducing some administrative simplification measures for small enterprises, such as to expand the VAT exemption for small enterprises from a solely national regime to a more EU-wide regime; to impose real administrative simplifications for SMEs; and to set up a one-stop shop for VAT returns in all of the EU. Moreover, VAT returns for small enterprises should be treated separately from the other VAT matters. VAT simplification measures for SMEs could be implemented more quickly than the definitive VAT regime. There should be no delay in fostering entrepreneurship. Therefore, the date of implementation of this proposal should be advanced.
Implementing decision on subjecting the new psychoactive substances cyclopropylfentanyl and methoxyacetylfentanyl to control measures (A8-0271/2018 - Branislav Škripek)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the draft Council implementing decision on the new psychoactive substances. This decision will be a tool for Member States to subject cyclopropylfentanyl and methoxyacetylfentanyl to control measures and impose criminal penalties as provided for under their legislation by virtue of their obligations under the 1961 United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, as amended by the 1972 Protocol. The EU needs a quick and expertise-based response at Union level to the emergence of new psychoactive substances detected and reported by the Member States. EU citizens must be protected against all possible drug substances which pose a great risk to their health and to society as a whole.
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland (A8-0272/2018 - Janusz Lewandowski) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Europos Sąjungos solidarumo fondo lėšų mobilizavimo siekiant suteikti pagalbą Bulgarijai, Graikijai, Lietuvai ir Lenkijai. Džiaugiuosi, kad Europos Parlamentas pritarė dėl 16,9 mln. eurų paramos Lietuvai skyrimo, kuri nors iš dalies kompensuos pernai vasarą ir rudenį užklupusių potvynių nuostolius.Dėl šių potvynių daugiausia nukentėjo tinklų infrastruktūra ir žemės ūkis. Lietuvos valdžios institucijos nelaimės sukeltą tiesioginę žalą įvertino 407,4 mln. EUR. Nors Europos Sąjungos solidarumo fondo skiriama kompensacija nepadengs visų nuostolių, kuriuos patyrė Lietuvos ūkininkai ir tinklų infrastruktūros kompanijos, visgi ši parama yra labai reikalinga.Noriu paraginti Europos Komisiją imtis visų reikiamų veiksmų, kad Europos Sąjungos solidarumo fondo išmokos, patvirtintos Europos Parlamento, kuo greičiau pasiektų nuketėjusiuosius nuo gamtinių nelaimių tiek Lietuvoje, tiek ir Lenkijoje, Graikijoje bei Bulgarijoje.
Draft Amending Budget No 4/2018: mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland (A8-0273/2018 - Siegfried Mureşan)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Draft Amending Budget No 4/2018: mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland. Those countries urgently need the EU’s financial support after natural disasters which devastated their territories in 2017. My country – Lithuania – faced unprecedented floods that destroyed infrastructure and agricultural sector. The Lithuanian authorities estimated total direct damage caused by the disaster at EUR 407.4 million. The EU support of EUR 16.9 million is very much needed. I urge the relevant EU institutions do their utmost to provide the assistance without a delay.
The impact of EU cohesion policy on Northern Ireland (A8-0240/2018 - Derek Vaughan)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the impact of EU cohesion policy on Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland ranks as one of the poorest regions in North Western Europe, partly due to the decline in certain traditional industries, as well as due to the inter-community violence, which lasted for several decades.The important and positive contribution of EU cohesion policy to Northern Ireland is obvious and I support the rapporteur’s overall conclusion on the impact of cohesion policy on Northern Ireland that the policy has had a resoundingly positive effect on life in Northern Ireland, particularly in deprived urban and rural areas, and with regard to cross-community relations.The European Union’s cohesion policy has helped to improve the economic and social situation of Northern Ireland following the implementation of the peace process, meaning that Northern Ireland now has much less of a development deficit than a few decades ago. Those good practices with cohesion funding and the PEACE Programme should be taken as the EU model and promoted in order to overcome mistrust among communities in conflict and to achieve lasting peace in other parts of Europe and even worldwide.
Specific measures for Greece (A8-0244/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
I voted in favour of the resolution on specific measures for Greece. The 2008 economic and financial crisis had a profound impact on national and regional budgets, limiting funding for all types of investment in all Member States in general and in Greece particularly. It must be stressed that in Greece, the 2007-2013 programming period coincided with a prolonged and deep recession, triggered by the global economic and financial crisis, which laid bare the long-term structural deficiencies of the economy.Therefore, in this rather difficult economic context, the ESI Funds became much more important for the co-financing of public investment programmes. The commitments from the ESI Funds played a crucial role in Greece as in many other Member States, accounting in some cases for more than 50 % of total public investment. The EP welcomes the preliminary assessment that the 2007-2013 programming period is expected to be closed with no loss of funds for Greece; however, it is important to remind the Greek authorities of the importance of ensuring proper communication and visibility of investments under the ESI Funds.
Pathways for the reintegration of workers recovering from injury and illness into quality employment (A8-0208/2018 - Jana Žitňanská)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the pathways for the reintegration of workers recovering from injury and illness into quality employment. Life expectancy in the EU is changing the age pyramid. In 2015, life expectancy at birth in the EU-28 stood at 83.3 years for women and 77.9 years for men. However, healthy life years free from limitations tend to be shorter, particularly in some Member States. Moreover, work-related stress is a growing problem and the second most frequently reported work-related health problem in Europe. I support the Rapporteur that it is essential to improve the management of sickness absence in the Member States, as well as to make workplaces more adaptable to chronic conditions and disabilities, by tackling discrimination through better enforcement of functioning legislation at the EU and national levels.
Relationships between the EU and third countries concerning financial services regulation and supervision (A8-0263/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on Relationships between the EU and third countries concerning financial services regulation and supervision. Since the financial crisis, more than 40 new pieces of EU financial legislation have been adopted, of which 15 include ‘third-country provisions’ that give the Commission, on behalf of the EU, discretion to unilaterally decide whether regulatory rules in foreign jurisdictions can be considered equivalent. The equivalence is, among other things, a tool to promote international regulatory convergence, which may lead to more competition in the EU internal market on a level playing field, while preventing regulatory arbitrage, protecting consumers and investors, preserving the EU’s financial stability and maintaining consistency within the internal market. The equivalence is also a tool to ensure fair and equal regulatory and supervisory treatment between EU financial institutions and third-country financial institutions. I support the Rapporteur in that the EU should promote global financial regulatory reforms aimed at reducing systemic risk and enhancing financial stability. Any framework of international regulatory and supervisory cooperation should safeguard financial stability in the Union and respect its regulatory and supervisory regime and standards and their application.
Boosting growth and cohesion in EU border regions (A8-0266/2018 - Krzysztof Hetman)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the regulation on Boosting growth and cohesion in EU border regions. Internal border regions of the European Union represent as much as 40% of its territory and are home to 150 million of Europeans. They also generate a quarter of Europe’s GDP. Despite these facts, the border regions are facing persistent obstacles, which hamper their growth and development and, as a result, they perform worse economically than regions situated deeper within the Member States. I support the Rapporteur in that the most powerful tool to overcome the burdens for the development of border regions is the mutual trust and political will of all the authorities responsible. Local and regional authorities should therefore be granted more trust from the Commission and national governments. Their efficient cooperation on the border regions requires more flexibility and undertaking special arrangements as the legal systems of the Member States involved are often not complementary. This is true even in regard to EU law, as the transposition of the directives can vary in different Member States. Therefore, the territorial impact assessment should be made obligatory for all the new EU legislation.
European Solidarity Corps (A8-0060/2018 - Helga Trüpel)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on European Solidarity Corps. The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is a valuable Commission initiative aimed at boosting solidarity in Europe. There is a greater need than ever for this: continuing youth unemployment, currency crises and increasing Euroscepticism mean that more commitment and solidarity are required at European level. In order to address these challenges in a long-term way and promote solidarity as early as possible, the ESC is focusing on the future of Europe: young people. I support the Commission’s proposed programme, which comprises an extended European Volunteer Service and an employment strand covering jobs and practical training for the solidarity sector.
Structural Reform Support Programme: financial envelope and general objective (A8-0227/2018 - Ruža Tomašić)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Commission proposal to increase the financial envelope of the Structural Reform Support Programme and adapt its general objective. The Commission’s proposal seeks to amend Regulation (EU) 2017/825 in order to increase the financial envelope of the Structural Reform Support Programme (SRSP) and adapt its general objective following the high number of requests from the Member States for funding for structural reforms. It is important to have greater clarity both on the structural reforms to be promoted using cohesion funding and on their likely impact on the effectiveness of cohesion funding. Most of the inequalities across EU countries are now accounted by differences within, rather than between, countries. I agree with the Rapporteur that effective structural transformation requires a commitment by governments at different levels to work together to facilitate concerted and integrated action, combining a mix of policy inputs, to meet different territorial development needs and challenges. Given that Member States already have their own reform initiatives, the programme should focus on the measures that will best support the country-specific recommendations.
Euratom Programme complementing the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (A8-0258/2018 - Rebecca Harms)
I voted in favour of the resolution on Euratom Programme complementing the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme. The Euratom Research and Training Programme can contribute to improved nuclear safety, security and radiation protection; in particular, as the nuclear reactor fleet of the Union is ageing, the need to ensure expertise for decommissioning activities and to improve safety for the decommissioning process is evident. The research and training should also encompass nuclear waste management and disposal. Despite the commercial use of nuclear power for five decades in the Union, none of the Member States is in possession of a disposal site for high—level nuclear waste and spent fuel, and progress in this area remains slow. Expertise on radioactive waste management and disposal will be indispensable for decades to come, which is why research and training is vital. Considering the risks involved for public health and safety, involvement of public funds is appropriate notwithstanding the polluter—pays principle.
Measures to prevent and combat mobbing and sexual harassment at the workplace, in public spaces, and in political life in the EU (A8-0265/2018 - Pina Picierno)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Measures to prevent and combat mobbing and sexual harassment at the workplace, in public spaces, and in political life in the EU. Sexual harassment and mobbing are two of the extreme yet widespread forms of gender-based discrimination, for which 90% of the victims are female. Up to 55% of women have been sexually harassed in the EU and one in ten women have been subjected to sexual harassment or stalking using new technologies. It is appalling that despite the fact that sexual violence and harassment represent a blatant disregard for gender equality, and therefore a contradiction to one of the EU’s core values and many decades’ worth of comprehensive international legislation, they are a very real and persistent problem in almost every country in the world. It is evident that there is an urgent need for increased knowledge, for example through the collection of relevant disaggregated comparable data, and understanding of the risks and consequences of violence and harassment at work, in public spaces, and in political life in order to find possible ways and methods to address them.
Language equality in the digital age (A8-0228/2018 - Jill Evans)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on language equality in the digital age. The EU is a unique endeavour involving more than 500 million citizens sharing about 80 different languages. While multilingualism is one of Europe’s biggest assets, it also poses one of the most substantial challenges for the creation of a culturally and socially integrated EU, as well as being an obstacle in the fulfilment of the goals of the Digital Single Market.I support the rapporteur’s view that, in order to bridge the technology gap, policies should focus on fostering technology development for all European languages. The preservation of a language, and thus of the culture developed around it, is critically tied to its ability to function and be useful in modern and changing environments including the digital world. Therefore, cultural and language diversity is closely linked to the capacities and resources in the digital world. Europe can become a world leader in the field of linguistic diversity and equality. It could extend to the rest of the world the tools and methodologies built to facilitate widespread use of all the European languages.
Transparent and accountable management of natural resources in developing countries: the case of forests (A8-0249/2018 - Heidi Hautala)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on transparent and accountable management of natural resources in developing countries: the case of forests. It is necessary to remind ourselves that 300 million people live in forests and 1.6 billion people rely directly on forests for their livelihood, including more than 2 000 indigenous groups; forests are home to an estimated 80% of all terrestrial species and constitute, therefore, an important reservoir of biodiversity. However, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, around 13 million hectares of forest are lost each year.I support the rapporteur’s view that the Commission should immediately launch a thorough impact assessment and a genuine stakeholder consultation, involving in particular local people including women, with the purpose of establishing a meaningful EU action plan on deforestation and forest degradation that includes concrete and coherent regulatory measures, as well as a monitoring mechanism, to ensure that no supply chains or financial transactions linked to the EU cause deforestation, forest degradation, or the violation of human rights. This action plan should promote enhanced financial and technical assistance to producer countries with the specific aim of protecting, maintaining and restoring forests and critical ecosystems, and enhancing the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.
Structural and financial barriers in the access to culture (A8-0169/2018 - Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski)
I voted in favour of the EP resolution on structural and financial barriers in the access to culture. Access to culture is one of the fundamental rights guaranteed in numerous legal documents: from the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights to the constitutions of most EU Member States, which directly or indirectly refer to culture and access to it. Cultural access and participation are also considered a priority issue at EU level. I support the rapporteur in that while we recognise the importance of creativity and innovation as inherent aspects of culture, there is a need to facilitate the artistic activities of artists themselves, and to provide citizens with access to the output of the cultural and creative sectors. We cannot forget the crosscutting nature of cultural issues and their impact on other areas of social life, including the importance of culture for economic growth. In this context, it is important to specifically recognise the need for Member State governments to ensure adequate education of artists and the public and to protect the artistic infrastructure and tangible cultural heritage. Achieving those objectives will, in the long term, enable the proper development of an inclusive society and the strengthening of active European citizenship.
Georgian occupied territories ten years after the Russian invasion (RC-B8-0275/2018, B8-0275/2018, B8-0276/2018, B8-0277/2018, B8-0278/2018, B8-0279/2018, B8-0285/2018)
I voted in favour of the EP resolution on the Georgian occupied territories 10 years after the Russian invasion, which reaffirms its unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia. The resolution of conflicts in Georgia is essential to enhancing the security and stability of the European continent as a whole. These conflicts and the continuing occupation of the Georgian territories remain a potential threat to the sovereignty of other European countries. Almost 10 years have passed since Russian military forces invaded Georgia; they still occupy Abkhazia and South Ossetia and threaten Georgia, including key transit links, railways and pipelines connecting the region and Europe.Although there is a ceasefire agreement in place, Russia still refuses to implement it. Instead, since 2011, Russia has implemented a policy of illegal fence and barrier constructions to move the borders forward, to separate communities and divide the Georgian population.We should never forget that Georgia is the victim of Russian aggression, not the other way around, and with more than 20% of its internationally recognised territory occupied, Georgia was, is, and will remain a reliable partner for the EU and NATO.
Further macro-financial assistance to Ukraine (A8-0183/2018 - Jarosław Wałęsa) LT
Balsavau už EP rezoliuciją dėl pasiūlymo dėl Europos Parlamento ir Tarybos sprendimo toliau teikti makrofinansinę paramą (MFP) Ukrainai. Pritariu pranešėjui, kad kiekvienas paramos dalies išmokėjimas turėtų būti grindžiamas aiškiai apibrėžtų politikos priemonių įgyvendinimu ir išankstinių ES MFP teikimui nustatytų politinių sąlygų laikymusi (veiksmingi demokratiniai mechanizmai, įskaitant daugiapartinę parlamentinę sistemą ir teisinę valstybę, bei pagarbos žmogaus teisėms užtikrinimas). Noriu pažymėti, kad Ukrainos valstybė vykdo savo įsipareigojimus ir jai tenka veikti labai sunkiomis sąlygomis, kai beveik kasdien žūsta kariai ir civiliai, kai dalis valstybės teritorijos – Krymas – yra okupuotas.Galime pasidžiaugti, kad mes, ES, turime veikiančius asociacijos ir laisvosios prekybos susitarimus bei bevizį režimą su Ukraina. Taip, yra daugybė būtinų reformų, kurias Ukraina turi įgyvendinti, tačiau mūsų vertinimai turi būti objektyvūs.Dėl to palaikau Komisijos pasiūlymą suteikti naują 1 mlrd. EUR vertės MFP Ukrainai. Nauja paramos dalis padės Ukrainai žengti toliau, vykdyti reikalingas reformas, stabilizuoti ekonomiką ir vykdyti struktūrines reformas.Turime būti solidarūs, kad Ukraina taptų stabilia ir klestinčia šalimi.
Negotiations on the modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement (A8-0158/2018 - Charles Tannock)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the EP resolution on the negotiations on the modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement. Chile and the EU are united by shared values and close cultural, economic and political ties; and they are close partners in tackling regional and global challenges, such as climate change, international security, sustainable development and global governance. Therefore, I support the rapporteur’s position and his suggestion to the Council, the Commission and the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative that a modernised agreement with Chile should be ambitious, comprehensive and balanced, delivering tangible benefits for the citizens, businesses and economies of both sides.It is important considerably to strengthen cooperation between Chile and the EU – two like-minded partners in an environment of new uncertainty in international relations – on the basis of our shared values and principles of democracy, the fight against climate change, ensuring gender equality, the rule of law, good governance and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
EU-NATO relations (A8-0188/2018 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution on EU—NATO relations. The EU and NATO share the same values in pursuit of international peace and security, they face similar strategic challenges and they have converging security and defence interests, including the protection of their citizens against any threats. The strategic partnership between the EU and NATO is fundamental for addressing these security challenges.In past years, the EU and NATO have achieved a remarkable degree of cooperation. With many shared members, common interests and challenges, the EU and NATO have worked in close cooperation and have stepped up in such areas as hybrid threats and cyber—threats, military operations and exercises, and the fight against terrorism.I believe that EU-NATO cooperation should be further enhanced against hybrid and conventional threats in the East and South of the EU, with NATO remaining the cornerstone of collective defence in Europe. I welcome these steps brought forward and included in this report. They are timely and aimed in the right direction.
Cyber defence (A8-0189/2018 - Urmas Paet)
. ‒ I voted in favour of Parliament’s resolution on cyber—defence. Cyber and hybrid challenges, threats and attacks constitute a major threat to the security, defence, stability and competitiveness of the EU, its Member States and its citizens. The EU and the Member States face an unprecedented threat in the form of politically motivated, state-sponsored cyber—attacks as well as cybercrime and terrorism. Therefore, it is important that the EU has all possible means and is ready to react adequately and protect its citizens.First of all, a common cyber—defence policy and a substantial cyber—defence capability should constitute core elements in the development of the European Defence Union. In this context I welcome the initiative of the Commission for a cybersecurity package to foster EU cyber—resilience, deterrence and defence. It is important to establish a coherent development of cyber—capacities across all EU institutions and bodies, as well as in the Member States, and provide needed political and practical solutions to overcoming the remaining political, legislative and organisational obstacles to cooperation on cyber—defence, where regular and enhanced exchange and cooperation between relevant public stakeholders in cyber—defence, at EU and national level, are crucial.
State of play of recreational fisheries in the EU (A8-0191/2018 - Norica Nicolai)
I voted in favour of the EP resolution on the state of play in recreational fisheries in the EU. Recreational fishing is a hobby, although the economic, social and environmental importance of this activity is a factor that shows how important this activity is and should thus be taken into consideration and analysed when considering future regulations. Therefore, it is necessary to collect sufficient data on recreational fisheries, and on maritime recreational fisheries in particular, in order to properly evaluate the total fishing mortality levels for all stocks. Without full information, the management plans and the regulation adopted are not going to be proportional and fair to the two fishing sectors targeting the same stock – commercial and recreational. I support the rapporteurʼs view that we need to find the right way of including recreational fisheries in the next common fisheries policy.
Towards a sustainable and competitive European aquaculture sector (A8-0186/2018 - Carlos Iturgaiz)
I voted in favour of the EP resolution ‘Towards a sustainable and competitive European aquaculture sector’. In Europe, aquaculture accounts for about 20% of fish production and directly employs some 85 000 people. From 2009 to 2013, production fell by about 100 000 tonnes. In a background of economic crisis and growing competition from third countries, during the last 10 years the volume of aquaculture production in the European Union has suffered a recession. This has also led to structural changes within the sector, principally consolidation and mergers of small companies, leading to a prevalence of large companies in the fish aquaculture sector and few new investors. I support the rapporteur that to obtain a growing, vibrant, sustainable and innovative EU aquaculture sector, overcoming the recession obstacles remains paramount. However, without – inter alia – reduced bureaucracy, improved transparency and effective planning, better coordination at EU and national level, national strategic plans, stricter EU legislation on imports of aquaculture products and better controls in the borders, there cannot be business certainty and sustainable development of the EU aquaculture sector.
Implementation of the EU Youth Strategy (A8-0162/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
I voted in favour of this implementation report, as we are seeking to provide elements for a strong, long term and well-coordinated strategy in the interest of young Europeans. The EU Youth Strategy is designed for young people who should be our first interlocutors. We need to give them a voice in order to ensure their strong participation in policy making. All young people should have access to the labour market and have quality jobs. That is why we have to strengthen our efforts to give young people equal opportunities for securing sustainable inclusion in the labour market and long-term jobs. Young Europeans need to have a positive outlook on their future careers and retirement prospects but they are in doubt of their quality retirement because of the progressive degradation of social welfare systems. As a consequence, a new social pact between generations has to be promoted in order to secure their future. Young people have also the right to live in a healthy environment and have access to education and culture.Therefore I support the strengthening of European programmes, their better improvement, promotion and financing with a long-term and coordinated vision in order to deliver strong results.
The future of food and farming (A8-0178/2018 - Herbert Dorfmann)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as the EU needs a modernised and simplified common agricultural policy (CAP). The post-2020 EU farm policy must be smarter, simpler, fairer and more sustainable, but also well financed and truly common. The CAP budget has to be kept at its current level, as a minimum.I fully support more ambitious targets for future EU farming policy. We have to guarantee a secure supply of high-quality food for our citizens and better support for young and new farmers, and we need to increase their competitiveness by making farming smarter, more innovative and better prepared for market fluctuations. On top of enabling EU farms to carry on producing safe and quality food at affordable prices, the future CAP should make them more environmentally sustainable and fully integrated into the circular economy. It should also foster innovation, research and smart farming practices.Finally, EU Member States should be enabled to adapt the CAP to their needs without renationalisation, which would distort our single market. The CAP has to be based on a common set of EU objectives, rules, tools and checks, and Member States should adopt national strategies tailored to their needs.
2021-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and own resources (B8-0239/2018, B8-0240/2018, B8-0241/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution as the new MFF should reflect a clear and positive vision of the Union’s future and respond to the needs, concerns and expectations of our citizens. The new MFF must provide the Union with the necessary financial means to meet important challenges, political priorities and objectives over the next seven-year EU long-term budget.Despite the additional funding needs for new political priorities and challenges for the EU, the proposed Member State contributions are lower in real terms than the current level. The increases for several EU programmes are actually significantly lower while the cuts for other programmes are significantly higher than they were originally presented by the Commission. The principle of our solidarity can’t be breached and therefore I am concerned that the European Commission’s proposal weakens the main EU solidarity policies. High cuts in the Cohesion Fund for the poorest Member States and in the Rural Development Fund are also not acceptable. We want a cohesive, supportive, competitive and secure EU.I am therefore in support of building a more ambitious MFF for the benefit of our citizens and I expect, that the Council will act in consistency with its political commitments.
Recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative on Libya (A8-0159/2018 - Pier Antonio Panzeri)
I voted in favour of this report as the EU has to ensure its strongest support for the UN Action Plan for Libya for the stabilisation of the country and for a political and inclusive national reconciliation process. The EU support will help to reach a stable and long-lasting political agreement for all Libyan actors, including all tribal entities.The EU has to further intensify its diplomatic efforts, including all regional actors and neighbouring countries, and prioritise work within the EU institutions in order to support the UN plan and help to create political consent and guarantee security in Libya. Moreover we have to intensify our cooperation with all international organisations in order to strengthen the coherence and convergence of international action.But the crisis in Libya has to be seen in a wider regional and pan-African context, bearing in mind that Libya is key to the stability of North Africa. The EU should be actively involved in counter-terrorism and counter-trafficking efforts and can also contribute to stability in the region by fighting human rights abuses and the violations of international humanitarian law, fighting irregular migration through and from Libya and fighting migrant smuggling and human trafficking networks.
Annual Report on the functioning of the Schengen area (A8-0160/2018 - Carlos Coelho)
I voted in favour of this report as the Schengen area is one of the greatest achievements and an essential part of the European Union. However, the past years have been very difficult and the reality has changed too. The Schengen area has come under enormous pressure due to failures in parts of the acquis, such as the external borders and other strongly linked areas.With freedom of movement, external borders become common borders and security problems in one Member State potentially affect all others. Member States have reacted to the new challenges with changes in their laws to allow internal border controls based on illegal migration threats, but the reintroduction of internal border controls is not a solution. Schengen could not be used as an easy justification for security issues.There are new challenges and threats, all of which require more cooperation, better information and European solidarity. Therefore, I strongly support the new approved measures in the field of security, from information systems to amending the Schengen Borders code. The EU has to enforce the new rules in a way that guarantees the functioning of the Schengen area and defends the rights of EU citizens.
Minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime (A8-0168/2018 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio, Angelika Mlinar)
I voted in favour of this resolution as it suggests a way forward to address the gaps and improve the conditions in which victims involuntarily find themselves. Member States are not doing enough to protect victims of terrorism and other serious crimes, including domestic abuse, despite existing EU law having obliged them to put common minimum standards in place.But legally-binding and adopted rules to protect victims of crime are still not applied to the full scale yet, and victims still don’t receive proper care in the Member States. They need tailor-made, free of charge help easily accessible in one place, independent of their nationality or where the crime against them was committed. This also applies to victims of terrorism, whose needs are specifically addressed in this resolution. Member States need also to do more as regards information, compensation and support services in order to protect all victims of crime, without discrimination.I support the call for a web portal, an emergency telephone line, a coordination centre of support organisations and experts to provide practical services to the victims and a European fund for assistance to the victims of terrorism to be created as soon as possible.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Commercial Policy (A8-0166/2018 - Tokia Saïfi)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. Since the publication of the Trade for All strategy, the context of the EU’s trade policy has changed significantly and new challenges need to be addressed properly. The EU is a front-runner in the world for free and fair trade. Within the global value chains trade opens markets, creates growth and jobs and strengthens our relations with third countries, illustrated by various of our Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) worldwide.We want to have a values and principles based trade policy. That is why we need more than TDIs, in order to prevent unfair trading practices in our markets and an increase in transparency within the processes of the global value chain instruments. For example, the bilateral investment agreements (BIAs) are very effective instruments to protect our investors against unfair practices.Furthermore, we should not overlook the positive advances that have been made with our FTAs our DCFTAs under implementation, which help to create a stable, democratic and prosperous EU neighbourhood.Finally, we should actively reach out to our partners, pursuing an ambitious trade agenda in a global context, especially keeping up the framework of the WTO.
Implementation of CAP young farmers’ tools in the EU after the 2013 reform (A8-0157/2018 - Nicola Caputo)
I voted in favour of this report as it provides improvements to the existing support schemes and to the assistance for young farmers to overcome the major barriers to entering agriculture. It is of utmost importance for the agricultural sector that it attracts young people and helps them to establish themselves as viable businesses and contributes to the establishment of a new generation of farmers. This is one of the key priorities for the future of the CAP after 2020. Young farmers will therefore benefit from a number of measures.It is also important that the support to CAP young farmers’ tools should continue, and the maximum level of funding should be increased beyond 2%. At the same time, the budget allocations for the grant schemes should be sufficiently available to award all positively evaluated applications.Furthermore, I fully support the development of more opportunities for young farmers and new entrants and the removal of all barriers. Improvements would include better access to land and capital, raising profitability and skills development (business skills), more EU flexibility when responding to changing conditions, re-evaluating the direct payment scheme and creating new incentives and succession plans for older farmers to pass their farms on to younger generations.
Posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services (A8-0319/2017 - Elisabeth Morin-Chartier, Agnes Jongerius)
I voted in favour of this report because the revised directive will help to improve the conditions of workers while ensuring fairer competition between European companies that will have to compete on the workers skills and not on the lowest social terms.Posted workers will benefit from a maximum of an 18 month posted mission and the same rules on remuneration as workers in the host Member State, including bonuses and protection from day one. Their rights as well as the internal market will be strengthened through fairer rules in cross-border activity.The revised Directive will set up a wide range of conditions to boost the labour market and offer decent salaries and clearer rights to ensure the well-being of Europeans and businesses. The latter will also be better protected if they have not provided the correct level of remuneration because a Member State has not properly listed the applicable elements to be applied to the posted worker.Fraud will be tackled as well as workers will be protected by Member States through relevant legislation and collective agreements, even in cases of fraudulent postings through letterbox companies. It is crucial that there is no EU division between East and West.
Sustainable finance (A8-0164/2018 - Molly Scott Cato)
I voted in favour of this report as it underlines the urgent need for more ambitious and decisive action by public authorities to accelerate investments, in particular in green infrastructure and to address the misallocation of capital away from sustainable and long-term goals. The vast majority of investment and lending capital is not compatible with internationally agreed climate objectives or environmental, social and corporate governance criteria. The urgent need to respond to this threat has led to innovation in the field of sustainable finance in different EU Member States. To implement a sustainable finance system an information and incentives framework shall be created so that the capital flows in the direction of investments necessary to ensure a rapid and just ecological transition for European economies and societies. This would allow the EU to maintain its leading position in tackling climate change and reinforce its value driven approach. Given the current pace of the development of green finance and clean energy investments, the objectives of the Paris agreement are unlikely to be reached without additional efforts. Therefore the EU must show global leadership and use its power to accelerate the stabilisation of the climate and the protection of the global ecosystem.
A European strategy for the promotion of protein crops (A8-0121/2018 - Jean-Paul Denanot) LT
. – Balsavau už pranešimą dėl Europos baltyminių augalų propagavimo strategijos. Esu įsitikinusi, kad atėjo tinkamas laikas įgyvendinti platų strateginį Europos augalinių baltymų gamybos ir tiekimo planą. Šio plano pagrindas turi būti darnus visos ES auginamų augalų sistemos vystymas. Taip pat reikia iš esmės pakeisti mūsų gamybos sistemas siekiant patenkinti ūkininkų pragyvenimo poreikius ir žiedinės ekonomikos bei darnios žemės ūkio gamybos reikalavimus. Naujos gamybos sistemos turi būti grindžiamos aplinkai nekenksmingais ir mažai sąnaudų reikalaujančiais būdais, tokiais kaip agroekologija. Europos Parlamentas jau ne kartą yra išreiškęs savo nuomonę dėl Europos baltymų plano, tačiau niekada nebuvo imtasi tolesnių veiksmų, ir ES toliau išlieka priklausoma nuo augalinių baltymų tiekimo. Siekiant įgyvendinti šį Europos baltymų planą, reikia sutelkti kelių ES politikos sričių – bendros žemės ūkio, prekybos, mokslinių tyrimų ir ES kaimynystės – turinčių įtakos baltymų problemų sprendimui, priemones ir užtikrinti jų nuoseklų įgyvendinimą.
Energy performance of buildings (A8-0314/2017 - Bendt Bendtsen) LT
. – Balsavau už pranešimą dėl pastatų energinio naudingumo. Energijos taupymas pastatuose bus naudingas ne vien tik vartotojams ir klimatui, bet prisidės ir prie tvarios bei konkurencingos Europos ekonomikos. Pastatams suvartojame daugiau nei 40 proc. energijos, todėl būtina užtikrinti, kad pastatų energijos sąnaudos būtų efektyvesnės, ir tokiu būdu būtų galima ekonomiškai ir reikšmingai prisidėti prie išmetamo anglies dioksido kiekio mažinimo, kaip nurodyta Paryžiaus susitarime dėl klimato kaitos. Tuo pat metu sumažintume ir priklausomybę nuo importuojamos energijos, pavyzdžiui, Artimųjų Rytų naftos ir Rusijos dujų. Į susitarimą taip pat įtraukti valstybių narių įsipareigojimai parengti ilgalaikes nacionalines energijos vartojimo efektyvumo ir nuo iškastinio kuro nepriklausančių statybų fondų strategijas. Taip pat bus suteikiama prieiga prie finansavimo priemonių, perkeliant privatų kapitalą į energijos vartojimo efektyvumo renovacijos rinką. Esu įsitikinusi, kad šis susitarimas yra labai svarbus žingsnis energetikos sąjungos įgyvendinimo ES viduje link.
Strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion in the EU (A8-0138/2018 - Marc Joulaud) LT
. – Balsavau už pranešimą dėl Ekonominės, socialinės ir teritorinės sanglaudos stiprinimo Europos Sąjungoje. Europos Komisija kas 3 metus pateikia ataskaitą apie ekonominės, socialinės ir teritorinės sanglaudos pažangą. Septintoje ataskaitoje EK nurodo, kad globalizacijos, migracijos, skurdo, inovacijų stokos, taip pat klimato kaitos, energetikos srities permainų ir oro taršos poveikis būdingas ne tik mažiau išsivysčiusiems regionams. Dėl to būsimajai sanglaudos politikai turime skirti jos uždavinius atitinkantį biudžetą, taip pat ir įvertindami naujus iššūkius, kad būtų įgyvendinti pagrindiniai šios ES politikos tikslai. Per naują programavimo laikotarpį privalome užtikrinti, kad sanglaudos politika ir toliau būtų tinkamai įgyvendinama visuose Europos regionuose. Ji turi likti pagrindine ES viešųjų investicijų priemone ir ilgalaike strategija. Sanglaudos politika negali būti vykdoma tik mažiausiai išsivysčiusiuose regionuose, nes tai trukdytų siekti pažangos visose ES politinių prioritetų srityse. Sanglaudos politika suteikia Europai pridėtinės vertės, nes prisideda prie Europos viešųjų gėrybių ir prioritetų įgyvendinimo, tokių kaip augimas, socialinė įtrauktis, inovacijos, investicijos ir aplinkosauga. Esu įsitikinusi, kad tai yra pagrindinė ES priemonė, siekiant šalinti skirtumus tarp regionų, gerinti pragyvenimo lygį ir mažinti nepalankiausias sąlygas turinčių regionų atsilikimą.
Europass: framework for skills and qualifications (A8-0244/2017 - Thomas Mann, Svetoslav Hristov Malinov)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Europass framework for skills and qualifications. The New Skills Agenda is a step forward in updating, modernising and improving the European tools and services regarding skills, competences and qualifications. Europass, a portfolio of documents which individuals can use on a voluntary basis, is one of the European tools helping to achieve better transparency in qualifications and competences. However, it should not become a ‘one-stop’ portal for education and training, as there are other EU tools already providing the necessary services. Therefore, for better synergy, the Europass portal can be linked to, for example, the well-established and functioning expert groups, which ensure that the tools and services provided are of high quality and actually used. It is important that the change should be gradual in order to prevent a heavy administrative burden for the Member States, which might lead to unexpected organisational costs. I support the rapporteur’s view that Europass should aim to improve the understanding of learning acquired not only in formal, but also in non-formal and informal settings and through practical experiences, including mobility.
Location of the seat of the European Medicines Agency (A8-0063/2018 - Giovanni La Via)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the location of the seat of the European Medicines Agency. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is an important EU decentralised agency, responsible for the scientific evaluation, supervision and safety monitoring of medicines in the EU. The agency, currently based in London, has to be relocated in the context of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. On 20 November 2017 the European Council voted to assign the seat of the EMA to Amsterdam, in the Netherlands. I support the rapporteur’s view that it is regrettable that the European Parliament, and ultimately the representatives of EU citizens, were not fully involved in the procedure to select the new seat of the EMA, which was eventually concluded by drawing lots, despite its being such an important decision.It is necessary to defend the prerogatives of the European Parliament. All decisions relating to the location of EU bodies and agencies need and – legally – have to be taken under the ordinary legislative procedure, fully respecting the European Parliament’s prerogatives, whereby the European Parliament and the Council are equal co-legislators.
Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base (A8-0051/2018 - Alain Lamassoure)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base (CCCTB). The Commission in this proposal suggests that taxable profits should be shared between Member States where the company is active. The apportionment formula – the ‘Massachusetts Formula’ – comprises three equally weighted factors: sales, assets and labour. I support the Rapporteur that it’s important to add the fourth factor – personal data collection and exploitation for commercial purposes (‘DATA’) – to ensure that CCCTB also applies to digital activities. These factors are more resilient to aggressive tax planning than transfer pricing. I support the Rapporteur in saying that, in addition, this system would allow Member States to keep the sovereign right to set the tax rate and would tax the appropriate share of profits incurred by a company.
Situation in Syria (RC-B8-0139/2018, B8-0139/2018, B8-0141/2018, B8-0142/2018, B8-0143/2018, B8-0144/2018, B8-0146/2018, B8-0150/2018)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the situation in Syria. The resolution strongly condemns, once again and in the strongest terms, all the atrocities and the widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed during the conflict, and, in particular, the acts perpetrated by Assad regime forces, including with the support of its allies Russia and Iran, as well as by UN-listed terrorist organisations. Renewed and intensive global cooperation is urgently needed in order to achieve a peaceful and sustainable solution to the conflict, as so far the international community has provided insufficient support to the democratic opposition. I support the EP position of deploring the repeated Russian vetoes at the UN Security Council. This attitude, from a permanent member of the Security Council and therefore with a special responsibility for maintaining international peace and security is shameful. In the eyes of the world, the obstruction of international investigations is more a sign of guilt than anything else.
Further macro-financial assistance to Georgia (A8-0028/2018 - Hannu Takkula)
I voted in favour of the resolution on further macro-financial assistance to Georgia. The Commission proposes EUR 45 million, of which EUR 35 million is in loans and EUR 10 million in grants to help the country to cover part of its external financing needs for the period 2017-2020. Despite that, Georgia continues to face a weak external environment, its fiscal deficit has widened, and the lari has depreciated sharply over recent years, which has resulted in a higher public debt to GDP ratio. However, its financial system remains sound and well capitalised overall, particularly thanks to prudent supervision and regulation by the central bank.The EU is Georgia’s main trading partner and Georgia continues successfully to adapt to the requirements of the DCFTA, which entered into force on 1 September 2014, showing good progress in required reforms. Therefore, I support the European Parliament’s position to agree with the Commission’s proposal to provide macro-financial assistance to Georgia. The disbursement of each instalment should be linked to clear conditions, and the Commission should rigorously monitor the fulfilment of these conditions throughout the entirety of the macro-financial assistance operations.
Reform of the European Union’s system of own resources (A8-0041/2018 - Gérard Deprez, Janusz Lewandowski)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the reform of the European Union’s system of own resources. It is important that the future MFF proposed by the Commission should include ambitious proposals to revise the Own Resources Decision and all related legislative acts, as well as to introduce new own resources. The current system of own resources is highly complex, unfair, non-transparent and totally incomprehensible to the EU’s citizens, in particular the non-transparent calculations related to the national rebates and correction mechanisms which apply to the system of own resources or the statistical VAT-based resource. Moreover, this system is not subject to any effective parliamentary control at EU level and in essence lacks democratic legitimacy and accountability. Therefore, in order to provide stable finances at EU level, the establishment of a transparent, simpler and fairer new system of own resources, building on effective elements of the current system, is strongly needed.
A European strategy on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (A8-0036/2018 - István Ujhelyi)
I voted in favour of the resolution on a European strategy on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems. The world is about to experience an extremely fast-moving industrial and digital revolution. However, there are major discrepancies in the level of development and preparedness of the Member States, but we must not allow digitalisation and technological advances to heighten this imbalance. It is important that every European citizen should be able to benefit equally from the modern industrial revolution and the benefits it brings. The transport sector is in the process of dramatic change, where the EU must contribute with meaningful, long-term responses of its own, i.e. on increasing car safety, driving licences and driver training, and create the European low-emission mobility strategy. The EU needs parallel cooperation rather than isolated competition in the field of digital advances where these have an impact on the transport sector, as only in this way can it face up to the challenges of global development posed by the US and China. The European strategy on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems is an important step in this direction.
Cross-border parcel delivery services (A8-0315/2017 - Lucy Anderson)
I voted in favour of the resolution on cross-border parcel delivery services. Parcel delivery is a competitive, innovative and fast growing sector. However, there are strong concerns about the delivery of items bought and sold cross-border and EU online consumers as well as small businesses have been found this to be a key problem, including in many cases the relatively high costs involved. A regulation in the framework of Digital Single Market Strategy proposed by the Commission is an important step in securing more efficiency in the sector, transparency of tariffs and terminal rates, and affordable prices. I support the European Parliament Resolution, which seeks to improve the Commission’s proposal to provide a fair and balanced approach for all operators in the sector that is fully in line with the provisions of Postal Services Directive 97/67/EC.
Establishing the European Defence Industrial Development Programme aiming at supporting the competitiveness and innovative capacity of the EU defence industry (A8-0037/2018 - Françoise Grossetête)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the Establishing the European Defence Industrial Development Programme aiming at supporting the competitiveness and innovative capacity of the EU defence industry. The EU Member States’ overall defence budget is falling, unlike that of other global powers, such as China and Russia; and the US defence budget is twice that of the EU. At the same time, the lack of cooperation at European level is reflected in a duplication of weapons systems and equipment and hence considerable budgetary inefficiency. Moreover, there is the absence of common specifications among Member States. This leads to delays and additional costs in the development of flagship projects. Therefore, ‘more Europe’ is needed to provide more reliable, more independent and less costly technology. It is essential that the European Defence Industrial Development Programme start to be successfully implemented from January 2019 in order to secure the prospects for the European defence industry in the period after 2020.
Geo-blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers' nationality, place of residence or place of establishment (A8-0172/2017 - Róża Gräfin von Thun und Hohenstein)
I voted in favour of the report on Geo-blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers’ nationality, place of residence or place of establishment.It is an important step towards an even more competitive and integrated Digital Single Market, unleashing the business and job-creating potential of the new economy, by getting rid of one of the major obstacles: unjustified geo-blocking when buying physical goods online, which should not be taking place in our united Europe. This decision should now deliver concrete results for citizens all over Europe, bringing positive changes to their daily lives and strengthen their right to profit from the whole Single Market.This type of discrimination will end, as the new rules will ban blocking access to websites and redirecting the customer to another country-specific website without his or her consent. These measures are important for traders, especially small enterprises, who are going to be protected by better rules, including no obligation to deliver goods, moreover, they will not be obliged by suppliers to geo-block for business reasons. The revision of the law considering ending geo-blocking in additional sectors such as the audio-visual or transport sectors will take place in the nearest future.
Deliberations of the Committee on Petitions 2016 (A8-0387/2017 - Notis Marias)
I voted against this report, because the key vote for me was on Amendment 17D deleting paragraph 29 concerning the Petition 0747/2016 on the electoral rights of non-citizens in Latvia and Estonia. During the votes Amendment 17D was rejected, so I voted against this resolution as a whole. My arguments which are the following:Firstly, voting rights and citizenship are in the exclusive competence of EU Member States as confirmed frequently by the European Parliament and, furthermore, specifically by the Commission in its opinion (at the request of the Committee on Petitions concerning Petition 0747/2016) stating that the Commission does not find that there are grounds raised for it to intervene in this case. It means that Petition 0747/2016 should never have been admissible and should have been closed. The citizens of Latvia and Estonia would distrust European institutions for interfering in a matter which is not their competence, but a national one.Secondly, as in many Member States, in Latvia and Estonia the right to vote is an integral part of citizenship. Non-citizens are able to become citizens through naturalisation at any time, if they wish so, and thus gain the right to vote.
Enhanced cooperation: European Public Prosecutor's Office (A8-0290/2017 - Barbara Matera) LT
Balsavau už rekomendaciją dėl Tarybos reglamento dėl Europos prokuratūros įsteigimo. Esu įsitikinusi, kad ES biudžeto ir ES finansinių interesų apsaugai nacionalinių institucijų nepakanka. Europos prokuratūra padės geriau atlikti tyrimus ir patraukti atsakomybėn už nusikaltimus, dėl kurių nukenčia ES biudžetas. Jos paskirtis – užtikrinti ES finansinių taisyklių laikymąsi visoje ES, nes sukčiavimo plačiu mastu būdų yra daug, jie sudėtingi, dažnai veikiama ne vienoje, o keliose šalyse, todėl tokiais atvejais peržengiamos vienos šalies jurisdikcijos ribos. Naujoji Europos prokuratūra koordinuotai tirs bylas dėl neteisėto ES lėšų panaudojimo keliose valstybėse iš karto, taip pat vykdys baudžiamąjį persekiojimą ir palaikys kaltinimą teisme.Šiuo metu sukčiavimo ar korupcijos nusikaltimų baudžiamieji tyrimai priklauso išimtinei valstybių narių kompetencijai. OLAF, Eurojustas ir Europolas neturi įgaliojimų atlikti nusikalstamų veikų tyrimų, tad Europos prokuratūra užpildys šią institucinę spragą.
Constitutional, legal and institutional implications of a Common Security and Defence Policy: possibilities offered by the Lisbon Treaty (A8-0042/2017 - Esteban González Pons, Michael Gahler) LT
Balsavau už šį pranešimą. Pastaruoju metu saugumas – vienas svarbiausių mūsų piliečių prioritetų, negalime to negirdėti. Mes puikiai žinome, kad bendra saugumo ir gynybos politika, kuri apibrėžta ES sutartyje, nėra įgyvendinama tinkamai. Lisabonos sutartis sudarė galimybes įvykdyti BSGP srities reformas ir inovacijas, tačiau tai nebuvo padaryta. Galiu tik pasidžiaugti, kad Europos Parlamentas sugrįžo prie šių klausimų. Nuolatinis struktūrizuotas bendradarbiavimas, efektyvesnė institucinė sistema, aktyvesnis ES dalyvavimas NATO struktūrose yra tai, ko Europos Sąjungai ir jos valstybėms narėms reikia nedelsiant.
