169 Amendments of Kristiina OJULAND
Amendment 38 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers human rights to be at the centre of EU relations with all third countries, including its strategic partners; therefore repeats the call for the adoption of EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) Conclusions on strategic partners that would establish a common threshold for the Member States and for EU officials in terms of the human rights concerns that they have to raise, as a minimum, with their strategic partner counterparts; stresses that EU human rights policy needs to be consistent in complying with the Treaty obligations and avoiding double standards in external policies;
Amendment 48 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the VP/HR, EU Special Representative for Human Rights and the EEAS to pursue these commitments and mainstream human rights and democracy in the EU's relations with its partners, including at the highest political level, by making use of all relevant EU external policy instruments; regrets that EU too often channels criticism of abusive governments through quiet diplomacy using lower-level "dialogues" rather than high- level ministerial meetings to express concerns and demand corrections; considers that when faced with cases of persistent human rights violations the EU should speak up to ensure its message is heard both by abusive governments and their people;
Amendment 60 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Recognises that EU institutions and all 28 member states have to exercise a firm, coherent and uniform approach to human rights abuses worldwide, in a transparent and accountable manner; calls on the EU Foreign Affairs Council to hold an annual public debate on human rights;
Amendment 70 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the effort to include activities by the European Parliament in the Annual Report and strongly encourages the VP/HR and the EEAS to specify which EU action has been taken to follow up on Parliament's resolutions, including on urgency resolutions on breaches of human rights;
Amendment 96 #
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 100 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Recalls that in order to avoid human rights breaches in the first place, the respect for international law must be at the core of any EU strategy aiming to enhance human rights and democracy in the world, particularly in its relationships with those partners that are parties to an armed or frozen conflict; reminds the need to end any EU support given to parties to a conflict, be it financial, logistical or tactical, including the supply of weapons, munitions and all other types of military equipment as laid down in the EU Common Position on arms exports;
Amendment 121 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Points out that Parliament mayshould withhold its consent to international agreements on account ofwhen serious breaches of human rights occur, as in the cases of the conclusion of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) with Turkmenistan or the textile protocol of the EU-Uzbekistan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement;
Amendment 135 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
58a. Expresses concern regarding reports of cooperation of certain EU companies with states, including authoritarian regimes, in the field of information technologies and communications leading to human rights abuses such as censorship of information, mass surveillance, monitoring, tracing and tracking of citizens and their activities on (mobile) telephone networks and the internet; stresses that stringent respect for human rights, due diligence and transparency must be maintained in order to ensure CSR along the whole supply chain, and combat corruption, tax avoidance and illicit money flows; is convinced that European companies and their subsidiaries and subcontractors should play a key role in the promotion and dissemination of human rights standards worldwide and never compromise these values in their efforts to expand their markets abroad;
Amendment 235 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Calls attention also to the trapped transitions in countries and regions where reform movements and transitional processes have been stopped or put down by the ruling regime; calls on the EU to continue its efforts to persuade the ruling elites in these countries, as well as in other countries of concern still under authoritarian rule, to initiate a reform process to develop strong and stable democracies in which the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms are upheld;
Amendment 236 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
49. Recalls that countries and regions trapped in transition lack democratic reforms and political accountability; reiterates that all citizens have the right to fully and freely participate in political life in which free, fair and open elections take place with more than one party and different alternative media sources;
Amendment 239 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49 a (new)
Paragraph 49 a (new)
49a. Is concerned that even in countries well on their way towards democratisation, regions may remain which still experience a lack of respect for basic human rights, democracy, the rule of law and political and administrative accountability; urges the EU to actively engage with such countries to ensure that all regions benefit from EU funds and programmes, that there is a fairer distribution of development assistance and that EU programmes do not contribute to the discrimination of parts of the society in the recipient countries;
Amendment 243 #
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; and deplores the political use of justice as demonstrated in the cases of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, Pussy Riot, Alexey Navalny and others; regrets the culture of impunity surrounding the deaths of individuals including Sergei Magnitsky, Natalia Estimirova, Stanislaw Markelow, Anna Politkovskaya and Vasily Alexanian.
Amendment 247 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a (new)
Paragraph 50 a (new)
50a. Calls on the on the establishment of an EU-wide "Magnitsky list," which would include a visa ban and asset freeze of Russian officials associated with serious human rights abuses;
Amendment 253 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51
Paragraph 51
51. Stresses the need for international monitoring of the human rights situation in China and Tibet and calls on EU Member States to actively engage in establishing this monitoring in light of the failure of the EU- China dialogue on human rights to achieve significant and tangible results;
Amendment 254 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 a (new)
Paragraph 51 a (new)
51a. Urges the Chinese authorities to engage seriously with the Tibetan people in order to assess the underlying causes of the high number of self-immolations linked to the strengthening of the stability maintenance approach and patriotic education system and stresses that recent reports about harsh sentences against Tibetans charging them with incitement to self-immolations raise strong concerns; condemns the non-voluntary resettlement and relocation of Tibetan nomads, which is exacerbated by the absence of civil and political rights, and considers it a threat to the survival of a way of life that is integral to Tibetan identity as well as to the livelihoods of Tibetan nomads;
Amendment 255 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 b (new)
Paragraph 51 b (new)
51b. Urges the EEAS, in line with the newly adopted EU Guidelines on Freedom of Religion and Belief, to pay particular attention to the issue of religious repression in Tibet and call on China to put an end to its restrictive policies on Tibetan Buddhism;
Amendment 284 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63 a (new)
Paragraph 63 a (new)
63a. Emphasises, in view of principles of international humanitarian law spelled out in the 1907 Hague Regulations (arts 42-56) and the Fourth Geneva Convention (GC IV, art. 27-34 and 47-78) as well as in provisions of Additional Protocol I, the need for the EU to ensure that those partners falling under the category of occupying power, respect their duties towards the population in occupied territories; reminds that according to international humanitarian law, public health standards, provision of food and medical care to the population under occupation must be granted by the occupying power; reiterates that any transfer of civilian population of the occupying power into the occupied territory is prohibited, and that the accused of criminal offences must be provided with proceedings respecting internationally recognized judicial guarantees, such as being informed of the reason for their arrest, charged with a specific offence and given a fair trial as quickly as possible;
Amendment 286 #
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 305 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 69 a (new)
Paragraph 69 a (new)
69a. Stresses the importance of increasing assistance to the national prosecution of serious crimes under international law, consistent with the Rome Statute's principle of complementarity; welcomes the 31 January 2013 adoption by the European Commission and the European External Action Service of a "Joint Working Document on Advancing the Principle of Complementarity"; calls for the promotion and implementation of this document as a roadmap for strengthening EU assistance to national prosecution of serious crimes under international law; invites EU member states to consider adopting national guidance notes to mainstream assistance to complementarity projects within their development assistance;
Amendment 310 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 71
Paragraph 71
71. Recalls the articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights stating that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and are entitled to the rights and freedoms therein without distinction of any kind, including race, colour, sex, language, religion, caste, social origin, birth or other status; reiterates its call for the EU to combat discrimination and intolerance as a key part of its human rights policy, and to base this policy on an inclusive and comprehensive definition of non-discrimination; emphasises that respect for the rights of minorities is a crucial element for peace, development and democracy; welcomes and further encourages EU engagement with the United Nations and regional organisations in this cause;
Amendment 312 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72
Paragraph 72
72. Calls for the EU to pay particular attention to discrimination based on forms of social stratification, such as caste and analogous systems of inherited status, which have a seriously harmful and sometimes destructive impact on the prospects for equal enjoyment of human rightondemns the continuing human rights violations against people suffering from caste-based discrimination, including the atrocities committed against them with impunity, and the persisting untouchability practices; calls on the EU to pay particular attention to this form of discrimination in human rights policies and strategies at all levels;
Amendment 347 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79
Paragraph 79
79. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the European External Action Service, the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the EU Special Representative on Human Rights, to the governments and parliaments of the Member States and the candidate countries, to the United Nations and the Council of Europe, and to the governments of the countries and territories referred to in this resolution.