EU-Lebanon Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0027/2017 - Ramona Nicole Mănescu) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Tarybos sprendimo dėl Europos Sąjungos ir Viduržemio jūros regiono šalių susitarimo, steigiančio Europos bendrijos bei jos valstybių narių ir Libano Respublikos asociaciją, protokolo, kuriuo atsižvelgiama į Kroatijos Respublikos įstojimą į Europos Sąjungą, sudarymo Europos Sąjungos bei jos valstybių narių vardu projekto. Pritariu pavesti Pirmininkui perduoti Parlamento poziciją Tarybai, Komisijai ir valstybių narių bei Libano Respublikos parlamentams ir vyriausybėms.
EU-Liechtenstein Agreement on supplementary rules in relation to the instrument for financial support for external borders and visa (A8-0025/2017 - Josef Weidenholzer) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Tarybos sprendimo dėl Europos Sąjungos ir Lichtenšteino Kunigaikštystės susitarimo dėl papildomų taisyklių, susijusių su išorės sienų ir vizų finansinės paramos priemone kaip Vidaus saugumo fondo dalimi 2014–2020 m. laikotarpiu, sudarymo Europos Sąjungos vardu projekto. Pagal ES reglamentus, taikant priemonę pagal jos nuostatas dalyvauja šalys, susijusios su Šengeno acquis įgyvendinimu, taikymu ir plėtojimu, ir kad turi būti sudaromi jų finansinių įnašų susitarimai bei nustatomos tokiam dalyvavimui būtinos papildomos taisyklės. Įgyvendinant šį pasiūlymą bus galima sudaryti būtent šiuos susitarimus, leidžiančius Komisijai prisiimti atsakomybę už priemonei skirto biudžeto įgyvendinimą šioje asocijuotoje šalyje ir nustatyti Lichtenšteino indėlį į Sąjungos biudžetą pagal šią priemonę. Išorės sienų ir vizų finansinės paramos priemone įdiegiamas solidarumo mechanizmas, kuris dalyvaujančias šalis, atsižvelgiant į tarpusavio interesus ir viena kitos vardu, įpareigoja laikytis tokių pačių Europos išorės sienų kontrolės taisyklių. Esu įsitikinusi, kad pasiūlymas padės įgyvendinti pagrindinį Šengeno acquis tikslą – dalytis atsakomybe, kad būtų užtikrinta veiksminga, aukšto lygio ir vienoda kontrolė prie išorės sienų, laikantis Sąjungos įsipareigojimo gerbti pagrindines laisves ir žmogaus teises.
Information exchange mechanism with regard to intergovernmental agreements and non-binding instruments in the field of energy (A8-0305/2016 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Europos Parlamento ir Tarybos sprendimo, kuriuo nustatomas keitimosi informacija apie tarpvyriausybinius valstybių narių ir trečiųjų šalių energetikos susitarimus bei teisiškai neprivalomas priemones mechanizmas ir panaikinamas Sprendimas Nr. 994/2012/ES.Sėkmingos energetikos politikos pagrindinė sudedamoji dalis yra galimybė visiems europiečiams įsigyti saugią, tvarią ir konkurencingomis kainomis parduodamą energiją. Taip pat reikia užtikrinti energetinį saugumą. Šiuo požiūriu ES valstybės turi rodyti solidarumą mažiau privilegijuotoms bloko narėms ir taip pat Komisija turi galėti įsikišti, jei kyla teisėtų su energetiniu saugumu susijusių susirūpinimą keliančių klausimų.Labai svarbi ir konkurencija energetikos srityje. Tai, kad Komisija galėjo nagrinėti projekto „South Stream“ atvejį tik remdamasi jo rezultatais, privertė susijusiais šalis atsidurti keblioje situacijoje, kadangi susitarimai jau buvo pasirašyti ir jau buvo kai kur investuota. Tai yra dar viena priežastis, kodėl vedant derybas energetikos srityje reikia daugiau skaidrumo ir tvarumo.Reikia prisiminti, kad dujos yra būtinas kuras pereinant prie mažo anglies dioksido kiekio ateityje. Jei mums reikia importuoti kokį nors iškastinį kurą, geriau jau importuoti dujas, kuriomis mažiausiai teršiama aplinka.Energetikos srityje ES neišnaudojo dar daug galimybių. Tokią situaciją galima pakeisti būsimomis Europos pastangomis energetikos srityje taikant pagrindinius principus, kuriais remiantis buvo sukurtas integracijos projektas, t. y. solidarumo ir valstybių narių tarpusavio pasitikėjimo.
Obligations in the field of visa reciprocity (B8-0173/2017) LT
Balsavau už Europos Parlamento rezoliuciją dėl Komisijos įsipareigojimų taikyti abipusiškumo principą vizų klausimu pagal Reglamento (EB) Nr. 539/2001 1 straipsnio 4 dalį.Suprantu, kad vizų abipusiškumo kriterijus, kaip vienas pagrindinių ES vizų politikos kriterijų, reiškia, kad ES piliečiams, keliaujantiems į trečiąją šalį, turėtų būti taikomos tokios pačios sąlygos kaip tos trečiosios šalies piliečiams, keliaujantiems į ES. Tikslas turi būti pasiekti tokį vizų abipusiškumą. Dėl to esu įsitikinusi, kad Komisija yra teisiškai įpareigota priimti deleguotąjį aktą, kuriuo laikinai sustabdomas vizos reikalavimo netaikymas vizos reikalavimo tam tikrų ES valstybių narių piliečiams nepanaikinusių trečiųjų valstybių piliečiams, o tai atliekama per 24 mėnesių laikotarpį nuo pranešimo šiuo klausimu paskelbimo datos.
Options for improving access to medicines (A8-0040/2017 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz) LT
Balsavau už rezoliucijos pasiūlymą dėl ES galimybių pagerinti prieigą prie vaistų, kadangi viešosios sveikatos priežiūros sistemos yra itin svarbios siekiant užtikrinti pagrindinę ES piliečių teisę – visuotinį sveikatos priežiūros prieinamumą ir vaistai yra viena iš pagrindinių sveikatos priežiūros sudėtinių dalių, o ne vien prekybos objektas. Taip pat už pacientų galimybes gauti vaistų, bendrai atsakingi yra visi sveikatos priežiūros sistemos subjektai. Dėl to esu įsitikinusi, kad reikia imtis nacionalinio ir ES masto priemonių siekiant užtikrinti pacientų teisę pasinaudoti visuotiniu, įperkamu, veiksmingu, saugiu ir laiku teikiamu pagrindiniu ir naujovišku gydymu, kad būtų galima užtikrinti ES viešųjų sveikatos priežiūros sistemų tvarumą ir užtikrinti būsimas investicijas į naujoves farmacijos srityje. Dėl to valstybės narės turi tvirčiau bendradarbiauti siekdamos kovoti su rinkos susiskaidymu. Labai svarbu didinti skaidrumą ir savanorišką valstybių narių bendradarbiavimą vaistų kainų nustatymo ir kompensavimo srityje, kad visos ES ir nacionalinės institucijos veiktų skaidriai, ir kad leidimų išdavimo procese dalyvaujantys ekspertai neturėtų interesų konfliktų. Mūsų siekis turi būti užtikrinti sveikatos priežiūros sistemų tvarumą ir išsaugoti ES piliečių teises naudotis kokybiškomis sveikatos priežiūros paslaugomis.
Implementation of the Creative Europe programme (A8-0030/2017 - Silvia Costa) LT
Balsavau už rezoliucijos pasiūlymą dėl 2013 m. gruodžio 11 d. Europos Parlamento ir Tarybos reglamento (ES) Nr. 1295/2013, kuriuo sukuriama programa „Kūrybiška Europa“ (2014–2020 m.) ir panaikinami sprendimai Nr. 1718/2006/EB, Nr. 1855/2006/EB ir Nr. 1041/2009/EB, įgyvendinimo. Esu įsitikinusi, kad programą „Kūrybiška Europa“ reikia tęsti, peržiūrėti ir patobulinti 2021–2028 m. laikotarpiui kaip programą, kuri apima visus kultūros ir kūrybos sektorius, kurioje daugiausia dėmesio skiriama aukštos kokybės projektams, kurią sudaro dvi paprogramės ir tarpsektorinė paprogramė, įskaitant mokymą, auditorijos plėtrą, patekimą į rinkas, socialinę įtraukti, bendradarbiavimą, tarpsektorinius ir kryžminės naudos projektus, tarpusavio mokymąsi, taip pat ryšių palaikymą, tyrimus, konkrečiai kultūros ir kūrybos sektoriams skirtą paramą, garantijų priemonę ir programos „Kūrybiška Europa“ centrų rėmimą. Pratęsiant šią programą, reikėtų patobulinti atrankos bei vertinimo kriterijus ir aiškiai įtraukti kultūros ir meninės kokybės skatinimą ir tikrąją kultūros vertę.
Implementation of the Europe for Citizens programme (A8-0017/2017 - María Teresa Giménez Barbat) LT
Balsavau už rezoliucijos pasiūlymą dėl 2014 m. balandžio 14 d. Tarybos reglamento (ES) Nr. 390/2014, kuriuo nustatoma 2014–2020 m. laikotarpio programa „Europa piliečiams“, įgyvendinimo.Esu įsitikinusi, kad programa „Europa piliečiams“ yra unikali ir labai simbolinė, nes ją vykdant visų pirma siekiama išklausyti pilietinės visuomenės diskusijas, ji skatina kritiškai mąstyti apie Europos projektą, jo istoriją, judėjimus bei idėjas, kurias šis projektas paskatino, taip pat programa prisideda prie žinių apie Europos sprendimų priėmimo procesą didinimo ir padeda sudaryti geresnes pilietinio ir demokratinio dalyvavimo Sąjungos lygmeniu sąlygas. Europos Sąjungos priartinimas prie jos piliečių seniai yra vienas iš pagrindinių Europos politikos formuotojų ir Europos Parlamento tikslų, bet jis niekada nebuvo toks svarbus kaip dabar. Dėl didelio susidomėjimo programa ir mažos finansuoti atrenkamų projektų dalies yra nepaprastai svarbu padidinti biudžetą jos išlaikymui. Be kitų priežasčių, didesnį susidomėjimą programa lėmė ir tai, kad dėl reklamos veiklos išaugo tikslinės grupės informuotumas. Kad ši tendencija išliktų, rekomenduoju NIC, kurie ypač sėkmingai reklamuoja programą savo šalyse, dalytis su kitais NIC geriausia patirtimi komunikacijos srityje, susijusia, pvz., su naudingomis priemonėmis ir metodais. Taip pat manau, kad reikėtų įsteigti tarptautinę partnerystę, taip stiprinant pajėgumą rengiant mokymą ir seminarus šia tema ir pavedant šią veiklą NIC.
Common Commercial Policy in the context of wildlife sustainability imperatives (A8-0012/2017 - Emma McClarkin) LT
Balsavau už rezoliucijos pasiūlymą dėl bendros ES prekybos politikos atsižvelgiant į laukinės gamtos tvarumo reikalavimus. Pritariu požiūriui dėl ES prekybos politikos, kad pirmenybę reikia teikti ne tik kovai su neteisėta prekyba laukiniais augalais ir gyvūnais, bet į visus būsimus susitarimus įtraukti nuostatas, kuriomis siekiama ją sumažinti ir galiausiai panaikinti, taip pat griežtas ir veiksmingas papildomas priemones, ypač susijusias su mokymu, prevencija ir sankcijų taikymu miškotvarkos, sveikatos apsaugos ir muitų srityse. Taip pat pabrėžtina, kad dėl jokio ES prekybos politikos aspekto neturėtų būti užkirstas kelias ES ir jos prekybos partneriams priimti sprendimus, kurie būtų būtini siekiant užtikrinti laukinės gamtos ir gamtos išteklių apsaugą, jei tokiomis priemonėmis siekiama teisėtų viešosios politikos tikslų ir jos nėra savavališka ar nepagrįsta diskriminacija. Dėl to ES valstybėms narėms reikėtų apsvarstyti politinius sprendimus, kaip būtų galima pašalinti visas likusias teisines spragas, dėl kurių atvejais, kai neteisėtai įgyjami laukiniai augalai ir gyvūnai bei laukinės gamtos produktai, galėtų būti sudarytos palankesnės šių atvejų sprendimo sąlygos. Šiam tikslui įgyvendinti reikėtų vykdyti išsamią stebėseną ir efektyviai naudotis esamais ištekliais ir agentūromis.
Combating terrorism (A8-0228/2016 - Monika Hohlmeier) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl kovos su terorizmu. Dėl neseniai įvykdytų teroristinių išpuolių Europoje ir kitose pasaulio vietose, visų pirma dėl 2015 m. lapkričio 13 d. įvykdyto teroristinio išpuolio Paryžiuje, kai žuvo 130 žmonių, akcentuojamas poreikis dėti daugiau pastangų siekiant užkirsti kelią terorizmui ir kovoti su juo. Kova su terorizmu yra pasaulinė kova, ES negali jos vykdyti ar laimėti viena. 2014 m. JT Saugumo Tarybos rezoliucijoje visos ES valstybės narės teisiškai įpareigojamos kriminalizuoti su terorizmu susijusias nusikalstamas veikas, pavyzdžiui, keliones į trečią šalį su tikslu planuoti ar vykdyti teroristinius išpuolius arba siekiant rengti teroristus ar dalyvauti rengime, taip pat tokių kelionių rėmimą, organizavimą arba padėjimą jas vykdyti. Ši rezoliucija buvo perkelta į Europos Tarybos papildomą protokolą dėl užsienio kovotojų. Manau, kad dėl sparčiai besikeičiančios globalios situacijos, plintant terorizmui ir radikalizmui, labai svarbu atitinkamai pritaikyti ES acquis siekiant užkirsti kelią teroristiniams nusikaltimams Europoje. Pritariu, kad itin svarbu atnaujinti ES kovos su terorizmu ir teroristiniais tinklais teisinę sistemą, susijusią su šiais klausimais: Teroristų rengimas ir dalyvavimas rengime Europoje ir už jos ribų, tiek mokymo stovyklose, tiek internetu; vadinamųjų užsienio kovotojų kelionės į konflikto zonas teroristiniais tikslais; aukų teisių įtvirtinimas ir didesnė terorizmo aukų apsauga, pagalba ir parama joms visoje Sąjungoje ir kita.
Reinforcement of checks against relevant databases at external borders (A8-0218/2016 - Monica Macovei) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl tikrinimo prie išorės sienų sugriežtinimo naudojant atitinkamas duomenų bazes. Šengeno sienų kodekso atnaujinimas, kuriuo bus sugriežtinta ES išorės sienų kontrolė – ne tik trečiųjų šalių, bet ir visų į ES atvykstančių ar išvykstančių Sąjungos piliečių duomenys bus tikrinami pamestų bei pavogtų dokumentų bazėse – prisidės prie saugumo didinimo ES. ES valstybės bus įpareigotos atidžiau tikrinti, ar sieną kertantys asmenys nekelia grėsmės viešajai tvarkai ir vidaus saugumui. Pritariu šioms su ES Taryba suderintoms taisyklėms, kuriomis reaguojama į išaugusią terorizmo grėsmę Europoje bei užsienio teroristų kovotojų reiškinį, kai vis daugiau ES piliečių vyksta į Siriją ar Iraką paremti teroristinių grupių.
Possible evolutions of and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the European Union (A8-0390/2016 - Guy Verhofstadt) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl galimų dabartinės Europos Sąjungos institucinės sąrangos pakeitimų ir korekcijų. Manau, kad dabar yra metas rimtai apsvarstyti, kaip reaguoti į Europos Sąjungos valdymo trūkumus ir imtis išsamiai ir nuosekliai persvarstyti Lisabonos sutartį. Pritariu nuostatai, kad Sąjungos reformos kryptis turėtų užtikrinti jos modernizavimą nustatant naujas priemones, naujus veiksmingus Europos gebėjimus ir užtikrinant demokratiškesnį sprendimų priėmimo procesą, o ne grįžti prie nacionalinio valdymo labiau taikant tarpvyriausybines priemones. Tai ypač svarbu dabar, kai valstybėse narėse labai daugėja grupių, kurios kenkia Sąjungos vienybei sukeldamos vis didesnį skaidrumo trūkumą, skleidžia populistines bei nacionalistines idėjas, taip pat mažindamos žmonių pasitikėjimą ES.
EU-Cook Islands sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (A8-0010/2017 - João Ferreira) LT
Balsavau už ES ir Kuko Salų tausios žvejybos partnerystės susitarimą. Manau, kad ES ir Kuko Salų žvejybos partnerystės susitarimu bus veiksmingai skatinama tausi žvejyba Kuko Salose pasitelkiant tinkamą ES paramą sektoriui. Šis susitarimas prisidės prie tolimesnio ES ir Kuko Salų bendradarbiavimo siekiant užtikrinti tvarią žuvininkystės politiką ir atsakingą žuvų išteklių naudojimą Kuko Salų žvejybos rajone.
EU-Cook Islands sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (Resolution) (A8-0015/2017 - João Ferreira) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl ES ir Kuko Salų tausios žvejybos partnerystės susitarimo. Svarbu tai, kad tvarus Kuko Salų žuvininkystės sektoriaus plėtojimas bus vykdomas bendradarbiaujant ekonominėje, finansinėje, techninėje ir mokslinėje srityse, tuo pačiu gerbiant savarankiškus šios šalies sprendimus dėl šio plėtojimo. Taip pat noriu išreikšti apgailestavimą, kad kitos regiono šalys nesudarė partnerystės susitarimų su ES ir kad jos atvėrinėja savo žvejybos vietas kitoms pasaulio valstybėms ir regionams, kurie kai kada taiko žvejybos praktiką, pagal kurią neatsižvelgiama į turimus išteklius. Raginu šias šalis pasirinkti susitarimą su ES, pagal kurį skatinama tausi žvejyba ir suteikiama parama sektoriui.
Control of the Register and composition of the Commission's expert groups (A8-0002/2017 - Dennis de Jong) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Registro kontrolės ir Komisijos ekspertų grupių sudėties. EP jau yra išreiškęs susirūpinimą dėl ankstesnių Komisijos ekspertų grupių veiklos organizavimo taisyklių veikimo bei atkreipė dėmesį, kad tam tikroms ekspertų grupėms trūksta skaidrumo, kad tokių grupių sudėtis nesubalansuota. Todėl palankiai vertinu 2016 m. gegužės 30 d. Komisijos sprendimą, nustatantį naujas Komisijos ekspertų grupių kūrimo ir veiklos horizontaliąsias taisykles. Visgi tenka apgailestauti, kad, nors daug nevyriausybinių organizacijų išreiškė susidomėjimą, Komisija neorganizavo visapusiškų viešų konsultacijų dėl ekspertų grupių sudarymo. Todėl labai svarbu, kad naujosios taisyklės būtų griežtai ir vienodai taikomos visoms ekspertų grupėms, nesvarbu, koks jų pavadinimas (taigi įskaitant specialiąsias, aukšto lygio ar kitas „neeilines“ grupes, taip pat oficialias ir neoficialias grupes) ar struktūra. Pritariu EP pozicijai, kad naujosios taisyklės privalo užtikrinti proporcingą atstovavimą, kuris sudarytų sąlygas visų suinteresuotųjų subjektų atstovų dalyvavimui. Be to, Europos Parlamentas taip pat turi turėti galimybes prašyti pateikti Komisijos sprendimo įgyvendinimo ataskaitą.
The role of whistleblowers in the protection of EU´s financial interests (A8-0004/2017 - Dennis de Jong) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl informatorių vaidmens saugant ES finansinius interesus. Informatoriai atlieka itin svarbų vaidmenį, kai reikia aptikti korupciją ir sukčiavimą bei apie juos pranešti, nes tiesiogiai šiose nusikalstamose veikose dalyvaujančios šalys aktyviai mėgins tas veikas nuslėpti, kad jos nepatektų į jokį oficialių pranešimų teikimo mechanizmą. Pritariu, kad skaidrumo ir sąžiningumo principais paremtas informavimas apie pažeidimus yra itin svarbus. Todėl informatorių apsauga turėtų būti užtikrinama pagal įstatymą ir sustiprinta visoje Europos Sąjungoje. Taip pat svarbu užtikrinti, kad informatorių tvirtinimai būtų profesionaliai tiriami siekiant užkirsti kelią melagingiems diskredituojantiems pranešimams.
List of third States and organisations with which Europol shall conclude agreements (A8-0035/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl trečiųjų valstybių ir organizacijų, su kuriomis Europolas sudaro susitarimus, sąrašo. Siekiant kovoti su rimtu ir organizuotu tarpvalstybiniu nusikalstamumu ir tarptautiniu terorizmu Sąjungoje, visos Europos šalys turi glaudžiai bendradarbiauti ir dalytis duomenimis. Šiuo metu Danija visapusiškai dalyvauja Europolo veikloje, tačiau nuo 2017 m. gegužės 1 d. Danija nebepriklausys Europolui ir negalės dalyvauti jo veikloje, naudotis jo duomenų bazėmis ar su juo keistis duomenimis. Danijai staiga pasitraukus iš Europolo ir neužtikrinus sklandaus perėjimo prie tam tikros Danijos ir Europolo asociacijos, gali atsirasti veiklos spragų ir sumažėti ES pajėgumų veiksmingai kovoti su organizuotu nusikalstamumu ir terorizmu. Todėl pritariu nuostatai, kad Danija būtų susieta su Europolu sudarius operatyvinio bendradarbiavimo susitarimą. Tam, kad būtų išvengta bet kokių veiklos spragų, Europolas ir Danija šį bendradarbiavimo susitarimą turi sudaryti iki 2017 m. gegužės 1 d. Šis susitarimas padės užtikrinti pakankamą operatyvinio Danijos ir Europolo bendradarbiavimo lygį, įskaitant susijusių asmens duomenų mainus, taikant atitinkamas apsaugos priemones ir duomenų apsaugą.
Subjecting the new psychoactive substance methyl 2-[[1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indole-3-carbonyl]amino]-3,3-dimethylbutanoate (MDMB-CHMICA) to control measures (A8-0024/2017 - Lorenzo Fontana) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Kontrolės priemonių taikymo naujoms psichoaktyviosioms medžiagoms. Remiantis paskelbta bendra Europos narkotikų ir narkomanijos stebėsenos centro (EMCDDA) ir Europolo ataskaita, naujos psichoaktyviosios medžiagos (MDMB-CHMICA) sukelia aukšto lygio ūmų toksiškumą, galintį padaryti didelę žalą žmonių sveikatai. Keliose ataskaitose taip pat nurodyta smurto ir agresijos galimybė kaip medžiagos naudojimo pasekmė. Ši medžiaga Europos Sąjungos narkotikų rinkoje prieinama bent nuo 2014 m. rugpjūčio mėn. ir buvo užfiksuota 23 valstybėse narėse. Paprastai ji parduodama kaip teisėta psichoaktyvioji medžiaga rūkymo reikmenų parduotuvėse, o internetu kaip teisėtas kanapių pakaitalas. Iš turimos informacijos matyti, kad nefasuotus MDMB-CHMICA miltelius pagamino Kinijoje įsisteigusios cheminių medžiagų gamybos įmonės. Jie įvežami į Sąjungą, kur yra perdirbami ir pakuojami į komercinius rūkymo mišinius arba parduodami kaip milteliai. Todėl pritariu Tarybos sprendimo pasiūlymui, kurio tikslas – paraginti valstybes nares taikyti medžiagos DMB-CHMICA kontrolės priemones ir baudžiamąsias sankcijas, kaip numatyta jų teisės aktuose, kuriais vykdomi jų įsipareigojimai pagal 1971 m. Jungtinių Tautų psichotropinių medžiagų konvenciją.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/005 NL/Drenthe Overijssel Retail (A8-0036/2017 - Nedzhmi Ali) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Europos prisitaikymo prie globalizacijos padarinių fondo lėšų mobilizavimo: Nyderlandų paraiška „EGF/2016/005 NL/Drenthe Overijssel – mažmeninė prekyba“. Europos prisitaikymo prie globalizacijos padarinių fondas įsteigtas siekiant teikti papildomą pagalbą darbuotojams, nukentėjusiems nuo esminių pasaulio prekybos sistemos struktūrinių pokyčių. Nors mažmeninės ir didmeninės paslaugos sukuria 11 proc. Sąjungos BVP ir 15 proc. viso Sąjungos užimtumo, šis sektorius vis dar patiria neigiamą krizės poveikį. Šis poveikis jaučiamas ir Drentės bei Overeiselio regionuose (Nyderlandai) mažmeninės prekybos sektoriuje, kur nuo 2015 m. rugpjūčio 1 d. iki 2016 m. gegužės 1 d. buvo atleista 1 096 darbuotojų. Todėl pritariu Europos Parlamento ir Tarybos sprendimui 2017 finansinių metų Europos Sąjungos bendrajame biudžete mobilizuoti Europos prisitaikymo prie globalizacijos padarinių fondo lėšas siekiant skirti 1 818 750 EUR įsipareigojimų ir mokėjimų asignavimų sumą pagal pateiktą Nyderlandų paraišką.
Revision of the European Consensus on Development (A8-0020/2017 - Bogdan Brunon Wenta, Norbert Neuser) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Europos konsensuso dėl vystymosi peržiūros. Manau, kad Europos konsensuso dėl vystymosi peržiūra atliekama laiku ir yra reikalinga, nes pakito išorinės aplinkybės – patvirtinta Darbotvarkė iki 2030 m. ir darnaus vystymosi tikslai, sudarytas Paryžiaus COP 21 susitarimas dėl klimato kaitos, sudaryta Sendajaus nelaimių rizikos mažinimo programa, patvirtinta Adis Abebos veiksmų darbotvarkė dėl vystymosi finansavimo ir Pusano veiksmingo vystomojo bendradarbiavimo partnerystė. Be to, kilo naujų visuotinių iššūkių arba stiprėja senieji, pavyzdžiui, klimato kaita ir migracijos aplinkybės, besivystančios šalys tapo įvairesnės ir turi įvairių ir konkrečių vystymosi poreikių, atsiranda naujų paramos teikėjų ir naujų pasaulinio lygio subjektų, mažėja pilietinės visuomenės organizacijų veikimo erdvė, įvyko pokyčių ES viduje. Europos konsensusas dėl vystymosi yra labai svarbus formuojant bendrą ir darnią poziciją ES ir valstybių narių lygmenimis dėl vystymosi politikos tikslų, vertybių, principų ir pagrindinių aspektų, taip pat ir dėl jos įgyvendinimo. Manau, kad peržiūrint konsensusą turi būti išsaugotas jo acquis , ypač jo holistinis požiūris ir aiškus pirminis tikslas – kovoti su skurdu ir, ilgainiui, jo panaikinimas. Svarbu, kad vystymosi politika atspindėtų Sąjungos ypatingą dėmesį pažeidžiamoms valstybėms, jaunimo nedarbui, moterims ir mergaitėms, patiriančioms lytimi grindžiamą smurtą ir žalingą praktiką bei esančioms konfliktinėse situacijose.
Annual report on EU competition policy (A8-0001/2017 - Tibor Szanyi) LT
Balsavau už rezoliuciją dėl Metinės ES konkurencijos politikos ataskaitos. Svarbu pažymėti, kad stipri ir veiksminga ES konkurencijos politika visada buvo kertinis vidaus rinkos akmuo, nes ji skatina ekonomikos efektyvumą, sukuria augimui, inovacijoms ir technologinei pažangai palankią aplinką ir mažina kainas. Konkurencijos politika pati savaime yra demokratijos Europoje užtikrinimo priemonė, nes ja užkertamas kelias pernelyg dideliam finansinės ir ekonominės galios sutelkimui nedaugelio asmenų rankose, kuris trukdytų ES politinėms institucijoms veikti nepriklausomai nuo didelių pramonės ir bankų grupių. Pritariu palankiam Komisijos metinės ataskaitos dėl konkurencijos politikos vertinimui, iš kurios matyti, kad tinkama ES konkurencijos politika gali padėti atkurti pakankamą investicijų ir inovacijų lygį, jei bus sukurta sąžininga konkurencijos aplinka. Šiandien labiau nei kada nors anksčiau Europos Sąjungai reikalinga griežta ir ryžtingai įgyvendinama konkurencijos politika. ES konkurencijos politika negali ir neturi išspręsti visų Sąjungos problemų, bet turi daug galimybių pasiekti reikšmingų patobulinimų daugelyje sričių. Džiaugiuosi, kad šie patobulinimai jau pradėti įgyvendinti.
Promoting gender equality in mental health and clinical research (A8-0380/2016 - Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea) LT
Balsavau prieš rezoliuciją dėl Lyčių lygybės skatinimo atliekant psichikos sveikatos ir klinikinius tyrimus. Tam buvo net keletas priežasčių. Visų pirma, pranešimo tekstas apima žymiai daugiau probleminių klausimų (abortai, kai kurių mažumų grupių atstovų psichinė sveikata), nesusijusių su pranešimo pavadinimo tema. Daugelyje vietų kalbama tik apie seksualinės orientacijos mažumos grupių narių psichinę sveikatą. Tai vadinama pozityvia diskriminacija, kuri labai susiaurina visą pranešimo apimtį. Dėl šių ir kitų trūkumų negalėjau pritarti visai rezoliucijai.
EU-Kosovo Stabilisation and Association Agreement: procedures for its application (A8-0361/2016 - Adam Szejnfeld) LT
Balsavau už Europos Parlamento pranešimą dėl tam tikros Europos Sąjungos bei Europos atominės energijos bendrijos ir Kosovo stabilizacijos ir asociacijos susitarimo (SAS) taikymo tvarkos. SAS įsigaliojo 2016 m. balandžio 1 d., po to, kai jį ratifikavo Europos Parlamentas ir Kosovo Nacionalinė Asamblėja. Šios procedūros metu EP aktyviai pritarė šio Susitarimo sudarymui, dar ypač ir dėl to, kad Kosovo, kaip ir kitų Vakarų Balkanų šalių, santykiai su ES bus sutartiniai. Be to, įsigaliojus SAS, buvo įsteigtas stabilizacijos ir asociacijos parlamentinis komitetas, kuris skubiai priėmė savo darbo taisykles ir surengė du susitikimus. Tai parodo abipusį norą artimesniam bendradarbiavimui. Pranešimo projekte, dėl kurio šiandien balsavome, yra numatytos Susitarimo nuostatų įgyvendinimo taisyklės. Laikausi nuomonės, kad greitas šios tvarkos įgyvendinimas sudarytų Kosovui palankias sąlygas visapusiškai pasinaudoti SAS.
Imports of textile products from certain third countries not covered by specific Union import rules (A8-0311/2016 - Hannu Takkula) LT
Balsavau už Europos Parlamento rezoliuciją dėl siūlymo panaikinti Baltarusijos tekstilės gaminių importo į ES kvotas. Politinių kalinių Baltarusijoje paleidimas 2015 m. prisidėjo prie tam tikrų teigiamų ES ir Baltarusijos santykių pokyčių, todėl tikimasi, kad minėtų kvotų panaikinimas pagerins dvišalius santykius ir atvers naujas galimybes ES ir Baltarusijos įmonių bendradarbiavimui. Svarbu pažymėti, kad kvotų sistema galės būti grąžinta, jei Baltarusijoje stipriai pablogės žmogaus teisių padėtis.
Conclusion of the Agreement continuing the International Science and Technology Center (A8-0363/2016 - Elmar Brok) LT
Balsavau už Europos Parlamento rezoliuciją, kuria Europos Parlamentas pritaria Susitarimo dėl Tarptautinio mokslo ir technologijų centro (TMTC) veiklos tęsimo sudarymo projektui. Sutinku su pranešėjo rekomendacija pritarti Susitarimui dėl TMTC, kuris perkeltas į Astaną (Kazachstanas) po Rusijos pasitraukimo iš Centro 2015 m. liepos mėn. Naudojantis nauja vieta ir susitarimais, bus galima tęsti svarbų darbą, kurį pradėjo ankstesnis Centras laikotarpiu po SSRS iširimo, t. y. skatinti masinio naikinimo ginklų ir jų siuntimo į taikinį priemonių platinimo prevencijai skirtų tarptautinių mechanizmų tobulinimą; plėtoti saugumo kultūrą. TMTC projektas turėtų žymiai sumažinti riziką, kad karinės žinios pateks į netinkamas rankas, bei užtikrinti, kad būtų tęsiama dabar vykdomų ir naujų projektų veikla pasikeitus dalyviams, apimant platesnę geografinę taikymo sritį, galbūt įtraukus Artimųjų Rytų regioną, ir taikant naują tikslų, konkrečiau pritaikytų dvejopo naudojimo srities žinioms, rinkinį. Svarbu pažymėti didelę šio bendradarbiavimo projekto naudą visoms dalyvaujančioms valstybėms. Šiuo projektu prisidedama prie pasaulinio saugumo. Jis duos naudos ne tik minėtame susitarime dalyvaujančioms šalims, nes projektas gali būti vykdomas ir valstybėse, kurios nėra susitarimo šalys. Masinio naikinimo ginklų (įskaitant branduolinius) gamyba ir platinimas yra rimtas iššūkis pasauliniam saugumui, todėl visiškai pritariu priemonėms, padėsiančioms užkirsti kelią šių ginklų platinimui.
Objection to a delegated act: Identifying high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies (B8-0001/2017) LT
Susilaikiau balsuodama dėl Europos Parlamento rezoliucijos dėl Direktyvos 2015/849 papildymo nustatant strateginių trūkumų turinčias didelės rizikos trečiąsias valstybes. Palaikau Europos liaudies partijos frakcijos, kurios narė esu, poziciją, kad valstybė turi būti įtraukta į šį sąrašą tik tuomet, jei yra neginčijamų įrodymų apie nuolatinę pinigų plovimo riziką ir terorizmo finansavimą. Europos Komisija turi turėti skaidrų aiškų būdą, kuris padėtų įvertinti situaciją trečiosiose šalyse. Todėl visiškai pritarti EP rezoliucijai, raginančiai parengti ambicingesnį didelės rizikos valstybių sąrašą, negalėjau. Taip pat negalėjau pilnai palaikyti Europos Komisijos, nes dar yra šioje srityje aspektų, kuriuos EK turi tobulinti.
Logistics in the EU and multimodal transport in the new TEN-T corridors (A8-0384/2016 - Inés Ayala Sender) LT
Balsavau už Europos Parlamento rezoliuciją dėl logistikos ES ir daugiarūšio vežimo naujais transeuropinio transporto tinklo (TEN-T) koridoriais. ES logistikos ir krovininio transporto politika turėtų būti siekiama suteikti daugiau galimybių išlaikyti palankią aplinką, pašalinti kliūtis ir pasinaudoti ekonomikos augimo ir užimtumo potencialu šiame sektoriuje atsižvelgiant į ryškėjančias ekonomikos ir socialines tendencijas, dinamiškus technologinius pokyčius ir didėjančią tarptautinę prekybą. Todėl logistikos sričiai reikia skubiai skirti daugiau dėmesio politinėje darbotvarkėje bei skatinti iniciatyvas, kuriomis remiama krovininio transporto logistikos sritis ir sprendžiamos šios pagrindinės problemos: ES krovininio transporto logistikos strategija, integruoto daugiarūšio krovininio transporto skatinimas, TEN-T Europos logistikos koordinatorius, optimalaus skiriamo finansavimo panaudojimo užtikrinimas, visų lygmenų teisinių taisyklių ir administracinių procedūrų supaprastinimas, veiksminga transporto rūšių integracija ir kt. Tuo pačiu svarbu užtikrinti, kad dėl logistikos plėtros neblogėtų gyvenimo sąlygos, ypač žmonių, kurie jau patiria didelės taršos poveikį. Todėl vertinant projektus reikia atsižvelgti į socialinius, aplinkosaugos ir ekonominius aspektus.
A European Pillar of Social Rights (A8-0391/2016 - Maria João Rodrigues) LT
Balsavau už Europos Parlamento rezoliuciją dėl Europos socialinių teisių ramsčio. Europos socialinis modelis turi daug nacionalinių variantų ir kiekviena šalis turi savo ypatumų, kurie atspindi istorinę raidą ir subsidiarumo principą. Vis dėlto globalizacijos ir technologinių pokyčių sąlygomis ES valstybių narių tarpusavio priklausomybė yra itin didelė, ypač turint omenyje bendrą valiutą, ir jos gali užtikrinti plačius sluoksnius apimančią piliečių gerovę tik veikdamos drauge. Taigi Europos socialinis modelis gali būti bendras projektas, kurio pagrindinis tikslas yra didėjanti socialinė konvergencija: nuolatinis visų ES šalių gyventojų gerovės didinimas, grindžiamas tvariu ir integraciniu ekonomikos augimu. Manau, kad Europos socialinis modelis turi būti paremtas lygiomis galimybėmis bei veiksmingos konkurencijos skatinimu, kuri yra svarbus ekonomikos augimo ramstis.
Tackling the challenges of the EU Customs Code (UCC) implementation (B8-0024/2017) LT
Balsavau už EP rezoliuciją dėl su ES muitinės kodekso įgyvendinimu susijusių problemų sprendimo. Pritariu siūlymui dėti daugiau pastangų kuriant vienodesnius elektroninius muitinių reikalavimus ir rizikos vertinimo programas ES lygmeniu per Sąjungos muitinės kodekse nurodytą laiką, siekiant užtikrinti, kad prekių atvežimas į ES, tranzitas ir išvežimas iš ES būtų užregistruotas kuo veiksmingiau (kartu nekenkiant saugumui), tarpusavyje sujungiant valstybių narių sistemas. Taip pat svarbu, kad būtų sukurta darni elektroninė sistema, grindžiama tokiu pat duomenų modeliu ir bendromis judėjimo sistemomis. Pritariu nuostatai, kad Komisija šioje srityje turėtų imtis iniciatyvių veiksmų, pirmiausia taikydama bendrą finansavimą, kad būtų galima užtikrinti IT sistemų tobulinimą ir suderinamumą su kitomis sveikatos ir veterinarijos sertifikatų IT sistemomis. Suvienodintos muitinių elektroninės sistemos žymiai prisidės prie efektyvesnės prekybos, bus naudingos ES verslininkams, nes muitinių procedūros vyks greičiau ir sklandžiau.
Major interpellations (1)
Violation of fundamental human rights of women in Pakistan PDF (194 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Written questions (9)
VP/HR - EU assistance to returning Syrians PDF (42 KB) DOC (17 KB)
The decision not to include Russia on the list of high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and anti-terrorism-financing regimes PDF (51 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Gazprom's acquittal instead of sanctions PDF (195 KB) DOC (19 KB)
EU trade policy with Pakistan in the light of serious human rights violations and crimes against Christians PDF (94 KB) DOC (18 KB)
The Commission's intervention in the Coman case PDF (90 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Belarus to increase its production of cheap white cigarettes PDF (88 KB) DOC (19 KB)
VP/HR - Religious war in Afghanistan PDF (189 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Education of Afghan children PDF (186 KB) DOC (16 KB)
The Norwegian and EEA Financial Mechanism Agreements for 2014-2021 and the Norwegian fish trade protocol for 2014-2021 PDF (197 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Amendments (801)
Amendment 70 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas, on December 10, 2018 European Ministers of Foreign Affairs unanimously approved the Dutch proposal for the E.U.-wide Magnitsky Act (the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime);
Amendment 74 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F b (new)
Recital F b (new)
Fb. whereas the EU and its Member States are facing organised and heavily funded aggressive Russian state fake news campaign, which, by using manipulation and disinformation tactics, conspiracy theories and proliferate falsehoods seeks to destabilise Western democratic order, confront and weaken states in order to break up the EU unity and to get support for those who want to destroy it;
Amendment 84 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas Russia currently is the EU’s most important external source of natural gas; whereas Russia uses energy as a means to protect and promote their foreign policy interests; whereas the EU’s dependency on Russian gas supplies has increased since 2015;
Amendment 153 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that non-implementation of the Minsk Agreements demonstrates Russia's lack of good will; asksstresses the necessity for consultations to be advanced within the Normandy format;
Amendment 268 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Underlines that Russia and the EU will have to remain key economic partners in the foreseeable future, but Nord Stream 2; deplores Russia's policy to use its energy resources as a political tool to maintain, increase and exert its political influence and pressure on its perceived sphere of influence and on end-consumers; stresses in this regard that the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project reinforces EU dependency on Russian gas supplies, threatens the EU internal market and is not in line with EU energy policy, and therefore needs tomust be stopped;
Amendment 305 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for the EU institutions and Member States to make greater efforts to build resilience, particularly in the cyber and media fields; expresses deep concern that the EU reaction and response to the Russian propaganda campaign and massive direct disinformation attacks is very weak and needs to be urgently reformed and strengthened, in particular before the upcoming European elections in May 2019; in this regard stresses that EU funding and human resources for the East Stratcom Task Force must be substantially increased; calls for EU-wide support for the European cyber-security industry and a stronger engagement in research; encourages, in this context, the promotion of European values in Russian by East Stratcom;
Amendment 341 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls for a European version of the Magnitsky ActUrges the European Commission and the EEAS to prepare without delay a legislative proposal for the E.U.-wide Magnitsky Act (the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime);
Amendment 16 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the number of private military and security companies (PMSCs) has dramatically increased over the past 20 years; whereas globally the private security industry was valued up to USD 200 billion in 2016 with around 100 000 PSCs and 3.5 million employees; whereas PMSCs are performing many activities both in and outside of situations of armed conflict armed conflict, for example demining, escorting convoys, protecting mines and oil refineries, interrogation, intelligence services, protecting commercial shipping from piracy, providing floating armouries, participating in drug-eradication efforts, working in prisons and detention centres and even conducting offensive military operations;
Amendment 61 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas Russian PMSCs have allegedly been involved in many human rights violations over the past 25 years; whereas, despite a legal prohibition on mercenary activities (Article 359 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation), Russia has actively used military 'volunteers' since 1992 in Bosnia, Moldova (Transnistria), Nagorno-Karabah, Georgia, Ukraine (Crimea, Donbass) and Syria; whereas there are increasing numbers of reports suggesting the use of Russian military 'volunteers' in Africa;
Amendment 112 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas the Montreux Document is the first major document to define how international law applies to PMSCs; whereas 54 states support the Montreux Document; whereas the EU endorsed the Montreux Document on 27 July 2012; whereas the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (ICoC) defines industry standards; whereas the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Providers’ Association (ICoCA) has the aim of promoting, managing and supervising the implementation of the ICoC and encouraging the responsible provision of security services and respect for human rights and national and international law; whereas affiliation to ICoCA is brought about by a voluntary act, accompanied by a payment, and the high membership charges do not permit all private security companies to become members;
Amendment 116 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R
Recital R
R. whereas initiatives such as the Montreux Document and the ICoC have helped to clarify and raise awareness of states’ obligations with respect to PMSCs; whereas these initiatives are non-binding and voluntary, with no significant penalty for non-compliance or for the commission of human rights violations, beyond being expelled from the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers’ AssociationCoCA and losing out on valuable contracts;
Amendment 123 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas considerable regulatory gaps remain at the European and international level – notably regarding the use of force and firearms in the course of duty, the acquisition of weapons and arms trafficking, maritime security services, the issue of extra-territoriality and accountability, the availability of effective remedies for victims, and civil liability of individuals and corporate actors – meaning that PMSCs are still largely able to operate outside the constraints of legal supervision; whereas the absence of a legally binding international instrument also poses considerable challenges in monitoring and supervising the activities of PMSCs;
Amendment 163 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. CRegrets that the European Union does not have a regulatory framework of its own, despite the large number of PSCs of European origin and/or involved in missions and operations under the CSDP or EU delegations; calls for the EU to encourage legislation that would require all PMSCs registered in, operating in or contracted by an EU Member State to maintain membership in good standing with the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers’ AssociationCoCA;
Amendment 180 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Encourages Member States and the EU institutions to provide information about the performance of PSCs more consistently and in a transparent manner to allow for a proper assessment of the use of PSCs by their respective budgetary authorities and independent auditors; recommends that parliaments and NGOs should be actively engaged in the necessary evaluation processes that are crucial for the regulation and oversight of this industry;
Amendment 218 #
2018/2154(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. CUrges the EU and its Member States to push for an international legally binding instrument that goes further than the Montreux document, by regulating the activities of PSCs, establishing a level playing field to ensure that host states have the authority to regulate PSCs and contracting states are able to use their power to protect human rights and prevent corruption; considers an international binding instrument to be an appropriate option to ensure that human rights are fully protected wherever PMSCs operate; takes the view that the development of an international regulatory framework is in the interest of all stakeholders, as it provides for legal certainty, remedies, uniformity and objectivity with respect to international standards and thereby creates a level playing field at global level;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas negotiations take place in the changing global context where Russia and China are seeking to enhance their political and economic influence, and in case of China, to dominate in the world;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas an agreement to establish comprehensive strategic partnership between Kyrgyzstan and China was signed on 6 June 2018;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
Amendment 6 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) to identify strategic short-term and long-term perspectives in the comprehensive agreement and to set up a number of well-identified and structured goals for the cooperation with Kyrgyzstan; to put additional efforts and to deepen the relationship in order to make the EU more visible and more efficient in the country and in the region;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) to ensure a firm engagement from both sides to respect and advance democratic principles, human rights and the rule of law; to pursue a regular dialogue on human rights with clear benchmarks, which would be effective and give tangible results;
Amendment 25 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) to enhance provisions related to trade and economic relations, contributing to the diversification of the Kyrgyz economy; to and strengthening legal certainty, regulatory transparency, good governance, as well as a functioning judiciary, cutting red tape and promotingi.e. all available measures which would promote sustainable economic development; of Kyrgyzstan;
Amendment 27 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
(ga) to foresee measures for the implementation of GSP+ instrument in Kyrgyzstan that would help in making it a real incentive for a remarkable growth of EU-Kyrgyzstan trade;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) to enhance cooperation in the fight against corruption, money laundering and tax evasion; to reinforce measures helping to increase the adherence of Kyrgyz Republic to the European and international anti-corruption standards;
Amendment 76 #
2018/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point z a (new)
(za) to take into account the development of Kyrgyzstan and China relations in the context of the implementation of China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) strategy and following the agreement to establish comprehensive strategic partnership signed between the two countries on 6 June 2018;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Strongly welcomes the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement by the EU and, which is the first multilateral agreement since the establishment of the WTO in 1995; recalls the importance of its full implementation by all WTO signatories in order to simplify and modernise export and import processes worldwide, to promote transparency and boost trade flows globally; calls on the Commission to continue working closely with the Member States, OECD and the WCO in reducing existing gaps in customs control systems;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that a fully functional customs union is essential in order to guarantee the credibility and strength of the EU when negotiating trade agreements; emphasises that an efficient EU customs union should facilitate trade and reduce administrative burdens for legitimate traders, in particular SMEs as well as ensuring effective controls, inter alia by fostering cooperation between the customs authorities of Member States and third countries;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that creating seamless customs processes across the Union through the reform of IT infrastructure is pivotal; strongly urges the Commission to implement without further delay the IT systems needed for the IT customs infrastructure; considers that digitalisation has to the potential to make the exchange of information and the payment of duties more transparent and accessible, in particular for operators in third countries; recalls that the development of the required IT systems needs sufficient financing and calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure the availability of resources for the necessary IT systems;
Amendment 11 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that the current divergent levels of controls and their quality, and of customs procedures and sanctions policies at points of entry into the customs union, often result in the distortion of trade flows, feeding the problem of ‘forum shopping’ and putting at risk the integrity of the single market; strongly encourages, in this context, the transfer of responsibilities from national customs authorities to EU level; notes that due to the diverging customs turnover at national level, Member States prioritise the implementation of the UCC differently; strongly calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure a coordinated, uniform and efficient implementation of the new system set by the UCC without further delay;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that the current divergent levels of controls and their quality, and of customs procedures and sanctions policies at points of entry into the customs union, often result in the distortion of trade flows, feeding the problem of ‘forum shopping’ and putting at risk the integrity of the single market; strongly encourages, in this context, the transfer of responsibilities from national customs authorities to EU level;
Amendment 16 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers that within the EaP policy the EU associated countries that have made substantial progress in implementing AA/DCFTA-related reforms could eventually join the Customs Union which would facilitate trade between EaP associated countries and the EU, reduce administrative costs and foster economic growth;
Amendment 19 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reminds that the UK will continue to participate in the EU Customs Union during the transition period; recalls the fact that the United Kingdom will become a third country after withdrawal from the EU, thus altering the EU’s external borders; stresses that the Brexit process should not negatively impact on the development or governance of EU customs. and that the changes to the customs systems at the EU external borders shall not be deducted from the funds allocated to the development of IT infrastructures;
Amendment 20 #
2018/2109(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls the fact that the United Kingdom will become a third country after withdrawal from the EU, thus altering the EU’s external borders; stresses that the Brexit process should not negatively impact on the development or governance of EU customs union.
Amendment 235 #
2018/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Stresses that efforts on military mobility should contribute to the effective implementation of CSDP missions and operations and to the Alliance’s defence posture and therefore encourages both organisations to continue working together on military mobility in the closest possible manner, including through the development of common military requirements to facilitate a rapid movement of military forces across Europe; calls on the Commission to underpin these efforts with the necessary investments and, where appropriate, legislation;
Amendment 22 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas blockchain technology may provide all parties, public and private, involved in trade, with permanent access in real time to an immutable, time- stamped database holding documents pertaining to transactions, thus helping to build confidence, avoid compliance issues, and tackle the use of counterfeited goods or fake documents;
Amendment 24 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Welcomes the EU’s effectiveness in concluding free trade agreements and its efforts to maintain and strengthen the international rules-based system of the WTO that has translated into real opportunities for businesses, consumers and emerging economies alike; welcomes the EU’s commitment to a rules-based trading system in order to ensure a level playing field and to enforce global trade rules;
Amendment 26 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses regret that despite previous trade successes, EU FTAs are still underutilised; notes that blockchain technologies could meet the growing challenges to the open-trading system; notes that exporters could upload all their documents to a public authority application underpinned by blockchain, and instantly prove their compliance with preferential treatment granted by the FTA;
Amendment 32 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that blockchain could assist the Union’s trade defence instruments by providing transparency over the provenance of goods entering the European market and an overview of the influx of imports to ensure a more level- playing field for businesses;
Amendment 37 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that blockchain has the potential to support the trade and sustainable development agenda by providing trust in the provenance of raw materials and goods, transparent production processes, and their compliance with international rules in the field of labour, social, and environmental rights and obligations;
Amendment 51 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines the utility of blockchain in the following ways: strengthening the certainty of the provenance of goods, reducing the risk of illicproviding verifiability and transparency for goods protected by intellectual property rights, reducing the risk of illicit goods including counterfeit goods entering the supply chain, upholding consumer protection, reducing the costs of supply chain management, and improving trust and business stability;
Amendment 61 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recognises cross-border data flows of, both personal and non-personal data as well as machine-to-machine communication, as an integral function for international trade and the design of blockchain architecture;
Amendment 71 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Recognises the challenge posed by the relationship between blockchain technologies and the implementation of GDPR; notes that blockchain technology can provide solutions for GDPR implementation because both initiatives are underpinned by common principles of ensuring secured and self-governed data; underlines that GDPR only applies if personal data are concerned; invites the Commission to look further into this issue;
Amendment 88 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Commission to follow developments in the area of blockchain, in particular the ongoing pilots/initiatives in the international supply chain; invites the Commission to produce a horizontal strategy document involving all Commission DG’s on adopting blockchain technologies in trade and supply chain management as well as in the area of intellectual property and in particular the fight against counterfeiting; invites the Commission to explore further areas of EU trade policy in which blockchain technologies could be a proper solution to existing challenges;
Amendment 96 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Calls on the Commission to launch and supervise a pilot project to manage a major EU trade corridor, such as between two major ports and/or alongside a key trade route, using blockchain technology, in order to test its benefits;
Amendment 99 #
2018/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to develop a set of guiding principles tailored to industry to provide a level of certainty that encourages the use of blockchain and innovation in this area; underlines the importance for the EU to show leadership and ownership in the field of blockchain technologies, especially for the EU’s industry and ensure a level playing field regarding global competition and in the areas of development and regulatory environment;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the WTO should remain the main point of reference for governments and businesses in rule- setting and trade disputes;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Expresses the view that whilst the multilateral trading system experiences increased pressure, WTO members should undertake commitments according to their current economic weight and level of competitiveness; this status should be regularly updated according to objective and internationally recognised criteria;
Amendment 32 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Underlines that stability and predictability offered through a neutral and efficient WTO Dispute Settlement are key for business all over the world; stresses the importance of finding a solution to the impasse in the dispute settlement process within the existing framework, but emphasizes that those members willing to maintain a functioning dispute settlement process must be allowed to look into alternative solutions if the impasse continues;
Amendment 42 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses the importance of the WTO adapting to today’s global trading environment and achieving progress in terms of negotiating new rules, as businesses all over the world depend on an open and rules-based environment in order to efficiently deliver their best products and services; underlines that the WTO should be able to start discussions on new issues, such as rules related to digital trade, investment, subsidies and competition, as well as consider the increased role of services and the importance of cyber security for the economy;
Amendment 52 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Is convinced that the Trade Facilitation Agreement sets an important example and could provide a model for future WTO deals, taking into account the differences in the development status and needs of the members; encourages the WTO members to take responsibility and keep to their commitments according to their real economic power and capabilities;
Amendment 57 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Considers a more flexible approach to the decision making process in the WTO, through which the Secretariat would be able to take a more active role, as a viable solution which would allow more progress, especially in the negotiating pillar of the WTO; considers in this regard that Members should increase the WTO budget according to the extended needs to maintain the same quality of work, in general, the monetary contributions of new members should increase the WTO budget and not lead to smaller member fees of the existing members;
Amendment 63 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Is convinced that WTO members should explore different options under plurilateral agreements; notes that in this regard members, which would like to move ahead in setting new rules should be allowed to do so, in a way that is open to other members, who are not convinced or ready at the particular moment, to join later;
Amendment 76 #
2018/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Expresses the view that the regular work of the WTO committees should also be revitalised by giving the chairpersons a more active role in developing and proposing solutions and compromises beyond just moderating the contributions of members and this extended task should be supported by the Secretariat;
Amendment 366 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the intention to simplify and modernise the CAP, but emphasisunderlines that the integrity of the sSingle mMarket and a truly common and adequately financed by the EU policy must be the overriding priorities of reform;
Amendment 554 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that the current CAP architecture can only deliver its objectives if sufficiently funded; calls, therefore, for the CAP budget to be maintained in the nextonly if it remain a common, modern and well- funded policy which supports sustainable development of agriculture and is crucial for providing safe, high quality and diverse food, jobs and growth in rural areas; which contributes to further levelling of developmental gaps in agriculture and rural areas and which reflects social and economic cohesion in its financial and programming dimension as well as proposed instruments and thus calls for maintaining the CAP budget in the post-2020 MFF at at least athe current levels in order to achieve the ambitions of a revised and efficient CAP beyondafter 2020;
Amendment 739 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Stresses the need for a fair and equal distribution of direct payments between Member States, which must take into account socio-economic differences, different production costs and the amounts received by Member States under Pillar II;
Amendment 760 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls to complete the process of full convergence of direct payments between Member States as of 2021;
Amendment 765 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Underlines that all EU farmers have to meet the same standards and requirements and are facing the same challenges;
Amendment 936 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the Commission to introduce a new and comprehensive legal framework which allows the integration of the various types of environmental actions at present, such as cross compliance, greening and the good agricultural and environmental conditions (GAEC) standards, as well as agri-environment measures (AEMs) for rural development, so that farmers can deliver effectively and with less bureaucracy on environmental care, biodiversity and climate action, receiving equal awards for provision of comparable services of public interest, while ensuring that Member States have adequate control and taking into account local conditions;
Amendment 1251 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Believes that the compliance of farming in partner states with good and sustainable farming practices, climate measures and other means to minimise environmental impact of farming, which are applied in the EU, shall become an obligatory threshold for allowing access of goods manufactured in the third states to enter the EU market;
Amendment 1283 #
2018/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls for initiatives to promote EU production, safety and environmental standards and quality production schemes, through both labelling and marketing activities on internal and third-country markets, also ensuring consumers’ interest to be sure that goods marketed under the same brand have the same composition irrespectively of the market and comprehensive awareness in case if altered recipes are used;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21 a (new)
Citation 21 a (new)
– having regard to the policy paper of the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, WTO on Making trade an engine of growth for all: the case for trade and for policies to facilitate adjustment, 2017,
Amendment 11 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21 b (new)
Citation 21 b (new)
– having regard to the OECD Key issues paper: making globalisation work; better lives for all’, C(2017) 32, 2017,
Amendment 13 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
Amendment 18 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas globalisation will look completely different seven years from today and virtually all sectors will have changedis a perpetual process whose impact has created a new set of political, economic and social challenges for the future that the EU will face and tackle;
Amendment 19 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas global trade openness and globalisation as such contributes to the economic growth, prosperity and the competitiveness of countries; whereas globalisation has had positive effects lifting millions of people out of poverty and guaranteeing higher incomes, though poverty and social exclusion remain the issue to be addressed;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas protectionism is intellectually a simple and weak answer to the challenges posed by globalisation; the closure of borders and protectionism will have a domino effect for all, hurting importers, exporters and consumers;
Amendment 34 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the reflection paper entitledof the European Commission on ‘Harnessing globalisation’ and its focus on easing access to the positive effects of globalisation while pointing out the need to counter the negative effects;
Amendment 46 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the benefits of globalisationregions and societies are unot equally distributed between regions and within societiesbenefitting from the positive effects of globalisation; notes that this is a reason for the rising scepticism or rejection of globalisation within societies; notes that the financial and economic crises had a particularly negative effect on mid-range incomes; expresses the view that the combination of a declining middle class,affected the distribution of income and aggravated the problem of poverty, since the wealth was unevenly distributed; takes note that the distribution of wealth has remained at historic highs, while in 2014 the average Gini coefficient of disposable household income reached the highest value on record in the last 30 years; expresses the view that citizens’ fears over losing their social and economic position, and scepticism towards globalisation, can result inould lead to nationalist and authoritarian tendencies, which then leads to the promotion of protectionism as an easy answer to common fears; stresses the importance of building resilience within societies to the challenges posed by globalisation;
Amendment 57 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Points out that the outlook of a sustainable and thriving domestic future supports the reduction and facilitates the management of illegal migration flows to Europe;
Amendment 58 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Notes that where the economy fails, democracy also suffers and is now in decline almost everywhere; underlines that citizens are more empowered than ever but many feel that democracy no longer serves them well; points out that this trend leads to autocratic and undemocratic states successfully weaponising our societies and capitalise on the popular backlash against globalisation;
Amendment 62 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that the economic importance of China and other Southeast Asian countries is growing significantly; understands that this leads to a crelative loss of importancees new challenges for the present global economic centres of Europe and North Americaorder in Europe, North, South and Central America and Asia; stresses the importance of adapting to these new economic challenges;
Amendment 67 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Notes that China is growing significantly at the expense of Europe and North America but where Europe and North America lose economic clout, China fills the gap; underlines that China’s influence is spreading to Europe itself, which is not just economic but has a strategic component with security implications;
Amendment 71 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 81 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Notes that free, fair, and mutually beneficial trade and investment are essential instruments for the creation of reciprocal benefits, growth and jobs; underlines the crucial role of a rules- based international trading system to fight protectionism; notes the importance of bilateral, regional and plurilateral agreements being open, transparent, inclusive and WTO-consistent, thus complementing the multilateral trade agreements;
Amendment 84 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes the importance of engaging in the restructuring of the world economic order and of respecting the needs of developing countries, while stressing that the aims of fulfilling the SDGs and the conditions of the Paris Agreement must provide the overarching frameworkshould be met in order to tackle the challenges of globalisation; underlines that public finance, official development assistance and domestic resource mobilization are necessary tools in order to achieve the SDGs, but not enough to bolster economic growth and sustainable development to lift all populations out of poverty;
Amendment 90 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Stresses the importance of flanking policies to support the positive effects and opportunities provided by globalisation; underlines the need for structured, well-balanced Free Trade agreements; reiterates its support for the European Commission's Trade policy and the promotion of trade policy tools and instruments in order to regulate and tackle the challenges of globalisation;
Amendment 93 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Points out that the disputes between the EU and the US create new challenges for the EU but also more responsibilities and opportunities in order to seek for new ways to manage and shape globalisation;
Amendment 98 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes that strengthening the EU’s internal market as well as consolidating the economic union is vital, since a solid internal market is a prerequisite for the successful implementation of international strategies; points out that being internationally competitive depends strongly on shaping digitalisation successfully and in a socially responsible manner; notes that the shift toe importance of achieving our climate policy goals and the threshold of renewable energies needs to happen as soon as possible;
Amendment 103 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Notes that new technologies will transform the foundation of international trade; points out that blockchain has an inherent ability to allow more secure, transparent, and easy tracking of different transactions and objects to revolutionise the supply chain; In addition to its track and trace abilities, blockchain can also help connect customers with a product’s ‘origin story’ and give reassurance of provenance and can make trade more secure and transparent by facilitating fast international payments, eliminating paper contracts and intermediaries, accurately detecting risks, guaranteeing secure identification to the purchased goods and preventing money laundering;
Amendment 110 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. AskEncourages the Commission to create a European trade strategy for SMEs in order to integrate SMEs into international value chains and overcome trade-specific hurdles such as non-tariff barriers; underlines the importance to create numerous benefits for developing and strengthening SMEs through Free Trade agreements; points out that access to information is one of the biggest obstacles to the market participation of SMEs, meaning that transparency and support need to increase;
Amendment 120 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Notes the importance of a vital trade policy to create a framework where the rights and duties are clearly set up in a rules based system; underlines the need for reinforced trade defence instruments, e.g. the Foreign Direct Investment screening mechanism and the International Procurement Instrument;
Amendment 126 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that, as a reply to globalisation-induced job losses, a reform of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund is needed in order to meet the new challenges of globalisation and provide help to the most affected sectors;
Amendment 136 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls onWelcomes positive trends of the Commission to meet scepticism towards globalisation with a credible initiative on transparency; recognises its numerous efforts on transparency whilst negotiating free trade agreements;
Amendment 140 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Stresses the need for more global governance and rules in order to harness globalisation better; underlines the importance of supportive domestic policies to boost the EU‘s competitiveness and resilience;
Amendment 145 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the Commission to include sustainability-related measures in every chapter of trade agreements and not to reduce them to one toothless chapterolid and comprehensive sustainable development chapters in free trade agreements in order to support international trade and create a healthy, prosperous, sustainable and fair future for the EU;
Amendment 150 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Notes the importance of a balanced and progressive trade policy to meet the challenges of globalisation through balanced free trade agreements already concluded or still under negotiation, for example with Canada, Japan, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam and Mexico;
Amendment 161 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that impact assessments conducted before the start of negotiations must take their possible effects on the fulfilment of the SDGs into account; notes that national sustainability strategies and implementation plans for the Paris Agreement must form the startingbe one of the essential points for impact assessments; points out that every single provision of anthe trade agreements and its possible impacts must be checked on its compatibility withshould respond to the SDGs; notes that if parts of an agreement hamper the fulfilment of the SDGs or the Paris Agreement, adjustments must be made; notes that breaches of sustainability provisions must be counterweighted by corrective measures or settlead to a sanction- basedhrough a special dispute settlement mechanism;
Amendment 166 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Notes that, in line with SDG 17, the Commission must reform it the Commission's system for implementing policy coherence for development should comply with SDG 17;
Amendment 173 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Points out that the ratification and implementation of the ILO’s core labour standards must be a precondition for the implementation of any agreement; notes that organised civil society and social partners should be included in the formative stages of agreements, the implementation phase and the monitoring phase after implementation via bilateral meetings with the negotiating partners; notes that ian case of a breach of the sustainability provisions of an agreement, the dispute settlement mechanism must be accessible to civil society as well as the negotiating partnerseffective and workable dispute settlement mechanism should be in place as well as effective monitoring bodies which involve civil society;
Amendment 204 #
2018/2005(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Notes that free, fair and sustainable trade is economically desirable and has vital political implications; notes that it is important for Europe to use trade as an instrument for the promotion of democratic and sustainable development in our partner countries and regions, in particular in the states of the Eastern Partnership, in Central Asia, in Latin America as well as the African states;
Amendment 30 #
2018/0251(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The programme should be conducted with a joint financial effort of the Union and Lithuania. A maximum Union co-financing threshold should be established in line with the co-financing practice established under the predecessor programmes. Taking into account the practice of comparable Union programmes and the strengthened Lithuanian economyProtocol 4 of the 2003 Act of Accession stipulates that the Union contribution under the Ignalina Programme may, for certain measures, amount to up to 100% of the total expenditure. A Union co-financing threshold should be established in line with the co-financing practice established under the predecessor programmes. Taking into account the findings of the 2018 Commission report on the evaluation and implementation of the EU nuclear decommissioning assistance programmes in Bulgaria, Slovakia and Lithuania and the political commitment by Lithuania to contribute as a maximum 14% of the overall decommissioning cost, the Union co-financing rate, from the inception of the Ignalina decommissioning programme until the end of the implementation of the activities financed under this Regulation, the Union co- financing rate should be no higherless than 806 % of eligible costs. The remaining co- financing should be provided by Lithuania and sources other than the Union budget, notably from international financial institutions and other donors.
Amendment 46 #
2018/0251(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. The financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be EUR 552780 000 000 in current prices.
Amendment 50 #
2018/0251(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
The overall maximum Union co-financing rate applicable under the Programme shall be no higherless than 806%. The remaining financing shall be provided by Lithuania and additional sources other than the Union budget.
Amendment 15 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the Union with the beneficiaries listed in Annex I. Assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in Annex I to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law, reform the judiciary and public administration, respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality, tolerance, social inclusion and non-discrimination. Assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the European Pillar of Social Rights.17 Assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional, macro-regional and cross-border cooperation breaking down barriers as well as territorial development, including through implementation of Union macro-regional strategies. It should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance, underpinning a smart, sustainable and inclusive growth agenda, including open, free and fair trade through implementation of regional development, agriculture and rural development, social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society, also in line with the flagship initiative Digital Agenda for the Western Balkans. _________________ 17 European Pillar of Social Rights solemnly proclaimed by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission at the Gothenburg Social Summit for Fair Jobs and Growth, Gothenburg 17 November 2017.
Amendment 16 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The Union should provide support to the transition towards accession for the benefit of the beneficiaries listed in Annex I, based on the experience of its Member States. This cooperation should focus in particular on the sharing of experience acquired by the Member States in the reform process., in particular on enhancing fair competition, customs cooperation and on joint action to fight against corruption, combat smuggling, money laundering, counterfeiting and public procurement;
Amendment 19 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Strengthening the rule of law, including the fight against corruption, money laundering and organised crime, and good governance, including public administration reform, public procurement, competition, state-aid, intellectual property and foreign investments, remain key challenges in most of the beneficiaries listed in Annex I and are essential in order for beneficiaries to come closer to the Union and later to fully assume the obligations of Union membership. In view of the longer-term nature of the reforms pursued in those areas and the need to build up track records, financial assistance under this Regulation should address the requirements placed on the beneficiaries listed in Annex I as early as possible.
Amendment 25 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) It is in the Union's interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in Annex I in their efforts to reform with a view to Union membership. Assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre-accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria. Additional efforts of beneficiaries to break down trade barriers at national, interregional and international level as well as to refrain from protectionism would be substantial with a view to Union membership.
Amendment 26 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The transition from direct management of pre-accession funds by the Commission to indirect management by the beneficiaries listed in Annex I should be progressive and in line with the respective capacities of those beneficiaries. The transition should be suspended if EU funds are being used inefficiently, resulting in significant shortcomings of relevant obligations. Assistance should continue to make use of the structures and instruments that have proved their worth in the pre-accession process.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) To reinforce the effectiveness of public administration and support structural reforms and good governance at all levels including in the fields of public procurement, state-aid, competition, foreign direct investments and intellectual property;
Amendment 34 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) To strengthen economic and social development including through increased connectivity and regional development, agriculture and rural development and, social and employment policies and trade facilitation, to reinforce environmental protection, increase resilience to climate change, accelerate the shift towards a low- carbon economy and develop the digital economy and society.
Amendment 41 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Assistance shall be targeted and adjusted to the specific situation of the beneficiaries listed in Annex I, taking into account further efforts needed to meet the membership criteria as well as the capacities of those beneficiaries. Assistance shall be differentiated in scope and intensity according to needs, commitment to reforms and progress in implementing those reforms, keeping in mind the need for sustainable economic development and growth, a good business and investment climate and fiscal consolidation. Fulfilment and achievement of the progress shall be regularly monitored.
Amendment 44 #
2018/0247(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The Commission shall apply conditionality criteria and take steps to reduce or suspend the Union funding in cases of systemic irregularities in the management and control mechanisms or unsatisfactory progress being made towards achieving the objectives agreed with the beneficiary, as well as in case of serious breach of human rights, democracy and rule of law.
Amendment 16 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Community should continue its close cooperation, in accordance with Chapter 10 of the Euratom Treaty with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in relation to nuclear safety and nuclear safeguards, in furtherance of the objectives of Chapters 3 and 7 of Title II. The Instrument should also promote international cooperation based on conventions on nuclear safety and radioactive waste management.
Amendment 19 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) This Instrument should provide for actions in support of those objectives and build on the actions previously supported under Regulation (Euratom) No 237/201424 concerning nuclear safety and nuclear safeguards in third countries, in particular in acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidates, potential candidates and neighbourhood countries, as well as in partner countries having association, partnership and cooperation agreements with the Union. _________________ 24 Council Regulation (Euratom) No 237/2014 of 13 December 2013 establishing an Instrument for Nuclear Safety Cooperation (OJ L 77 15.3.2014 p 109.)
Amendment 21 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The implementation of this Regulation should be based on consultation, where relevant, with the relevant authorities of the Union and Member States, and on an effective and result-oriented dialogue with the partner countries.
Amendment 27 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. The objective of this Regulation is to complement those nuclear cooperation activities that are financed under [the Regulation NDICI], in particular in order to support the promotion of a high level of nuclear safety, radiation protection, and transparency standards as well as the application of effective and efficient safeguards of nuclear materials in third countries, building on the activities within the Community and in line with the provisions of this Regulation.
Amendment 30 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) the promotion of an effective nuclear safety and radiation protection culture and implementation of the highest nuclear safety and radiation protection standards, and continuous improvement of nuclear safety;
Amendment 34 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) establishing efficient and, effective and transparent safeguard systems.
Amendment 39 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) action plans, individual measures and support measures, for which the Union's funding does not exceed EUR 10 million;
Amendment 46 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) number of legal and regulatory acts prepared, introduced and or revised; and
Amendment 47 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) number of design, concept or feasibility studies for the establishment of facilities in line with the highest standards of nuclear safety.
Amendment 48 #
2018/0245(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
(b a) implementation of nuclear safety and radioactive waste management improvement measures, based on the highest safety standards, including recommendations of international peer review.
Amendment 16 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The general objective of the Programme "Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument" (the ‘Instrument’) should be to uphold and promotepromote economic and social development, contribute to the eradication of poverty and to uphold the Union’s values and interests worldwide in order to pursue the objectives and principles of the Union’s external action, as laid down in Article 3(5), Articles 8 and 21 of the Treaty on European Union.
Amendment 22 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The implementation of this Regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the Global Strategy for the European Union’s Foreign and Security Policy (the 'Global Strategy')59 , presented on 19 June 2016, which represents the Union's vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others, to advance its values and interests. The Union should enhance partnerships, promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern. Its action should support the Union’s interests and values in all its aspects, including preserving peace, preventing conflicts, strengthening international security, fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations, countries and regions confronting natural or man-made disasters, supportingfostering economic reforms and supporting a value-based trade policy, economic diplomacy and economic cooperation, promoting digital solutions and technologies, and fostering the international dimension of Union’s policies. In promoting its interests, the Union should comply with, and promote, the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards, for the rule of law, for international law and for human rights. _________________ 59 "Shared Vision, Common Action: A Stronger Europe. A global Strategy for the European Union's Foreign and Security Policy", June 2016.
Amendment 28 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 34
Recital 34
(34) The EFSD+ should aim at supporting investments as a means of contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by fostering sustainable and inclusive economic and social development and promoting the socio-economic resilience in partner countries with a particular focus on the eradication of poverty, sustainable and inclusive growth, the creation of decent jobs, and economic opportunities for women and young people in particular, skills and entrepreneurship, socioeconomic sectors, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises as well as addressing specific socioeconomic root causes of irregular migration, in accordance with the relevant indicative programming documents. Special attention should be given to countries identified as experiencing fragility or conflict, Least Developed Countries and heavily indebted poor countries.
Amendment 29 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) An External Action Guarantee should be established building on the existing EFSD Guarantee and the Guarantee Fund for external actions. The External Action Guarantee should support the EFSD+ operations covered by budgetary guarantees, macro-financial assistance and loans to third countries on the basis of Council Decision 77/270/Euratom71 . These operations should be supported by appropriations under this Regulation, together with those under Regulation (EU) No …/… (IPA III) and Regulation (EU) No …/… (EINS), which should also cover the provisioning and liabilities arising from macro-financial assistance loans and loans to third countries referred to in Article 10(2) of Regulation EINS, respectively. When funding EFSD+ operations, priority should be given to those which have a high impact on decent job creation and whose cost- benefit ratio enhances the sustainability of investment. The operations supported with the External Action Guarantee should be accompanied by an in-depth ex ante assessment of environmental, financial and social aspects, as appropriate and in line with the better regulation requirements. The External Action Guarantee should not be used to provide essential public services, which remains a government responsibility. _________________ 71 Council decision 77/270/EURATOM of 29 March 1977 empowering the Commission to issue Euratom loans for the purpose of contributing to the financing of nuclear power stations (OJ L 88, 6.4.1977, p. 9).
Amendment 30 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37
Recital 37
(37) In order to provide for flexibility, increase the attractiveness for the private sector, promote fair competition and maximise the impact of the investments a derogation from the rules related to the methods of implementation of the Union budget, as laid down in the Financial Regulation, should be provided as regards the eligible counterparts. Those eligible counterparts could also be bodies which are not entrusted with the implementation of a public-private partnership and could also be bodies governed by the private law of a partner country.
Amendment 33 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) to support and foster dialogue and cooperation with third countries and regions in the Neighbourhood, in Sub- Saharan Africa, in Asia and the Pacific, and in the Americas and the Caribbean particularly on achieving sustainable economic and social development and eradicating poverty;
Amendment 34 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) at global level, to consolidate and support democracy, rule of law and human rights, human rights and sustainable development with a particular focus on rule- and value-based international trade, eradicate poverty and foster economic growth, support civil society organisations, further stability and peace and address other global challenges including migration and mobility;
Amendment 58 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The purpose of the EFSD+ as an integrated financial package supplying financial capacity drawing on the methods of implementation set up in Article 23(1)(a), (e), (f) and (g), shall be to support investments and increase access to financing, in order to foster sustainable and inclusive economic and social development and promote the socio-economic resilience in partner countries with a particular focus on the, eradication of poverty, sustainable and inclusive growth, the creation of decent jobs, and economic opportunities in particular for women and young people, skills and entrepreneurship, socioeconomic sectors, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises as well as addressing specific socioeconomic root causes of irregular migration, in accordance with the relevant indicative programming documents. Special attention shall be given to countries identified as experiencing fragility or conflict, Least Developed Countries and heavily indebted poor countries.
Amendment 427 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The implementation of this Regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the Global Strategy for the European Union’s Foreign and Security Policy (the 'Global Strategy')59 , presented on 19 June 2016, which represents the Union's vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others, to advance its values and interests. The Union should enhance partnerships, promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern. Its action should support the Union’s interests and values in all its aspects, including preserving peace, preventing conflicts, ensuring nuclear safety, strengthening international security, fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations, countries and regions confronting natural or man-made disasters, supporting trade policy, economic diplomacy and economic cooperation, promoting digital solutions and technologies, and fostering the international dimension of Union’s policies. In promoting its interests, the Union should comply with, and promote, the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards, for the rule of law, for international law and for human rights. _________________ 59 "Shared Vision, Common Action: A Stronger Europe. A global Strategy for the European Union's Foreign and Security Policy", June 2016.
Amendment 488 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) The Union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action. That should be achieved through coherence and complementarity among the Union's external financing instruments, notably the Instrument for Pre-Accession III63 , the Humanitarian Aid Instrument64 , the Decision on Overseas Countries and Territories65 , the European Instrument for Nuclear Safety to complement the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument on the basis of the Euratom Treaty66 , the common foreign and security policy and the newly proposed European Peace Facility67 which is financed outside the Union budget, as well as the creation of synergies with other Union policies and Programmes. This includes coherence and complementarity with macro-financial assistance, where relevant. In order to maximise the impact of combined interventions to achieve a common objective, this Regulation should foresee strict conditionalities for suspension of assistance and allow for the combination of funding with other Union Programmes, as long as the contributions do not cover the same costs. _________________ 63 COM (2018) 465 final Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III) 64 Council Regulation (EC) No 1257/96 of 20 June 1996 concerning humanitarian aid (OJ L 163, 2.7.1996, p. 1). 65 COM(2018) 461 final Proposal for a Council Decision on the Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the European Union on the one hand, and Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark on the other ('Overseas Association Decision'). 66 COM(2018) 462 final Proposal for a Council Regulation establishing a European Instrument for Nuclear Safety complementing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument on the basis of the Euratom Treaty. 67 C(2018) 3800 final Proposal of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to the Council for a Council Decision establishing a European Peace Facility.
Amendment 490 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21 a (new)
Recital 21 a (new)
(21a) This Regulation should reconfirm nuclear safety as an important part of the EU external action and facilitate the objectives of cooperation specified in Regulation (EINS). Therefore, in the event where a partner country persistently fails to respect the basic nuclear safety standards, such as provisions of the relevant international Conventions within the Framework of the IAEA, the Espoo and Aarhus Conventions and their subsequent amendments, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the additional Protocols thereto, the commitments to implementation of stress tests and related measures, and the objectives of cooperation specified in Regulation (EINS), assistance under this Regulation for the country concerned should be reconsidered and might be suspended or partly suspended.
Amendment 857 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 a (new)
Article 15 a (new)
Article 15 a Suspension of assistance Without prejudice to the provisions on the suspension of aid in agreements with partner countries and regions, where a partner country persistently fails to observe the principles of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the nuclear safety standards, the Commission shall be empowered, in accordance with Article 34, to adopt delegated acts amending Annex VII a by adding a partner country to the list of partner countries for which Union assistance is suspended or partly suspended. In the case of a partial suspension, the programmes for which the suspension applies shall be indicated. Where the Commission finds that the reasons justifying the suspension of assistance no longer apply, it shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 34 to amend Annex VII a in order to reinstate Union assistance.
Amendment 195 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) In order to improve the completion of transport projects in less developed parts of the network, a Cohesion Fund allocation should be transferred to the Programme to finance transport projects in the Member States eligible for financing from the Cohesion Fund. In an initial phase and within a limit of 760% of the transferred envelope, the selection of projects eligible for financing should respect the national allocations under the Cohesion Fund. The remaining 340% of the transferred envelope should be allocated on a competitive basis to projects located in the Member States eligible for financing from the Cohesion Fund with priority to cross-border links and missing links. The Commission should support Member States eligible for financing from the Cohesion Fund in their efforts to develop an appropriate pipeline of projects, in particular by strengthening the institutional capacity of the public administrations concerned.
Amendment 573 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 8
Article 4 – paragraph 8
8. As regards the amounts transferred from the Cohesion Fund, 340% of these amounts shall be made available immediately to all Member States eligible for funding from the Cohesion Fund to finance transport infrastructure projects in accordance with this Regulation, with priority to cross-border and missing links. Until 31 December 2023, the selection of projects eligible for financing shall respect the national allocations under the Cohesion Fund with regard to 760% of the resources transferred. As of 1 January 2024, resources transferred to the Programme which have not been committed to a transport infrastructure project shall be made available to all Member States eligible for funding from the Cohesion Fund to finance transport infrastructure projects in accordance with this Regulation.
Amendment 938 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) as regards the amounts transferred from the Cohesion Fund, as well as for works relating to the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2) (a) (ii) in Member Sates eligible for funding from the Cohesion fund, the maximum co- financing rates shall be those applicable to the Cohesion Fund as referred to in the Regulation (EU) XXX [CPR]. These co- financing rates may be increased to a maximum of 85% for actions relating to cross-border links under the conditions specified in point (c) of this paragraph;
Amendment 980 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) eExpenditure related to the purchase of land shall not be an eligible cost, except for funds transferred from the Cohesion Fund in the transport sector in accordance with a Regulation laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, the Cohesion Fund, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and laying down general provision on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund;
Amendment 982 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) eligible costs shall not include value added tax ("“VAT"”).
Amendment 1081 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – part II – paragraph 1 – indent 1
Annex I – part II – paragraph 1 – indent 1
– 680% for the actions listed at Article 9 paragraph 2 (a): “Actions relating to efficient and interconnected networks”;
Amendment 1088 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – part II – paragraph 1 – indent 2
Annex I – part II – paragraph 1 – indent 2
– 420% for the actions listed at Article 9 paragraph 2 (b): “Actions relating to smart, sustainable, inclusive, safe and secure mobility”.
Amendment 1134 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – Part III – point 1 – table – Core network corridor “North Sea-Baltic”
Annex I – Part III – point 1 – table – Core network corridor “North Sea-Baltic”
Amendment 40 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Persons who work for an organisation or are in contact with it in the context of their work-related activities are often the first to know about threats or harm to the public interest which arise in this context. By ‘blowing the whistle’ they play a key role in exposing and preventing breaches of the law and in safeguarding the welfare of society. However, potential whistle blowers are often discouraged from reporting their concerns or suspicions for fear of retaliation. in case they expose irregularities, mismanagement, misuse of funds, maladministration or potential corruption related to the activity of public and private bodies within the Union; they are not truly protected and do not feel protected; this is why many of them use other means to reveal the wrongdoing or even refrain from acting;
Amendment 46 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) At Union level, reports by whistleblowers and investigative journalists are one upstream component of enforcement of Union law: they feed national and Union enforcement systems with information leading to effective detection, investigation and prosecution of breaches of Union law.
Amendment 52 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Whistleblower protection currently provided in the European Union is fragmented across Member States and uneven across policy areas; moreover, there is a lack of follow-up and proper settlement regarding whistle-blowing cases across Member States as well as within the European institutions. The consequences of breaches of Union law with cross-border dimension uncovered by whistleblowers illustrate how insufficient protection in one Member State or within the European bodies not only negatively impacts on the functioning of EU policies in that Member State but can also spill over into other Member States and the Union as a whole.
Amendment 61 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The protection of the financial interests of the Union, which relates to the fight against fraud, corruption and any other illegal activity affecting the use of Union expenditures, the collection of Union revenues and funds or Union assets, is a core area in which enforcement of Union law needs to be strengthened. The strengthening of the protection of the financial interests of the Union also encompasses implementation of the Union budget related to expenditures made on the basis of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community. Lack of effective enforcement in the area of the financial interests of the Union, including fraud and corruption at national level, causes a decrease of the Union revenues and a misuse of EU funds, which can distort public investments and growth and undermine citizens’ trust in EU action. Whistleblower protection isInvestigative journalists also play a crucial role in revealing wrongdoing connected to all these areas; they represent a very exposed group of professionals, often paying with their jobs, freedom and even with their lives disclosure of massive irregularities and corruption schemes; therefore, special measures to protect investigative journalists should be included in a horizontal legislative proposal for the protection of whistle-blowers. Investigative journalism and whistleblower protection are necessary to facilitate the detection, prevention and deterrence of relevant fraud and illegal activities.
Amendment 81 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Protection should also extend to further categories of natural or legal persons, who, whilst not being 'workers' within the meaning of Article 45 TFEU, can play a key role in exposing breaches of the law and may find themselves in a position of economic or other type of vulnerability in the context of their work- related activities. For instance, in areas such as product safety, suppliers are much closer to the source of possible unfair and illicit manufacturing, import or distribution practices of unsafe products; in the implementation of Union funds, consultants providing their services are in a privileged position to draw attention to breaches they witness. Such categories of persons, including self- employed persons providing services, freelance, contractors, sub-contractors and suppliers, are typically subject to retaliation in the form of early termination or cancellation of contract of services, licence or permit, loss of business, loss of income, coercion, intimidation or harassment, blacklisting/business boycotting or damage to their reputation. Shareholders and persons in managerial bodies, may also suffer retaliation, for instance in financial terms or in the form of intimidation or harassment, blacklisting or damage to their reputation. Protection should also be granted to investigative journalists who acquired and published information on corruption schemes, money laundering, fraud, misuse of public money, abuse of office and other irregularities; the same protection should apply to candidates for employment or for providing services to an organisation who acquired the information on breaches of law during the recruitment process or other pre-contractual negotiation stage, and may suffer retaliation for instance in the form of negative employment references or blacklisting/business boycotting.
Amendment 92 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) Effective prevention of breaches of Union law requires that protection is also granted to persons who provide information about potential breaches, which have not yet materialised, but are likely to be committed. For the same reasons, protection is warranted also for persons who do not provide positive evidence but raise reasonable concerns or suspicions. At the same time, protection should not apply to the reporting of information which is already in the public domain or of unsubstantiated rumours and hearsay.
Amendment 98 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Whistleblowers are, in particular, important sources for investigative journalists. Providing effective protection to whistleblowers from retaliationas well as to investigative journalists from retaliation and any form of harassment increases the legal certainty of (potential) whistleblowers and thereby encourages and facilitates whistleblowing also to the media. In this respect, protection of whistleblowers as journalistic sources is crucial for safeguarding the ‘watchdog’ role of investigative journalism in democratic societies.
Amendment 99 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 34
Recital 34
(34) It is for the Member States to identify the authorities competent to receive and give appropriate follow up to the reports on breaches falling within the scope of this Directive. These may be regulatory or supervisory bodies in the areas concerned, law enforcement agencies, anti-corruption bodies and ombudsmen. The authorities designated as competent shall have the necessary capacities and powers to assess the accuracy of the allegations made in the report and to address the breaches reported, including by launching an investigation, prosecution or action for recovery of funds, or other appropriate remedial action, in accordance with their mandate. At the same time, an independent advisory and referral Unit within the European Ombudsman should be established with a view to coordinate with Member States and advise on specific measures for the protection of whistle-blowers and investigative journalists.
Amendment 107 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 42
Recital 42
(42) Provided the confidentiality of the identity of the reporting person is ensured, it is up to each individual private and public legal entity to define the kind of reporting channels to set up, such as in person, by post, by physical complaint box(es), by telephone hotline or through an online platform (intranet or internet). However, reporting channels should not be limited to those amongst the tools, such as in-person reporting and complaint box(es), which do not guarantee confidentiality of the identity of the reporting person; anonymous reporting should be taken into consideration and protection of initially anonymous whistle-blowers should be put in place, in cases where such protection is required.
Amendment 194 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
d a) investigative journalists.
Amendment 274 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. Competent authorities shall ensure that a report received by means other than dedicated reporting channels referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 is promptly forwarded without modification to the dedicated staff members of the competent authority by using dedicated communication channels. Anonymous reporting shall be taken into account.
Amendment 281 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point c
c) the confidentiality regime applicable to reports, including a detailed description of the circumstances under which the confidential data of a reporting person may be disclosed; the same confidentiality regime and protection measures shall be applicable to whistle blowers who initially reported anonymously, if they ask for such measures.
Amendment 324 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
Article 13 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. A person publicly disclosing information on breaches falling within the scope of this Directive, including investigative journalists, shall qualify for protection under this Directive where:
Amendment 339 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 14 – title
Article 14 – title
14 Prohibition of retaliation against reporting persons and investigative journalists
Amendment 342 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point g
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point g
g) coercion, intimidation, harassment or ostracism at the workplace, in public or private life;
Amendment 348 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
k a) abusive suing and disproportionate financial claims;
Amendment 355 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 3
Article 15 – paragraph 3
3. Reporting persons shall have access to effective assistance from competent authorities before any relevant authority involved in their protection against retaliation, including, where provided for under national law, certification of the fact that they qualify for protection under this Directive.
Amendment 360 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 6
Article 15 – paragraph 6
6. Reporting persons shall have access to remedial measures against retaliation as appropriate, including interim relief pending the resolution of legal proceedings, in accordance with the national framework.
Amendment 363 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 8
Article 15 – paragraph 8
8. In addition to providing legal aid to reporting persons in criminal and in cross- border civil proceedings in accordance with Directive (EU) 2016/1919 and Directive 2008/52/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council63 , and in accordance with national law, Member States mayshall provide for further measures of legal and financial assistance and support for reporting persons in the framework of legal proceedings. _________________ 63 Directive 2008/52/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 on certain aspects of mediation in civil and commercial matters (OJ L 136, 24.5.2008, p. 3).