Amendment 280 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Reiterates that the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict poses a major impediment to regional security as well as to futher development of the Eastern Partnership; calls for rapid and substantial progress towards its resolution, on the basis of international law, relevant UNSC resolutions, and OSCE Minsk Group Basic Principles; underlines the importance of credible confidence-building measures, notably general de-militarization and withdrawal of Armenian forces from occupied territories surrounding Nagorno- Karabakh; calls on the EU to continue to actively support the resolution process;
Amendment 17 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
- having regard to the draft UN Principles and Guidelines on effective elimination of discrimination based on Work and Descent published by the Human Rights Council (A/HRC/11/CRP.3),
Amendment 18 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 b (new)
Citation 22 b (new)
- having regard to observations and recommendations on caste discrimination by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, UN Treaty Bodies and UN Special Procedures, noting in particular the Report of the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance of 24 May 2011 (A/HRC/17/40),
Amendment 183 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Underlines that a longer-term approach covering the whole election cycle is required to appropriately follow up on the reports and recommendations of the EU Election Observation Missions; stresses the importance of drawing up realistic and achievable recommendations and of ensuring that these recommendations are monitored and become part of political dialogue and assistance by the EU delegations; considers that Parliament's standing delegations and the joint parliamentary assemblies should also play an enhanced role in following up these recommendations and analysing progress with regard to human rights and democracy;
Amendment 207 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40 a (new)
Paragraph 40 a (new)
40a. Stresses that despite some steps taken by the Chinese authorities in the right direction, the human rights situation continues to deteriorate and is marked by widening social unrest and the tightening of control and repression of human rights defenders, lawyers, bloggers, and social activists, as well as by targeted policies aimed at marginalising Tibetans and their cultural identity; urges the Chinese authorities to engage seriously with the Tibetan people to assess the underlying causes of self-immolations of Tibetan monks and nuns and cease harassment and intimidation of Tibetans who exercise their rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association, end all use of unnecessary excessive force in facing protestors, investigate all instances of human rights violations, and allow independent monitors into areas of protest;
Amendment 208 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40 b (new)
Paragraph 40 b (new)
40b. Reiterates its call for the need to appoint an EU Special Representative for Tibet who would be responsible for the defence of human rights and, among other topical issues, the right to freely practice one's religion and culture in China;
Amendment 234 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47
Paragraph 47
47. Notes that the EU is developing a human rights monitoring mechanism to be included as part of new partnership and cooperation agreements, and other trade agreements, with a number of countries; is concerned that these monitoring mechanisms are not ambitious enough and not clearly defined, compromising the EU's treaty commitment to the promotion of human rights and democracy in the world; is particularly concerned in this regard about the PCA with Uzbekistan and the pending PCA with Turkmenistan;
Amendment 255 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 a (new)
Paragraph 53 a (new)
53a. Welcomes Council decisions to ban the export of certain information technologies and services to Syria and Iran and urges the European Union to consider these cases as precedents for future restrictive measures against other repressive regimes; strongly supports the proposal to include human rights violations in the EU dual-use export control system as a reason for which non- listed items may be subject to export restrictions by Member States;
Amendment 296 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70
Paragraph 70
70. Strongly regrets that homosexuality remains criminalised in 78 states, including five in which it is subject to the death penalty; calls on these states to decriminalise homosexuality without delay, to free those imprisoned on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity and not to execute them; calls on the EEAS to make full use of the LGBT Toolkit to protect the rights of LGBTI people; calls on the Council to work towards binding guidelines in this area; calls on the EEAS and Member States to assist LGBTI human rights defenders in countries where they are at risk, and calls on the VP/HR to continue making clear the European Union's firm commitment to equality and non-discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression in the world, including by launching and supporting initiatives at bilateral, international and UN level on these matters; repeats its call on the Commission to issue a roadmap for equality on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity;
Amendment 298 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70 a (new)
Paragraph 70 a (new)
70a. Calls on Member States to grant asylum to people fleeing persecution in countries where LGBT people are criminalised, on the basis of applicants' well-founded fears of persecution, and relying on their self-identification as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex;
Amendment 299 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70 b (new)
Paragraph 70 b (new)
70b. Reasserts that the principle of non- discrimination, including on grounds of sex and sexual orientation, is a fundamental element in the ACP-EU partnership;
Amendment 300 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70 c (new)
Paragraph 70 c (new)
70c. Underlines that for the EU's foreign policy to be credible and coherent in the field of fundamental rights, equality and anti-discrimination, the Council should adopt the directive on equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation and enlarge the application of the Framework Decision on Racism and Xenophobia to cover other targeted groups, such as LGBT persons;
Amendment 301 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 71
Paragraph 71