Amendment 371 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point b
b) take retaliatory measures against reporting persons or investigative journalists revealing wrondoing;
Amendment 372 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – point c
c) bring vexatious proceedings against reporting persons or investigative journalists revealing wrongdoing;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, officially operational from 1 January 2016, provides a solid basis for Ukraine's economic development and modernisation; whereas for the past four years Ukraine's economy has not only stabilized but also shown some signs of improvement despite Russian aggression in Crimea and Ukraine's east;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Ukraine deserves particular praise for reforms in the areas of energy, health, pensions, education and decentralisation, but underlines that significant challenges remain particularly in such areas as fight against corruption, privatisation and judicial reform;
Amendment 39 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights five key areas which Ukraine needs to focus on in order to strengthen the implementation process of the Association Agreement (AA): coordination, ownership, prioritisation, monitoring and communication; welcomes, in this context, the recently adopted government communication strategy; recalls the proposal of an 'Eastern Partnership Plus' (EaP+) policy advocated by the Parliament in order to unlock additional perspectives;
Amendment 55 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Emphasises that the effectiveness of reform implementation is directly linked to the preliminary stages of policymaking and legislation; notes, however,stresses that the process of scheduled legislative and regulatory approximation in Ukraine needs to be sped up and improved in terms of legislation quality; notes that the policymaking cycle is lacking the essential instrument of public consultation and research-informed decision-making;
Amendment 86 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Welcomes the adoption of the law on the High Anti-Corruption Court on 7 June 2018 and all related implementing laws following the recommendations of the Venice Commission and urges to implement them without delay; stresses that Ukraine government must do its utmost to establish an independent and trustworthy court where independent international experts take part in the selection of judges in order to ensure trust, transparency, professionalism and competence of the court;
Amendment 102 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Remains deeply concerned at the growing number of illegally detained Ukrainian citizens from the temporarily occupied territories who have been arrested, sentenced and imprisoned by the Russian authorities; calls on Ukrainian authorities and international community to use all available means to release Ukrainian political prisoners detained in Russia where they face torture and inhuman treatment;
Amendment 152 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Welcomes strengthened cooperation in all priority areas covered by the EU Energy Union and closer integration of the energy market with the European energy market, particularly on interconnectivity and infrastructure; calls on the European Commission to ensure that onshore and offshore sections of new pipeline infrastructure within the region, including the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, are fully in line with EU legislation and the energy union strategy and that they do not undermine regional energy security;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Warmly welcomes the sustained reform track and progress made in implementing the Association Agreement and calls on thethe Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) which has positioned Georgian authorities to keep up the momentum and tos a key strategic partner of the EU in the region; calls on the Georgian authorities to continue ensureing stability, further democratic reforms and economic improvements as a key factor in winning hearts and minds on the path towards re-establishing Georgia’s sovereignty over the whole ofconciliation of the societies divided by the war and conflict, while reaffirming EU’s strong support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised territoryborders;
Amendment 29 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes with satisfaction that Georgia’s European agenda continues to garner cross-party consensus and the support of a majority of Georgian citizens; points out that pursuant to Article 49 of the TEU and in line with the Rome Declaration of 25 March 2017, any European state may apply to become a member of the EU, provided that it upholds the Copenhagen criteria; recalls, in the meantime, the proposal of an ‘Eastern Partnership Plus’ (EaP+) policy advocated by Parliament in order to unlock additional perspectives; welcomes ambitious initiative of the Georgian Government to draft the EU Integration Road Map aiming at achieving higher degree of integration with the EU;
Amendment 33 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes Georgia’s high absorption capacity of the EU assistance and encourages the European Commission to further enhance its assistance and align its budgetary instruments to the political ambitions of the EU-Georgia partnership;
Amendment 78 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Takes note of Georgia’s compliance with visa liberalisation benchmarks and encourages regular monitoring thereof in order ensure continued compliance; calls on EU Member States to recognise Georgia as a safe country of origin; points out the need to further address the rise in the number of asylum seekers travelling to the Schengen zone and the disproportionate representation of Georgian citizens in organised criminal groups across the EU;
Amendment 85 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. TWelcomes the effective implementation of the visa free regime for Georgian citizens since 27 March 2017; takes note of Georgia’s compliance with visa liberalisation benchmarks and encourages regular monitoring thereof in order ensure continued compliance; calls on EU Member States to recognise Georgia as a safe country of origin; points out the need to further address the rise in the number of asylum seekers travelling to the Schengen zone and the disproportionate representation of Georgian citizens in organised criminal groups across the EU;
Amendment 90 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Supports Georgia in its pursuit of a policy of peaceful conflict resolution, reconciliation and engagement and its constructive participation in the Geneva International Discussions; praises the initiative entitled ‘A Step towards a Better Future’, presented on 4 April 2018, aimed at improving humanitarian and socio- economic conditions of population residing in Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia and fostering people-to-people contact and confidence building between divided communities;
Amendment 115 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes with satisfaction Georgia’s results in fighting corruption; commends Georgia’s continued implementation of the Anti-Corruption Strategy and its Action Plan; calls on Georgia to ensure that the Anti-Corruption Agency is separated from the State Security Service; welcomes the decision of the Georgian authorities to put in place an effective mechanism for investigating cases of abuse by law enforcement officials and supports the efficient implementation of the newly established mechanism;
Amendment 122 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Urges the Georgian authorities to put in place an effective mechanism for investigating cases of abuse by law enforcement officials; Welcomes significant progress in eliminating torture and ill-treatment in prisons and other closed facilities; notes the creation of the State Inspector`s Service for investigation of human rights violations committed by law enforcement officers and urges the Georgian authorities to ensure adequate funding for the new institution;
Amendment 135 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the progress of the judicial reform; calls for more transparency of the judicial system and for further improvements to its independencethe strengthening of independent judiciary;
Amendment 165 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. CWelcomes Georgia’s recent ratification of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the Istanbul Convention); calls on the Georgian authorities to take further steps to uphold fundamental freedoms, notably for vulnerable groups, by fighting hate speech and discrimination, including on the labour market through an amended Labour Code, against LGBTQI people, disabled people and minorities;
Amendment 194 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes the emphasis put on job creation as well as labour rights notably through the adoption of the law on occupational safety; stresses the need to put in place a fully-fledged labour inspection system to improve safety at work and reduce undeclared work; takes note of the Georgian authorities’ ambition to do so by September 2019; is concerned by child labour and insufficient freedom of association for trade unions; recalls that occupational safety according to the requirements of the Association Agreement is of critical importance;
Amendment 199 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 c (new)
Paragraph 21 c (new)
21c. Notes that the EU is Georgia’s largest trade partner, representing almost a third of total trade, and the most significant donor, and that the EU is also responsible for the highest proportion of foreign direct investment in the country; welcomes the implementation of key structural reforms aimed at improvement of the economic and business environment and maximisation of the benefits provided by the DCFTA; notes positively the progress Georgia has made in the approximation of its legislation in trade-related areas; underlines the importance of ongoing structural reforms related to the improvement of the investment climate in Georgia;
Amendment 207 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 f (new)
Paragraph 21 f (new)
21f. Notes positively the progress in implementation of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Agreement (SPS) commitments, including first success stories of opening EU market for animal origin products; welcomes Georgia’s efforts to develop quality infrastructure; notes with satisfaction that Georgia has signed Bilateral Recognition Agreement with the European Accreditation and that three metrological laboratories have gained European/International recognition;
Amendment 217 #
2017/2282(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes Georgia’s membership of the Energy Community and the progress towards the integration of Georgia’s energy market with that of the EU through regulatory convergence, in accordance with the Association Agreement and the Energy Community Treaty;
Amendment 71 #
2017/2281(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Urges the Moldovan authorities to swiftly adopt and fully implement thea new audiovisual code in line with European standards of media freedom and pluralism as recommended by the European Commission and the Venice Commission; emphasises the importance of genuine consultations with civil society and the independent media before the final adoption of the new audiovisual code, and the need to discard all aspects that may undermine media pluralism; notes with concern that currently, the media is highly monopolised and subordinate to the country's political and business groups, as according to an Amnesty International report, ownership remains concentrated in the hands of a few individuals;
Amendment 90 #
2017/2281(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Commends the Moldovan authorities for the incremental improvement of relations with Tiraspol notably with the opening of the Gura Bîcului-Bîcioc bridge and the signature of an additional six protocols, thus improving the lives of citizens on both sides of the Nistru river; encourages the authorities to further build on this level of engagementcooperate in particular with SMEs from Transnistria, to further build on this level of engagement and to make additional efforts in ensuring that human rights, including the right to use the mother tongue, are respected on both sides of the Nistru river; urges the authorities in Chisinau to abide by all ECHR decisions; calls on the Moldovan authorities to undertake additional efforts to ensure a swift and final adoption of the Law of the Special Legal Status of Gagauzia;
Amendment 104 #
2017/2281(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Is deeply concerned with the selective justice practices of the Moldovan judiciary, which remains highly corrupt, demonstrating a servile attitude towards the ruling political and business groups, and being often used as an instrument against political and business opponents; regrets that the Constitutional Court remains highly politicised; urges the Moldovan Government to amend the Constitution, as to guarantee the independence of all judges; reiterates that ensuring the independence of the judiciary is essential to fully implementing the provisions of the AA;
Amendment 123 #
2017/2281(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 f (new)
Paragraph 11 f (new)
11f. Acknowledges with deep regret that the recent fiscal reforms have been adopted hastily and without any public consultation or a debate in parliament; is concerned that some provisions may seriously undermine the country's efforts to effectively fight corruption, money laundering or fraud; warns that these provisions may lead to a breach of the commitments made within the framework of the AA;
Amendment 153 #
2017/2281(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. CReminds that hate speech, harassment and discrimination against LGBTQI people, persons with disabilities and minorities such as the Roma population remain of great concern; calls on the authorities to significantly step up efforts to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms, notably for vulnerable groups, by fighting hate speech and discrimination against LGBTQI people, persons with disabilities and minorities such as the Roma populationeffectively fighting these practices;
Amendment 19 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas Western values and unity are under stresschallenged in an era of geopolitical turbulence; whereas the West’s two major organisations that have Europe at the centre of their activities, the EU and NATO, are making progress on enhancing their cooperation in facing complex threats, both conventional and hybrid, generated by state and non- state actors, coming from the South and the East; whereas neither organisation has the full range of tools to address them all on its own;
Amendment 27 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas EU-NATO cooperation is not a goal in itself but a way to achieve shared goals through complementarity of missions and available means; whereas EU Member States and NATO Allies have one single set of forces; whereas together they can make efficient use of resources and mobilise more effectively a broad range of instruments to respond to security challenges;
Amendment 67 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
Amendment 138 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines inclusiveness, reciprocity and full respect of the decision- making autonomy as important principles in the EU-NATO strategic partnership; recalls that cooperation with non-NATO EU Member States as well as non-EU NATO Allies is an integral part of EU- NATO cooperation;
Amendment 146 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is convinced that for its Members NATO must remain the cornerstone of collective defence and deterrence in Europe and that a stronger EU of security and defence fully capable of honouring the provisions of Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) contributes to a stronger NATO; underlines that EU-NATO cooperation must also take into account the security and defence policy of those six EU Member States which are not NATO members and of those seven NATO Allies, which are not EU members;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
– having regard to Human Rights Council 37 - EU Statement - Item 4: Human Rights situation that requires the Council's attention of 13 March 2018,
Amendment 16 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the 19th EU-China Summit in 2017 advanced a bilateral strategic partnership, which has a global impact, and highlighted joint commitments to addressing common security threats and promoting multilateralism; whereas the EU - China Summits have to be used to bring about concrete results in the field of human rights, namely the release of jailed human rights defenders, lawyers, activists;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the 19th EU-China Summit in 2017 advanced a bilateral strategic partnership, which has a global impact, and highlighted joint commitments to addressing global challenges, such as climate change, common security threats and the promotingon of multilateralism, peacekeeping and peace-building;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that EU outward foreign direct investment in China has steadily decreased since 2012 mainly due to legislative barriers and a lack of reciprocity, while China’s investment in the EU has grown exponentially over the past years: a ten fold increase since the financial crisis and 2015 and another 77% in 2016. In 2016, European investments in China fell by 25%;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas, largely unnoticignored in Europe, China has been rapidly and systematically increasing itsthe Chinese leadership has gradually and systematically increased efforts to translate its economic weight into political influence through strategic infrastructure investments and transport links, ands well as strategic communication aimed at influencing European political and economic decision- makers, media, academics and the wider publicuniversities and academic publishers and the wider public in order to shape perceptions about China and build up a positive image for the country, by building up ‘networks’ of supportive European individuals across societies;
Amendment 30 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the so called 16+1 format between China andon one hand and eleven Central and Eastern European Countries (CEE) and five Balkans countries on the other hand was established in 2012 in the aftermath of the financial crisis and as part of Chinese sub-regional diplomacy; whereas Chinese investments in those countries are wide-ranging to develop large- scale infrastructure projects and strengthen economic and trade cooperation; whereas Chinese investments in those countries, as well as overall in the EU, are wide-ranging and have become a critical feature of EU-China relations;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on China to act on President Xi Jinping’s commitments to further open up the Chinese market to foreign investors and lift restrictions for European companies in various sectors, strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights and level the playing field by making China’s market more transparent and better regulated;
Amendment 39 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the most ambitious foreign policy initiative the country has ever adoptedannounced by President Xi Jinping in 2013 as the "One Belt One Road" and elevated to constitutional rank within the Chinese Communist Party in 2017 is the most ambitious foreign policy initiative the country has ever adopted covering two-thirds of global population and three-fourth of global energy resources; where BRI was further strengthened with the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in 2015; whereas at the 16+1 summit held in late December 2017, China pledged to invest USD 3 billion in infrastructure in the 16 CEE countries as part of the BRI; whereas the Chinese infrastructure projects will create large debts for the European governments to Chinese state-owned banks and few jobs in Europe, and are often awarded without transparent tenders;
Amendment 42 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the most ambitiousexpansionist foreign policy initiative the country has ever adopted; whereas at the 16+1 summit held in late December 2017, China pledged to invest USD 3 billion in infrastructure in the 16 CEE countries as part of the BRI; whereas the Chinese infrastructure projects will create large debts for the European governments to Chinese state-owned banks and few jobs in Europe, and are often awarded without transparent tenders; whereas BRI is regrettably devoid of any kind of human rights safeguards;
Amendment 50 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Expresses concern about the nature of Chinese FDI which includes both state and private acquisitions of strategic infrastructures and cutting-edge technological know-how, raising concerns about national security of the EU Member States and the loss of their technological know-how;
Amendment 53 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Expresses concern that China’s strengthened foothold in key European sectors, including high technology, has created points of influence for Beijing across the continent and among Member States that can challenge Europe’s cohesion and ability to execute a common foreign policy on a number of issues related to security and human rights.
Amendment 64 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Reiterates support for a bilateral investment agreement between the EU and Taiwan; recognizes that Taiwan is not only one of the EU’s major trading partners in East Asia but also a springboard to China for EU businesses, and such an agreement is in the interest of the EU and its Member States;
Amendment 66 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Stresses the need to include clear and comprehensive human rights clauses in all EU-China trade and investment agreements; is deeply concerned that China's Belt and Road Initiative devoid any kind of human rights safeguards;
Amendment 80 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas the situation in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, home to ten million Muslim Uygurs, has rapidly deteriorated in recent years, in particular under the rule and tightened security measures of the current president with the establishment of an extrajudicial detention program holding tens of thousands of people who are forced to receive political 're-education', as well as the development of a sophisticated network of invasive digital surveillance, mass deployment of police, strict restrictions on religious practices, the Uyghur language and customs;
Amendment 87 #
2017/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Expresses concern aboutCalls on China to stop the practice of making market access being increasingly conditional on technology transfers, as stated in the EU Chamber of Commerce in China’s 2017 position paper;
Amendment 106 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Reminds that the EU-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is founded on a shared commitment to openness and working together as part of a rules-based international system; stresses that both sides committed to establishing a transparent, just and equitable system of global governance with a central role for the UN in international affairs, sharing the responsibility for promoting peace, prosperity and sustainable development;
Amendment 107 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses the importance for the EU to robustly act to promote full respect for human rights in the context of its relationship with China, focusing on both immediate results such as release of all political prisoners and medium/long term goals such as legal and policy reforms in line with international human rights law;
Amendment 112 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Is concerned that the increase in China’s global economic and political weight over the past decade has put the shared commitments at the core of EU- China relations at test; calls therefore on the EU to reassess and reaffirm the principles underlying EU-China relations, as well as to reassert the principles at the core of its own external action which have inspired its creation, including democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for the principles of the UN Charter and international law; reminds that the EU’s engagement with China should be principled, practical and pragmatic, staying true to its interests and values;
Amendment 116 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1c. Stresses that addressing global challenges, such as security, disarmament, non-proliferation, counter- terrorism and cyberspace, cooperation on peace in Africa, climate change, energy, oceans and resource efficiency, global health and development all require genuine partnership between the EU and China; urges that the EU capitalise on China’s commitment to tackling global problems such as climate change and further extend successful cooperation in peacekeeping with China, as one of the biggest contributors to the UN budget and an increasing contributor of troops to UN peacekeeping operations, to other areas of joint interest while promoting multilateralism and a global governance based on respect for international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law;
Amendment 133 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Reminds that as it continues to grow and integrate into the global economy along its ‘going out’ policy as announced in 2001, China seeks to increase its access to the European market for Chinese goods and services and to technology and know-how in order to support plans such as “Made in China 2025”, and to strengthen its political and diplomatic influence in Europe; stresses that these ambitions have intensified in particular in the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis shaping new dynamics in EU-China relations;
Amendment 136 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Is worried about the increase of Chinese investment activity in recent years overall in the EU with several high- profile deals and acquisitions in particular in the west in high-tech industries and advanced manufacturing, such as industrial machinery and equipment, automotive industry and electronics; calls therefore on all EU member states receiving such investment to protect European interests, in particular in strategic industries and critical or security-sensitive technologies;
Amendment 140 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2c. Is concerned about the lack of reciprocity and fair competition on issues such as trade and investment in EU- China relations, leading to a highly restricted Chinese market and a much more open European economy; calls therefore on China to open more sectors in its market, such as telecommunications, energy, healthcare and finance, in line with commitments articulated by the Chinese leadership;
Amendment 160 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Concludes that the Chinese Government has in the BRI found a very effective narrative framework for elements of its foreign policy and that EU public diplomacy efforts need to be strengthened in the light of this development; suggests that data on all Chinese infrastructure investments in EU Member States be shared with the EU and other Member States; recalls that such investments are part of an overall strategy to have Chinese state-controlled or -funded companies take control of supply chains; insists that the BRI must include human rights safeguards which are indispensable part of the EU international trade and investment agreements with third countries;
Amendment 196 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the EU and its Member States to pursue a more ambitious, united and transparent policy with regard to human rights in China; insists on maintaining a regular, high-level and result-oriented human rights dialogue; is concerned that the evaluation of human rights dialogues with China have never been public and has never been open to independent groups from China;
Amendment 227 #
2017/2274(INI)
11. Urges China to review its policies in Tibet, which far from creating stability are only heightening tensions, as highlighted by the over 150 self- immolations in Tibet since 2009; stresses that the degradation of human rights in Tibet must be systematically raised at each EU-China Summit; calls for the resumption of a constructive dialogue between the Chinese Government and the representatives of the Dalai Lama; urges China to give EU diplomats, journalists and citizens unfettered access to Tibet in reciprocity to the free and open access to the entire territories of the EU Member States that Chinese travellers enjoy; urges the EU Institutions to take the issue of access to Tibet into serious consideration in the discussions on the EU-China visa facilitation agreement;
Amendment 253 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Reminds that as North Korea’s biggest trade partner and main source of food and energy, China remains of instrumental role in addressing North Korea’s globally threatening provocations together with the international community; welcomes therefore China’s recent inclination to uphold some of the international sanctions against Pyongyang, including suspending coal imports from North Korea and restricting financial activities of North Korean individuals and businesses and trade restrictions in textiles and seafood and welcomes Beijing’s efforts to establish dialogue with Pyongyang; urges the EU to speak with unity on China to play a constructive role on supporting the upcoming Inter-Korean summit as well as the North Korea-US summit with a view to actively assisting with the verifiable denuclearization of North Korea and establishment of permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula;
Amendment 14 #
2017/2271(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the United States to stop practicing threats of punitive tariffs that are jeopardizing the transatlantic relations and the global trade and investment system under WTO rules;
Amendment 20 #
2017/2271(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Expresses its support to the Commission in its engagement with the United States in order to avoid a trade war; supports the Commission in its efforts to improve the trade relations with the United States on terms of reciprocal market access for industrial goods, deeper energy relations, voluntary regulatory co- operation, exemption from higher steel and aluminium tariffs and the removal of the impasse on renewing judges at the WTO’s appellate body;
Amendment 31 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) signed by the President of the United States into law on August 2, 2017, which among other things, enables the US administration to impose sanctions against foreign countries and companies, including European companies which, for instance, are involved in the implementation of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project;
Amendment 61 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights that the EU-US relationship is the fundamental guarantor for global stability and has been the cornerstone of our efforts to ensure peace and stability for our societies since the end of the Second World War, and stronger multilateral economic cooperation and trade; believes that the ‘America first’ policy will harm the interests of both the EU and the US; stresses that protectionism should be avoided in the interest of all parties;
Amendment 128 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the ongoing and uninterrupted work of the TLD in fostering EU-US relations through parliamentary dialogue and coordination on issues of specific common interest, such as trade, security, economic and cultural issues; calls furthermore for a continued intensification of the dialogue and a strengthening of the transatlantic cooperation;
Amendment 151 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Insists that the EU and the US should continue playing key constructive roles by jointly addressing regional conflicts and global challenges; recalls the importance of multilateralism in tackling global issues and insists that these should be addressed in the relevant international forums; is therefore concerned that recent decisions of the US – disengagement from key international agreements, disenrollment from international forums and the fomenting of trade tensionescalation of tensions by imposing import tariffs – may diverge from these common values and put strain on the relationship;
Amendment 171 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes note that other major world powers, such as Russia and China, have robust political and economic strategies, many of which may go against our values and international commitments, and it is therefore essential to foster the EU-US partnership, to continue to promote our common values, including compliance with international law, and to set up a joint sanctions policy;
Amendment 198 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses the importance of cooperation, coordination and synergy effects in the field of security and defence and insists that burden sharing should not be solely focused on the target of spending 2 % of GDP on defence; states that NATO is still crucial for the collective defence of Europe and its allies;
Amendment 210 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the EU to strengthen and speed up the European Defence Union with a view to creating more synergies in defence spending; insists that more defence cooperation at EU level strengthens the European contribution within the NATO alliance and reinforces our transatlantic bond; supports, therefore, the recent efforts to step up the European defence architecture, including the European Defence Fund and the newly established Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) as well as expanding efforts of common European Defence Research in close cooperation with non-EU members of NATO;
Amendment 218 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reiterates the need for the EU and the US to enhance their cooperation in the field of cybersecurity and defence as well as ICT-security and strengthening of safety efforts to protect critical infrastructure including advancing common standards and stimulating compatibility and interoperability;
Amendment 235 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Emphasises that an important part of strengthening EU-US counter-terrorism efforts includes the protection of critical infrastructure as well as a comprehensive approach to fighting terrorism, also via coordination in global forumregional, multilateral, and global forums as well as to promote the exchange of data relating to terrorist activities;
Amendment 244 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls for the stipulation of a political and societal dialogue balancing anonymity and responsibility in social media in the context of hate speech and fake news phenomena, cybercrime, extremist propaganda, and the infringement of the electoral process in social media;
Amendment 282 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls on the EU and the US to play a more active and effective role in the resolution of the conflict on Ukraine’s territory, in particular the Russian proxy war in Ukraine and the return of Russia- annexed Crimea to Ukraine, and to support all efforts for a lasting peaceful solution which respects the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine;
Amendment 316 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is concerned about US security and trade policy in East and Southeast Asia, including the political vacuum resulting from its TPP withdrawal, and welcomes the active trade policy of the EU in this part of the world, also for sake of political balance, this also applies to the TTIP or similar EU-US efforts;
Amendment 317 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is concerned about US security and trade policy in East and Southeast Asia, including the political vacuum resulting from its TPP withdrawal, and welcomes the active trade policy of the EU in this part of the world, also for sake of political and economic balance;
Amendment 331 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls for enhanced cooperation between the EU and the US on the peaceful resolution of regional conflicts and the proxy wars in Syria and Ukraine as the lack of a common strategy could undermine the peaceful resolution of conflicts and invites all parties involved to refrain from actions that might aggravate the situation; reaffirms the primacy of the UN-led Geneva process in the resolution of the Syrian conflict, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, negotiated by the parties to the conflict and with the support of key international and regional actors; calls for the full implementation and respect of the UN Security Council Resolutions which are being violated by the countries of the Astana negotiations;
Amendment 362 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Points toStresses the importance of our common political, economic and security interests with regard to China and Russia and recalls that joint efforts, including at the WTO, could be helpful to address imbalances in global trade deals with foreign ambitions, as on Ukraine and on the silk road;
Amendment 363 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Points to our common political, economic and security interests with regard to China and Russia and recalls that joint efforts, including atespecially through the appointment of judges in the WTO, could be helpful to address imbalances in global trade deals with foreign ambitions, as on Ukraine and on the silk road;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A (new)
Recital A (new)
A. whereas the current framework for relations between Armenia and the European Union is the 1996 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement which entered into force in 1999 and which is to be replaced by this Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B (new)
Recital B (new)
B. whereas, through the Eastern Partnership, the EU and Armenia have based their relations on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law and good governance, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D (new)
Recital D (new)
D. whereas the geographic location of Armenia between Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East and neighbouring regional powers, notably Russia, Iran and Turkey, is both strategic and challenging; whereas the non-recognition by some of past tragedies - notably the Armenian genocide, the presence of foreign troops in Armenia as well as the protracted conflicts in the South Caucasus, affecting also Azerbaijan and Georgia, pose a major threat to all partners’ security and regional stability; whereas the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict can only be solved peacefully in line with the OSCE 2009 Basic Principles, notably through the efforts and proposals of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs;
Amendment 12 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E (new)
Recital E (new)
E. whereas the EU is Armenia’s main trading partner and first donor, whereas Armenia is also a member of the Eurasian Economic Union thus demonstrating that the European Union does not hold as a prerequisite for partners to choose a deepening of relations with the EU at the expense of their relations with third parties, even if some opportunities - such as a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) with the EU - were not attainable in this context;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F (new)
Recital F (new)
F. whereas the new agreement sets a new legal basis to reinvigorate the political dialogue and broaden the scope of economic cooperation as well as cooperation in sectors such as energy, transport, infrastructure and the environment; whereas these provisions are expected to have a positive impact on Armenia in terms of promoting democratic standards, economic growth and sustainable development; whereby such prospects are particularly important for Armenia’s youth including through improved education and more job opportunities; whereas both EU and Armenian citizens stand to benefit from increased cooperation;
Amendment 23 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that significant progress in terms of upholding core values such as the rule of law, defending the independence of the judiciary and delivering results in the fight against corruption, is key to unlocking further prospects, notably that of a possible visa libera; in this respect, looks forward to the EU considering in due course the opening of visa liberalisation dialogue with Armenia, provided that conditions for well-managed and secure mobility are in place, including the effective implementation of visa facilistation dialogue; and readmission agreements between the Parties;
Amendment 77 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Welcomes the adoption of anti- domestic violence legislation in the Armenian Parliament in December 2017, on 8 December 2017, of the Law on the Prevention of Violence within the Family, Protection of Victims of Violence within the Family and Restoration of Peace (Cohesion) in the Family by the National Assembly; commends Armenia on the signature, on 18 January 2018, of the Council of Europe’s Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence and encourages Armenia to swiftly ratify and thoroughly implement this Convention to effectively meet its commitments to international standards in this field;
Amendment 82 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls on Armenia to adopt a comprehensive standalone law on anti- discrimination, prepared with the support of civil society organisations, that would include, as a minimum, a definition of the concept of discrimination, a list of grounds on which discrimination is prohibited in the spirit of Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, a provision for the defence of rights against all types of discrimination, a provision regarding the burden of proof;
Amendment 83 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Urges the Armenian authorities to put a high priority on ending gender based sex-selection taking place through selective abortions which, together with that in Azerbaijan, remains one of the most widespread in the world after China;
Amendment 88 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 g (new)
Paragraph 16 g (new)
16g. Calls on Armenia to eradicate child labour and to ensure labour rights in accordance with ILO standards, including contracts, vacation, compensation for extra hours and establishing a fully-fledged labour inspection system;
Amendment 104 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
Amendment 108 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Emphasizes the importance of the provisions on dialogue and cooperation on employment policy in order to provide better jobs with improved working conditions, notably for young Armenians;
Amendment 67 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point e
(e) to ensure that the outcomes of the November 2017 Summit will take stock of what has been already achieved and of the need to continue to deliver on all commitments already taken in the Eastern Partnership; the outcomes of November 2017 Summit should provide for the delivery of tangible results for citizens, notably in terms of employment, transport and connectivity, energy independence, mobility and education, noting that a new European External Investment Plan (EEIP) is an important instrument in this regard;
Amendment 71 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point f
Amendment 86 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point i
(i) to commit to working jointly on increased mobility between the EU and partner countries; to support Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine in implementing the visa liberalisation agreement and to ensure that suspension mechanisms are not triggered in the future, notably though close cooperation in the areas of police and customs to safeguard against security threats, criminality and overstays; to open visa dialogues with Armenia, to encourage progress by Azerbaijan in the implementation of Visa Facilitation and Readmission Agreements (VFA/RA) with a view to opening a visa dialogue in the future, and to finalise negotiations on VFA/RA with Belarus for the benefit of its citizens, should these countries make significant progress in the area of fundamental values and meet the precise conditions defined in visa liberalisation roadmapaction plans;
Amendment 121 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point p
(p) to ensure that the outcomes of the November 2017 Summit also address, where possible, the security threats that affect the independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity ands well as the political, social and economic development of the partners and of the region as a whole;
Amendment 140 #
2017/2130(INI)
(q) to commit to sustaining the unity of action among EU Member States in maintaining collective pressure on Russia, in particular through strengthened targeted restrictive measures, to solving the conflict in Eastern Ukraine through genuine implementation of the Minsk agreements, to solving the Russia-Georgia conflict through tangible results in the Geneva International Discussions and full implementation by Russia of the 2008 Ceasefire Agreement, to re-establishing Ukraine’s full sovereignty in Crimea, and that of Georgia in South Ossetia and Abkhazits occupied territories of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/ South Ossetia and of Moldova in Transnistria, and to putting an end to the additional threats of state- sponsored assassinations, cyber warfare, disinformation and other types of destabilisation;
Amendment 163 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point r
(r) to call for an immediate end to military hostilities between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces which unnecessarily claim the lives of civilians and soldiers whilst hampering socioeconomic development; to reaffirm support to the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries as well as to the OSCE Minsk Group co-Chairs’ efforts to solve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and to their 2009 Basic Principles; to call on Armenia and Azerbaijan to re-launch negotiations in good faith with a view to implementing these principles to solve the conflict which does not have a military solution; to make the ratification of new agreements between the EU and each of the parties conditional on meaningful commitments to solving the conflict throughsuch as maintaining the ceasefire and supporting the implementation of the 2009 Basic Principles;
Amendment 173 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point s
(s) to call for continued support to the work carried out by the EU and OSCE missions in Georgia, Moldova and Eastern Ukraine as essential operations to ensure peace and security first and foremost for the benefit of the citizens on the ground; to ensure an effective implementation of these mission's mandate and urge Russia to guarantee their unimpeded access; to reflect, jointly with the partner countries, on the prospect of an enhanced role for the EU in solving these conflicts, including by launching ambitious fully-fledged Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions tasked with enhancing security and stability;
Amendment 182 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point t
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point t
(t) to consider, within the EaP policy, an attractive longer-term ‘EaP+’ model for associated countries, based on the highest possible common denominator that have made very good progress in implementing AA/DCFTA-related reforms, that wcould includeeventually lead to joining the customs union, energy union, digital union and Schengen area, further EU internal market access, integration into EU transport networks, industrial partnerships, participation in other EU programmes, increased involvement in thecooperation in the field of CSDP, as well as more immediate measures such as additional unilateral tariff preferences, the abolition of roaming tariffs between the partners and the EU and the development of high-capacity broadband; to open the ‘EaP+’ model to other EaP countries once they are ready for such enhanced commitments and have also made very good progress in implementing mutually-agreed reforms;
Amendment 193 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point w
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point w
(w) to reiterate the principle of differentiation and that the scope and depth of cooperation with the European Union is determined by the EU’s ambitions and those of the partners, as well as by the pace and quality of reforms to be evaluated based on their full and effective implementation;
Amendment 202 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point y
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point y
(y) to invite Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine to focus on the implementation of the Association agendas in order to unlock all the opportunities available through the Association Agreements, engaging also in the joint discussions on the progress, opportunities and challenges relating to the AA/DCFTA-related reforms; reiterates the importance of genuine implementation of the abovementioned reforms for the future stability and development of the countries and the wellbeing of their societies; to reaffirm that the deepening of relations within the EaP+ model as well as any prospect of EU membership requires significantvery good progress in terms of the implementation of these reforms, notably as regards the rule of law, respect for human rights and good governance;
Amendment 227 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point ad
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point ad
(ad) to welcome the Commission proposals to provide the partners with macro-financial assistance while insisting on strict and effective conditionality attached to the proposals, notably in terms of upholding the rule of law (including an independent judiciary), ensuring good governance (including combating corruption effectively) and defending human rights; to call on the Commission to draw up new MFA programs for partner countries and to make systematic provision for this conditionality in future proposals for such assistance; to provide Parliament and the Council with a detailed written report every six months on the progress made in these three areas for partners already benefiting from such assistance;
Amendment 231 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point ae a (new)
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point ae a (new)
(aea) to ask the Commission to work for the successful implementation of the European Investment Plan in Eastern Partnership countries, especially for those that have made the most progress on reforms towards gradual economic and political integration with the European Union; to request the establishment of a trust fund for Ukraine based on the best practices of multi-donor instruments, stressing that this trust fund should focus on private and public investments, in particular on social and economic infrastructure and those aimed at boosting investment absorption capacity, and on the coordination of IFIs and international donor support on the ground;
Amendment 96 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates its firm belief that the EU and its Member States must actively pursue the principle of mainstreaming human rights and democracy in all EU policies as mutually reinforcing and fundamental principles at the core of the EU; reiterates, in this regard, the crucial importance of ensuring increased coherence between the EU’s internal and external policies;
Amendment 100 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Recalls that the EU’s objective to increase its international influence as a credible and legitimate international actor is greatly shaped by its ability to pursue human rights and democracy externally, in line with its commitments enshrined in its founding treaties;
Amendment 259 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Is of the opinion thatUrges the EU shouldto step up its efforts to promote the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary at multilateral and bilateral levels as a fundamental principle for the consolidations of democracy; encourages the EU to support the fair administration of justice worldwide by assisting legislative and institutional reform processes in third countries; encourages, in addition, the EU delegations and Member States’ embassies to monitor trials systematically with a view to promoting the independence of the judiciary;
Amendment 282 #
2017/2122(INI)
24. Considers that development cooperation and the promotion of human rights, and democratic principles including the rule of law and good governance, should go hand in hand; recalls, in this context, that the UN has stated that without a human rights-based approach, development goals cannot be fully achieved; recalls, in addition, that the EU has committed to supporting partner countries, taking into account their development situation and their progress as regards human rights and democracy;
Amendment 324 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Welcomes the adoption of the EU Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy in the World 2015; considers that the Annual Report is an indispensable tool for scrutiny, communication and debate on the EU’s policy on human rights and democracy in the world; and a valuable instrument providing a comprehensive overview on the EU’s priorities, efforts and also challenges in this field and to identify further effective ways to address them;
Amendment 327 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Reiterates its invitation to the VP/HR to take part in a debate with MEPs in two plenary sessions per year, once when the Annual Report is presented and once in response to its own report; recalls that written answers also play an important role in interinstitutional relations, as they allow for a systematic and in-depth follow- up to all the points raised by Parliament and thus contribute to the strengthening of effective coordination;
Amendment 343 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Recalls the EU’s commitment to placing human rights and democracy at the centre of its relations with third countries; stresses, therefore, that the advancement of human rights and democratic principles needs to be supported through all EU policies with an external dimension, such as enlargement and neighbourhood policy, the CSDP, and environment, development, trade, justice and home affairs policies;
Amendment 240 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Stresses that preserving peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region is of substantial interest to the EU and its member states; calls for all parties concerned in the region to solve differences through peaceful means and to refrain from taking unilateral actions to change the status quo, including in the East and South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, in order to safeguard regional security; acknowledges the continued good will and flexibility shown by the government of Taiwan in maintaining cross-Strait relations and encourages the resumption of bilateral dialogues, which will be conducive to regional peace and stability; reiterates its commitment to supporting Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations and activities;
Amendment 89 #
2017/2070(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Points out that the Commission has announced on more than one occasion the launch of negotiations about investment with Hong Kong and Taiwan, and deems it regrettable that no such negotiations have yet begun; urges the Commission to finish the preparatory works and to formally start negotiations on investment agreements as soon as possible;
Amendment 117 #
2017/2070(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. As a follow-up to the Buenos Aires trilateral statement, calls on the Commission to enhance cooperation with the United States and Japan in addressing unfair competition and protectionist practices by third countries;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas technological developments and access to the open internet are a boost for economic growth, enableing companies, particularly SMEs, to reachnotably small and medium-sized enterprises, to deliver services and goods to customers all over the globe at a faster pace and lower cost than ever before;
Amendment 53 #
2017/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas private companies are increasingly setting norms and standards in the digital economy and at the same time accelerate the development of technological solutions to safeguard business and customers;
Amendment 115 #
2017/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to prohibithat cross-border data transfers are in compliance with EU legal framework and unjustified data localisation requirements in FTAs should be prohibited;
Amendment 131 #
2017/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission to combat discriminatory, illegitimate and protectionist measures by third countries, such as ‘buy local’ policies, local content requirements or forced technology transfers, to ensure that European companies can operate in a competitive, fair and predictable environment based on reciprocal commitments of both parties;
Amendment 136 #
2017/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that the EU should continue to pursue its efforts at bilateral and multilateral level to ensure that third countries offer a level of openness towards foreign investments equivalent to that of the EU, and that they maintain a level playing field for EU operators; welcomes the EU’s proposal for a regulation establishing a framework for screening of foreign direct investments into the Union and supports its objectives to better protect critical infrastructures and technologies;
Amendment 43 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to ensure that the deepening of relations between the EU and Azerbaijan is undertaken on the basis of mutually agreed ambitions and theconditional on upholding of the core values and principles of democracy, the rule of law, good governance, respect for and good governance, as well as on providing solid legal guarantees in the areas of the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms, in the interest of both parties and especially their citizens;
Amendment 52 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to remind the Azerbaijani authorities about the European Parliament’s position as expressed in its resolution of 15 November 2017 on the Eastern Partnership, which unambiguous and clearly states that no comprehensive agreement will be ratified with a country that does not respect EU values, in particular with regard to the non-implementation of decisions by the European Court of Human Rights and the harassment, intimidation and persecution of human rights defenders, NGOs and journalists; to ensurge that significant steps are taken as regards the release of political prisonere Azerbaijani authorities to implement the ECtHR decisions; to ensure that all political prisoners, including journalists, activists and prisoners of conscience in Azerbaijan are released before any new EU- Azerbaijan agreement; to ensureinclude in the new agreement a dedicated suspension mechanism related to human rights and fundamental freedoms is included in the new agreementwith clear provisions on respect for human rights, rule of law and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 64 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) to ensure that the future agreement with Azerbaijan is ambitious, comprehensive and forward-looking, and will delivering tangible and concrete benefits not only for large companies but also for SMEs and for the citizens of the EU and of Azerbaijan; to include in the new agreement specific supervision and control mechanisms against money laundering schemes, fraud and corruption;
Amendment 90 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) to establish specific measures aimed at implementingnsure that the recommendations by the OSCE/ODHIR and the Council of Europe’s Venice Commission with a view to ensuring progress towardsare implemented, with a view to establish new legislation guaranteeing the organization of elections and referenda that allow for a free and fair expression of Azerbaijani citizens’ views and aspirations; to put strong emphasis on the effectiveness and impartiality of the election administration, the conduct of the campaign and the respect for fundamental freedoms, media coverage of the elections and the administration of election day procedures, including the vote count and tabulation of results, as called for by the OSCE; to further monitor the organization of future elections until these requirements are met;
Amendment 93 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) to aim for provisions that enhance cooperation in promoting peace and international justice and in particular for Azerbaijan to sign and ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC); to calsl upon Azerbaijan to respect its obligations as a member of the Council of Europe and abide by the decisions of the ECtHR; to seek stronger cooperation measures in countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction as well as tackling illicit trade in small arms and light weapons;
Amendment 98 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) to provide for closer cooperation in foreign and security matters to ensure as much convergence as possible, in particular as regards responses to global threats, conflict prevention, crisis management and regional cooperation;
Amendment 148 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) to provide support for reform of the judiciary aimed at ensuring its independence from the executive and at strengthening the rule of law, as well as developing a strong framework for the protection of human rights and gender equality; to make sure that strong legislation is in place for preventing and sanctioning politically exposed persons´ involvement in corruption, traffic of influence, money laundering, abuse of office and other related offences, particularly within the framework of the recent joint journalistic investigations revealing the involvement of a number of Azeri officials in such activities;
Amendment 164 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n d (new)
Paragraph 1 – point n d (new)
Amendment 171 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) to include provisions related to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms aimed at endingnd ensure that political prosecutions and abductions, the targeting of political dissidents, independent journalists, human rights defenders, NGO representatives and members of some minority groups including the LGBTQ community; to set up a reinforced forum for a human rights dialogue are put to an end by Azeri authorities and to reiterate that these practices are unacceptable for any potential partner country of the EU; to reinforce the dialogue on human rights and fundamental freedoms between the EU and Azerbaijan to encourage and to support in particular the implementation of comprehensive reforms of the judiciary, all in line with EU standards;
Amendment 196 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – point r
(r) to ensure, before the conclusion of the negotiations, that Azerbaijan takes significant steps as regards the release ofreleases the political prisoners and prisoners of conscience which, in 2017, exceeded 150 persons, including, among the most emblematic cases, Ilgar Mammadov, Afgan Mukhtarli, Mehman Huseynov, Ilkin Rustamzada, Seymur Hazi, Rashad Ramazanov, Elchin Ismayilli, Giyas Ibrahimov, Beyram Mammadov, Asif Yusifli, Fuad Gahramanli and Aziz Orujov, theand lifting ofs their travel bans, once released, including those of Khadija Ismayilova and Intigam Aliyev; to immediately secure the release and improvement of the situation of these individuals via the judiciary and the application of the rule of law;
Amendment 206 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r c (new)
Paragraph 1 – point r c (new)
(rc) to urge Azerbaijan to immediately address the unprecedented infringement proceedings launched by the Council of Europe in 2017 and ensure the unconditional release of opposition politician Ilgar Mammadov, thus complying with a judgment from the European Court of Human Rights from 2014;
Amendment 216 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – point s
(s) to seek, before the conclusion of the negotiations, that Azerbaijan commits to investigations intoi authorities investigate into and report on results concerning all cases of mistreatment of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, notably in the case of the late Mehman Galandarov, who died in custody;
Amendment 231 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point t
Paragraph 1 – point t
(t) to underline the importance of a free and independent media, both off and on-line and to ensure a strengthened EU support for free and pluralistic media in Azerbaijan, with editorial independence and in line with EU standards, and pointing out that ain light of the fact that currently 5 major media outlets are permanently blocked by Azerbaijan under the pretext of national security and that for press freedom, Azerbaijan ranks 162 out of 180 countries, according to Reporters Without Borders; to point out that reinforced attention to press and media freedom cshould take the form of a regional initiative encompassing all the Eastern Partnership countries;
Amendment 245 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) to allow for increased cooperation in the energy sector in line with the EU’s and Azerbaijan’s strategic energy partnership, while taking into account that in March 2017, the EITI (The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative) suspended Azerbaijan’s membership for failing to comply with the group’s civil society requirements; to push for Azerbaijan to realign to these requirements;
Amendment 251 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y
Paragraph 1 – point y
(y) to put in place ambitious provisions on environmental protection and climate change reduction, in line with the Union´s climate change agenda, as part of the new agreement, including through a mainstreaming of these policies as part of other sector policies;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Kazakhstan is the first Central Asian partnercountry to have signed an EPCA with the EU; whereas the EPCA, once ratified by all Member States and the European Parliament, will replace the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) of 1999, and whereas the text of the EPCA was made public on 15 July 2015;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. Whereas Kazakhstan joined the WTO on 1 January 2016;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
Db. Whereas Kazakhstan joined the European Commission for Democracy through Law (Venice Commission) in March 2012;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that Parliament emphasised that progress in the negotiation of the EPCA must be linked to progress of political reform and real progress on respect for human rights, the rule of law, good governance and democratisation; expresses strong concerns that rights to freedom of expression, of peaceful assembly and association remain restricted; urges the country to implement fully the recommendations made by the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of peaceful assembly and of association in the outcome report on his mission to Kazakhstan in January 2015;
Amendment 27 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the fact that the EPCA establishes a solid basis for deepening of relations; notes that Kazakhstan is the first Central Asian partner country with whom the EU has negotiated and signed an EPCA;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Acknowledges some recent positive developments in the field of constitutional and administrative reforms as well as the establishment of a civil society consultative platform; is, however, concerned about the restrictive effects of the Criminal and Administrative Codes that entered into force in 2015 on civil society organisations and their activities;
Amendment 51 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes Kazakhstan’s constructive cooperation in international relations and its multi-vector foreign policys an important contributor to peace and stability on both regional and global levels;
Amendment 69 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Recommends thatCalls on the EU to consistently include in its political dialogue with Kazakhstan, the issues of the rule of law and democracy, fundamental freedoms and human rights;
Amendment 71 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes Kazakhstan’s cooperation with the Venice Commission and calls for full implementation of its recommendations in the area of democratic reformsand judicial reforms in particular;
Amendment 75 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Recommends thatCalls on Kazakhstan to fully implement the recommendations from the OSCE/ODIHR international observation mission to the 20 March 2016 elections according to which the country still has a considerable way to go in meeting its OSCE commitments for democratic elections;
Amendment 78 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Urges the reversal of the negative trends in terms of freedom of the media, freedom of expression, and freedom of association and assembly, and freedom of religion; recommends Kazakhstan to apply the standards of the Council of Europe in its laws; urges the country to implement fully the recommendations made by the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of peaceful assembly and of association in the outcome report on his mission to Kazakhstan in January 2015egal system;
Amendment 85 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Notes the multi-ethnic character of Kazakhstan and stresses the need for a protection of minorities and their rights, in particular with regard to the use of languages, freedom of religion or belief; non-discrimination and equal opportunities;
Amendment 100 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Calls on Kazakh authorities to fully engage in the annual EU-Kazakhstan Human Rights Dialogues as well as all other forums to exchange viewin order to reach a tangible progress on human rights situation in the country while paying particular attention to individual cases; recalls that the involvement of civil society in these dialogues and consultations must be guaranteed;
Amendment 112 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Notes with concern that adoption of recent anti-terrorism laws, including a bill proposing withdrawal of citizenship for terrorist suspects could lead to the suppression of peaceful and legitimate political opposition; urges the Kazakh authorities to avoid abusing this legislation with the aim of restricting freedom of speech, freedom of religion or belief, the independence of the judiciary or banning opposition activity;
Amendment 115 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Voices understanding for the country’'s multi-vector foreign policy, including building good neighbourly relations with Russia and China and other partners; ; recognises Kazakhstan as an important player in foreign and security policy not least due to the consistent role it plays in global nuclear disarmament and security, and its non-permanent membership on the UN Security Council in 2017-2018;
Amendment 122 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
Amendment 127 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Recommends that the EU continue its support for regional cooperation in Central Asia, in particular the rule of law, confidence-building measures, water and resource management, border management, stability and security; supports, in this regard, Kazakhstan’s efforts in promoting good neighbourly relations and becoming stability guarantor in the region;
Amendment 135 #
Amendment 138 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Recalls that the EU is the country’s first trade and investment partner; notes that 80 percent of Kazakhstan's export to the EU consist of oil and gas; reiterates the importance of greater diversification of its trade with the EU;
Amendment 142 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38a. Underlines that the EPCA provides significant boost to economic ties between the EU and Kazakhstan and enhance concrete cooperation in 29 key policy areas, including in the sectors of economic and financial cooperation, energy, transport, environment and others;
Amendment 144 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Welcomes Kazakhstan’s accession to the WTO which fostered economic and administrative modernisation, stemming from its accession to the WTO on 1 January 2016 of the country;
Amendment 147 #
Amendment 48 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the EU has also experienced important shifts in the past years, namely the economic crisis, an increase in inequality, the challenges linked to Brexit, the refugee crisis, and the significant rise in citizen discontent with political institutionsecurity challenges and terrorism threats, the economic crisis, the challenges linked to Brexit and the heavily increased refugee and migration flows;
Amendment 56 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the main geopolitical shifts currently in play in LAC countries, marked by the increasing presence of the Asian states seekingcountries, namely China and Russia, seeking to gain strategic influence, military presence and develop economic partnerships in the region, require that the EU stands up as a truthful ally to its partners in the LAC region;
Amendment 64 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas current EU-Mexico Global Agreement, EU-Chile Association Agreement and EU-Mercosur Interregional Framework Cooperation Agreement entered into force in 1997, 2003 and 1999 respectfully; whereas ongoing negotiations on the modernisation of these agreements, due to their importance to the EU and the LAC countries, need an ambitious impetus in order to achieve the most modern and progressive agreements;
Amendment 121 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines the need to integrate the LAC economies in global value chains, based on a circular economic model, and to recognise the importance of developingachieving modern and progressive bilateral and multilateral commercialtrade agreements;
Amendment 214 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Highlights the importance of the opening ofngoing negotiations for the modernisation of the EU-Mexico Global Agreement, the progress made in and calls on the Commission to speed up these negotiations for the modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement, and the speeding up; calls on all national parliaments of the EU- Mercosur negotiations, and callmber States for the ratification of the EU-Central America Association Agreement by all national parliaments of the EU Members States;
Amendment 220 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Highlights the importance of the progress made in the negotiations for the modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement; calls on the Commission to achieve the most modern, new generation trade agreement with Chile with a strong investment chapter and a particular focus on sustainable development; reiterates the importance of transparency in the negotiation process in order to provide a greater degree of openness to the civil society regarding the negotiating guidelines and progress achieved; calls on the Commission to speed up the negotiation process;
Amendment 253 #
2017/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes the signing on December 2016 of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and Cuba; stresses the importance of speeding up its implementation, which can have a positive impact on the overall EU- CELAC partnership,; underlines that the progress in the EU-Cuba relations should be based on further democratisation of the Cuban society, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; emphasizes that the principle of 'more for more' should be applied taking into account progress achieved in the areas of public life in Cuba, namely in exercising citizens' right to vote, elect and be elected, guaranteeing more space for civil society and private business, abolishing restrictions and control of the internet; and insists on the need for tangible results in the human rights dialogue;
Amendment 92 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) There is currently no comprehensive framework at EU-level for the screening of foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order, while G7 countries and several other countries in the world already have foreign direct investment screening mechanisms in place and are seeking to tighten them.
Amendment 93 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. Member States mayshall maintain, amend or adopt mechanisms to screen foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order, under the conditions and in accordance with the terms set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 105 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3
Article 3 – paragraph 3
3. Projects or programmes of Union interest shall include in particular those projects and programmes which involve a substantial amount or a significant share of EU funding, or which are covered by Union legislation regarding critical infrastructure, critical technologies or critical inputs. An indicative list of projects or programmes of Union interest is included in Annex 1 and may be updated through delegated acts.
Amendment 106 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should provide the Member States and the Commission with the meansa legal and financial framework to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner, and to adapt to changing circumstances, whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for Member States to screen foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and national circumstances.
Amendment 115 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) A broad range of investments which establish or maintain lasting and direct or indirect links between investors from third countries and undertakings carrying out an economic activity in a Member State should be covered.
Amendment 119 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Member States should be able tomust take the necessary measures, in compliance with Union law, to prevent circumvention of their screening mechanisms and decisions to protect security or public order. This should cover investments within the Union by means of artificial arrangements thatand complex investment structures that do not reveal the end-investor and do not reflect economic reality and circumvent the screening mechanisms and screening decisions, where the investor is ultimately owned or controlled by a natural person or, an undertaking, government or military of a third country. This is without prejudice to the freedom of establishment and free movement of capital enshrined in the TFEU.
Amendment 128 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order, Member States and the Commission should be able to consider all relevant factors, including the effects on critical infrastructure, technologies, including key enabling technologies, and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order, and the disruption, loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a Member State or in the Union. In that regard, Member States and the Commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor or end-investor is controlled directly or indirectly (e.g. through significant funding, including subsidies) by the government or military of a third country, including participation in an economic or political project or strategy guided by a foreign power.
Amendment 134 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
In determining whether a foreign direct investment is likely to affect security or public order, Member States and the Commission mayshall take into account whether the foreign investor is controlled by the government of a third country, including through significant funding. or participates in an economic or political project or strategy guided by a foreign power.
Amendment 141 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Member States mayshall maintain, amend or adopt measures necessary to prevent circumvention of the screening mechanisms and screening decisions.
Amendment 149 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) A mechanism should be set up, which enables Member States to cooperate, exchange information, share best practices and assist each other where a foreign direct investment in one Member State may affect the security or public order of other Member States should be set up. Member States should be able to provide commentsan opinion to a Member State in which the investment is planned or has been completed, irrespective of whether the Member States providing commentsopinion or the Member States in which the investment is planned or has been completed maintain a screening mechanism or are screening the investment. The comments ofopinions of the Member States should also be forwarded to the Commission. The Commission should also have the possibility, where appropriate, to issue an opinion to the Member State in which the investment is planned or has been completed, irrespective of whether this Member State maintains a screening mechanism or is screening the investment and irrespective of whether other Member States have provided commentsan opinion.
Amendment 153 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Furthermore, the Commission should have the possibility to screen foreign direct investments likely to affect projects and programmes of Union interest on grounds of security or public order. This would give the Commission a tool to protect projects and programmes, which serve the Union as whole and represent an important contribution to its economic growth, jobs and competitiveness. This should include in particular projects and programmes involving a substantial EU funding or established by Union legislation regarding critical infrastructure, critical technologies or critical inputs. For greater clarity, an indicative list of projects or programmes of Union interest in relation to which foreign direct investment can be subject to a screening by the Commission should be listed in an Annex. That list should be updated regularly through delegated acts on the basis of consultations between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission within the framework of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making.
Amendment 163 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect projects or programmes of Union interest on grounds of security or public order, the Commission should have the possibility to addressmust issue an opinion to the Member States in which such investment is planned or completed within a reasonable timeframe. The Member States should take utmost account of the opinion and provide an explanation to the Commission if they do not follow this opinion, in compliance with their duty of sincere cooperation under Article 4(3) TEU. The Commission should also have the possibility to request from those Member States the information necessary for its screening of such investment.
Amendment 164 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3
Article 8 – paragraph 3
3. Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect security or public order in one or more Member States, it mayshall issue an opinion addressed to the Member State in which the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed. The Commission mayshall issue an opinion irrespective of whether other Member States have provided comments.
Amendment 171 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In order to facilitate the cooperation with other Member States and the screening of foreign direct investment by the Commission, Member States should notify their screening mechanisms and any amendment thereto to the Commission, and should report on the application of their screening mechanisms on a regular basis. For the same reason, Member States that do not have a screening mechanism shouldmust also report on the foreign direct investments that took place in their territory, on the basis of the information available to them, given the fact that all possible efforts were undertaken to obtain relevant information.
Amendment 176 #
2017/0224(COD)
1. Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect projects or programmes of Union interest on grounds of security or public order, the Commission mayshall issue an opinion addressed to the Member State where the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed.
Amendment 179 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) To that end, it is also important to ensure a minimumsufficient level of information and coordination with regard to foreign direct investments falling under the scope of this Regulation in all Member States. This information should be made available by the Member States in which the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed upon request of the Member States or of the Commission. Relevant information includes aspects such as the ownership structure and the origin of the foreign investor, the end-investor and the financing of the planned or completed investment, including, when all available, information about subsides granted by third countries.
Amendment 187 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Member States and the Commission should take all necessary measures to ensure the highest level of protection of confidential and other sensitive information.
Amendment 190 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) No later than three years after the entry into force of this Regulation, the Commission should present to the European Parliament and the Council a detailed report on the application of this Regulation. Where the report proposes modifying the provisions of this Regulation, it may be accompanied, where appropriate, by a legislative proposal.
Amendment 205 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
1. 'foreign direct investment' means investments of any kind by a foreign investor aiming to establish or to maintain, lasting and , direct or indirect links between the foreign investor and the entrepreneur to whom or the undertaking to which the capital is made available in order to carry on an economic activity in a Member State, including investments which enable effective participation in the management or control of a company carrying out an economic activity;
Amendment 210 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
2. 'foreign investor' means a natural person of a third country or an undertaking of a third country or an intermediary representing the end-investor of a third country intending to make or having made a foreign direct investment;
Amendment 222 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. Member States mayshould maintain, amend or adopt mechanisms to screen foreign direct investments on the grounds of security or public order, under the conditions and in accordance with the terms set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 235 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission mayust screen foreign direct investments that are likely to affect projects or programmes of Union interest on the grounds of security or public order.
Amendment 239 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3
Article 3 – paragraph 3
3. Projects or programmes of Union interest shall include in particular those projects and programmes which involve a substantial amount or a significant share of EU funding, or which are covered by Union legislation regarding critical infrastructure, criticalkey technologies or critical inputs that are essential to maintaining security and public order. An indicative list of projects or programmes of Union interest is included in Annex 1 and can be updated by delegated acts.
Amendment 251 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
In screening a foreign direct investment on the grounds of security or public order, Member States and the Commission mayshould consider the potential effects on, inter alia:
Amendment 257 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 1
- critical infrastructure, including energy, transport security, critical and raw materials, water, transport infrastructures, seaports, airports, rail, communications, media, data storage, space oraviation, space or aerospace infrastructures, financial infrastructure, as well as sensitive facilities;
Amendment 269 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
- critical technologies, nano- and bio-technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, cybertechnologies, technologies with potential dual use applications, cybersecurity, space or nuclear technology;
Amendment 290 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
In determining whether a foreign direct investment is likely to affect security or public order, Member States and the Commission mayshould take into account whether the foreign investor is controlled by the government of a third country, including through significant funding or participation in an economic or political project or strategy guided by a foreign power.
Amendment 300 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Member States mayshould maintain, amend or adopt measures necessary to prevent circumvention of the screening mechanisms and screening decisions.
Amendment 317 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 3
3. Confidential information, including commercially-sensitive information, made available by foreign investors and undertaking concerned shall be protected on the highest level.
Amendment 342 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shallmust inform the Commission and the other Member States of any foreign direct investments that are undergoing screening within the framework of their screening mechanisms, within 5 working days from the start of the screening. As part of the information, and when applicable, the screening Member States shall endeavour to indicate whether it considers that the foreign direct investment undergoing screening is likely to fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004.
Amendment 351 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 2
2. Where a Member State considers that a foreign direct investment planned or completed in another Member State is likely to affect its security or public order, it mayshould provide commentsan opinion to the Member State where the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed. The commentsopinion shall be forwarded to the Commission in parallel.
Amendment 361 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3
Article 8 – paragraph 3
3. Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect security or public order in one or more Member States, it mayshould issue an opinion addressed to the Member State in which the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed. The Commission mayshould issue an opinion irrespective of whether other Member States have provided comments.
Amendment 397 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect projects or programmes of Union interest on grounds of security or public order, the Commission mayshall issue an opinion addressed to the Member State where the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed.
Amendment 432 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) The ownership structure and the ultimate origin of the foreign investor and of the undertaking in which the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed, including information on the ultimate controlling shareholder or shareholders;
Amendment 444 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point e
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point e
(e) The funding of the investment, on the basis of all information available to the Member State.
Amendment 448 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 2
2. Member States and the Commission shall ensure thguarantee the highest possible protection of confidential information acquired in application of this Regulation.
Amendment 459 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. Where the report recommends modifying the provisions of the Regulation, the report mayshould be accompanied by an appropriate legislative proposal.
Amendment 106 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the 2016 Commission REFIT initiative to carry out an evaluation of Regulation 1107/2009; stresses that thiscalls on the Commission to prioritize a legislative proposal for the revision of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 with a view to a fast- track evaluation, authorisation and registration process of biological low-risk pesticides; calls for open-ended approval of biological low-risk active substances as a vital incentive for the development of biological low-risk pesticides; in view of the urgency expressed by European farmers, low-risk pesticides producers and consumers, calls on the Commission to finalize the thus required adaptation of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 in less than 2 years; stresses that the REFIT initiative must not lead to the lowering of food safety and environmental protection standards;
Amendment 111 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 9
Amendment 28 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
D a. whereas in January 2017 ex- Kosovo prime minister Ramush Haradinaj was arrested in France based on the international arrest warrant issued by Serbia for alleged war crimes on the territory of Kosovo, based on the Law on Organization and Competences of State Authorities in War Crimes Proceedings that allows Serbia to assume the role of a „little Hague";
Amendment 31 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
D b. whereas a Serbian train with inscription „Kosovo is Serbian" took of on January 14th from Belgrade to Northern Kosovo and was eventually stopped close to border with Kosovo;
Amendment 201 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on Kosovo to further efforts to stop gendersex-based violence and to ensure women’'s full enjoyments of rights; calls on Kosovo institutions to allocate adequate funding to the implementation of the national strategy on domestic violence, which includes international mechanisms such as the Istanbul Convention; welcomes the high-level political support for the rights of LGBTI persons; welcomes the holding of the second pride parade, but reiterates that fear remains widespread in the LGBTI community;
Amendment 217 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Kosovo authorities to address gender mainstreamingequality between men and women as a priority and to ensure that governing bodies and authorities lead by example; is concerned about the structural challenges hampering the implementation of the law on gender equality between men and women, and remains concerned about the under- representation of women in decision- making positions; is concerned that no progress has been made on combating domestic and gendersex-based violence; urges the authorities to encourage publicly and put in place protection mechanisms and shelter measures for women who break the silence and denounce domestic violence, and welcomes in this respect the NGO ‘'Be a Man’' founded by men in Pristina;
Amendment 259 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Stresses that the mandate of EULEX is undermined and questioned with acts such as the arrest of the ex- Kosovo prime minister Haradinaj due to the international arrest warrant issued by Serbia, based on the Law on Organization and Competences of State Authorities in War Crimes Proceedings of the Republic of Serbia; emphasizes that with the application of the mentioned Law Serbia applied an arbitrary construction, unknown in theory and practice of comparative international criminal law , of a hybrid principle of territorial application of criminal legislation, which by its tenor and its essence does not correspond to the principle of universal jurisdiction, nor to any other known principle of territorial validity of criminal legislation; in this regards, calls on the Commission and Member States to invest additional efforts in addressing this issue in the process of EU-Serbia negotiations, particularly within the scope of Chapter 23;
Amendment 281 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25 a. Strongly condemns the act of sending a Serbian nationalist train from Belgrade to Northern Kosovo; interprets this as an act of provocation and a step back in Serbia-Kosovo relations;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that 2016 was a difficult year for Turkey’s population as a result of the continuing war in Syria, the high numbers of refugees, a string of heinous terror attacks, and a violent coup attempt in which 248 people were killed; reiterates its strong condemnation of the coup attempt of 15 July and expresses its solidarity with the people of Turkey; recognises the right and the responsibility of the Turkish government to take action in bringing the perpetrators to justice while guaranteeing the compliance with the rule of law and fair trial;
Amendment 94 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Takes note of the outcome of the referendum that took place on 16 April 2017, held under the state of emergency and in circumstances that prevented a fair campaign; supports an independent evaluation of all claims regarding irregularities; notesis concerned of the allegations of widespread electoral fraud identified by the findings of the OSCE mission; notes the large scale demonstrations and refusal of the referendum results by main opposition political parties; stresses the importance of the remarks of the Venice Commission on the constitutional reform, and underlines that the proposed constitutional amendments do not respect the fundamental principles of the separation of powers and sufficient checks and balances, and are not in line with the Copenhagen criteria;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Condemns strongly the violations of freedom of expression and the serious infringements of media freedom, including the disproportionate bannings of media sites and social media; is deeply concerned about the government's decision banning access to Wikipedia and critical Twitter accounts; notes with concern the closure of around 170 media outlets - including almost all Kurdish-language and all Gulen Movement related media outlets - and the jailing of more than 150 journalists; recalls that a free and pluralistic press is an essential component of any democracy and urges the Turkish government to release all journalists immediately;
Amendment 185 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Is concerned that judges and prosecutors continue to come under strong political pressure and that many have been dismissed or arrested and their properties have been confiscated; calls on Turkey to restore and implement all legal guarantees to ensure full respect for the independence of the judiciary, including by amending the law on the High Council of Judges and Prosecutors (HSYK) in order to reduce the executive’s influence within that Council; is particularly concerned that the institution of ‘criminal judges of peace’, which was established in June 2014 by the government in office, appear to have been transformed into an instrument of harassment to stifle opposition, as well as controlling the information available to the general public;
Amendment 285 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the Commission to take into account the latest developments in Turkey when conducting the mid-term review of the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) funds in 2017, and to suspend all pre-accession funds if Turkey no longer sufficiently complies with the EU’s Copenhagen criteria; calls on the Commission to use those funds to directly support Turkish civil society and to invest more in people-to-people exchange programmes, such as Erasmus+ for students;
Amendment 325 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Condemns strongly the recent statements by President Erdogan accusing some EU leaders of ‘Nazi practices’ and warns that the continuation of such unwarranted statements pose serious threats to intra-society co-existence in many EU Member States where social radicalization is observed among some members of Turkish diaspora and undermines Turkey’s credibility as a political partner; notes with concern the reports of alleged pressure on members of the Turkish diaspora living in the Member States, and condemns the Turkish authorities’ surveillance of citizens with dual nationality living abroad; is concerned at the revocation of a large number of passports, leaving people stateless;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
Amendment 27 #
2016/2238(INI)
C. whereas more than 1.5 million private security guardcontractors were employed in around 40 000 Private Security Companies in Europe in 2013; whereas these figures are continuing to increase; whereas globally the private security industry was valued up to 200 billion USD in 2016 with around 100 000 PSCs and 3,5 million employees;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas, over the last few decades, private security companies (PSCs), a term which for the purposes of this resolution will also include Private Military Companies, have been increasingly employed by national governments as well as militaries and civilian agencies, both for the domestic provision of services and support for overseas deployment;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
Amendment 41 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas, in the context of the EU, Member State practice on the use of PSCs varies widely, with many using them to support their contingents in multilateral operations; whereas PSCs have been used in both civilian and military Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions, to guard EU delegations for real life support, construction of field camps, training, air lift and to support humanitarian aid activities;
Amendment 49 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the outsourcing of military activities, formerly an integral part of the activities of armed forces, is taking place, among other things, to provide services in a more cost-efficient manner, but also is taking place, among other things, due to shrinking budgets and the need to compensate for a shortfall certain capabilities in shrinking armed forces in the context of an increasing number of multilateral missions abroad; whereas PSCs can also , provide capabilities that are entirely lacking in national armed forces, often at short noticey shortfall, thus the reliance on PSCs is increasing; whereas PSCs could also be used for reasons of political convenience to avoid limitations on the use of troops and to overcome possible lack of public support to engage one's armed forces;
Amendment 59 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas PSCs have been involved in incidents resulting in loss of life; whereas this has had repercussions on the efforts of the international community in the countries in question and has revealed considerable democratic gaps in accountability structurand control of basic security of civilian populations in host countries;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
Amendment 89 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas, in Europe’s current security environment, it is vitalt is of vital importance to prioritise the establishment of clear rules for interaction, cooperation and assistance between law enforcement and private security companies;
Amendment 90 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
Amendment 94 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas PSCs could play a more important role in the fight against piracy and in improving maritime security, in missions involving dogs, cyber defence, research and development of security tools, mixed surveillance missions and training in cooperation with public authorities; whereas the use of armed PSCs has created specific challenges for the maritime sector;
Amendment 100 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. StressNotes that private security companiePSCs play an important role in aiding the state’'s military and civilian agencies by closing manpower and capability gaps created by budget cuts and increasing demand for the use of forces abroad; emphasises the availability of surge capacity at short notice as an additional benefit of the private provision of security services; stresses that PSCs are used as an instrument of implementation of foreign policy of those countries;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Underscores the need for PSCs when operating in host countries, particularly those that significantly differ in terms of culture and religion, to be mindful of local customs and habits in order not to jeopardise the effectiveness of their mission and alienate the local population;
Amendment 113 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that, compared to national troops, private security companiePSCs, particularly those based in host countries, can provide considerable cost savings as well as valuable local knowledge; points out that the quality of service should remain a priority and cannot be undermined;
Amendment 117 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 120 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 128 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that the EU makes use of Private Security CompanieSCs abroad to guard its delegations and staff and to support its civilian and military CSDP missions; stresses that theirPSCs services fill certain capacity gaps that the EU would otherwise have difficulties in tackling; demands that the Commission and the Council produce an overview of where, when and for what reason Private Security Companies have been employed in support of EU missions;
Amendment 140 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises, however, that, particularly in conflict-prone environments, employing a PSC for certain duties can have negative side effects for the EU by accidentally associating it with armed actors in a conflict area, with negative repercussions in the case of armed incidents, or by possibly compromising Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) and Security Sector Reform (SSR) efforts through the inadvertent strengthening of local actors; notes in particular the risks posed by uncontrolled sub-contracting such as to local PSCs;
Amendment 144 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Demands that the Commission and the Council produce an overview of where, when and for what reason PSCs have been employed in support of EU missions;
Amendment 147 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recommends, therefore, that the Commission propose common PSC contracting guidelines for hire, use and management of military and security contractors that clearly spell out the requirements for international and local PSCs to qualify for EU contracts, with the goal of replacing the current patchwork of approaches; these guidelines should be based both on international best practices in relation to PSC conduct and management, such as the ICoC, and take into account the need for particular care to be taken when selecting local PSCs in a complex post-crisis context; urges the Commission and the EEAS to give clear preference to ICoC-certified providers ;
Amendment 155 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Demands that the Commission establish a black list of contractorPSCs whoich have demonstrably failed to comply with the EU’s standardscomplied with the EU standards such as clean criminal record, financial and economic capacity, possession of licences and authorizations, high standards of vetting of personnel;
Amendment 157 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Underlines that contracts with the PSCs should include inter alia clauses on possession of licences and authorisations, personnel and property records, training, lawful acquisition and use of weapons, and internal organisation;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 171 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 184 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – introductory part
Paragraph 12 – introductory part
12. Recommends supporting the creation ofUrges the Commission to develop a flexible, but rigorous, regulatory model which will:
Amendment 192 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – indent 1 a (new)
Paragraph 12 – indent 1 a (new)
– set high level standards for PSCs operating in their country of origin and abroad;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes, however, that the evaluation of the performance of PSCs is hampered by the lack of consistent reporting about their use by both EU institutions and Member States’' governments; encourages Member States and EU institutions to provide this information more consistently to allow for a proper assessment of the use of PSCs by their respective budgetary authorities and independent audits;
Amendment 210 #
2016/2238(INI)
15a. Recommends to the Commission and the Council to establish a legal framework requiring national legislation to control the export of military and security services, as well as to report in the EU Annual Report on armaments exports on military and security service export licences granted by the Member States in order to increase public transparency and accountability;
Amendment 215 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that the transnational nature of PCSs and, in particular, their activities in areagions of the world affected by crisis often leads to jurisdictional gaps that could make it difficult to hold the companies or their employees to account for their actions; notes that the national regulation of Private Security CompanieSCs often does not have extraterritorial application; however, stresses that it is essential to ensure that there is no protection gap and no impunity for PSCs, including where they operate transnationally;
Amendment 217 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Considers that PSCs operating abroad, particularly in crisis-prone areas, should follow rules which give the host state authority to regulate PSCs and which ensure that contracting states are able to use their power to protect human rights and prevent corruption;
Amendment 228 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Notes that the use of PSCs in the maritime context differs considerably from their use on land due to operational and legal specifities; therefore, suggests to the Commission to integrate a specific maritime perspective in the EU legal framework on PCSs;
Amendment 229 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18b. Commends the efforts of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in providing guidelines for the use of private armed security teams; encourages the Commission and EU Member States to continue to work with the IMO towards the global application of the guidance;
Amendment 235 #
2016/2238(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Stresses that one of the most effective ways of influencing PSCs is through public sector procurement decisions; emphasises, therefore, the importance of making the award of contracts to PSCs conditional on the adoption of best practices, such as the ICoC, which some Member States have already implemented; notes, however, that the ICoC compliance mechanism needs to be strengthened and its full independence assured to make it a credible incentive for compliance;
Amendment 81 #
2016/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Encourages the further integration of Mongolia in the global and regional economy, by means of connecting its Prairie Road project with China’s Silk Road/’One Belt One Road’ initiative, and Russia’s Trans-Eurasian Belt Development in accordance with the strategic interests and priorities of the country; asks the EU to consider participation in infrastructural and investment programmes in the region, should conditions be conducive;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges that climate change is creating new opportunities for the economic development of the Arctic through the potential exploitation of energy resources such as oil and gas, the creation of new shipping routes and the intensification of tourism activities, which would boost trade with, and investment in, the area; in this regard, stresses the importance of the EU trade policy as a tool to promote sustainable development and environmental objectives and commitments, thanks to their inclusion in some recently negotiated FTAs, as in CETA;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses the importance of the creation of new shipping routes as a tool to promote the Arctic region trade dimension; in this regard, welcomes the CETA chapters on international maritime transport services and on public procurement; emphasizes that the participation of the European firms in the Canadian procurement market will have a positive impact on the EU shipbuilding sector, notably icebreakers;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note of Canada’s commitments in the trade and environment chapter of CETA, in particular on sustainable fisheries and trade in forest products; underlines that Canada and the EU have reaffirmed their commitments to strengthening their cooperation in the Arctic at the XVI Canada - EU Summit Joint Declaration of 30 October 2016;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to include substantive trade and environmental provisions in TTIP, which can contribute to preserving Alaska’s natural environment, including on fisheries and forestry; considers that the inclusion of such provisions shall become an integral part of any future FTA that the EU will conclude with non-EU Arctic partners;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 d (new)
Citation 5 d (new)
- having regard to the Global Strategy for the European Union's Foreign and Security Policy1a, __________________ 1a https://europa.eu/globalstrategy/en/global -strategy-foreign-and-security-policy- european-union
Amendment 38 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 28 a (new)
Citation 28 a (new)
- having regard to its resolution of 12 March 2015 on the Annual Report from the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to the European Parliament1a, __________________ 1a Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0075.
Amendment 39 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 28 b (new)
Citation 28 b (new)
- having regard to its resolution of 12 March 2015 on the EU's priorities for the UN Human Rights Council in 20151a, __________________ 1a Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0079.
Amendment 141 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas millions of children around the world continue to suffer from all forms of violence, including the consequences and burden of war and its atrocities, discrimination and, poverty and malnutrition;
Amendment 147 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q e (new)
Recital Q e (new)
Qe. whereas according to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child authorities must respect the rights of the child who is separated from one or both parents; whereas 800 000 children in Europe and many more worldwide suffer from the violation of their right to the protection of family relationships when one or both parents are imprisoned;
Amendment 169 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U b (new)
Recital U b (new)
Amendment 213 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the EU and the VP/HR in particular to denounce, systematically and unequivocally, the persecution and killings of human rights defenders, and to step up its public diplomacy in open and clear support of human rights defenders, also when it comes to their testimony in multilateral fora;
Amendment 227 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the adoption of the second EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy (2015-2019), and urges all EU actors to make full use of the Action Plan’s tools and flexibility to respond effectively to emerging and shifting challenges to the protection of human rights and to strengthen democracy support;
Amendment 229 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 b (new)
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9b. Draws attention that the Action Plan does not include a separate objective on fostering democratic standards in partner countries; stresses that a single democracy support approach is highly needed and underlines that it has to be mainstreamed through all EU financial instruments in the same way as human rights support; calls on the Commission to develop EU guidelines for democracy support;
Amendment 238 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Urges the Commission to take necessary actions during the mid-term implementation review of the Action Plan in 2017 in order to guarantee the coherence between EU approaches towards protection of humans rights and democracy support;
Amendment 251 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Recalls the importance of the stronger and more flexible mandate of the EUSR in enhancing the EU’'s effectiveness in advancing human rights and democratic principles around the world; reiterates its call for this mandate to become a permanent one; urges the EUSR to further deepen the democracy support component within this mandate;
Amendment 264 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the EUSR to consult systematically with civil society, including local civil society organisations, ahead of his visits to third countries; stresses that the work of the EUSR must have clear and transparent follow-up lines;
Amendment 282 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Reiterates its support for dedicated Human Rights Dialogues as a tool of the EU’'s human rights policy; acknowledges that they can be an efficient tool for bilateral engagement and cooperation, provided they allow counterparts to engage on issues of substance and send meaningful political messages, are result-oriented and with consistent follow up rather than merely exchanging information on best practices and challenges;
Amendment 329 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 10
Subheading 10
Migrants, refugees and, asylum seekers and internally displaced persons (IDPs)
Amendment 438 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Highlights the dramatic situation of internally displaced persons (IDPs), especially of the enormous number of IDPs in Iraq and Syria; is deeply concerned about the growing number of IDPs in Ukraine which reached 1.4 million in 2015; stresses that programmes on refugees in a region needs to acknowledge and incorporate the potential fate of IDPs as well; calls on the Commission, the Member States and the international community to take steps to improve their situation on the ground;
Amendment 519 #
Amendment 520 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 b (new)
Paragraph 53 b (new)
53b. Stresses that the fulfilment of the right to access health services including quality antimicrobial medicines continues to be denied to thousands of people worldwide and in particular in developing countries thus establishing that AMR is a consequence of both overuse and underuse of antibiotics;
Amendment 521 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 c (new)
Paragraph 53 c (new)
53c. Is deeply concerned that the rapidly growing AMR threat is expected to become the world's largest cause of death particularly victimising the vulnerable and the weak in developing countries; calls on the Commission to develop without delay a truly effective public health strategy that includes the following: – identification of causes of diseases, diagnostics and ways of distribution of resistant bacteria through tourism and trade, – identification of optimal international, national and regional emergency response actions following an 'outbreak' of unstoppable bacteria, and the integrated and coordinated preparation of such actions, – development of the toughest volume- oriented regulations on the use of antibiotics in all world regions combined with adequate and effective enforcement measures; – development and implementation of the largest ever information program on the threat of AMR using all resources and in particular social media;
Amendment 558 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 62 a (new)
Paragraph 62 a (new)
62a. Calls on the Commission to develop policies and promote in international fora the protection of children of imprisoned parents in order to overcome their discrimination and stigmatisation;
Amendment 561 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 62 d (new)
Paragraph 62 d (new)
62d. Stresses that almost 159 million children continued to suffer from malnutrition in 2015, about 45 per cent of under-fives die each year and that stunted children suffer irreversible, long-term consequences such as impaired physical cognitive development preventing them from growing up to live productive lives; is deeply concerned that the conflict in eastern Ukraine puts under malnutrition and stunting threat internally displaced children; calls on the Commission and the international community to introduce innovative ways to effectively address malnutrition, particularly among children through the fullest use of entire food chain and thus including Public Private People Partnerships, as well as all other available resources, particularly social media;
Amendment 631 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70 a (new)
Paragraph 70 a (new)
70a. Calls on the Iranian authorities to assess atrocities of the 1988 massacre of more than 33,000 political prisoners and to bring those responsible to justice in light of the revealed evidence; calls on the EU, the UN and all relevant international organisations to deploy all of their political and legal resources to investigate this case which is described by human rights organisations as a crime against humanity;
Amendment 646 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 h (new)
Paragraph 72 h (new)
72h. Calls on the EU and Member States to work for the urgent establishment of a dedicated UN mechanism that would monitor and publicly report on attacks on hospitals, medical workers and ambulances; suggests that this mechanism could be built on the experience of the existing mechanism for Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC);
Amendment 649 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 k (new)
Paragraph 72 k (new)
72k. Reiterates its call on the EU and its Member States to join international efforts to prevent attacks against and the military use of schools by armed actors through endorsing the Safe Schools Declaration which is designed to help end widespread military attacks on schools during armed conflict; furthermore calls on Member States to take concrete measures to deter such use of schools by armed forces and armed groups;
Amendment 651 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 m (new)
Paragraph 72 m (new)
72m. Requests the VP/HR to present on an annual basis a public list of alleged perpetrators with regards to attacks on schools and hospitals for the purpose of defining appropriate EU action to halt such attacks;
Amendment 658 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 73
Paragraph 73
73. Condemns, in keeping with Article 10 TFEU, all acts of vi all acts of violence and persecution, intolerance and discrimination on the basis of ideology, religion or belief; expresses its serious concern over the continued reports of violence and persecution, intolerance and discrimination against religious minorities around the world;
Amendment 670 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74
Paragraph 74
74. Stresses that the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion or belief is a fundamental human right, interrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms and encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, the right to manifest or not to manifest any religion or belief, and the right to adopt, change and abandon or return to a belief of one’s choice, as enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including, as enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, freedom to have or not have a religion, to change one's religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest one's religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance;
Amendment 679 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75
Paragraph 75
75. Calls on the EU and its Member States to ensure that religious minorities are respected worldwide, including in the Middle East, where Yazidis, Christians and Muslim minorities are being persecuted by ISIS and other terrorist groupsapply and enforce all the instruments available to them, as well as the EU Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief and the UN Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide, to ensure that religious minorities are respected and protected worldwide, both in cases where the State violates this freedom and where the violator is an international terrorist organization ignoring country borders, financed by foreign entities, such as the so-called Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, Taliban, Boko-Haram, Al-Shabaab and more;
Amendment 688 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75 b (new)
Paragraph 75 b (new)
75b. Calls on the EU to reinforce its existing instruments and adopt any other within its mandate to ensure that the protection of religious minorities is effective worldwide;
Amendment 691 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76
Paragraph 76
76. Encourages the international community and the EU to provide protection for minorities, to install safe zones, and to build a coalition, with a view to preventing abductions and preserving the diversity of ethnic, cultural and religious identities; calls for the recognition, self-administration and right to self-defence of ethnic and religious minorities living in areas where they have historically had a strong presence and lived peacefully alongside each other – particular in the Sinjahus preserving the multicultural aspect of society, wherever they are discriminated or persecuted, this includes promoting measures to allow them to rightful citizenship , to remain or return safely to their land; stresses that any international crime and act of genocide against specific religious groups should be identified as such and acted upon, including cases of: (a) killing members of the group; (b) causing serious bodily or mouentains (Yazidis), the Nineveh plains (Chaldean- Syriac-Assyrian peoples) and other parts of Northern Iraq – and for instruments of reconstruction to be established in order to guarantee the safe return of displaced persons and refugeesl harm to members of the group; (c) deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; (d) imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; (e) forcibly transferring children of the group to another group;
Amendment 697 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 77
Paragraph 77
77. Calls for special assistance from the EU and its Member States in order to preserve mass graves in areas of current or recent conflicts, with the aim of exhuming and forensically analysing the human remains therein, in order to seurgently set up a group of experts seeking to collect all evidences of any on-going international crime, including genocide, against religious minorities, wherever they may happen, including the preservation of mass graves in areas of curre evidence and enable the investignt or recent conflicts, with the aim of preparing internation andal prosecution of suspected crimes against humanity, andthose responsible and also in order to allow for decent burial of the victims’' remains;
Amendment 701 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 78
Paragraph 78
78. Expresses the need for international assistance in efforts to search for and liberate women and children who still remain in the captivity of ISIS, and in promoting speprevent and remedy criminal and genocidal programmes for treatment within the European Union of former captives; expresses concern over the recruitment of children by terrorist groups and their participation in terrorist activities; stresses the need to establish policies to guide the search for, and the liberation, rehabilitation and reintegration of these childreacts especially those against children, women and the elderly who are targeted because of their religion;
Amendment 731 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 22
Subheading 22
Freedom of expression online and through audiovisual and other media sources
Amendment 734 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83
Paragraph 83
83. Calls for increased support in the areas of promoting media freedom, protecting independent journalists and bloggers, reducing the digital divide and facilitating unrestricted access to information and communication, and uncensored access to the internet (digital freedom)vided it does not incite hatred and discrimination and does not contradict to the imperative to safeguard national security and public health;
Amendment 739 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 b (new)
Paragraph 83 b (new)
83b. Urges the EU and the international community to protect independent journalists and bloggers, reduce the digital divide and facilitate unrestricted access to information and communication, and uncensored access to the internet (digital freedom);
Amendment 741 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 84 a (new)
Paragraph 84 a (new)
84a. Notes that the development of the internet and mobile technologies have created wide opportunities for children to communicate and get access to information, as well as exposes them to significant risks and dangers; calls on the Commission and Member States to cooperate closely with all stakeholders in order to adopt clear policy objectives and measures for the protection of children's rights online; stresses that policies to protect children online should be balanced vis-à-vis children's right to access information and freedom of expression;
Amendment 746 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 87
Paragraph 87
87. Condemns all restrictions on digital communication, including the closing down of websites and the blocking of personal accounts as a means to silence opposition and suppress civil society;
Amendment 761 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 88 a (new)
Paragraph 88 a (new)
Amendment 784 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 94
Paragraph 94
94. Is deeply concerned about the reinstatement of executions in some countries in recent years; expresses its grave concern at the reported rise in the number of death sentences handed down worldwide in 2015, in particular in China, Egypt, Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia; stresses with deep concern that Iran accounted for almost 60% of all the registered executions in 2015; reminds the authorities of these countries that they are state parties to the Convention on the Rights of the Child which strictly prohibits the death penalty for crimes committed by anyone below the age of 18;
Amendment 69 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is firmly convinced that, as a result, a thorough revision of the CSDP is needed; calls on Members States and the EU for an appropriate investment in security and defence;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines, equally, that the CSDP should be based on a strong collective defence principle, efficient financing and full coordination and complementarity with NATO;
Amendment 114 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the presentation by the VP/HR of the Global Strategy for the European Union’s Foreign and Security Policy (EUGS) as a necessary and positive development for the institutional framework in which the CFSP and the CSDP will operate and develop; stresses that further work isstrong commitment and support of the Member States are needed to ensure the implementation of the EUGS’s political level of ambition, priorities and comprehensive approach; underlines that the necessary appropriate resources need to be allocated for the implementation of this strategy;
Amendment 125 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Supports the development of a sectoral strategy as a follow-up to the EUGS, to be agreed by the Council, that should further specify the civil-military level of ambition, tasks,elaborate tasks mentioned in the EUGS, namely, crisis management, partners’ capacity building and protection of Europe, develop requirements and capability priorities; reiterates its previous calls for the development of a European Defence White Book and expresses hope that the Council will assign the task of drafting this document without delay;
Amendment 195 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the Commission’s proposal to amend Regulation (EU) No 230/2014 (establishing an Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace) in order to extend the Union’s assistance to equip military actors in partner countries, considering this an indispensable contribution to their resilience, thus diminishing their chances of becoming once again the object of conflict and sanctuaries for hostile activities against the EU; underlines the necessity of identifying financial instruments to enhance partners’ capacity building in security and defence field;
Amendment 289 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. WHighlights the need to further support and develop EDA's role in improving European defence capabilities, stimulating defence Research and Technology, as well as strengthening the European defence industry; welcomes the European Defence Agency’s (EDA) increasing role in coordinating capability- driven programmes, projects and activities, indispensable to an efficient CSDP; welcomes the EDA’s Capability Development Plan and stresses the need for further commitments to ensure its full implementation;
Amendment 199 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the joint declaration by the presidents of the European Council and the Commission, and the Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization of 8 July 2016; emphasises the need for stronger cooperation between the EU and NATO in the area of security and defence; is convinced that EU-NATO cooperation should involve building resilience together in the east and the south as well as defence investment; considers that cooperation on capabilities offers the prospect of improving compatibility and synergy between both frameworks; is convinced that this would also strengthen NATO’s role in security and defence policy, and in collective defencerecalls that speedy implementation of the declaration is essential and calls in this respect on the EEAS together with relevant counterparts to develop concrete options for implementation by December 2016;
Amendment 207 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Is convinced that EU-NATO cooperation should involve building resilience together in the east and the south as well as defence investment; considers that cooperation on capabilities offers the prospect of improving compatibility and synergy between both frameworks; is convinced that this would also strengthen NATO's role in security and defence policy, and in collective defence;
Amendment 231 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. InvitesCalls on the VP/HR to propose an initial EU security and defence white book which will be based on the EU global strategy endorsed by the European Council; takes the view that the security and defence white book should guide the Union contributions in security and defence policy for each multiannual political and financial framework of the EU;
Amendment 269 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 – indent 3
Paragraph 16 – indent 3
- support for the placing ofnecessary infrastructure development (including housing) for multinational battalions in the Member States on the eastern flank;
Amendment 478 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 b (new)
Paragraph 28 b (new)
28b. Recognises the successful conclusion of the free and open general elections in Taiwan in January 2016, fully expressing their people's support for democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights; acknowledges the continued good will and flexibility shown by the government of Taiwan in maintaining cross-Strait peace and stability, which will be significantly conducive to regional security; recognizes the EU commitment to continuing to develop its relations with Taiwan, to supporting the shared values underpinning its system of governance, to supporting the constructive development of cross-Strait relations, and also to supporting Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations, such as WHO, ICAO, UNFCCC, and INTERPOL in particular, which is of such paramount importance to preventing and combating cross-border crime and terrorism that all members of the world community should be included therein;
Amendment 34 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Measures adopted solely at national or even at Union level, without taking into account international coordination and cooperation, would have very limited effect. The measures adopted by the Union in countering money laundering should therefore be compatible with, and at least as stringent as, other actions undertaken in international fora. Moreover, many international and European jurisdictions still allow the use of bearer shares, which are instrumental for receiving, owing and transferring illicit money anonymously and became a very useful tool for creating international schemes with a purpose to launder money. They allow a system which is more opaque than those in notorious tax havens such as, inter alia, Panama, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic or Lichtenstein; therefore, the EU anti-money laundering legal framework should fully ban the use of bearer shares.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Union action should continue to take particular account of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Recommendations and instruments of other international bodies active in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. The relevant Union legal acts should, where appropriate, be further aligned with the International Standards on Combating Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation adopted by the FATF in February 2012 (the ‘revised FATF Recommendations’). As a signatory to the Council of Europe Convention on Laundering, Search, Seizure and Confiscation of the Proceeds from Crime and on the Financing of Terrorism (CETS No. 198), the Union should transpose without delay the requirements of that Convention into its legal order.
Amendment 50 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Where money laundering activity does not simply amount to the mere possession or use, but also involves the transfer or the concealing and disguise of property through the financial system and results in further damage than that already caused by the predicate offence, such as damaging the integrity of the financial system, that activity should be punished separately. Member States should thus ensure that such conduct, including cases of acquisition, mere possession and use, is also punishable when committed by the perpetrator of the criminal activity that generated that property (so-called self- laundering).
Amendment 51 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In order for money laundering to be an effective tool against organised crime, it should noFor the effective countering of money laundering by criminal law measures, a conviction should be possible without being necessary to identify the specifics of the crime that generated the property, the type of crime that generated the property, let alone require a prior or simultaneous conviction for that crime. Prosecutions for money laundering should also not be impeded by the mere fact that the predicate offence was committed in another Member State or third country, provided it is a criminal offence in that Member State or third country. Member States may establish as a prerequisite the fact that the predicate offence would have been a crime in its national law, had it been committed therecrime. Moreover, Member States should take the necessary measures to ensure that the lawful origin of property, wealth and assets is demonstrated by the investigated person in every case involving large amounts of money of unclear origin, suspicious acquisitions or bank transactions, money transfer schemes such as hawala or any other potential proceeds of crime. Prosecutions for money laundering should also not be impeded by the mere fact that the predicate offence was committed in another Member State or third country, or that the person being investigated comes from a Member State where she/he is protected by immunity from prosecution, arrest and detention (such as politically exposed persons and magistrates, inter alia).
Amendment 68 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) In order to deter money laundering throughout the Union, Member States should lay down minimum types and levels of penalties when the criminal offences defined in this Directive are committed. Where the offence is committed within a criminal organisation within the meaning of Council Framework Decision 2008/841/JHA37 8 or where the perpetrator abused their professional position to enable money laundering or when the perpetrator is a politically exposed person, Member States should provide for aggravating circumstances in accordance with the applicable rules established by their legal systems. _________________ 37 Council Framework Decision 2008/841/JHA of 24 October 2008 on the fight against organised crime, (OJ L 300, 11.11.2008, p. 42)
Amendment 70 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Given the mobility of perpetrators and proceeds stemming from criminal activities, as well as the complex cross- border investigations required to combat money laundering, all Member States should establish their jurisdiction in order to enable the competent authorities to investigate and prosecute such activities. Member States should thereby ensure that their jurisdiction includes situations where an offence is committed by means of information and communication technology from their territory, whether or not based in their territory. To ensure the success of investigations and the prosecution of money laundering offences, those responsible for investigating or prosecuting such offences should make use of effective and improved investigative tools, such as those used in combating organized crime or other serious crimes. These tools should be adapted to the latest evolutions in the field of cybercrime and money laundering, including by using bitcoins, cryptocurrencies and ransomeware attacks.
Amendment 98 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point u a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point u a (new)
(ua) tax crimes relating to direct taxes and indirect taxes;
Amendment 103 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point v
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point v
(v) all other offences, including tax crimes relating to direct taxes and indirect taxes as defined in the national law of the Member States, which are punishable by deprivation of liberty or a detention order for a maximum of more than one year or, as regards Member States that have a minimum threshold for offences in their legal system, all offences punishable by deprivation of liberty or a detention order for a minimum of more than six months;
Amendment 108 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) the acquisition, possession or use of property, knowing at the time of receipt or at the time of use in economic and financial activities, that such property was derived from criminal activity or from an act of participation in such an activity.
Amendment 131 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 3 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Each Member State shall ensure that the conduct referred to in paragraph 1 shall be subject to prosecution and conviction even if the suspected person has been granted immunity from prosecution, arrest and detention in her/his country of origin or within the European institutions.
Amendment 132 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Each Member State shall ensure that inciting, aiding and abetting and attemptingparticipation in, inciting, association with or conspiracy to commit, attempts to commit and aiding, abetting, counselling and facilitating in any way an offence referred to in Article 3 shall be punishable.
Amendment 138 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
2. Each Member State shall ensure that the offences referred to in Article 3 shall be punishable by a maxinimum term of imprisonment of at least four years, at least in serious casesthree years, particularly where aggravating circumstances described in Article 6 are applicable.
Amendment 144 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 148 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 a (new)
Article 5 a (new)
Article 5 a Burden of proof Each Member State shall ensure that the burden of proof demonstrating the lawful origin of disproportionate income or property, as defined in this Directive, found by investigators or signalled by suspicious activity reports (SARs) is incumbent to the owner of such proceeds.
Amendment 153 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) the offender is a politically exposed person in the sense of Directive 2015/849 or the case involves corruption of elected officials; or
Amendment 154 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a b (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a b (new)
(ab) the criminal modus operandi involves the use of bearer shares, offshore jurisdictions, shell companies, illegal transfers of funds through systems such as Hawala, cash couriers, smurfing activities or non-governmental organisations; or
Amendment 167 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. Liability of legal persons under paragraphs 1 and 2 shall not exclude criminal proceedings against natural persons who are incite the commission of or arers, conspirators, perpetrators of , or are accessories (including facilitators or counsellors) to any of the offences referred to in Articles 3 and 4.
Amendment 171 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
(1a) the exclusion of that legal person from entitlement to European Union funds and the permanent prohibition for that legal person to enter into contracts with public authorities;
Amendment 183 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 9 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. When an offence referred to in Articles 3 and 4 falls within the jurisdiction of more than one Member State and when any of the Member States concerned can validly prosecute on the basis of the same facts, the Member States concerned shall cooperate in order to decide which of them will prosecute the offender, with the aim of centralising proceedings in a single Member State. The following factors shall be taken into account, by order of priority: a) the territory of the Member State where the offence was committed; b) the nationality or residency of the offender; c) the country of origin of the victims; d) the territory where the offender was found. Member States may have recourse to Eurojust in order to facilitate cooperation between their judicial authorities and the coordination of their actions.
Amendment 201 #
2016/0414(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 10 a (new)
Article 10 a (new)
Amendment 69 #
2016/0351(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) 1036/2016
Article 2 – paragraph 6a – point b
Article 2 – paragraph 6a – point b
(b) Significant distortions for the product concerned within the meaning of point (a) may be deemed to exist, inter alia, when reported prices or costs, including the costs of raw materials, are not the result of free market forces as they are affected by government intervention. In considering whether or not significant distortions exist regard may be had, inter alia, to the potential impact of the following: the market in question is to a significant extent served by enterprises which operate under the ownership, control or policy supervision or guidance of the authorities of the exporting country; state presence in firms allowing the state to interfere with respect to prices or costs; public policies or measures discriminating in favour of domestic suppliers or otherwise influencing free market forces; and access to finance granted by institutions implementing public policy objectives. The Commission shall establish a public illustrative list of criteria and circumstances and examples which assist to merit and to justify when the use of the methodology for non-market situations shall be applied.
Amendment 450 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Is deeply concerned that more than 9300 people have been killed in Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian aggression in mid-April 2014 and that in 2016 the number of IDPs has reached 1.4 million placing Ukraine in the top category of countries with the highest number of IDPs worldwide; according to UN OCHA, 3.1 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, while UN WFP is facing a serious shortfall of USD 23.3 million to cover operational needs until December 2016; commends the Ukrainian Government for the progress it has made to address the IDPs situation including the establishment of the Ministry for Temporarily Occupied Territories and Internally Displaced Persons to deal directly with internal displacement; urges EEAS and international community to intensify efforts to protect the rights of IDPs from the conflict affected east of the country and the Autonomous Republic of Crimea;
Amendment 10 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
- having regard to the European Union's Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief, and the EP Recommendation to the Council on the EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief adopted on 13 June 2013,
Amendment 33 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the uprisings in the Arab world prompted the European Union to acknowledge the failure of past policies and to commit to a ‘'more for more’' approach in the Review of the Neighbourhood Policy, based on a commitment to ‘'adapt levels of EU support to partners according to progress on political reforms and building deep democracy’', including free and fair elections, freedom of association, expression and assembly, freedom of thought, conscience and religion or belief, a free press and media, and the rule of law administered by an independent judiciary;
Amendment 88 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Welcomes the adoption of the EU Guidelines on Freedom of Religion andor Belief, and on LGBTI rights; reminds the EEAS, however, to respect good inter- institutional practice and engage in a timely manner with the proper political bodies within the European Parliament; recalls the EP Recommendation to the Council on the Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief in which the EP has proposed an ambitious set of instruments providing suggestions for the practical implementation of the Guidelines in order to achieve remarkable progress in the protection and promotion of this fundamental and universal freedom; commends the practice adopted by the EEAS and the Council of reviewing and revising older guidelines; encourages the EEAS to adopt a more rigorous review process involving the thorough consultation of stakeholders in order to adapt to changing circumstances;
Amendment 94 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Notes the continued difficulties in achieving concrete progress in several of the EU human rights dialogues and consultations; encourages the EU to seek new ways of making the dialogues with countries of concern more meaningful; believes that human rights dialogues and consultations should have the primary aim of strengthening and supporting civil society, human rights defenders, trade unions, journalists, lawyers and parliamentarians who stand up and challenge abuses at home and demand that their rights be respected; calls on the EU to ensure that human rights dialogues and consultations are ambitious and accompanied by clear public benchmarks based on which their success can be objectively measured; underlines the need to pursue determined, ambitious, and transparent human rights policy in these dialogues; calls therefore on the EU to draw clear political conclusions when the human rights dialogue is not constructive and, in such cases, to put more emphasis on political dialogue, démarches and public diplomacy; warns furthermore against diverting human rights discussions away from high-level political dialogues;
Amendment 172 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Notes with concern that respecting the rights of minorities is one of the key challenges identified in the Commission's Enlargement Strategy for 2012-2013; encourages the Member States to launch a general public debate on the acceptance of minorities through education, civil society engagement, and awareness-raising in general; regrets that the Roma community is particularly disadvantaged throughout the Western Balkans; condemns the generally negative societal attitudes towards vulnerable groups such as the LGBT community and people with disabilities, which is a recurring issue in many enlargement countries; expresses its concerns about Turkey's treatment of religious minorities;
Amendment 205 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Notes with concern instances of selective justice in certain Eastern Neighbourhood countries; recalls that the EU has continually asked for the release of political prisoners, such as Yuliya Tymoshenko in Ukraine, and leader of the opposition, Vano Merabishvili, jailed in pre-trial detention, in Georgia; reiterates that political and criminal responsibility should be clearly separated in countries that are committed to democratic values;
Amendment 207 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Supports all steps leading to political dialogue, which is essential to move the transition in Egypt forward; expresses its deep concern about recent crises and, including the street battles between the army and Muslim Brotherhood supporters, terrorism and violent clashes in the Sinai and the extremist violence against Coptic Christian communities; calls on all political leaders in the country to find a way to break the dangerous stalemate and agree on implementing tangible confidence-building measures to avoid the risk of more bloodshed and polarisation in the country; urges the Egyptian authorities to advance the work on an inclusive constitution with equal rights for all;
Amendment 213 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 a (new)
Paragraph 42 a (new)
42a. Recalls its previous resolutions on the situation in Western Sahara; expresses its concern at the deterioration of human rights in Western Sahara, as reported by, among others, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment; calls for the fundamental rights of the people of Western Sahara, including freedom of association, freedom of expression and the right to demonstrate, to be respected; demands the release of all Sahrawi political prisoners; demands the opening of the territory to independent observers, NGOs, and the media; reiterates its support for the establishment of an international mechanism to monitor human rights in Western Sahara; supports a fair and lasting settlement of the conflict, on the basis of the right to self-determination of the Sahrawi people, in accordance with the relevant United Nations resolutions;
Amendment 241 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50
Paragraph 50
50. Expresses its serious concerns about recent repressive laws and their arbitrary enforcement by the Russian authorities, often leading to the harassment of NGOs, civil society activists, human rights defenders and minorities; calls for the release of Mikhail Khodorkovsky and other political prisoners; urges the Russian authorities to impartially investigate and bring to justice those responsible for the deaths of Sergei Magnitsky, Natalia Estemirova, Anna Politkovskaya and Vasily Alexanian; regrets the Council's failure to consider the Parliament's recommendation of 23 October 2012 on the Magnitsky case, considers the recommendation an important tool to address human rights abuses in Russia and other countries, and urges the Council to implement the recommendation without delay;
Amendment 248 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a (new)
Paragraph 50 a (new)
50a. Expresses its concern about increased repression of independent journalists and human rights activists in Cuba; calls attention to the situation of prisoners of conscience in Cuba who continue to be sentenced on trumped-up charges or held in pre-trial detention; calls on the EEAS and the EU High Representative Baroness Ashton to promote in the framework of the United Nations an international and independent enquiry committee with the target to investigate the circumstances in which the Cuban human right defenders and peaceful dissidents, Oswaldo Payá Sardiñas (Sakharov laureate 2002) and Harold Cepero died in July 2012;
Amendment 259 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Expresses grave concern regarding the steadily deteriorating human rights situation in Iran, the continued repression of reformists, the growing number of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience and faith, the discrimination and persecution of the Baha'i community, the consistently high number of executions, including of minors, the widespread torture, the unfair trials and exorbitant sums demanded for bail, and the heavy restrictions on the freedom of information, expression, assembly, religion, education and movement;
Amendment 287 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64 a (new)
Paragraph 64 a (new)
64a. Calls on European Foreign Ministers to adopt Foreign Affairs Council conclusions affirming the strong support of the EU and its Member States for the International Criminal Court, taking note of the EU's efforts to continuously review, update, and expand its instruments on the International Criminal Court, and expressing renewed commitment to work towards the universality of the Rome Statute in order to widen access to justice for victims of serious crimes under international law;
Amendment 314 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 20 a (new)
Subheading 20 a (new)
Freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief (This subheading should be place between paragraph 72 and paragraph 73)
Amendment 315 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 73
Paragraph 73
73. Stresses that the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief, as encapsulated in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and other international human rights instruments, is a fundamental human right, encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, and the right to adopt, change and abandon a belief of one's choiceinterrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms, encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, and the freedom to practise theistic, non-theistic or atheistic belief alike, either in private or public, alone or in a community with others and the right to adopt, change and abandon a belief of one's choice; calls on the EU to promote the right of freedom of religion or belief within international and regional fora and in bilateral relations with third countries;
Amendment 321 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74
Paragraph 74
74. Condemns in the strongest terms discrimination, intolerance, violence and killings on grounds of religion or belief, wherever and to whomever they occur; is particularly concerned about the threat of increasing sectarianism along religious lines in countries such as Egypt and Syria as an impediment to long-lasting peace and reconciliation; furthermore, is concerned about increasing government and social hostility in many Islamic countries, Central Asia and the deplorable situation in North Korea, countries which continue to deny minority religious or belief groups the freedom to worship or publicly express their religion or belief; social hostility and attacks against religious or belief groups, which have resulted in many deaths and injuries, are on the increase; and impunity and the lack of protection for minority religious or belief communities remains a concern;
Amendment 324 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74 a (new)
Paragraph 74 a (new)
74a. Opposes any legislation that penalises individuals for changing their religion or belief; expresses deep concern that as a result of such legislation individuals in certain countries face imprisonment or even the death penalty; is also concerned that those who have left or changed their religion are subjected to social hostility such as violence and intimidation; opposes laws that penalise expressions deemed blasphemous, defamatory, or insulting to religion or religious symbols, figures, or feelings; states that these laws do not comply with accepted international human rights standards; condemns Blasphemy law provisions in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia which allow imprisonment and the death penalty;
Amendment 325 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74 a (new)
Paragraph 74 a (new)
74a. Welcomes recent EIDHR calls for proposals prioritising and supporting civil society actions combating discrimination on the basis of religion or belief; encourages the EU to support inclusive efforts of intercultural and interfaith dialogue and cooperation at various levels, involving community leaders, women, youth and ethnic minority representatives, and with the aim to promote peace building and societal cohesion calls on the EU and EU member states to develop grant schemes for the protection and promotion of freedom of religion or belief in countries where this right is most at risk;
Amendment 327 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74 b (new)
Paragraph 74 b (new)
74b. Welcomes the EU's commitment to promoting the right to freedom of religion or belief within international and regional fora including the UN, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Council of Europe (CoE) and other regional mechanisms; encourages the EU to continue tabling its yearly resolution on freedom of religion or belief at the UN General Assembly and supporting the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief
Amendment 1 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3
Citation 3
– having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and General Comment 22 by the Office of the UN High Commissioner forUN Human Rights Committee,
Amendment 9 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the right to freedom of religion or belief is a universal human right and a fundamental freedom of each human being, interrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 15 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas according to the standards of international law, countriall states have the duty to provide effective protection to all their citizens and all other inhabitantspersons under their respective jurisdictions; whereas persecutions against persons and their families, communities, Churches and institutions, particularly Christians, based on their particular religious affiliation, their convictions or any legitimate public expression of their religion or belief, are widely spread in some regions of the world; whereas discrimination based on religion or belief still exists in all regions of the world including Europe, and persons belonging to particular religious communities, including religious minorities, or non-believers, continue to be denied their human rights in many countries;
Amendment 25 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) Violence, persecution and discrimination against religious communities, with political, socio- economic or ideological roots, persists in many parts of the world; clear condemnation by the European Union of all forms of violence and discrimination should be a basic element of EU policy in the area of freedom of religion or belief.
Amendment 36 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) As their successful implementation will depend on this, the Guidelines should offer clarity in the definitions used and the appropriate and full protection of the right to freedom of religion or belief, in accordance with international law, in its private and public expressions, as well as in its individual, collective and institutional dimensions, including but not limited to the right of parents to educate their children according to their moral and religious convictions, freedom of assembly and freedom of association, freedom of expression, the recognition of legal personality of religious and ethos based institutions and the respect to their autonomy, the right to conscientious objection, the right to asylum, and the fundamental right to protection of one's property.
Amendment 40 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) As the draft Guidelines state, in accordance with the principles accepted by the international community, manifestation ofthe freedom from coercion to have or to adopt a religion or belief and the liberty of parents and guardians to ensure religious and moral education cannot be restricted. Any other manifestation of the right to freedom of religion or belief may be subject only to «'such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others»7 ; at the same time, the limitations must be strictly interpreted, directly related and proportionate with regard to the protected rights of others and the right balance must be achieved; the proportionality criterion should therefore be stressed in the Guidelines.
Amendment 45 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) It should be stressed in the Guidelines that an indispensable part of freedom of religion or belief is the right to manifest the freedom of religion or belief in community with others; this includes the freedom to establish and maintain places of worship and religious sites, to establish and maintain appropriate religious, media, educational, health, social and charitable institutions with legal personality and organisational autonomy, including the freedom to appoint personnel and leaders of these institutions without external interference from the state, the freedom to provide religious teaching and training, the freedom to exercise one's ministry, the freedom to observe days of rest and to celebrate holidays and ceremonies in accordance with the precepts of one's religion or belief and the freedom to carry out social, media, educational, health and charitable activities. Equally, it should be noted in the Guidelines that the right to exercise religion in community with others should not unnecessarily be limited to officially recognised places of worship, and that all undue limitations to the freedom of assembly should be condemned by the EU.
Amendment 54 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) As recognised by internationally accepted standards, the parents or legal guardians of a child have the liberty to ensure that their children receive a religious and moral education in conformity with their own convictions, and the child shall not be compelled to receive teaching on religion or belief against the wishes of his parents or legal guardians, the best interests of the child being the guiding principle; the right of parents to educate their children according to their religious or non religious convictions includes their right to deny any undue interference by state or non state actors in their education opposed to their religious or non religious convictions; the Guidelines should stress thisese aspects of the right to freedom of religion or belief, and EU Delegations should take appropriate action if this principle is violated.
Amendment 57 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) The Guidelines should include the right to conscientious objection to military service, as a legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and; the EU should call on countristates with a system of compulsory military service to allow for an alternative service of a non- combatant or civilian character, in the public interest and not of a punitive nature, and to refrain from punishing, including through prison sentences, conscientious objectors for failure to perform military service; the Guidelines should also include the right to well-defined conscientious objection as a legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion in relation to other morally sensitive matters, such as services related to health-care and education.
Amendment 17 #
2013/2020(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 d (new)
Citation 9 d (new)
- having regard to its resolution of 13 December 2012 on the Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2011 and the European Union's policy on the matter (2012/2145(INI)),
Amendment 249 #
2013/2020(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 a (new)
Paragraph 36 a (new)
36a. Reaffirms its support to the UN resolutions on Western Sahara; calls for full respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms of Sahrawi people, including freedom of association, freedom of expression and the right to demonstrate peacefully;
Amendment 272 #
2013/2020(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Expresses deep concern at the recent report from the UNSR on torture, who found evidence that Moroccan officials have detained individuals on political grounds, inflicted torture and rape on Sahrawi inmates, kidnapped and abandoned protesters in the desert to intimidate them, and deliberately and frequently targeted pro-independence advocates, including in their homes; notes further widespread allegations of forced disappearances and unfair trials; draws particular attention to the dismantling of the Gdeim Izik protest camp in November 2010, where significant violence claimed Moroccan and Sahrawi lives, and the subsequent trial of 25 Sahrawis, many of them known human rights activists, in February 2013; notes Morocco's insistence regarding the trial's fairness and due process, and the positive conclusions of some international observers, but also recalls the UNSR's concern at the use of a military court, the allegations of torture, and the Moroccan authorities' failure to investigate them; notes the conclusions by some NGOs and human rights observers relating to the case's alleged politicised prosecutions, deficient evidence and excessive sentences; calls therefore on the Moroccan authorities to immediately release all Sahrawi political prisoners, to work with civil society and other actors to guarantee the transparency and fairness of its judicial processes, and to investigate and prosecute security officials alleged to have been involved in arbitrary detentions, torture and other abuses of power;
Amendment 282 #
2013/2020(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 a (new)
Paragraph 39 a (new)
39a. Expresses deep concern about the continuing discrimination and sexual violence against Sahrawi women and girls; urges Moroccan authorities to end impunity for violations of Sahrawi women and girls human rights, to address the serious shortcomings in the Penal Code and to adopt new provisions which criminalize sexual violence in all its forms, to adopt the recommendation under the UN Universal Periodic Review to revise the Family Code to give women the same inheritance rights as men, to comply with their obligations under Article 5 of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), by taking the necessary measures to "modify the social and cultural patterns of conduct of men and women, with a view to achieving the elimination of prejudices and customary and all other practices which are based on the idea of the inferiority or the superiority of either of the sexes or on stereotyped roles for men and women"; these measures should include training of police and the judiciary on how to deal sensitively with complaints of violence against women and girls, and protect victims themselves, not their so-called "honour" or "morals";
Amendment 157 #
2013/0103(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point b
Regulation (EC) No 1225/2009
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
The amount of the provisional anti- dumping duty shall not exceed the margin of dumping as provisionally established. Unless structural raw material distortions were found to exist with regard to the product concerned in the exporting country, it should be less than the margin of dumping if such lesser duty would be adequate to remove the injury to the Union industryThe lesser duty shall not be applied if the price of the principle costs of production, such as primary or secondary raw materials or energy, of the product concerned are found to be structurally distorted and do not materially reflect market prices of such inputs.
Amendment 182 #
2013/0103(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point b
Regulation (EC) No 1225/2009
Article 9 – paragraph 4
Article 9 – paragraph 4
The amount of the provisional anti- dumping duty shall not exceed the margin of dumping established. Unless structural raw material distortions were found to exist with regard to the product concerned in the exporting country, it shall be less than the margin of dumping if such lesser duty would be adequate to remove the injury to the Union industryas provisionally established. The lesser duty shall not be applied if the price of the principle costs of production, such as primary or secondary raw materials or energy, of the product concerned are found to be structurally distorted and do not materially reflect market prices of such inputs.
Amendment 34 #
2012/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas the US attempt to improve relations with Moscow with "reset button" policy although greeted initially in the EU, with Vladimir Putin's return to power as President of Russia in 2012 has failed; whereas the US decided to withdraw from the NATO's missile project in Europe;
Amendment 134 #
2012/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Stresses the importance of climate policy and a new UN Treaty on climate to be negotiated by 2015 which would take effect from 2020; underlines that joint efforts of the EU and US are necessary to achieve this goal;
Amendment 178 #
2012/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Highlights the importance of the Eastern Partnership to the EU; stresses the need to bring the countries of this neighbouring region closer to the EU and toactively support Eastern neighbourhood countries who are committed to the common values of the transatlantic partners and to joining the Euro - Atlantic structures; underlines that the outcome depends not only on additional efforts of the Eastern Partnership countries but also on the active stance of the EU and US as well as on their common values of the transatlantic partnerordination on the ground and at the headquarters' level; points out that such EU and US coordination will be of high importance when supporting the implementation of the Association agreements (AA) and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade agreements (DCFTA) with Eastern Partnership countries;
Amendment 186 #
2012/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Urges both partners to coordinate their policies towards a critical engagement with Russia; calls on the EU and the US to contribute to the process of Russian modernisation's modernisation, especially in the fields of democracy, rule of law and human rights; stresses that implementation of the commitments made by Russia while joining the WTO is an important part of the modernisation agenda of the country;
Amendment 3 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR) and other key international human rights treaties and instruments;
Amendment 6 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6
Citation 6
– having regard to the European Union's Guidelines on Human Rights, Guidelines;
Amendment 26 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29
Citation 29
– having regard to the Council Conclusions of 21 February 2011 on intolerance, discrimination and violence on the basis of religion or belief, and having regard to United Nations General Assembly resolution 66/167 on combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatisation of, and discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against, persons based on religion or belief;
Amendment 169 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Welcomes also activities undertaken under the Eastern Partnership initiative in promoting human rights, democracy, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law in partner countries; calls on the European Union to use the transitional experience of its own Member States of moving from authoritarian to democratic regimes, and to translate the lessons learned from these experiences into concrete, results-oriented programmes in the Union's Eastern partner countries; urges the EU to take a more active and coherent stance while promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law in partner countries;
Amendment 197 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 a (new)
Paragraph 39 a (new)
39a. Stresses that human rights dialogues are an additional mechanism to other consultations with third countries and should not be used to sideline human rights at higher political levels such as summits; furthermore urges that human rights considerations are part of all discussions with third countries;
Amendment 198 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 b (new)
Paragraph 39 b (new)
39b. Stresses the importance that the EU uses these dialogues to raise individual cases of concern, particularly for prisoners of conscience who have been imprisoned for practising the peaceful right to freedom of speech, assembly and religion or belief, and calls upon the EU to effectively follow up these cases with the countries in question.
Amendment 203 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Reiterates its concern, however, with the persistently disappointing lack of progress in a number of human rights dialogues, and the lack of transparent benchmarks to genuinely assess improvements or deterioration in human rights; notes the continued EU difficulties to negotiate improved modalities for the dialogue with China and Russia; calls on the newly appointed EUSR onfor Human Rights to inject new momentumtake the lead into these and other dialogueshuman rights dialogues and inject new result-driven approach into them;
Amendment 217 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
42. Welcomes EU efforts to include a human rights clause in all EU political framework agreements, but reiterates its call for all contractual relationships with third countries – both industrialised and developing, and including sectoral agreements, trade and technical or financial aid agreements – to include clearly worded clauses on human rights and democracy, without exception; considers that the current threshold in Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) schemes that could trigger action on the human rights clauses is high but should be adjusted to each country concerned; notes the new GSP reform proposal from 2011 which suggests that the consultation procedure should be widened and ease investigations of human rights violations in the GSP Committee; in this regard expresses deep concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Cambodia where land grabbing leads to poverty increase and leads to the violation of human rights clauses which are part of the EU- Cambodia agreements;
Amendment 229 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45
Paragraph 45
45. Welcomes the commitment in the EU Human Rights Action Plan to develop a methodology to improve the analysis of the human rights situation in third countries in connection with the launch or conclusion of trade and/or investment agreements; calls upon the EU to ensure that the granting of GSP+ status is firmly linked to a country's ratification and implementation of key international human rights instruments, enabling a regular evaluation of such obligations, paying particular attention to the respect of freedom of expression, assembly, association, and religion or belief, and the rights of minorities, women and children.
Amendment 352 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph - 81 a (new)
Paragraph - 81 a (new)
- 81a. Stresses that freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental right, encompassing the right to believe or not to believe and the freedom to practice that belief either in private or public, alone or in community with others;
Amendment 353 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph - 81 b (new)
Paragraph - 81 b (new)
- 81b. Notes the importance of the right to freedom of religion or belief, including theistic, non-theistic or atheistic beliefs alike, to all individuals, which as an essential right should be promoted and protected; stresses that the enjoyment of this right is fundamental to the development of pluralist and democratic societies and one of preconditions for the enjoyment of many other rights, such as freedom of expression, assembly and association; calls upon the EU to systematically defend the unconditional right to freedom of religion or belief for all in political dialogues and high-level summits with third countries and organisations;
Amendment 358 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81
Paragraph 81
81. Remains deeply concerned that discrimination based on religion or belief continues in many regions of the world, and that persons belonging to particular religious communities, including religious minorities, continue to be denied their human rights; is particularly concerned by the situation in China where individuals who practise their religion outside officially sanctioned channels, including Christians, Muslims, BuddhCondemns any intolerance, discrimination or violence on the grounds of religion or belief wherever and to whomever it occurs; expresses concern about violations perpetrated against religious minority representatives and those modest voices in majority religious traditions promoting pluralists and Falun Gong practitioners, often face persecution; urges China to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) as it has promised; urges the Chinese authorities to suspend and subsequently amediverse societies based on mutual respect between individuals; expresses worry about impunity of such violations, the bias of the police and judiciary systems in dealing with such matters and, through genuinely consultative processes with Tibetans, the policies that most negatively impact Tibetan Buddhism, culture and traditione lack of appropriate victim compensation schemes in many countries in the world;
Amendment 366 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 a (new)
Paragraph 81 a (new)
81a. Is particularly concerned by the situation in China where individuals who practise their religion outside officially sanctioned channels, including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and Falun Gong practitioners, often face persecution; urges China to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) as it has promised; urges the Chinese authorities to suspend and subsequently amend, through genuinely consultative processes with Tibetans, the policies that most negatively impact Tibetan Buddhism, culture and tradition; is deeply concerned about the situation of freedom of religion in Cuba, in particular the increased persecution of leaders of Catholic and Protestants churches and believers;
Amendment 377 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 82
Paragraph 82
82. Stresses the need for a toolkit to advance the right to freedom of religion or belief as part of EU's external policy; notes that this toolkit should include a checklist on the necessary freedoms pertaining to the right of freedom of religion or belief, in order to assess the situation, as well as a methodology to help identify infringements of freedom of religion or belief; encourages the EEAS to involve civil society organisations in the preparation of the toolkit; welcomes the EU's commitment to develop Guidelines on freedom of religion or belief, as per section 23 of the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy; urges the Council and Commission that the creation, implementation and evaluation of these guidelines, is accompanied by a full and inclusive consultation and engagement with the Parliament, civil society organisations, academics and other relevant stakeholders in this field; encourages the EU to ensure coherence between the new guidelines and the priorities listed in EU human rights country strategies, mainstreaming freedom of religion or belief in strategies for third countries where such violations occur and making sure that human rights defenders, civil society, and religious communities in such countries are consulted;
Amendment 383 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 82 a (new)
Paragraph 82 a (new)
82a. Stresses the importance of mainstreaming freedom of religion or belief in development, conflict prevention, and counterterrorism policies; welcomes inclusive efforts of intercultural and interfaith dialogue and cooperation at various levels, involving community leaders, women, youth and ethnic minority representatives, in fostering societal cohesion and peaceful societies;
Amendment 386 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 82 b (new)
Paragraph 82 b (new)
82b. Urges the EU to respond proactively to the increased use of apostasy, blasphemy and anti-conversion laws and the role they play in increasing religious intolerance and discrimination; emphasises that international law includes the right to have, adopt and change a religion or belief; encourages the EU to speak out against the use of these laws by governments, including Iran and Pakistan, to deny the rights of individuals to change religion, in particular when the death penalty is given as a punishment;
Amendment 395 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 a (new)
Paragraph 83 a (new)
83a. Notes that freedom of religion or belief is inter-related with issues pertaining to recognition, equal citizenship and equal enjoyment of rights in a given society; encourages the EU to work for equality and equal citizenship as a matter of priority for representatives of marginalised or discriminated groups in society, including inter alia the Muslim Rohingyas in Burma and neighbouring countries, Ahmadi Muslims in Indonesia and Pakistan, Copts in Egypt, Christians, Jews and Baha'is in Iran etc.;
Amendment 401 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 b (new)
Paragraph 83 b (new)
83b. Welcomes the EU's commitment to presenting and promoting the right to freedom of religion or belief within international and regional fora including the UN, the OSCE and the Council of Europe and other regional mechanisms, and calls for a constructive dialogue with the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) on moving away from terminology related to combating defamation of religions; encourages the EU to continue tabling its yearly resolution on freedom of religion or belief at the UN General Assembly;
Amendment 402 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 c (new)
Paragraph 83 c (new)
83c. Urges the EEAS to develop a permanent capacity within its structure to monitor and analyse the role of religion or belief in contemporary societies and international relations and to mainstream the issue of freedom of religion or belief across the geographical and thematic directorates and units; encourages the EEAS to report to the Parliament on an annual basis on progress on freedom of religion or belief in the world;
Amendment 403 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 d (new)
Paragraph 83 d (new)
83d. Stresses the importance of supporting initiatives of and enabling funding for civil society and human rights defenders in their efforts to combat discrimination, intolerance and violence on the grounds of religion or belief; Country-Based Support Schemes should prioritise funding for protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief in countries where the EU country strategy has identified this right as a priority issue.
Amendment 45 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. wWhereas the EU adheres to theits One China Policy in the Cross Straits Relations between the PRC and Taiwan;.
Amendment 65 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. wWhereas the vasTibet aAutonomous provinces of Tibet and Xinjiang are vital for the PRC from the viewpoint of ‘unity of the countRegion and other Tibetan autonomous areas, and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region have become important territories for China's regional, military’ and because of their great strategic, military and economic importance; onomic ambitions and therefore are seen as core issues of 'territorial integrity' by the current Chinese Government;
Amendment 71 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I c (new)
Recital I c (new)
Ic. Whereas since 2009, 54 Tibetans have self-immolated in Tibetan populated areas of the People's Republic of China, including the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) and Tibetan Autonomous Areas within the Gansu, Sichuan and Qinghai provinces;
Amendment 118 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
Oa. Whereas the rising tensions over the disputed islands and overlapping and conflicting claims exist in the East Asia's maritime areas;
Amendment 189 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 200 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Admires the courage and the social responsibility of numerous Chinese citizens for defending precious social rights in their country, but denounces the tragic state of affairs whereby several of them are being officially persecuted and punished for their efforts toactivism of those Chinese citizens acting in socially responsible ways to promote and defend universally recognized human rights, and to challenge and correct well- known social dangers/criminal acts by Chinese officials, such as corruption, abuse of office, environmental damage, AIDS infection, food poisoning, construction fraud concerning schools, and illegal land and property expropriation, often committed by local party authorities; urges the Chinese leadership to encourage civil responsibility for observing social human rights and to rehabilitate officially persecuted and punished defenders of these right; denounces all incidences of official retaliation against these Chinese citizens; alsond expects a responsible Chinese leadership to comply strictly with individudomestic and international human rights law;
Amendment 233 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recognises the enormoussignificant efforts made by the Chinese Government to develop Tibet and Xinjiang economically; urges the Chinese Government to act in a politically responsible way by respecting and protecting Tibetan and Uighur traditional cultures and lifestyles; believes that Beijing cannot win the hearts and minds of the and the impact of such efforts on nomad communities and traditional livelihoods; urges the Chinese Government to act in a politically responsible way by meaningfully engaging the Tibetan and Uighur peoples in governance issues, including resource management and economic development priorities, and respecting rather than diluting cultural elements such as language and religion; strongly asserts that the Chinese Government will not achieve lasting stability in Tibet or Xinjiang or comity among Chinese, Tibetan and Uighur peoples by way of through forcible assimillations of surveillance cameras, cultural destruction or repressive police and security methods;
Amendment 249 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses that, notwithstanding a harsh policy of repression, a religious revival is taking place in China which is demonstrated by the reopening or reconstruction of countless places of worship; urges the Chinese authorities to replace their ineffective policy of controlling religion with one offering realpull back on policies and practices that curtail any citizen's fundamental right to freedom of religion or belief ;
Amendment 268 #
Amendment 270 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 h (new)
Paragraph 12 h (new)
(h) Welcomes the increasing contacts between the PRC and Taiwan; stresses that the improvement in Cross-Strait relations is still seriously undermined by PRC's missiles aimed at Taiwan and China's international isolation of Taiwan; calls on China and the EU to respect Taiwan's right to meaningful participation in international organisations, as endorsed by the Council's declaration 9486/09 of 8 May 2009;
Amendment 298 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 d (new)
Paragraph 15 d (new)
(d) Due to the European Union's significant interests in the security and stability of East Asia, calls upon all parties concerned (China, Japan and Taiwan) to demonstrate restraint and to take steps to calm the situation; urges all parties concerned to settle disputes peacefully in a spirit of cooperation and in respect of international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea;
Amendment 10 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that the Accession Treaties of Bulgaria, Slovakia and Lithuania included provisions regarding the closure of eight nuclear reactors, due to their low safety standardsUnion committed itself to provide adequate additional Community financial assistance to the decommissioning of the three nuclear power plants concerned; without clearly defining the overall amounts to be allocated;
Amendment 26 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Remains concerned, however, that the shut-down of reactors is, in some cases, not yet irreversible; that, more than ten years after the start of the decommissioning funding none of three nuclear power plants concerned are yet in an irreversible operation condition; emphasises the importance of irreversibility of the decommissioning process;
Amendment 34 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that payments to contractors representhave reached almost half of the committed amount;
Amendment 36 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. QuestionsPoints to the fact that ofin this amounte cases of Bulgaria and Slovakia 60 % of total amount went to the decommissioning and 40 % to mitigation measures;
Amendment 65 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Is deeply concerned by the current deficiency in viable knowledgeshortcomings onf the amounts necessary additional financing to complete the whole decommissioning process;
Amendment 70 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Demands, therefore, the immediate completion of all decommissioning activities interlinked with creating anMember States to present to the Commission updated and accurate costs estimates of the decommissioning process in its entirety of nuclear power plants concerned without any delay;
Amendment 74 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. ANotes that considerable sums of money had been used on operational costs; acknowledges that considerable amounts are still needed in thisfor the decommissioning process and deplores the fact that Member States have failed to set up the necessary mechanisms to ensure thise additional funding in the Member States concerned were not set up;
Amendment 77 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
Amendment 86 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 94 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
Amendment 103 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Endorses the fact that the overall responsibility for decommissioning and its financingdecommissioning effort lies with the Member State in which the nuclear power plant is situated9, however, European Union solidarity in terms of financial assistance to the Member States concerned should be guaranteed until the completion of the decommissioning;
Amendment 111 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Observes that experts called for a solid and complete detailed decommissioning plan as basis for the implementation of further Union support, including full costing estimates up to the completion date for decommissioning; the decommissioning plan and cost estimates will be used to identify actual payment needs, scope of EU assistance and absorption capacity; considers that a clear indication of the national co-financing and the way to secure this national funding in the long term should be provided;
Amendment 119 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Reiterates and stresses that the final responsibility for the safe closure of nuclear power plants lies with the Member State in which the power plant is situated; failure to comply with this obligation putsHowever, Union shall assist the Member States and actively contribute to the successful decommissioning aiming to eliminate the possible risk on Union citizens at risknd environment;
Amendment 123 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Insists that decommissioning must be organised in a way that it is irreversiblesafe and efficient way so that decommissioning end-state is irreversible as committed in the decommissioning plans;
Amendment 137 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Is of the firm opinion that the Union’s financial assistance must expire at the end of next programming period, i.e. in 2017 and 2020 respectivelyin the new programming period of 2014-2020 and in case of Lithuania- until 2030, shall be sufficient to complete the decommissioning plans; the three Member States concerned must thereforeshall set-up the appropriate mechanisms to ensure additional funding;
Amendment 150 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
49. Calls on Bulgaria, Lithuania and Slovakia to as soon as possible establish decommissioning plans, including detailed financial envelopes, explaining how the closure of the nuclear power plants will be financedstimates;
Amendment 158 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52 a (new)
Paragraph 52 a (new)
52a. Urges the Commission, while estimating additional financial assistance for the decommissioning of Ignalina NPP take into consideration the technical and financial aspects as Lithuania’s energy supply isolation, energy security, complexity and risks of the decommissioning process. The adequate additional financial package for the risk management and emergency measures shall be established by the Commission;
Amendment 162 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. Urges the Commission, should the findings of the evaluation support such a decision, to review the amount, the programming periods and allocation, withins for the MFF 2014-2020 and beyond;
Amendment 163 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Asks the Commission to assess the added-value of the cooperation with the EBRD, givenits capacity to act as administrator of funds, given the sensitivity and technical complexity of the projects and that the Union supplies 96 % of the fundtotal funding of the decommissioning;
Amendment 171 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
- notes that decommissioning of three nuclear power plants in Bulgaria, Lithuania and Slovakia shall be treated as three different cases when evaluating and setting further financial allocations;
Amendment 172 #
2012/2017(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
- notes that taking into consideration the aspects of Lithuania’s energy isolation, energy security, the additional burden to mitigate the economic and social consequences of the Ignalina NPP region will be far beyond the financial capacity of Lithuanian citizens;
Amendment 13 #
2011/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas in 2011 Armenia made significant progress towards fulfilling the key recommendations, and DCFTA negotiations could therefore start in the foreseeable futurebetween the EU and Armenia started on March 6, 2012;
Amendment 23 #
2011/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers the creation of DCFTAs to be one of the most ambitious tools of EU bilateral trade policy, for reaching stable, transparent and predictable economic environment which respects democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law, providing not only for greater economic integration by a gradual dismantling of trade barriers but also for regulatory convergence in areas that have an impact on trade, in particular in goods and services, in particular by reducing technical and other non-tariff barriers to trade, by strengthening sanitary and phytosanitary rules, investment protection, and improving animal welfare, by streamlining customs and border procedures, competition and public procureby enhancing investment protection and the legal frameworks for competition and public procurement and ensuring sustainable development; takes the view that concluding DCFTAs is fundamental in fighting tendencies towards protectionism at global level;
Amendment 39 #
2011/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is convinced that the economic integration of the Eastern Partners with the EU cannot be efficiently carried out without political and social reforms, without participation of the civil society into decision making process and without economic integration among the Eastern Partners themselves; regrets in this regard that regional frozen conflicts have for many years caused and continue to cause enormous economic losses and economic isolation to some of the Eastern Partners;
Amendment 64 #
2011/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Encourages Armenia toWelcomes the launch of DCFTA negotiations between Armenia and the EU on March 6, 2012; encourages Armenia to use DCFTA potential to boost the countinue its work with the same enthusiasm in order to be able to meet all the conditions for starting the DCFTA negotiations in the coming monthsries economy, export opportunities and access to the EU market, to speed up necessary reforms and generally upgrade Armenia’s standards to a European level; stresses that closer economic integration with the EU must contribute to the strengthening of the political stability and security in the region;
Amendment 70 #
2011/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Is concerned about the indications of the ongoing close links between political and business circles and significant impediments for businesses, including the untransparent tax system and low investment protection; recognizes the need for a strong institutional framework for public procurement, competition policy to include effective enforcement mechanism;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2286(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underscores the fact that social cohesion should remain a key principle of the development cooperation strategy towards Latin America, on account not only of its socio-economic implications, but also of its importance in terms of consolidating the democratic institutions in the region and the rule of law; stresses the importance of expanding EU's regional cooperation programmes in support of social cohesion including through poverty reduction;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2286(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Underlines that education and investment in human capital constitute the basis for social cohesion, generation of employment and socio-economic development; stresses also the importance of developing new infrastructures in order to reduce absolute and relative poverty and differences among regions and social groups and of supporting SMEs as an important pillar for sustainable economic development;
Amendment 15 #
2011/2286(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the importance of EU support for integration within Latin America; emphasises the absence of a comprehensive EU policy and a regional approach to Latin America in support of South-South cooperation (SSC), and the lack of clear EU policy guidelines in regard to SSC and interregional association; stresses the need to widen the EU-LA political dialogue at different levels, such as the Summits of Heads of States and the EUROLAT Parliamentary Assembly, as important tools f aiming at creation of autonomous spaces for coordination and political cooperation among Latin American countries without European or Nor the development of political consensus American involvement;
Amendment 17 #
2011/2286(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Stresses the need to widen the EU-LA political dialogue at different levels, such as the Summits of Heads of States and the EUROLAT Parliamentary Assembly, as important tools for the development of political consensus; calls for political commitments deriving from EU-Latin America Summits to be met with the necessary financial resources;
Amendment 18 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas respect for and promotion of democracy and human rights – particularly women’s rights – justice and the rule of law, fundamental freedoms – including freedom of speech, conscience, religion or belief, association and the media –, strengthening of civil society, security, democratic stability, prosperity, the fair distribution of income, wealth and opportunities, the fight against corruption and the promotion of good governance are founding principles and aims of the EU which must constitute common values at the core of the ENP review,
Amendment 38 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas strengthened relations with the ENP countries require a clear and proven commitment towards the implementation of reforms with the aim of making tangible progress in fulfilment of predefined benchmarks,
Amendment 82 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Stresses that the partnership between the EU and the ENP countries and respective civil societies should be strengthen in order to help building functioning democracies, foster reforms and sustainable economical growth;
Amendment 99 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the importance of building a partnership with societies anda strong and active civil society, which is the key player for the growth and development of democracy, in that context, takes note of the proposal by the Commission for a Civil Society Facility (CSF) as a way to target resourcesEU support towards civil society more effectively and efficiently towards civil society;
Amendment 110 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses that free media and access to information are key elements of functioning democracies; welcomes the declaration of the access to the internet as a human right by the UN on the 6 June 2011, in this regard urges EEAS and the Commission to create special tools for assisting civil societies organisations and individuals in the ENP countries to have unhindered access to the internet and other forms of electronic communications technologies;
Amendment 146 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses the importance of human rights dialogues with the ENP countries; strongly welcomes the Commission initiative to commence human rights dialogues with Eastern Partner countries while urging them to actively participate in this platform;
Amendment 232 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Underlines the importance of paying particular attention to the younger generation; stresses that the EU should increase cooperation in the field of education, therefore, calls on the Commission to immediately broadening and increase existing scholarship programmes and mobility of students bys well as introduce special programmes which would promotinge university and high- school exchanges and public-private partnerships in the field of research, facilitate transnational mobility of youth taking part in educational and vocational programmes abroad; in this regard urges visa liberalisation for students and youth wishing to participate in training programmes in the EU countries; stresses the strong need for a structured information policy towards the citizens of the ENP partners concerning the possibility of participation in EU programmes;
Amendment 260 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Notes that strengthening Youth dimension of the Eastern Partnership and Union for Mediterranean is an important investment in the future of the EU - ENP relations with great potential for years to come and in the democratisation of those Partners and harmonisation of their legislation with European standards; reiterates, that additional funding allocated to the Erasmus Mundus and Youth in Action for 2012 within the EU Budget for 2012 should foster cooperation between higher education institutions, improve exchanges of academic staff and students, and build networks enhancing the capacity of NGOs in the field of youth in Europe and European Neighbourhood Policy countries;
Amendment 263 #
2011/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Calls on the European Commission to assist Eastern Partners technically and financially in the approximation of Higher Education Diplomas and standards to the European Higher Education Area;
Amendment 18 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas justice should be seen as an indispensable element underpinning peacekeeping and conflict mitigaresolution efforts,
Amendment 20 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the Rome Statute of the ICC makesICC is the first permanent international judicial body capable of trying individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes making a decisive contribution to the upholding of human rights, to international law and to the fight against impunity, and playing a crucial deterrenting role and sending a clear signal that impunity for crimes against humanity, genocide and warthese crimes will not be tolerated,
Amendment 30 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the ICC can only prosecutehas jurisdiction over crimes committed on or after 1 July 2002, the date when the Rome Statute entered into forcethe entry into force of the Rome Statute on 1 July 2002,
Amendment 32 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the ICC only acts in instin accordances where national courts are unable or unwillith the Preamble of the Rome Statute, states parties retaing to hold credible trials at hohe primary responsibility to prosecute war crimes, these instances making international courts essential for holding perpetrators of the worst international crimes to accountcrimes against humanity and genocide; and the Court will act only when national courts are unable or unwilling genuinely to do so,
Amendment 36 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas Member States of the EU should never be safe havens for perpetrators of crimes under international law and international law permits and, in some instances, requires states to exercise universal jurisdiction over such crimes,
Amendment 41 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the ICC is currently conducting investigations in sevenix countries (Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Darfur region of Sudan, Central African Republic, Kenya and Libya), and the ICC prosecutor has recently requested the opening of an eighseventh investigation in Côte d'’Ivoire,
Amendment 45 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas a large number of ICC arrest warrants are still pending, including those against the Sudanese President al-Bashir and the Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, the majority of arrest warrants issued by the ICC have not yet been implemented, including those against Joseph Kony and other leaders of the Lord’s resistance army in respect of the situation in Northern Uganda, Bosco Ntaganda in the DRC, Ahmad Muhammad Harun, Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman and President Omar Hassan Ahmad Al Bashir of Sudan, Muammar Mohammed Abu Minyar Gaddafi, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi and Abdullah Al-Senussi in Libya,
Amendment 50 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the Court'’s aim is to deliver justice for victims and affected communities in a comprehensive and reparative manner, including through participation, protection, legal representation and outreach activities,
Amendment 57 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the Court is currently forcedcalled upon to deal with a rapidly increasing number of investigations, cases and preliminary examinations, while the annual budget is incommensurate with needs, remains unchanged and may even be decsome States Parties of the Rome Statute area sed, and the Court is increasingly subjected to unfair, politically motivated attackseking to hold the Court to the same or even a decreased budget,
Amendment 59 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas the first Review Conference on the Rome Statute of the ICC, which took place in Kampala, Uganda from 31 May to 11 June 2010, was a critical milestone in the evolution of the Rome Statute system,
Amendment 63 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1
Subheading 1
The need to enhance support and cooperation for the Court through political and diplomatic action
Amendment 68 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Underlines the importance of the principle of universality, and calls on the EEAS, the EU Member States and the Commission to continue their vigorous efforts to promote universal ratification of the Rome Statute and the agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court and national implementing legislation;
Amendment 76 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recommends thatUrges the EU and its Member States to fulfil all pledges made at the Kampala Review Conference of 31 May-11 June 2010 in a timely manner and report back on the implementation of the pledges at the next Assembly of States Parties, scheduled to take place on 12-21 December 2011 in New York;
Amendment 80 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the updatingreview of the EU Common Position on the ICC through the adoption of a decision on 21 March 2011; notes that the new decision takes into consideration the challenges faced by the Court and stresses that the decision provides a good basis for the EU and its Member States to assist the Court in tackling them; further welcomes the revised EU Action Plan agreed on 12 July 2011 to follow-up the Decision on the ICC which outlines effective and concrete measures to be taken by the EU with a view to deepening its future support for the Court;
Amendment 82 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 88 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls onUrges all the EU Member States to sign framework agreements with the ICC in order to facilitate adequate and timely cooperation with the Court (as regards replying to information requests, asset tracking, freezing and seizing requests and executing arrest warrants, as well as in the areas of witness protection, relocation and the enforcement of sentenchat have not yet done so to enact national legislation on cooperation and to conclude framework agreements with the ICC for the enforcement of the Court’s sentences, the protection and relocation of victims and witnesses, etc in order to facilitate adequate and timely cooperation with the Court and in this regard, urges Malta, as the last EU Member State that has not yet done so, to ratify the Agreement on Privileges) and fully integrate the Rome StatutImmunities of the iInto ernational legislationCriminal Court (APIC);
Amendment 96 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the adoption at the Kampala Review Conference of amendments to the Rome Statute relating toof important amendments to the Rome Statute at the Kampala Review Conference, including the inclusion of a definition of and jurisdictional conditions for the crime of aggression; and calls on all the EU Member States to ratify them and integrate them into their national legislation;
Amendment 101 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. RecommendWelcomes the contribution of some EU member states to the fight against impunity for the worst crimes known to humanity through the application of universal jurisdiction; encourages all EU member states to do the same; Underlines that the role of the EU Network of Contact Points for War Crimes, Crimes against Humanity and Genocide in facilitating cooperation between EU law enforcement authorities in the prosecution of serious crimes should continue to be strengthened;
Amendment 107 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Strongly encourages the EU and its Member States, with the help of the EEAS, to put in place a set of internal guidelines, modelled on existing UN and ICC guidelines, outlining a code of conduct for contact between EU and Member State officials and persons wanted by the ICC, in particular when the latter still occupy official posts, regardless of their status and whether they are nationals of non- states parties to the Rome Statute;
Amendment 112 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Asks the EU and its Member States, in the event of a partner country issuing an invitation to or expressing a willingness to allow visits on their territories by an individual who is the subject of an ICC arrest warrant, to exert strong pressure on that country without delay, with a view to either to arrest or support an arrest operation or, at a minimum, to preventing the travel of such an individual,; Recently such invitations havinge been issued recentlyto Sudan's president Omar al-Bashir by Chad, China, Djibouti, Kenya and Malaysia, among others;
Amendment 116 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Expresses its deep concern that ICC States Parties such as Chad, Djibouti and Kenya have recently welcomed Sudan'’s President al-Bashir ton their territories without arresting him and surrendering him to the Court, despite their clear legal obligation under the Rome Statute to arrest and surrender him;
Amendment 117 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Stresses the importance of a strong EU action to anticipate and avoid or condemn such instances of non- cooperation; and encourages the EU (and Member States) to set-up an internal protocol with concrete and standard actions enabling them to respond timely and consistently to instances of non- cooperation with the Court, when appropriate in coordination with mechanisms of other relevant institutions, including the Assembly of States Parties;
Amendment 120 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Considers support for the ICC on the part of African states to be an indispensible factor in facilitatingNotes that African States had a major role in creating the ICC and considers their support as indispensible for the Court'’s work and in determining its effectivenesseffective functioning and independence;
Amendment 123 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the African States Parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC to ensure an increase, rather than a decrease, show strong support for the Court during African Union (AU) support for the task of holding the world's worst offenders to accountmeetings and urges the AU to support justice for the gravest crimes to serve the victims of atrocities;
Amendment 128 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls on the EU and its Member States to continue the dialogue with the AU on these matters and to support African States Parties in continuing to abide by their obligations under the Rome Statute; Expresses support for the Court’s request to open a liaison office with the African Union in Addis Ababa;
Amendment 132 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Encourages the next ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly to discuss the fight against impunity in international development cooperation and relevant political dialogue, as advocated in several resolutions and in Article 11.6 of the revised Cotonou Agreement, with a view to mainstreaming the fight against impunity and the strengthening of the rule of law within existing development cooperation programmes and actions;
Amendment 135 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Encourages the EEAS and the diplomatic services of the EU Member States to systematically monitor the impact of the diplomatic tools used by them both to raise support for the ICC and to promote wider ratification and implementation of the Rome Statute; notes that these tools include, inter alia, démarches, political declarations, statements, and ICC clauses in agreements with third countries, as well as political and human rights dialogues and that, as and when necessary,. Advises that appropriate action should be taken based on the results of such impact assessments;
Amendment 148 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Recommends thatUrges the EU, and particularly the EEAS, to continue promoteing the universality of the Rome Statute and of the fight against impunityAPIC, as well as respect for, cooperation with and assistance tof the Court in its relations with 3rd countries, including within the framework of the Cotonou Agreement and of dialogues between the EU and regional organisations, particularlysuch as the AU, the Arab League and the Association of South Eeast Asian Nations (ASEAN);
Amendment 154 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the EU leaders to liaise with thto encourage key states that have not yet become pajoined the Courty to the Rome Statutedo so and engage with it , particularly those that are permanent members of the UN Security Council (i.e. Russia, China and the United States), to encourage them to do so;
Amendment 159 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes Tunisia'’s recent accession to the Rome Statute and hopes that this sends a positive signal to other North African and Middle Eastern countries, that they might follow suit; Welcomes the recent ratification of the Rome Statute by the Philippines thus increasing the number Asian States in the Court’s system; welcomes the recent bill by the National Assembly of Cape Verde authorising ratification of the Rome Statute and encourages its government to proceed accordingly without delay;
Amendment 166 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls on the EU and EU Member states to support the capacity and the political willingness of third states - in particular ICC situation countries and countries under preliminary analysis by the ICC - to undertake national proceedings on genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity; in that framework calls on the EU and its Member States to support reform processes and national capacity-building efforts aimed at strengthening the independent judiciary, the law- enforcement sector and the penitentiary system in all countries directly affected by the alleged commission of serious international crimes;
Amendment 171 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Reaffirms the need for the EU and its Member States to enhance their diplomatic efforts to promote a better understanding of the mandate of the ICC, i.e. the pursuit of perpetrators of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocideand foster greater support to the Court and its mandate, in particular in UN fora such as the UN Security Council;
Amendment 172 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
Amendment 177 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls on the UN Security Council's members to find a way members and the UN General Assembly members to find appropriate ways and means for the UN to provide the Court with financial resources, in particular to cover the costs related to the opening of investigations and prosecutions into situations referred by the UN Security Council, as envisaged by the Rome Statute;
Amendment 180 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Calls on the EU Member States to ensure that coordination and cooperation with the ICC is included in the mandate of relevant regional EU Special Representatives (EUSRs), and recommends the creation of; calls on the High Representative to appoint an ‘EUSR foron International Justice’ post with the mandate to promote, mainstream and represent the EU’s commitment to the fight against impunity and the ICC across EU foreign policies;
Amendment 182 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. AdvisesCalls on the EEAS to ensure that the ICC is mainstreamed across all EU foreign policy priorities, in particular systematically take into account the fight against impunity and the principle of complementarity in the broader context of development and rule of law assistance as well as in relation to policies related to investigations and prosecutions to be conducted by EU Member States;
Amendment 185 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. SuggestAffirms that the EU should ensure that the EEAS has the necessary expertise and high-level capacity to make the ICC a real priority; Recommends that the EEAS ensure adequate staffing levels both in Brussels and within delegations of officials tasked with handling international justice issues, and that the EEAS and the European Commission develop further theirdevelop staff training on ICC issuesinternational justice and ICC issues, including EU and third-state cooperation with the Court, the interface between peace and justice, and the complementarity principle, establishing a staff exchange programme with the ICC in order to promote mutual institutional knowledge and facilitate further cooperation;
Amendment 190 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Encourages the EU Member States, iIn the context of the upcoming election of six new jJudges and a new pProsecutor, to take place at the December 2011 session of the Assembly of States Parties, to nominate andurges EU Member States to elect the most highly-qualified candidates through a fair, transparent and merit-based process, ensuring both geographic and gender balance, and notes that the election of a new prosecutor is of utmost importance to the effectiveness and legitimacy of the Court; to encourage States from regions that are benefitted by Minimum Voting Requirements (such as Group of Latin America and Caribbean Countries (GRULAC) to take advantage of this and nominate sufficient candidates, thus ensuring a balanced regional representation on the bench; notes that the election of a new prosecutor is of utmost importance to the effectiveness and legitimacy of the Court, and expresses appreciation for the work of the Search Committee established by the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties;
Amendment 195 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
The need to ensure further assist the Court financially and logistically assistance to the Court
Amendment 197 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Welcomes the EU's financial and logisticEU individual member states financial support for the ICC thus far, and recommends that current forms of support (including the visitare preserved and further expanded, ing professionals and internship programmes)11 are continued and expanded further, especially in the following fields: outreach activities aimed at helping victims and affected communities; legal representation; witness relocation; the participation and protarticular to support the Court’s outreach efforts; the Court’s legal aid programme which ensures the preservation of the right to a fair and expeditious trial and the effective representation of victims; the participation and protection of victims and others at risks on account of their activities in relation with the Court (such as intermediaries), taking into special regard the needs of women and juvenile/child victims and other vulnerable victims; and to support the Court’s efforts to enhance its field presence and to provide the necessary resources to this end, recognising that a strong ICC field presence is crucial to promote understanding and support for its mandate, to manage expectation of victims/ws and to enable victims and affected communitniesses, with special consideration for the needs of women and juvenile/child victims; the provision of support enabling the Court to cover urgent operational needs stemming from new investigations to follow and understand the international criminal justice process and is essential for the Court to carry out its various functions (including investigations, reaching out to victims and affected communities, witness protection and facilitating victims' rights to participation and reparations) and to increase the Court’s impact and ability to leave a strong and positive legacy;
Amendment 208 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Recommends that the EU and its Member States increase their contributions to the ICC Trust Fund for the Victims and to the Witness Relocation Fundensure adequate funding to the ICC Trust Fund for Victims (in order to complement potential upcoming reparation awards while continuing to carry out current assistance activities) and contribute to the newly established ICC Special Fund for relocations and to the Fund for family visits of detainees at the seat of the Court in The Hague;
Amendment 214 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Encourages the EU to secure adequate and stable funding for civil society actors working on ICC-related issues within the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR),retain and enhance the crucial assistance to international justice and the ICC via financial support to civil society actors and to relevant programmes of the Court through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR); Calls for the EIDHR to be retained and strengthened when the next revision of the financial instruments is carried out, and calls for more resources to be assigned to it; and encourages the EU Member States and existing European foundations to increase their funding for such actors;
Amendment 218 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Encourages the EU Member States and the EEAS to start discussions relating to the review of current EU financial instruments, in particular the European Development Fund (EDF), with a view to examining how they could further contribute to supporting complementarity activities in beneficiary countries in order to boost the fight against impunity within these countries;
Amendment 220 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Welcomes the initiative of the Commission of organising a seminar for European and African civil society to discuss international justice in Pretoria in April 2011, takes notes of the recommendations from that meeting and calls on the Commission to continue to support such opportunities;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU's evolving common foreign and security policy should include Russia as a strategic partner; whereas Russia is a country whose cultural roots lie in Europe and which is an important global and regional player, with membership in the United Nations Security Council, the G8, the G20 the Council of Europe and OSCE;
Amendment 34 #
2011/2050(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls thereforePoints out that, following the financial and economic crisis in 2008, the Russian Federation enacted temporary tariffs for a number of product lines, such as meat and dairy products, furniture, trucks, some steel products and others; encourages the Commission to take measures to ensure that these temporary measures do not become permanent ones; calls on the Russian Government to remove barriers to fair trade and access to markets, as identified in the Commission's Trade and Investment Barriers Report 2011;
Amendment 39 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the European Union continues to be committed to further deepening and developing its relations with Russia, on the basis of common interests and a commitment to uphold universal values and principles; whereas the basis for a better EU-Russia relationship is neither confrontation, nor isolation, nor unconditional cooperation, but a policy based on solidarity and the rule of law;
Amendment 42 #
2011/2050(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Encourages the Russian Federation not to apply discriminatory prices for exported energy resources, especially gas, which enters the EU on a tariff-free basis and which is sold for different Member States at a different price, often without an adequate justification;
Amendment 44 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas in the context of ongoing negotiations the status quo of relations between the EU and Russia should be properly evaluated taking into account blockage by Russia of the ratification of the border agreement with Estonia as well as bilateral disputes between Russia and EU Member States, in particular, Czech Republic (missile defence; interruptions of oil supplies), United Kingdom (Litvinenko affair; pressure on the British Council), Estonia (cyber attacks; trade and transportation embargoes), Finland, Denmark, Latvia (trade sanctions), Lithuania (oil blockade; discriminatory rail tariffs), Bulgaria, Poland (meat and vegetable embargo), etc.;
Amendment 50 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
Eb. whereas on 14 October local and regional elections will take place across Russia, in which, for the first time in years, independent opposition parties are to participate; whereas, following December protests, they will include direct gubernatorial elections;
Amendment 88 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) deeply concerned over repressive bills signed by President Vladimir Putin into law during his first three months in office, i.e. the law on public rallies raised the maximum fine for "violations" to 300,000 roubles ($9,400) - ten times Russia's average monthly salary; the law on non- governmental organizations requires NGOs that receive funding from abroad (including such group as Memorial) to tag themselves as "foreign agents"; the law on "slander" reinstates the act as a criminal offense - which will be used against independent journalists, opposition politicians, and other government critics - punishable by up to 5 million roubles ($157,000);
Amendment 103 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) strengthen the EU-Russia human rights dialogue, so that it becomes an effective tool for advancing human rights in Russia; encourage Russian authorities to guarantee more transparency and openness of EU-Russia human rights dialogues and, in particular, facilitate the participation of the civil society representatives in the human rights dialogues as observers; call, in particular, on the Russian authorities to refrain from undue restrictions on peaceful assembly, ensure protection of human rights defenders, stop impunity for past abuses and for murder of activists, particularly in the North Caucasus, create a climate in which of civil society organisations can operate without fear of harassment or intimidation, and ensure full compliance with the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights;
Amendment 117 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
(ka) urge Russian authorities to ratify border agreement with Estonia, which is a pre-requisite for the successful conclusion of the new EU-Russia agreement;
Amendment 119 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) stress that the Russian society as a whole would be stimulated by, and would benefit from, a political system that ensures a level playing field for all political parties, offering real competition and effective political alternatives; in this regard, stress that local and regional elections which are to be held in Russia on 14 October will be a litmus test for Russia's modernisation agenda and its leadership commitment towards democratisation;
Amendment 137 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) cooperate with Russia to enhance stability, political cooperation and economic development in the shared neighbourhood, while fully respecting each country's sovereign right to choose its foreign policy orientation and security arrangements; the EU should work to promote European values of democracy, open markets, social cohesion and the rule of law versus the different model that Russia has to offer;
Amendment 81 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the events unfolding on the southern shore of the Mediterranean and the wider Middle East have demonstrated the limitations of a focus on security and stability, which has failed to stamp out poverty and social injustice; believes that, although there has been economic growth, its benefits have not been distributed fairly; highlights the need for a paradigm shift aimed at the genuine consolidation of democracy on the basis of endogenous, sustainable development that benefits the population;
Amendment 83 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Takes the view that the experience of democratic transition following the collapse of dictatorial Communist regimes in Central and Eastern Europe should be shared with the newly emerging democratic forces in North Africa and the wider Middle East; encourages the Commission and the EEAS to be more actively engaged in the unfolding democratization process in this important neighbouring region; encourages European parties to develop party-to-party cooperation programmes with emerging partners in the region;
Amendment 168 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Calls on relevant EU institutions to improve and streamline the existing instruments and frameworks aimed at democracy support in third countries; takes the view that better and more efficient funding has to be foreseen within the main policy instruments, such as the EIDHR or the ENPI, and that democracy support should benefit from a greater share of funding within these instruments;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 b (new)
Citation 11 b (new)
– having regard to the Treaty on European Union (TEU), in particular its Article 34,
Amendment 6 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
– having regard to the UN HRC resolution “Promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms through a better understanding of traditional values of humankind” adopted on 24 March 2011 and the negative position of the EU concerning this resolution,
Amendment 17 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas Article 34 of the TEU stipulates that "Member States shall coordinate their action in international organisations and at international conferences" and that "Member States which are also members of the United Nations Security Council will concert and ... in the execution of their functions, defend the positions and the interests of the Union, without prejudice to their responsibilities under the provisions of the United Nations Charter"; whereas Member States that belong to the UN Security Council (France, the United Kingdom, Portugal and Germany) failed to act in concert and come up with a single position vis-à-vis military intervention in Libya, in particular with regard to the vote on the UN Security Council Resolution 1973,
Amendment 22 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas following the recommendation by the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the UN General Assembly on 1 March 2011 voted in favour of suspending Libya’s membership of the UNHRC,
Amendment 58 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(fa) to improve policy coordination in the UN Security Council, to act in concert on issues of common concern to all Members of the EU, as stipulated in Article 34 of the TEU; to strive for a common position on issues vital to international peace and security, especially in areas where there is already a broad international consensus,
Amendment 102 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) to prepare for and actively participate in the review of the HRC and the follow-up to that review; to address the HRC'’s ability to tackle urgent situations involving serious human rights violations, to improve its capacity to implement existing international norms and standards and enhance its role as an early-warning and preventive mechanism able to prioritise and address the root causes of human rights violations with the aim of preventing fresh or further escalation of human rights violations, including through its support for capacity building for national human rights institutions; to seek ways of improving the HRC'’s election procedures in order to address the issue of the quality of HRC membership; to consider the establishment of clear criteria for the membership in the UNHRC in order to prevent countries where human rights violations are frequent and widespread from becoming members of the UNHRC; to develop a viable working relationship between the HRC and the Third Committee, and between the HRC and the UNHCR , ,
Amendment 103 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
(qa) to put strong efforts in order to make the UNHRC an early warning and preventive mechanism rather than a purely reactive body and that Special Procedures would be used for this purpose,
Amendment 108 #
2011/2030(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point r a (new)
(ra) to continue international efforts aimed at ensuring that all human rights are considered universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated; in this context, to put efforts to block the usage of the undefined concept of "traditional values of humankind", which is of such a nature as to undermine the norms laid down under international human rights law and could lead to unacceptable justification of human rights violations that are the result of traditional values, norms or practices,
Amendment 1234 #
2011/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Part 3 – article 84 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Part 3 – article 84 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
For Member States which acceded to the Union before 2013, whose GDP per capita is below 75% of the EU 27 average, and whose average real GDP growth 2008- 2010 was lower than the EU 27 average, the cohesion policy allocation shall not be lower than in the period 2007-2013.
Amendment 2244 #
2011/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Part 7 – article 42 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Part 7 – article 42 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(b a) Cost of access to the fisheries resources in third country waters shall be fully borne by the operators fishing in these waters.
Amendment 2443 #
2011/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Part 11 – article 50 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Part 11 – article 50 – paragraph 2 a (new)
The Union shall ensure the public disclosure of detailed and timely information on the use of financial assistance, including relevant budgets and evaluations.
Amendment 40 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) Such a tariff reduction should be sufficiently attractive, in order to motivate traders to make use of the opportunities offered by the scheme. Therefore, the ad valorem duties should generally be reduced by a flat rate of 3.5 percentage points from the ‘most favoured nation’ duty rate, while for textiles and textile goods they should be reduced by 20 %. Specific duties should be reduced by 30 %. Where a minimum duty is specified, that minimum duty should not apply.
Amendment 51 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a
a) it has been classified by the World Bank as a high-income or an upper-middle income country, or it has accounted for a share of world merchandise exports above 1%, during three consecutive years immediately preceding the update of the list of beneficiary countries;
Amendment 68 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. Common Customs Tariff ad valorem duties on products listed in Annex V as sensitive products shall be reduced by 3.5 percentage points. For products from GSP sections XI(a) and XI(b), this reduction shall be 20 %.
Amendment 74 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. Where preferential duty rates calculated, in accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 732/2008, on the Common Customs Tariff ad valorem duties applicable on the date of entry into force of this Regulation provide for a tariff reduction of more than 3.5 percentage points for the products referred to in paragraph 2 of this Article, those preferential duty rates shall apply.
Amendment 80 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1
1. The tariff preferences referred to in Articles 7 and 9 shall be suspended, in respect of products of a GSP section originating in a GSP beneficiary country, when the average value of European Union imports of such products over three consecutive years from that GSP beneficiary country exceeds the thresholds listed in Annex VI. The thresholds shall be calculated as a percentage of the total value of European Union imports of the same products from all GSP beneficiary countries.
Amendment 87 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) it has ratified all the conventions listed in Annex VIII without any reservations which are inconsistent with their objectives and purposes and the most recent available conclusions of the relevant monitoring bodies, or any evidence available, do not identify a serious failure to effectively implement any of these conventions;
Amendment 137 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 29 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) increase by at least 12,5 % in quantity (by volume), as compared with the previous calendar year; or
Amendment 147 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 2
Article 29 – paragraph 2
2. Paragraph 1 shall not apply to EBA beneficiary countries, nor shall it apply to countries with a share not exceeding 86 % of European Union imports of products listed in Annex V or IX, whichever is applicable.
Amendment 179 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – new text
Annex V – new text
Sensitive/non- CN code Description sensitive 280519 Alkali/alkaline-earth metals other than sodium & calcium NS Rare-earth metals, scandium & yttrium, whether/not 280530 NS intermixed/interalloyed 281820 Aluminium oxide (excluding artificial corundum) NS 780199 Unwrought lead other than refined, n.e.s. in 78.01 NS Unwrought tungsten (wolfram), including bars & rods obt. simply by 810194 NS sintering Unwrought magnesium, containing at least 99.8% by weight of 810411 NS magnesium 810419 Unwrought magnesium (excluding 810411) NS 810720 Unwrought cadmium; powders NS 810820 Unwrought titanium; powders NS 810830 Titanium waste & scrap NS (Products to be added– the table shows how they would appear in the Annex, once added.)
Amendment 183 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex VI – point 2
Annex VI – point 2
2. The provisions of Article 8 shall apply for each of the GSP Sections 11(a) and 11(b), when the percentage share referred to in Article 8(1) exceeds 14,5 %.0%
Amendment 195 #
2011/0117(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex VII – point 1 – point b
Annex VII – point 1 – point b
(b) of which the imports of products listed in Annex IX into the European Union represent less than the threshold of 21 % in value of the total imports into the European Union of products listed in Annex IX originating in countries listed in Annex II, as an average during the last three consecutive years.
Amendment 1 #
2011/0042(NLE)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
1. CDeclines to consents to conclusion of the agreement;
Amendment 114 #
Amendment 115 #
2010/2298(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Stresses the need to coordinate actions of EU Member States in the UN Human Rights Council (currently those of Belgium, France, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Spain and the United Kingdom); welcomes the establishment of the Directorate for Human Rights and Democracy in the EEAS system; notes with concern, however, that the EU has not yet taken advantage of all institutional innovations brought about by the Treaty of Lisbon; encourages the EEAS and the VP/HR to take actions to finalize as soon as possible the merger of the former Council and Commission delegations in Geneva;
Amendment 116 #
2010/2298(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12 b. Considers that the new institutional structure of the EU offers an opportunity to increase the coherence, visibility and credibility of EU action in the UN HRC; in this respect reiterates its call on the VP/HR to ensure that practical steps are taken to implement the Treaty of Lisbon, in order to avoid a lengthy transition period that would hamper the credibility and effectiveness of the Union, and to ensure that the new arrangements increase the EU's capacity for cross- regional outreach and cooperation with countries from other blocs on common initiatives;
Amendment 117 #
2010/2298(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 c (new)
Paragraph 12 c (new)
Amendment 9 #
2010/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas multilateral investment agreements, such as the Energy Charter Treaty, play an important role in facilitating international investment flows by providing investment protection mechanisms that are supported by binding dispute resolution in independent forums,
Amendment 61 #
2010/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Takes the view that in order not to create legal uncertainty for on-going claims, investments made under current Bilateral Investment Treaties should continue to be covered by the investment protection measures contained therein; stresses that new treaty provisions on investment protection should only affect investments made after the date the treaty comes into force;
Amendment 73 #
2010/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses the need to include an investor-to-state dispute settlement mechanism in new EU investment treaties that would allow investors to take claim against a government directly to binding international arbitration in order to ensure effective enforcement of investment commitments;
Amendment 99 #
2010/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 112 #
2010/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Expresses its deep concern regarding the decision by some international arbitrators to make a broad interpretation of investor protection clauses, thereby leading to the ruling out of legitimate public regulations; calls on the Commission to produce clear definitions of investor protection standards in order to avoid such problems in the new investment agreements;
Amendment 145 #
2010/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Believes that major changes must be made to the present dispute settlement regime, in order to include greater transparency, the opportunity for parties to appeal, the obligation to exhaust effective local judicial remedies (where relevant), the possibility to use amicus curiae briefs and the obligation to select one single place of arbitration;
Amendment 31 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas economic, social and cultural rights must receive the same attention and be treated at the same level of importance as civil and political rights; whereas the human rights clauses in the agreements signed by the EU and third countries must be respected and implemented,
Amendment 33 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital La (new)
Recital La (new)
La (new). whereas the fight against impunity is crucially important as it is aimed at preventing and punishing the gravest crimes and their perpetrators; whereas impunity is a cross-cutting matter which concerns a wide range of human rights issues, such as inter alia torture, death penalty, violence against women, the persecution of human rights defenders, and the fight against terrorism,
Amendment 62 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the HR/VP’s readiness to undertake a fundamental review of the effectiveness of all the EU instruments in this field, from human rights dialogues to EU guidelines, from the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) to the EU’s bilateral assistance and actions in multilateral fora, and to launch a consultation process on the development of a new human rights strategy; stresses the EP’s determination to participate fully in this consultation; stresses the need for civil society organisations to be involved in the consultation;
Amendment 63 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5a (new)
Paragraph 5a (new)
5a (new). Calls on the HR/VP to consider creating within the EEAS system a post of EU Special Representative for Human Rights, as well as thematic EU Special Representatives in line with the main EU priorities on human rights, such as EU SR for International Humanitarian Law, EU SR for Women's Rights, and EU SR for the Rights of the Child;
Amendment 77 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. CTakes the view that EU Special Representatives should be further developed rather than gradually faded out, especially to cover countries and regions where the EU does not have a diplomatic mission; considers it essential that, given the importance of human rights issues in conflict and post-conflict situations, all European Union sU Special rRepresentatives should have a mandate which specifically mentions promoting and ensuring respect for human rights; stresses that EU Special Representatives are the focal points for internal guidance, expertise and advocacy and logical interlocutors for third countries and other non-EU actors;
Amendment 110 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the CouncilReiterates its strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its primary objective of fighting impunity for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity; stresses that the Rome Statute of the ICC was ratified by all the EU Member States as an essential component of the democratic principles and values of the Union and calls, therefore, upon the Member States to comply fully with the Statute as part of the EU acquis; underlines the importance of the principle of universality and calls on the EEAS, EU Member States and the Commission to continue their vigorous efforts to promote universal ratification of the Rome Statute and national implementing legislation, in accordance with the Council Common Position 2003/444/CFSP of 16 June 2003 on the International Criminal Court and the 2004 Action Plan to follow up on the Common Position; welcomes the fact that the ratifications of the Rome Statute by the Czech Republic and Chile in the reporting periodrequests that such efforts be extended to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the ICC (APIC) , an important operational tool for the Court; further calls on EU Member States to revise and update the Common Position and Action Plan on the ICC in light of current developments, challenges and needs of the Court, as well as to start discussions on the possible adoption of EU guidelines on international justice/ ICC; welcomes the fact that the ratifications of the Rome Statute by Bangladesh, the Seychelles and Saint Lucia in March and August 2010 brought the total number of States Parties to 110 by December 20093;
Amendment 117 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Asks the EU Presidency to raise the importance of cooperation with the ICC in all EU summits and dialogues with non-EU countries; urges all EU Member States to step up cooperation with the Court and to conclude biEncourages the EEAS, the Commission and EU Member States to support universal ratification, adoption of implementing legislation, implementation of ICC decisions and cooperation with the Court during enlargement negotiations and in accession processes as well as in all EU summits and dialogues with non-EU countries, including the United States, China, Russia, the African Union and Israel; calls on the EEAS, and to systematically pursue the inclusion of an ICC clause in relaterald agreements on the enforcement of sentences, as well as on the protection of witnesses and victims; further acknowledges the Cooperation and Assistance Agreement between the EU and the ICC and, on that basis, calls on the European Union and its Member States to provide the Court with all necessary assistance; notes with great concern the failure to execute the ICC warrant for the arrest of the Sudanese President al-Bashirwith third countries; calls on the High Representative to ensure the ICC is mainstreamed across EU foreign policy priorities and is included in the mandate of EU Special Representatives, as appropriate; furthermore, ensure EEAS staff is regularly trained on the ICC, both in headquarters and in EU delegations; calls on the High Representative for the Union on Foreign Policy and Security, Catherine Ashton, to appoint a Special Envoy on International Justice with the mandate to promote, mainstream and represent the EU’s commitment to the fight against impunity and the ICC across EU foreign policies;
Amendment 119 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17a (new)
Paragraph 17a (new)
17a (new). Notes that the first Review Conference of the Rome Statute which was held in Kampala, Uganda, from 31 May to 11 June 2010 was a momentous event for States Parties, as well as non- State Parties, civil society and other stakeholders, which strongly reaffirmed their commitment to justice and accountability and was a crucial step in the further development of the Court thanks to substantive discussions on the key current challenges it is facing; notes the adoption of important amendments to the Rome Statute, including the inclusion of a definition of and jurisdictional conditions for the crime of aggression; welcomes the fact that the EU and several EU member states made pledges at the Review Conference and encourages them to implement their commitments, highlight practical steps to that end and renew pledges in the future;
Amendment 120 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17b (new)
Paragraph 17b (new)
17b (new). Notes that cooperation between States Parties, signatory states and the Court, in accordance with Article 86 of the Rome Statute remains essential for the effectiveness and success of the international criminal justice system, in particular in terms of law- enforcement capacity and for the Court’s effective and independent judicial activities; further acknowledges the Agreement between the ICC and the EU on cooperation and assistance and, keeping this agreement in mind, calls on the European Union and its Member States to provide the Court with all necessary assistance, including field support in its ongoing cases and in particular for the implementation of pending arrest warrants; urges all EU Member States to enact national legislation on cooperation, in accordance with Part IX of the Rome Statute, if they have not yet done so, and to conclude ad hoc agreements with the Court for the enforcement of the Court’s sentences and the protection and relocation of victims and witnesses; calls on EU member states to include cooperation as a standing item on the agenda of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP) to the ICC, in order to ensure that best practises are shared and ensure that non-cooperation instances are discussed and appropriate measures taken by the ASP;
Amendment 122 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17c (new)
Paragraph 17c (new)
17c (new). Welcomes the execution by Belgium of the arrest warrant issued by ICC Pre Trial Chamber III against Jean Pierre Bemba on 3rd July 2008; however notes with great concern that eight arrest warrants issued by the ICC, including those against four senior leaders of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Uganda, Bosco Ntaganda in the DRC, as well as against Ahmad Harun, Ali Kushayb and Sudanese President Omar Hassan Ahmad Al-Bashir in Sudan, have not yet been executed; deplores the persistent failure and refusal of Sudan to arrest and transfer the suspects to the ICC in continuous disregard of its obligations under UN Security Council Resolution 1593 (2005); notes that on 26 May 2010 ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I informed the United Nations Security Council about the lack of cooperation by the Republic of the Sudan in the case against Harun and Kushayb; expresses great concern that two ICC states parties, Chad and Kenya, recently invited and welcomed President Omar al-Bashir on their territories despite their obligation under the Rome Statute to arrest him and failed to execute the relevant arrest warrant; calls again on EU MS to react to SPs violations of their obligations to cooperate with the Court, as well as to findings of non-cooperation by the ICC; expresses support for the Court’s request to open a liaison office to the African Union in Addis Ababa;
Amendment 124 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17d (new)
Paragraph 17d (new)
17d (new). Welcomes the opening on 26 January 2009 of the first ever trial at the ICC, against Thomas Lubanga of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and of the second trial against Congolese warlords Germain Katanga and Matthieu Ngudjolo Chui on 24 November 2009; notes that these are the first trials in the history of international criminal law to see the active participation of victims in the proceedings; welcomes the opening of an investigation into crimes against humanity allegedly committed in Kenya in relation to the post-election violence of 2007-2008; in that context, urges the ICC to intensify its outreach efforts with a view to engaging communities in a process of constructive interaction with the ICC, as to promote understanding and support for its mandate, to manage expectations and to enable those communities to follow and understand the international criminal justice process; welcomes the fact that the Office of the Prosecutor of the ICC publicly announced that it is analyzing information and looking into alleged crimes committed in several countries in the world to determine whether to open new investigations, including Afghanistan, Colombia, Côte d'Ivoire, Georgia, Guinea and Palestine;
Amendment 125 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17e (new)
Paragraph 17e (new)
17e (new). Welcomes the Report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Conflict in Georgia (IIFFMCG – CEIIG) (so called “Tagliavini Report”) issued on 30 September 2009 and supports its main observations and conclusions under International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Law, in particular the need to ensure accountability and reparation for all violations committed in August 2008 and expects that the extensive background information provided by the Report can be used for legal proceedings at the national and international level to finally ensure accountability for the crimes committed during the conflict between Russia and Georgia of August 2008;
Amendment 126 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17f (new)
Paragraph 17f (new)
17f (new). Underlines that the effectiveness of the principle of complementarity of the Court lays in the primary duty of States Parties to investigate and prosecute war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity; urges EU Member States to reaffirm their commitment to this principle by incorporating the provisions of the Rome Statute in their national legislation and endowing their national judiciaries with the necessary tools to investigate and prosecute serious international crimes; further calls on the EU and EU member states to support the capacity and the political willingness of third states - in particular ICC situation countries and countries under preliminary analysis by the ICC - to take up national proceedings on genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity; in that framework calls on the European Union and its Member States to support reform processes and national capacity-building efforts aimed at strengthening the independent judiciary, the law-enforcement sector and the penitentiary system in all countries directly affected by the alleged commission of serious international crimes;
Amendment 127 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17g (new)
Paragraph 17g (new)
17g (new). Welcomes the US engagement with and renewed commitment to the ICC, illustrated not least by participating as an observer to the eighth session of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP) in The Hague in November 2009 as well as at the first Review Conference of the Rome Statute in June 2010; notes with satisfaction the first promising statements on the ICC by the US administration and pledges of cooperation with the Court made during the Review conference; calls on the USA to reinstate its signature and further engage with the ICC, especially by fully cooperating in situations which are the subject of an ICC investigation or preliminary analysis and by completing a comprehensive ICC policy toward the ICC;
Amendment 128 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17h (new)
Paragraph 17h (new)
17h (new). Encourages the next ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly to discuss the fight against impunity in international development cooperation and relevant political dialogue as adopted in several resolutions and in article 11.6 of the revised Cotonou Agreement, with the view of mainstreaming the fight against impunity and the strengthening of the Rule of Law within existing development cooperation programmes and actions; Regrets the decision adopted by the African Union Summit of Kampala in July 2010 calling on AU member states not to cooperate with the ICC on the arrest and surrender of Sudanese President al-Bashir and notes that this is contrary to African ICC states parties’ obligations to cooperate with the Court; calls on the EU and its member states to continue the dialogue with the African Union on these matters and to support African states parties to continue to abide by their obligations under the Rome Statute;
Amendment 139 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20a (new)
Paragraph 20a (new)
20a (new). Notes with regret the slow process of examining cases at the European Court of Human Rights which has extended up to seven years; notes that there are about 100 000 cases pending at the Court; stresses that the Court must be an exemplary institution for the protection of the right to justice and a fair trial; urges the EU Institutions and the EU Member States to make every effort to assist the Court; welcomes Russia, which was the last country out of 47 participating states at the Council of Europe to refuse to ratify the Protocol 14, for having ratified the Protocol 14 to the European Convention of Human Rights, on the efficiency of the Court, which provides for simplification of the Court’s procedures and is intended to help it tackle the backlog of cases and which can only enter into force when ratified by all Council of Europe members;
Amendment 165 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Welcomes the special sessions of the HRC on the human rights situation in the east of the DRC, on the impact of the global economic and financial crises on the universal realisation and effective enjoyment of human rights, on the situation of human rights in Sri Lanka, and on the human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and East Jerusalem; regrets that during the context of the special session on the OPT the majority of members applied a one-sided interpretation of the Goldstone report12th session of the HRC on 16 October 2009 the EU Member States failed to come up with a single position with regard to the vote on the Goldstone report with 4 Member States voting against, 2 abstaining and 2 being absent during the vote; call on the Member States and all relevant EU institutions to achieve closer policy coordination in the HRC and other UN bodies;
Amendment 179 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Urges the Iranian leaders to enact a law unequivocally banning stoning as a legal punishment which is the most barbaric form of the death penalty; strongly condemns the sentencing to death by stoning of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani and considers that a sentence to death by stoning cannot be justified or accepted; condemns the fact that the Iranian regime still sentences to death and executes juvenile offenders; condemns the Iranian regime’s use of the death penalty, which places Iran in second position, just after China, in the league table of countries with the highest number of executions; strongly condemns the increased number of executions following the peaceful demonstrations after presidential elections in Iran in June 2009; is concerned that China still carries out the greatest number of executions worldwide; welcomes the positive action of the Belarusian authorities in setting up a Working Group to draft proposals on imposing a moratorium on the death penalty; remains concerned that executions are still carried out in Belarus, which is the only country in Europe that continues to use the death penalty;
Amendment 188 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Notes that the programme of the Trio Presidency of France, the Czech Republic and Sweden (July 2008 - December 2009) gave priority to the question of violence against women and girls, including female genital mutilation; and asks for coherence on principles and policies both outside and inside the EU; notes the recent adoption of a new set of guidelines on the matter and expects the Commission to present the results of its implementation to Parliament;
Amendment 191 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39a (new)
Paragraph 39a (new)
39a (new). Takes account of the new European Commission's gender equality strategy referring specifically to the issue of female genital mutilation; reiterates the need for coherence on EU internal and external policies regarding this particular issue; urges the European commission and the EU Member States to address the issue of female genital mutilation in the framework of political and policy dialogues with partner countries and stakeholders relevant to this sensitive issue in the national context, using a participatory approach and involving affected communities;
Amendment 194 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Underlines the importance of the comprehensive implementation of the twofold agenda set out in UN Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security and calls on the Council to reinforce its actions in this area as well as to disseminate, implement and follow- up progress made;
Amendment 199 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
42. Is deeply concerned about the situation of women and girls in AfghanistanIran, DRC, Afghanistan; condemns brutal violations of women rights in DRC, urges international community to significantly increase funds aimed at efforts to protect women from rape and stresses that urgent and important international attention must be given to the situation of women and girls in the DRC; condemns the Shia Personal Status Law adopted in March 2009, which strongly violates the rights of Afghan women and contradicts the Afghan Constitution and international human rights standards; welcomes amendments made to the law on ‘Personal Affairs of the Followers of Shia Jurisprudence’ but remains deeply concerned about certain articles of the law, which contradict the obligations of Afghanistan under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child; urges the Afghan authorities to take action without delay to improve the situation of women’s rights in the country;
Amendment 213 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Calls for recognition of health abuses against patients and individuals, in particular those unable to defend themselves, be they political prisonersrisoners of conscience or mentally disabled people, as cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment, while recognising the difficulty of proving certain acts;
Amendment 216 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Calls on all states which have not yet done so to become parties to the Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and to its Optional Protocol (OPCAT); urges states to lift any reservations they have made to these instruments; encourages states which have signed the OPCAT to better and faster implement the National Prevention Mechanism (NPM);
Amendment 217 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44a (new)
Paragraph 44a (new)
44a (new). Encourages states around the world to adopt and effectively implement the Manual on Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, commonly known as the Istanbul Protocol (IP); considers the IP to be a vital instrument to gather evidence and prevent impunity; is convinced that impunity of torturers remains an significant obstacle for the effective prevention of torture as it implicitly encourages the perpetrators to continue their abhorrent practices;
Amendment 230 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Welcomes actions undertaken to implement the review and upgrade of the EU Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders as reviewed in 2008 such as; notes the development of more than 60 local implementation strategies and the appointment of relevant liaison officers; calls for EU diplomats working in third countries to be fully informed about the provison the EEAS to develop an implementation plan with clear indicators and deadlines in order to continue progress towards effective implementation of the Guidelines; calls on the EEAS, the Council, the Commission and the Member States to take necessary measures to increase awareness of the Guidelines amongst human rights defenders and EU diplomats working in third countries; calls on the EU missions to maintain regular contacts with human rights defenders before taking actions ofn the guidelinesir behalf and provide them with feedback;
Amendment 232 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52a (new)
Paragraph 52a (new)
52a (new). Emphasizes that during the process of drafting local implementation strategies, which should always be adapted to the political context of the country, a large scope of human rights defenders working in both urban and rural environments on economic, social and cultural rights as well as on civic and political rights should be consulted; notes that local implementation strategies should include a concrete agenda of measures to be taken to improve the protection of human rights defenders and that the impact of these strategies should be evaluated after a reasonable period of time; calls on the Council and the Commission to modify their position on the publicity of the local implementation strategies which should be the general rule and confidentiality the exception, especially when the security of human rights defenders might be affected; urges the EU delegations to make all relevant information regarding the guidelines and its provisions available in the languages of the countries concerned;
Amendment 233 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52b (new)
Paragraph 52b (new)
52b (new). Urges the HR/VP to institutionalize a policy of always meeting with human rights organisations and human rights defenders when travelling and make sure to include the information obtained at these meetings in the HR/VP's reports back to the Foreign Affairs Council and European Parliament; stresses that the same rule should apply to all EU Special Representatives and other high level EU foreign policy officials working in the EEAS;
Amendment 236 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. Urges the Council, the Commission and the Member States to implement the measures proposed by Parliament in its resolution on EU policies in favour of human rights defenders, adopted in June 2010; with emphasis on measures aimed at providing swift assistance to human rights defenders at risk, such as emergency visas and shelter, and those implying public support and visible recognition of the work of human rights defenders, e.g. public statements, systematic meetings with human rights defenders when visiting a third country;
Amendment 243 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 54
Paragraph 54
54. Calls, in the context of the implementation of the Treaty of Lisbon, for the EU institutions to establish an interinstitutional cooperation mechanism on human rights defenders; understands that the creation of such a mechanism could be eased by the setting up of focal points for human rights defenders in all the EU institutions and organs, with such focal points working in close cooperation with, with the appointed liaison officers for human rights defenders and those responsible for human rights and democracy in EU missions and delegations; calls on the Commission to establish a mechanismEEAS to set up a statistical database on cases where the EU delegations provided assistance to human rights defenders, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the guidelines;
Amendment 256 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 57
Paragraph 57
57. Expresses its deep regret at the assassinations of, among others, Stanislav Markelov, Anastasia Baburova and Natalya Estemirova in Russia, the arbitrary detention of Roxana Saberi and Abdolfattah Soltani in Iran, and the trial of Liu Xiaobo in China, all of which took place during the reporting period; urges Chinese authorities to clarify without delay the situation of the prominent human rights lawyer Mr Gao Zhisheng, who disappeared on the 4th February 2009, and to open a fully independent and transparent investigation into his disappearance;
Amendment 268 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 58a (new)
Paragraph 58a (new)
58a (new). Is greatly concerned that Iran has continued in 2008 and 2009 to suppress independent human rights defenders and members of civil society, and that serious violations of human rights have persisted, even increased; condemns the arbitrary arrest, torture and imprisonment of human rights defenders for their work, on the charge of "activities contrary to national security"; regrets the current government policy directed against teachers and academics, barring students from access to higher education, and condemns the persecution and imprisonment of student activists; regrets the turmoil in the aftermath of the 12 June 2009 Presidential elections and violence used by the Iranian authorities, resulting in the arbitrary detention of at least 400 people, reported killing of at least 40, mass trials of people accused of crimes against national security, the ill treatment and torture that took place, and the death sentences issued;
Amendment 271 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Emphasises the importance of human rights clauses in trade policies, partnerships and trade agreements between the EU and third countries; proposes a ‘highlights the importance to closely monitor the human rights assessment’record of non-EU countries that engage in trade relations with the EU; stresses that such monitoring and assessment should include formal consultations with civil society regarding the impact of these agreements;
Amendment 285 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 60
Paragraph 60
60. Notes with satisfaction that the functioning of the GSP+ (Generalised System of Preferences) regime is closely monitored and that trade preferences are granted to countries that have ratified and effectively implemented key international conventions on sustainable development, socialhuman rights and good governance; stresses the importance of close monitoring of the ICCPR implementation by Pakistan, which is invited to participate in the GSP+ system;
Amendment 290 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading before Paragraph 62
Subheading before Paragraph 62
Amendment 292 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63a (new)
Paragraph 63a (new)
63a (new). Takes note of the Amnesty International Report 2010 which highlights the ongoing second trial against former YUKOS oil company chief Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his business associate Platon Lebedev as representative of unfair trials in Russia, and calls upon the Russian Federation to ensure that fundamental norms of due process, rule of law and human rights are respected in the prosecution of these and all other defendants in the country’s justice system;
Amendment 293 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 66a (new)
Paragraph 66a (new)
66a (new). Deeply regrets that during the armed conflict between Russia and Georgia over South Ossetia and Abkhazia in August 2008 the violations of international humanitarian law resulted in hundreds of casualties and tens of thousands of displaced individuals; deplores the deliberate destruction of ethnic Georgian villages in South Ossetia and Abkhazia during and after the conflict; stresses that impunity for these violations persists to this day;
Amendment 302 #
Amendment 305 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 67
Paragraph 67
67. Welcomes the Council conclusions on freedom of religion or belief adopted in November 2009; calls on the Council and the Commission to adopt and implement practical measures to fight religious intolerance and discrimination and promote freedom of religion or belief worldwide as it considered in the earlier mentioned conclusions; calls on the Council and the Commission to involve the EP and civil society organisations in the process;
Amendment 312 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68
Paragraph 68
68. Remains deeply concerned that discrimination based on religion or belief still exists in all regions of the world, and that persons belonging to particular religious communities, including religious minorities, continue to be denied their human rights in many countries, such as North Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Maldives, Afghanistan, Yemen, Mauritania, Laos, Uzbekistan, Eritrea, and Egypt; condemns the Chinese authorities for the persecution of individuals who practisce their religion outside officially sanctioned channels, including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and Falun Gong practitioners; urges China to ratify the ICCPR as it promised; urges the Chinese authorities to refrain from their oppressive policy in Tibet, which might eventually lead to the annihilation of the Tibetan religion and culture; condemns the Iranian authorities for the persecution of individuals belonging to religious minorities, including Christians, Bahá’í, and Muslims who converted to another or no religion; urges the Iranian authorities to protect religious minorities in conformity with its obligations under the ICCPR; urges the authorities of the Russian Federation to impose a moratorium of the implementation of the 2002 Law on Fighting Extremist Activity that is extensively misused to persecute peaceful religious minority groups;
Amendment 316 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68a (new)
Paragraph 68a (new)
68a (new). Urges the EU to develop a toolkit on the advancement of the right to freedom of religion or belief in its external policy; to approach religious freedom as fundamental; to include a checklist on the necessary freedoms pertaining to the right of freedom of religion or belief in order to assess whether they are being respected and to include mechanisms to identify infringements to religious freedom, in order to enhance the promotion of freedom of religion or belief in the work of civil servants, especially in the European External Action Service; involve civil society organisations in the preparation of the toolkit;
Amendment 317 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68b (new)
Paragraph 68b (new)
68b (new). Welcomes the EU’s continuous principle stance in relation to the UNGA (and UNHRC) resolutions on combating defamation of religions; welcomes the resolution on elimination of all forms of intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief, tabled by the EU; encourages the EU to continue its striving for a balanced approach between freedom of expression and a prohibition of incitement to religious hatred; encourages the EU to engage in a constructive dialogue with the Organization for Islamic Conference and other supporters of the principle of defamation of religions;
Amendment 340 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72a (new)
Paragraph 72a (new)
72a (new). Condemns terrorism in all its forms; reminds that terrorism worldwide has resulted in thousands of deaths of innocent civilians and has shattered the lives of many families; takes the view that in the case of terrorist attacks it is imperative to talk first and foremost about the rights of the victims and not the perpetrators; stresses the need to make sure that terrorists are brought to justice;
Amendment 345 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 73
Paragraph 73
73. Notes that measures to fight terrorism have resulted in violations of basic human rights in a number of countries around the world, in the form of the application of excessive surveillance measures, illegal detentions and the use of torture as a means of extracting information from suspected terrorists; condemns these violations of human rights and is convinced that civil liberties should not be compromised in the fight against terrorism, as the disruption of normal democratic life in Western societies is precisely what the terrorists are seeking; expresses concern that certain countries are using the fight against terrorism as a cloak to crack down on ethnic minorities and local human rights defenders;
Amendment 369 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76
Paragraph 76
76. Expresses its disappointment at the lack of progress achieved by the human rights dialogues and consultations; regrets that the involvement of civil society in these dialogues and consultations is not systematically guaranteed and sometimes subject to constraints imposed by the non- EU part; is concerned that even when cases are raised, governments are not fulfilling their commitment to report back to the EU on the individual and structural issues raised within the framework of the dialogue;
Amendment 375 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79a (new)
Paragraph 79a (new)
79a (new). Calls on the Commission and the Council in their human rights consultations and dialogues with third countries to pay strong attention to the situation of ethnic and religious minorities and the frequent violations of their rights;
Amendment 378 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Welcomes the establishment of human rights dialogues with each of the Central Asian states – Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan – in 2008; welcomes the first EU-Uzbek civil society seminar on human rights dialogue in October 2008; regrets that the EU-China human rights dialogues have consistently failed to deliver any improvements as regards specific human rights abuses in China; points out that despite some steps taken by the Chinese authorities in the right direction (labour reform, Supreme People’s Court review of death sentences), the human rights situation continues to deteriorate and is marked by widening social unrest and tightening of the control and repression of human rights defenders, lawyers, bloggers, and social activists, as well as by targeted policies aimed at marginalizing Tibetans and their cultural identity; is deeply concerned about the lack of progress of the Sino- Tibetan dialogue; condemns the longstanding oppression of the Uyghur population in East Turkestan and deplores the non-adherence of the Chinese authorities to the safeguards of freedoms including those of expression, demonstration, assembly, religion and person contained within the constitution of the People’s Republic of China, also deplores the population transfer policies of the People’s Republic of China which is intended to dilute the culture of the Uyghur population and fragment their unity; expresses its disappointment that EU-Russia human rights consultations have not yielded any substantial results; welcomes the launch in 2009 of human rights dialogues with Indonesia, and the holding of the first dialogue meetings with Georgia and Armenia;
Amendment 384 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81
Paragraph 81
81. Welcomes the first EU-Belarus human rights dialogue, which took place in June 2009, while regretting that the dialogue has not led sohuman rights situation in that country remains dire with continuing restrictions faor to any substantial changes in the human rights situation in that countryfreedom of associations, assembly and expression, repressions against human rights defenders, journalists;
Amendment 388 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 82
Paragraph 82
82. Notes that in April 2009 the parliament of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) revised the country’s constitution to include, among other things, a provision that North Korea ‘respects and protects human rights’, calls on the North Korean authorities to make clear positive steps towards improving human rights conditions, stresses that not only constitutional provisions, but also constructive measures, should be taken into account when evaluating the human rights situation in the country; expresses the hopeurges the leadership of thate North Korea will show an interest into engaginge constructively in human rights dialogues with the EU;
Amendment 390 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 82a (new)
Paragraph 82a (new)
85a (new). Remains concerned that the human rights dialogue with Iran has been frozen since 2006 due to the absence of any positive progress in improving the human rights situation and a lack of cooperation from Iran; calls on the Iranian authorities to resume this dialogue with a view to supporting all civil society stakeholders who are committed to democracy, and to strengthen – through peaceful and non-violent means – existing processes that can foster democratic, institutional and constitutional reforms, ensure the sustainability of those reforms and consolidate the involvement of all Iranian human rights defenders and civil society representatives in policy-making processes, reinforcing the role played by them in the general political discourse; is deeply concerned that, in 2008 and 2009, the human rights situation in Iran has worsened and the restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly have persisted; in this context, is deeply concerned by the suppression of the journalists, writers, scholars and women's rights and human rights activists; remains concerned about the repression of ethnic and religious minorities in Iran;
Amendment 184 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Welcomes the decision taken by the Council on 31 January to impose a visa ban and to freeze financial assets of 157 selected Belarusian officials; regrets that the Council did not take into account demands put forward by the Parliament to impose targeted economic sanctions on Belarus, including the freezing of all macro-financial aid provided via IMF loans as well as lending operations by the EIB and EBRD programmes;
Amendment 185 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
27b. Takes the position that sanctions against the Belarusian government officials should remain in place until all political prisoners are released from Belarusian prisons; reiterates that the EU has to be more open to ordinary Belarusian citizens; takes the view that the Commission should intensify work on negotiating directives for the readmission agreement and for visa facilitation in order to enhance people-to-people contacts between the EU and Belarus; congratulates Member States that have already taken unilateral steps to facilitate the issuance and to reduce the price of Schengen visas for Belarusian citizens and encourages those Member States which have not done so, to take similar steps without delay, paying special attention to short-term visas, which are most relevant to the wider society, students and other young people; calls on the Commission and the Member States to drastically reduce the Schengen visa price for Belarusian citizens, which currently stands at 60 Euros and which is much higher than the price paid by the citizens of other EU neighbouring countries, such as Russia, for example;
Amendment 205 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Underlines the importance of EU human rights consultations with Russia, which aim to contribute to the promotion and progressive realisation of human rights in Russia; is deeply concerned that those consultations do not give any tangible results and positive changes in the human rights situation in Russia; stresses that the EU should reconsider its strategy and means to promote human rights change in the country; urges once again Russian authorities to involve constructively into the consultations and to take appropriate measures for improving the situation of human rights and the rule of law in the country as well as to fulfil it's international human rights obligations;
Amendment 206 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Paragraph 29 b (new)
29b. Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to continue defending the Energy Charter Treaty, which was signed by the Russian Federation in 1997 and which is still relevant in the context of the current EU-Russia relations, and which has the potential to ensure and facilitate stable international investment flows between the EU and Russia;
Amendment 251 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 a (new)
Paragraph 39 a (new)
39a. Welcomes the steps taken by both sides of the Taiwan Strait, which resulted in the signing of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and an agreement on intellectual property rights in June 2010; given that the expansion of cross-strait economic relations is in the interest of both sides and of the EU, strongly supports the enhancement of EU-Taiwan economic ties and the signing of an EU-Taiwan Economic Cooperation Agreement; reiterates its firm view to support Taiwan's meaningful participation as an observer in relevant international organizations and activities, such as UNFCCC, WHO and ICAO;
Amendment 14 #
2010/2110(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes that all international trade agreements are applied to the outermost regions which are an integral part of the EU territory; stresses that the fragile economies of these regions are based on agriculture and their production is identical to that of the Latin American partners and is therefore jeopardised by lower external tariffs; recalls that Article 349 of the Treaty of Lisbon allows to adapt Community policies to the geographical and economic realities of these regions; therefore calls the Commission to take the specific constraints of the ORs into account in the framework of its negotiations so that their development is not undermined;
Amendment 4 #
2010/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is convinced that trade can be a powerful engine ofor economic growth, although trade alone cannot solve development problems; believes that the slow progress of the Doha Round negotiations is hampering the contribution of the international trading system to the MDGs; stresses that a positive conclusion of the Doha Round would deliver an economic stimulus package globally;
Amendment 7 #
2010/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Stresses the importance of the efforts to facilitate the integration of developing countries into the world economy; reiterates that openness to trade and support for supply capacity are important elements in any coherent development strategy and that Trade-Related Technical Assistance initiatives represent an additional tool to tackle poverty eradication and underdevelopment;
Amendment 9 #
2010/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Welcomes the already existing initiatives in the area of trade with developing countries at the EU and WTO levels, in particular the Everything But Arms (EBA) initiative, GSP and GSP +, as well as the principle of asymmetry and transitional periods negotiated in all existing European Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and asks the European Commission to consolidate this policy strategy; points out that the GSP system provides more stability, predictability and trading opportunities for its users; notes that additional preferences are provided to countries that have ratified and effectively implemented key international conventions on sustainable development, social rights and good governance (through the GSP regime);
Amendment 12 #
2010/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the Aid for Trade strategy is aimed at supporting poor and vulnerable countries in developing the basic economic infrastructure and tools they need in order to harness trade as an engine of economic growth and development; asks the Commission and the Member States to ensure that commitments to the EU-wide target of EUR 2 billion per year are kept;welcomes the statements by the Commission that the EU has already met the target to commit €2 billion to Trade Related Assistance (TRA) by 2010 as the total support for TRA from the EU and its Member States reached €2.15 billion in 2008 (€1.14 billion from Member States and €1.01 billion from the EU) and important results have also been achieved in the wider Aid for Trade Agenda – including transport and energy, the productive sectors and trade-related adjustment; nevertheless calls on the Commission to present detailed information (including figures) on the budget lines which are used for financing trade-related assistance and Aid for Trade;
Amendment 13 #
2010/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Urges the Commission and the Member States to pay more attention and support the LDCs in order to increase total EU Aid for Trade funding levels which have not seen substantial increase recently; considers that, as regional integration is becoming increasingly important in the EU Aid for Trade agenda, efforts should be stepped up to complete the ACP regional Aid for Trade packages; considers that there is room for improvement in aid effectiveness by increasing joint analysis, joint response strategies and joint delivery of Aid for Trade measures;
Amendment 14 #
2010/2037(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Calls on the developing countries, especially those benefiting most from EU aid, to reinforce their good governance in all public matters, and especially in the management of aid received, and urges the Commission to take all necessary steps to ensure transparent and efficient aid implementation;
Amendment 29 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas there is a general desire in Latin America to reduce the region's asymmetrical economic dependence on othe United States (process of 'second independence')r trading partners and actively seek to diversify economic relations; whereas Europe should avoid offering merely a 'second dependence',
Amendment 71 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Congratulates the EU and Latin American countries on concluding the WTO Geneva Agreement on Trade in Bananas that has removed one of the most irritating obstacles in the WTO Doha Round negotiations and put an end to the legal dispute within the WTO which has lasted for more than 20 years; calls for closer cooperation between the EU and the Latin American countries with a view to concluding a fair WTO Doha Agreement that must effectively contribute to poverty reduction and help the economy to recover from the crisis;
Amendment 81 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Reiterates the importance of including human rights, environmental and social standards in all trade agreements concluded between the EU and third countries, including Latin American countries, in order to have a coherent external action, combining both the projection of economic interests and the spread of fundamental EU values;
Amendment 96 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Points out that the differences in the tariffs applying under the WTO banana agreements, the agreements with Columbia and Peru and Central America and the commitments made to ACP partners in the Caribbean could create new controversies; however, is convinced that these agreements represent EU's consistent efforts to adopt a balanced tariff treatment of different developing countries; calls in particular for fair treatment for Ecuador following its struggles in nine WTO panels;
Amendment 111 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Notes that Bolivia has presented ae decision of Bolivia to recall its claim at the Andean Community Court of Justice regarding the Multi-Party Trade Agreement concluded by the EU with Colombia and Peru; expresses its support for the agreement and welcomes the positive economic and social outcomes it will have for both the EU as well as Colombia and Peru;
Amendment 116 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Stresses that iWelcomes the relaunch of negotiations on the EU-Mercosur Association Agreement; believes that deepening ties with Brazil and other Mercosur countries is a strategic interest of the EU; stresses that the European Parliament should be closely involved at all stages of the negotiations on an EU-Mercosur Association Agreement and that the negotiating mandate should be updated to take full account of recent developments in the global economy and demands and concerns put forward by Parliament;
Amendment 121 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Stresses the significant progress in bilateral trade with Chile and Mexico, as well as the increased level of investments in goods and services that has been achieved since the entry into force of the respective Association Agreements; points out that the full utilization of all the opportunities and potentialities offered by the review clause of the Association Agreements remains an objective to further enhance EU trade relations with these two countries;
Amendment 129 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Is deeply concerned about the recent restrictive measures adopted by the Argentinian authorities on foodstuffs imported from third countries, including the European Union; considers these measures as a real non-tariff barrier incompatible with the WTO obligations; calls, therefore, on the Argentinian authorities to eliminate this illegal burden on foodstuff, which could represent a bad signal and a serious obstacle for the ongoing EU-MERCOSUR negotiations;
Amendment 142 #
2010/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
Amendment 4 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the current structure of the UN Security Council does not reflect the realities and needs of the 21st century as emerging powers such as Japan, India or Brazil and entire continents such as Africa or the Arab world are not represented in the UN Security Council; whereas the UN Secretary General regards reform of the Security Council as part of the ongoing efforts to make this indispensable organ more broadly representative and efficient,
Amendment 5 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas the EU and its Member States are the largest contributors to the UN system providing around 40 per cent of the assessed budget of the UN, over 40 per cent of the peacekeeping costs and 12 per cent of troops, as well as over half of the core funding of the UN funds and programmes,
Amendment 8 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the EU will have to succeed the EC as observer to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) and other UN bodies, as a party to a number of UN conventions, and, in a few exceptional cases such as the FAO, as a member,
Amendment 9 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the EU Member States recently split over whether to attend the Durban review conference on racism; whereas differences emerged in the EU’s scrutiny of China’s human rights performance in the UNHRC and in the vote on the Goldstone report; whereas all this has been to the detriment of the EU’s influence and its capacity to assert its values in the UN,
Amendment 42 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point l a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point l a (new)
(la) to support the initiative of the EU Member States to adopt a UN resolution on sea-dumped chemical weapons and the threat they present to ecology, health, security and the economy, as well as on the need to strengthen international and regional cooperation on this issue and to exchange information, experience and technologies on a voluntary basis,
Amendment 47 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point -p (new)
Paragraph 1 – point -p (new)
(-p) to continue to foster EU-UN cooperation in the area of post-crisis recovery and to aim at comprehensive approaches to sustaining peace, preventing conflicts and addressing a wide range of political, economic, social and environmental conditions that contribute to the escalation of conflicts in societies,
Amendment 72 #
2010/2020(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) to achieve, in early and substantive dialogue with EU Member States and the UN membership, an efficient proactive negotiation strategy as well as a common position on the review of the Human Rights Council; to strengthen the Third Committee, with its universal membership, as a communication channel for the human rights cases discussed by the HR, taking into account that the 2011 UNHRC review is split into two parts: the review of the working methods will be conducted in Geneva, while the status of the body will be debated in New York; to strengthen the Third Committee, with its universal membership, as a communication channel for the human rights cases discussed by the HRC, bearing in mind that the Third Committee, with its universal membership, could also offset the UNHRC’s shortcomings just as the UN GA does with regard to decisions by the UN SC,
Amendment 24 #
2010/0256(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36 a (new)
Recital 36 a (new)
(36a) As the last POSEI support Regulation, namely Regulation (EC) No 247/2006, was adopted in the light of the agreed WTO European market access tariff of EUR 176 per tonne, consequently the tariff laid down in the WTO agreements on trade in bananas and the further reductions granted in trade agreements with the Andean countries and the countries of Central America were not taken into account in the POSEI financial envelope; therefore a new updated, comprehensive and external impact assessment should be completed at an early stage and, if it shows adverse effects on EU banana producers, the financial resources available under the POSEI programme should be modified in order to introduce appropriate compensation and measures to increase the competitiveness of banana producers in the outermost regions of the Union.
Amendment 105 #
2009/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Considers that any new strategy for Afghanistan has to include a more significant focus on local capacity- building, especially taking into account the fact that Afghans will be assuming greater ownership of and responsibility for the country's development process;
Amendment 108 #
2009/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Notes that more substantial Afghan involvement in the rebuilding process can be hampered by weak public administration and civil service capacity; is therefore convinced that more attention needs to be paid to these important areas; welcomes the idea that the Commission and the Member States develop a special long-term flagship programme to address the issue of strengthening public administration by developing a curriculum, helping to build or use existing premises, linking up with the network of EU public administration institutes, as well as mentoring civil service institutes in several metropolitan cities of Afghanistan such as Kabul, Herat and Mazar i Sharif;
Amendment 2 #
2009/0155(NLE)
Proposal for a recommendation
Citation 3 a new
Citation 3 a new
- having regard to the Oral Question O- 000129/2012 tabled by INTA and AFET Committees whereby the Commissioner was asked to define the scope of the territorial competence of the Israeli Responsible Authority;
Amendment 3 #
2009/0155(NLE)
Proposal for a recommendation
Citation 3 b new
Citation 3 b new
- having regard to the replies to the Oral Question given by Commissioner De Gucht in Plenary Session on 3 July 2012 where the Commission clarified all the concerns of INTA and AFET Committees,
Amendment 6 #
2009/0155(NLE)
Draft opinion
last paragraph
last paragraph
The Committee on Foreign Affairs calls on the Committee on International Trade, as the committee responsible, to draw up an interim report under Rule 81(3)propose that Parliament give its consent.
Amendment 10 #
2009/0155(NLE)
Proposal for a recommendation
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. Whereas the CAA is a trade agreement that seeks to eliminate technical barriers to trade in industrial products;
Amendment 18 #
2009/0155(NLE)
Proposal for a recommendation
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. Whereas the Protocol does not affect the EU’s established policy that products manufactured in post-1967 territories of the State of Israel cannot benefit from preferential treatment under the Association Agreement;
Amendment 24 #
2009/0155(NLE)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Decides to suspend for two years the vote on the consent to the draft Council decision; this decision will be reviewed after that period has expired, or earlier in the event of a successful conclusion of the Israeli-Palestinian peace processConsents to conclusion of the Protocol;
Amendment 10 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
Amendment 19 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Reiterates its request to the Commission to encourage European Union Member States, and third countries with which there are ongoing negotiations for future accession, to sign up to, and ratify, all core United Nations and Council of Europe human rights conventions and the optional protocols thereto; draws the attention of European Union Member States to, in particular, the need to ratify the 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families, which none of the Member States has ratified to date1;
Amendment 35 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Notes once again with satisfaction the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of the Declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples, which creates a framework in which States can protect and promote the rights of indigenous people without exclusion or discrimination; urges the Commission, therefore, to follow up on the implementation of the declaration, in particular through the EIDHR, while in particular enjoining all the Member States to ratify as a matter of urgency International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, which backs up the principles set out in the declaration in question with a legally binding instrument; however, welcomes the Commission's activities targeting indigenous peoples and welcomes the project entitled "Promotion of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples' Rights through Legal Advice, Capacity-Building and Dialogue", initiated as a joint management project between the European Commission and the ILO; notes that, almost twenty years after its entry into force, only three Member States have ratified the ILO Convention; consequently, encourages initiatives to increase awareness of this important legislative instrument and to enhance its effectiveness worldwide by ensuring that it is ratified by all the Member States;
Amendment 39 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
Amendment 42 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Is concerned that, according to the statements of UNHRC insiders (as confirmed in the Annual Report itself), the EU is in a minority in the UNHRC; calls on the Union institutions and the Member States to take concerted action to remedy this, developing appropriate alliances with those countries and non-state actors that are continuing defend the universal and indivisible nature of human rights;
Amendment 45 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Calls for enhanced cooperacoordinated action between the Council of Europe and the European Union in the field of promoting minority rights and protecting regional and minority languages, using the legal tools of non- discrimination to advocate diversity and tolerance;
Amendment 55 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
Amendment 59 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Calls on the Presidency to encourage Italy, Latvia, Poland and Spain,countries which have signed but not yet ratified Protocol No 13 to the ECHR concerning the abolition of the death penalty in all circumstances, to do so; recognises in that regard that the Guidelines on the Death Penalty could be implemented more coherently if Member States were to sign up to and ratify such protocols and conventions;
Amendment 60 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
49. Welcomes the fact that death penalty is in retreat, having been abolished for all crimes in 2008 by Rwanda and Uzbekistan; welcomes the draft penal code in Iran, which prohibits stoning sentences, and urges the Iranian parliament to conclude the penal code so as to provide for the absolute prohibition of stoning; condemns the fact that the Iranian regime still sentences to death, and executes, defendants under the age of 18; stresses that Iran is the only country to have executed juvenile offenders in 2008; is deeply concerned that at least 130 other juvenile offenders are on death row in Iran; once again condemns the Iranian regime's increasing use of death penalty, which places Iran in second position, just after China, in the league table of countries having highest number of executions; notes that there has not been any death sentence passed in Guatemala; however, expresses its disquiet at the possibility that the death penalty might once again start to be enforced; urges the Guatemalan Government, on the contrary, to genuinely commit itself to the universal moratorium on the death penalty; however, welcomes the decisions taken by President Colom in March 2008 which may lead to the abolition of the death penalty in Guatemala; expresses its concern at the retention of the death penalty in domestic legislation in Peru; notes that since 2007 all death penalty cases in China have been reviewed by the Supreme Court; however, remains concerned that China still carries out the greatest number of executions worldwide; condemns the practice of the death penalty in Belarus, which is the only country in Europe that continues to use the death penalty and therefore runs counter to European values;
Amendment 62 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50
Paragraph 50
50. Notes with concern that Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia have so far neUrges all European Union Member States which have not hitherto signed nand/or ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT); notes that Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal and Romania have so far signed but not ratified it; urges all European Union Member States which have not hitherto signed and/or ratified OPCAT to do so without delay;
Amendment 73 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 71
Paragraph 71
71. Refers to the Council Conclusions on Belarus of 13 October 2008 and the statement issued by the Presidency on 30 September 2008 concerning the parliamentary elections held that month in Belarus; regrets that the elections fell short of the international standards and failed to meet the democratic criteria of the OSCE; welcomes the release of the last internationally recognised political prisoner, Alyaksandr Kazulin, before the elections;, however, remains concerned that at least 10 activists continue to serve "restricted freedom" sentences that permit them only to be at home or at work; remains greatly concerned about the human rights situation in Belarus;
Amendment 74 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 71 a (new)
Paragraph 71 a (new)
71a. Condemns the strengthening of restrictions imposed by the Chinese government on human rights defenders before the Olympic Games which prohibited them from engaging in telephone and internet communications, tracked their movements and subjected them to varying degrees of house arrest and unprecedented surveillance and monitoring, as a result of which many activists chose to postpone or suspend their work until the Games were over;
Amendment 77 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 73
Paragraph 73
73. Expresses its concern at the human rights situation in Nicaragua and Venezuela and at the attacks against and harassment of a number of human rights organisations in thatose countryies; calls on the Nicaraguan and Venezuelan governments and authorities to act to protect democratic freedomsrights and freedoms and the rule of law;
Amendment 78 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 73 a (new)
Paragraph 73 a (new)
73a. Reiterates its position with regard to the Cuban Sakharov Prize winners Oswaldo Payá Sardiñas and the group known as "Damas de Blanco" ("Ladies in White"); strongly rejects the systematic violence and the recurrent acts of harassment suffered by the Sakharov Prize laureates;
Amendment 80 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76
Paragraph 76
76. Regrets China's postponement of the nieleventh China-EU summit on the grounds of the Dalai Lama's visit to Europe; emphasises the need for a radical intensification and re-thinking of the European Union- China human rights dialogue; expresses its disquiet at the serious human rights violations in China and stresses that, despite promises made by the regime before the Olympic Games in August 2008, the situation on the ground regarding human rights has not improved; points out, moreover, that restrictions on freedom of association, expression and religion have been further tightened; strongly condemns the crackdown against Tibetans following the wave of protests that swept across Tibet beginning on 10 March 2008 and the repression by the Chinese government that has increased in Tibet since then, and calls for the restart of a sincere and results-oriented dialogue between both parties based on the "Memorandum on Genuine Autonomy for the Tibetan People"; notes that, despite repeated assurances by the Chinese government of its intention to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, ratification is still pending; refers to its resolution of 17 January 2008 on the arrest of the Chinese dissident Hu Jia1, who has been awarded 1 Texts adopted, P6_TA(2008)0021. the 2008 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought; calls on the Chinese government to release Hu Jia immediately; remainexpresses concerned about many aspects of Chinese legislation that the legal system remains vulnerable to arbitrary and often politically-motivated interference, including the State Secrets system, preventing the transparency necessary for the development of good governance and a system in which the rule of law prevails; in this context, deplores the systematic punishment of lawyers who try to make the Chinese legal system function in accordance with China's own laws and the rights of its citizens;
Amendment 84 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 78
Paragraph 78
78. Regrets the lack of results from the European Union-Russia consultations on human rights; regrets that the Russian authorities declined to participate in any of the round-table meetings held to prepare for the consultations which involved domestic and international NGOs; notes that during the consultations the European Union raised human rights concerns with a particular focus on freedom of expression and assembly, the functioning of civil society, minority rights, combating racism and xenophobia and the rights of children and women, as well as the international human rights obligations of both the EU and Russia; however, regrets that the European Union has not succeeded in bringing about any change of policy in Russia, particularly with regard to impunity and the independence of the judiciary, the treatment of human rights defenders and political prisoners including Mikhail Khodorkovsky, the independence of the media and freedom of expression, the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities, respect for the rule of law and human rights protection in the armed forces, discrimination based on sexual orientation as well as other issues; refers to its resolution of 19 June 2008 on the EU- Russia Summit of 26-27 June 2008 in Khanty-Mansiysk 1; expresses once again its concerns at the deteriorating situation of human rights defenders and the difficulties faced by NGOs with regard to their registration and in carrying out their activities; reiterates its concerns about the Anti-Extremism Law, which could affect the free flow of information and could lead the Russian authorities to further restrict the right to free expression of independent journalists and political opponents; expresses further concern, in line with the Amnesty International Report of 2008, as to the ongoing failure of the Office of the Prosecutor to respect the right of Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his associate Platon Lebedev to a fair trial in accordance with international standards and deeply regrets the treatment of former Yukos vice- president Vasily Aleksanian, whose refusal to provide false testimony against Mikhail Khodorkovsky led the Russian authorities to allow his medical condition to deteriorate to a terminal state, and joins the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in calling on the Russian authorities to "use all available legal means" to secure the release of Igor Sutiagin and Valentin Danilov; welcomes the release of Mikhail Trepashkin; deeply regrets that the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) election monitoring mission covering the Russian presidential election of March 2008 had to be cancelled due to the restrictions and limitations imposed by the Russian authorities on the election monitoring mission;
Amendment 89 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Recognises the second round of the EU-Uzbekistan human rights dialogue, which took place on 5 June 2008; notes the seminar on media freedom, held in Tashkent on 2 and 3 October 2008; however, considers that the seminar failed to achieve its aim of providing an open discussion on the human rights violations and freedom of the media in Uzbekistan, as was originally intended; notes the continuing absence of an independent international inquiry into the Andijan massacre and the lack of any improvement in the human rights situation in Uzbekistan; welcomes the release of two human rights defenders, Dilmurod Mukhiddinov and Mamarajab Nazarov; condemns the holding of at least 11 human rights defenders and independent journalists in prison on politically motivated charges and urges the Uzbek authorities to release all human rights defenders and other political prisoners; reiterates its deep concern at the imprisonment of Salijon Abdurakhmanov, an independent journalist, and Agzam Turgunov, a human rights activist; welcomes the Council's Conclusions of 13 October 2008 on Uzbekistan; urges the Uzbek authorities to accept the accreditation of the new Country Director of Human Rights Watch and to allow that organisation and other international organisations and NGOs to operate without hindrance; asks Uzbekistan to cooperate fully and effectively with the UN Special Rapporteurs on torture and on freedom of expression and to revoke restrictions on the registration and operation of NGOs in Uzbekistan; notes that the Council has decided not to renew the travel restrictions applying to certain individuals referred to in Common Position 2007/734/CFSP 1, which had been suspended in accordance with the Council's conclusions of 15-16 October 2007 and 29 April 2008; welcomes the fact that the Council has however decided to renew, for a period of 12 months, the arms embargo imposed in Common Position 2007/734/CFSP; invites the Council and the Commission to review the overall human rights situation in Uzbekistan; reiterates its call for the immediate release of political prisoners ;
Amendment 93 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 85
Paragraph 85
85. Welcomes the Council's proposals for launching human rights dialogues with a number of Latin American countries; stresses the desirability of including the countries of Central America; notes the signing of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) by the Cuban government in February 2008; calls for those Covenants to be ratified without any reservations; asks the Cuban government to release all political prisoners and to honour the rights protected in the signed treaties; notes the Council's decision of 20 June 2008 to lift the informal sanctions with regard to Cuba; notes that the Council will decide in 2009 whether to pursue the political dialogue with Cuba depending on whether or not there have been significant improvements as regards human rights;
Amendment 112 #
2008/2336(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 31 a (new)
Citation 31 a (new)
Amendment 7 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the UNHRC set itself an ambitious programme for its first two years, which included the review of its procedures and working methods, in particular the development and implementation of the UPR of which two sessions have been held so far, reviewing 32 States, of which seven are EU Member States, and the review of Special Procedures,
Amendment 14 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas Parliament closely follows developments in the HRC, by sending regular delegations to its sessions and by inviting Special Rapporteurs and independent experts to contribute to its work on human rights,
Amendment 18 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the adoption by the UNHRC of important human rights standard-setting texts: the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, as well as the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; notes that the latter constitutes a landmark decision as it provides for an individual complaints procedure, thereby creating a petition mechanism for victims of violations of economic, social and cultural rights at the international level; calls on the UN General Assembly to adopt the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and urges all States to ratify it rapidly;
Amendment 19 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Regrets the failure of the UNHRC to take action on many of the world's most urgent human rights situations, partly due to the growing reluctance of numerous UNHRC States who oppose any consideration of country situations on the grounds that this would politicise the UNHRC; reiterates the view that the UNHRC's ability to address country situations, including through country resolutions, special sessions and Special Procedures country mandates, is central to its authority and credibility;
Amendment 36 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Condemns, therefore, the efforts made by several UNHRC Members to limit the independence and efficiency of Special Procedures; notes in this respect the adoption on 18 June 2007 of a Code of Conduct for Special Procedures Mandate Holders; calls on the UNHRC to implement that Code of Conduct in the spirit of the above-mentioned Resolution 60/251 and to respect the independence of Special Procedures;
Amendment 44 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Takes note of the EU's decision not to coordinate efforts in respect of the UPR process by agreeing on a list of questions to be asked or undertaking any common analysis of the reports in an attempt to break down the “bloc mentality” at the UNHRC; welcomes the level of engagement of EU Member States in reviews, including those relating to other EU Member States; encourages the EU to build further on the current model of ‘loose coordination’, and to ensure that all countries and all topics are covered by EU Member States in sufficient depth and that any repetition is avoided;
Amendment 48 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24a. Calls on all States to carry out an extensive national consultation following the review, on the basis of its recommendations, and to routinely update the UNHRC on the progress made by the country concerned in implementing those recommendations under agenda item 6; calls on the EU to investigate further how those recommendations can be used in the development of technical assistance programmes;
Amendment 51 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Welcomes the retention of the practice of the participation of human rights NGOs in the debates and hopes that this participation is improved and strengthened in the future; reiterates its call for a reform of the UN Committee on NGOs, so as to ensure the effective participation of NGOs;
Amendment 53 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Welcomes also the initiatives of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rrights aimed at increasing transparency, namely the creation of the "Bulletin of informal meetings"; welcomes the web-streaming of the sessions of the UNHRC, designed to raise public awareness of its work;
Amendment 74 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47
Paragraph 47
47. Calls for closer coordination and cooperation between the relevant Brussels- based working groups of the Council of the EU and the EU Offices and the EU Member States' Permanent Representations in New York and Geneva; in this respect, welcomes the effective decentralisation of day-to-day decision-making from Brussels to Geneva, with capitals retaining an important coordinating role;
Amendment 79 #
2008/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a (new)
Paragraph 50 a (new)
50a. Encourages the regular presence of Parliament's delegations at the sessions of the UNHRC in Geneva; welcomes the initiative of Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights to invite Special Procedures mandate-holders as well as the Presidency of the UNHRC to its meeting, and calls for this practice to be continued;
Amendment 49 #
2008/2111(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
(p) urges EU Member states to redouble their efforts in ensuring the successful operation of the Human Rights Council while protecting and promoting universal rights; in this respect, calls for greater accountability in the procedure for the establishment and renewal of Special Procedures and for the appointment of mandate holders, which should be based on principles of transparency and real competition,
Amendment 50 #
2008/2111(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point p a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point p a (new)
(pa) stresses the importance of participation by civil society in the work of the UN Human Rights Council, and urges the EU Member States taking part in the work of the UN Human Rights Council to introduce effective ways and instruments enabling civil society to participate in the UN Human Rights Council in order to better protect human rights in the world and to contribute positively to the transparency of the institution,
Amendment 53 #
2008/2111(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – point r
(r) calls on all EU Member states to remain engaged in the preparations for the 2009 Durban Review Conference and to ensure that the Conference provides the opportunity for all stakeholders to renew their determination and commitment to fight racism, racial discrimination and related intolerance and to adopt concrete benchmarks with a view to the eradication of racism, on the basis of, and fully respecting, the Durban Declaration and the Programme of Action,
Amendment 56 #
2008/2111(INI)
Proposal for a recommendation
Paragraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – point s
(s) calls on the Council to make sure that there is no recurrence of the negative events associated with the initial Durban conference; to that end, urges the Council to ensure that the 2009 Durban Review Conference takes place in Europe, possibly at the seat of the UN institutions in Bonn, Germanycalls on all EU Member States to make sure that Civil Society takes part in the 2009 Durban Review Conference in Geneva, in accordance with the UN Charter and Resolution 1996/31 of the UN Economic and Social Council of 25 July 1996,
Amendment 31 #
2008/0268(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) The Court, however, ordered that the effects of Decision 2006/1016/EC be maintained for EIB financing arrangements entered into before the entry into force, within a period of 12 months from the date of delivery of the said judgment, of a new decision adopted on the appropriate legal basis, namely Articles 179 EC and 181a EC together. This judgement implies that the codecision procedure will now apply for the activation of the optional mandate, the eligibility of countries listed in Annex I, and the suspension of new EIB financing in a specific country in the event of serious concerns over the political or economic situation.
Amendment 35 #
2008/0268(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 24 a (new)
Recital 24 a (new)
(24a) Nevertheless, the swift adoption of this Decision should be achieved whilst ensuring that the European Parliament's prerogatives are fully respected; for that reason, the Commission should present, before 30 April 2010, a proposal for a new decision also taking into consideration the conclusions of the mid-term review.
Amendment 38 #
2008/0268(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 24 b (new)
Recital 24 b (new)
(24b) The presentation of a proposal for a new decision of the European Parliament and of the Council by 30 April 2010 is all the more necessary since this Decision will expire on 31 October 2011.
Amendment 53 #
2008/0268(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall present to the European Parliament and the Council a mid-term report on the application of this Decision by 30 JuneApril 2010, accompanied, as appropriate, by a proposal for its amendment, and drawing upon an external evaluation whose terms of reference are specified in Annex II of this Decision.
Amendment 58 #
2008/0268(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 11
Article 11
This Decision shall take effect on the third day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union and shall expire on 31 October 2011.
Amendment 2 #
2007/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses that the observation of elections in new and developing democracies should remain a priority, since such states generally stand to benefit most from international election observation and the recommendations flowing therefrom;
Amendment 8 #
2007/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers, in the light of this, that election observation is merely a first step towards democracy and that it needs to be complemented by other, adequately funded activities for the promotion of democracy; therefore requests the maintenance of the budgetary ceiling agreed by the Commission of 25% of EIDHR for EU EOMs over the seven year period of the Financial Perspective 2007-2013;
Amendment 14 #
2007/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Regrets that the ODIHR experiences unreasonable restrictions imposed by some OSCE participating States on the number of observers and the duration of EOMs, as well as delays in the issuance of visas or the refusal of entry visas, making it impossible for the ODIHR to carry out its mandate and causing the ODIHR to decide to cancel the EOM in question;
Amendment 53 #
2007/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas election observation contributes to the overall promotion and protection of fundamental human rights and, more specifically, civil and political rights; and whereas a genuine democratic election process presupposes respect for freedom of expression and free media, adherence to the rule of law, the right to establish political parties and compete for public office, non-discrimination and equal rights for all citizens, and other fundamental human rights and freedoms that all OSCE participating States have committed themselves to protect and promote,
Amendment 56 #
2007/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas election observation in new and developing democracies is the priority of the EU, which demonstrates its commitment to assisting new democracies and countries progressing towards democracy to build solid democratic structures,
Amendment 75 #
2007/2217(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
– having regard to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, to the OSCE commitments agreed upon in Copenhagen in 1990 and at the Istanbul Summit in 1999, at which all OSCE participating States committed themselves to invite international observers, and specifically the ODIHR, to their elections, to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the American Convention on Human Rights,