71. Condemns the continued human rights violations committed against people suffering from caste-based discrimination, including the denial of equality and access to justice, continued segregation and caste- induced barriers to the achievement of basic human rights; requests the Council, the EEAS and the Commission to take joint action on caste-based discrimination, including in EU human rights communications, frameworks and country- based strategies and dialogues, wherever appropriate; , and to promote the draft UN Principles and Guidelines for the elimination of discrimination based on work and descent as a guiding framework to eliminate caste discrimination, and work for their endorsement by the UN Human Rights Council;
Amendment 303 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 71 a (new)
Paragraph 71 a (new)
71a. Requests the High Representative and the Special Representative for Human Rights to give full recognition to caste discrimination as a cross-cutting human rights and poverty predicament affecting most severely women;
Amendment 309 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 a (new)
Paragraph 72 a (new)
Amendment 321 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75
Paragraph 75
75. Urges the EU to enhance its action to end the practices of female genital mutilation (FGM), early and forced marriages, and gender-selective abortion; insists that these policies should be essential elements in EU approach to development cooperation; stresses the importance of adequate access to medical means, and of information about sexual and reproductive health and rights, to the wellbeing of women in all countries;
Amendment 327 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75 a (new)
Paragraph 75 a (new)
75a. Notes that there continues to be insufficient attention given to sexual and reproductive rights violations that undermine efforts towards the Cairo Programme of Action (ICPD) commitments; underlines that progress on reproductive health has been limited in some contexts by violations such as child, early and forced marriage and failure to enforce a legal minimum age of marriage, coercive practices such as forced sterilisation or FGM, as well as denial of autonomy to women and girls to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health free of discrimination, coercion and violence;
Amendment 400 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 a (new)
Paragraph 83 a (new)
83a. Recalls that in a number of countries the prohibition, confiscation and destruction of both places of worship and religious publications, and prohibition of the training of clergy, are still common practice; urges the EU institutions, in their contacts with the relevant governments, to counter such violations;
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 63 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
Amendment 69 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
Ia. whereas the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan autonomous areas, and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region have become important territories for China's regional, military and economic ambitions and therefore are seen as core issues of 'territorial integrity' by the current Chinese Government;
Amendment 70 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
Ib. whereas as of 6th September 2012, 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 84 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the 21st century sees the impressive return of China on the world scene as a superglobal power, on account of its ongoing rapidly growing economic and military power;
Amendment 86 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K b (new)
Recital K b (new)
Kb. whereas China's WTO accession protocol does not foresee market economy status (MES) until 2016; whereas this constitutes a major point of contention for the Chinese leadership, which is eager to obtain MES earlier and which has led it to state that the further acquisition of sovereign bonds in the Euro area could be made contingent on the EU altering its position on this issue;
Amendment 87 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K c (new)
Recital K c (new)
Kc. whereas China is expanding its trade and economic relations with third parties by initiating Free Trade Agreements with the Republic of Korea and Japan, which could eventually lead to the creation of a NE Asian FTA; whereas as a global trade power, China has a strategic interest in ensuring that the regional trade arrangements that it creates or joins are compatible with the global rules;
Amendment 88 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K d (new)
Recital K d (new)
Kd. whereas China produces 97% of the world's rare earths and imposes significant export duties and reduced export quotas on these goods, in violation of its WTO commitments; whereas these restrictions significantly distort global markets, creating a disadvantage for EU companies;
Amendment 89 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K e (new)
Recital K e (new)
Ke. whereas the EU, US and Japan have complained to the WTO about China's practise of increasing export duties and reducing export quotas which they argue unfairly benefit Chinese companies; whereas Beijing maintains that its restrictions are needed to protect the environment, conserve supplies and meet domestic demand;
Amendment 92 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas the positive role of the PRC in South-East Asia in terms of economic regionalisation and dynamics is becoming increasingly overshadowed by territorial disputes in the South China Sea withwith Japan and Taiwan (Senkaku/Diaoyu islands), Vietnam (Paracel/Xisha islands) and Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan (Spratly/Nansha islands) – all areas rich in fish, as well as in oil and gas reserves;
Amendment 104 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas the deepening economic relations between ChBeijinag and the USA are the world's most important bilateral ties, in particular owing to the phenomenon of ‘Chinamerica’, or the strong financial- economic entanglement of Beijing and WashingtonWashington constitutes one of the world's most significant bilateral ties;
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 171 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
(b) Urges China, as the world's rising trading power, to play a constructive role in international fora; in addition maintains that it is in the Chinese leadership's interest to act as the guardian of an open trading system and fully abide by its WTO commitments as a contribution to the resolution of the ongoing "rare earths" and other trade disputes;
Amendment 176 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that although forced abortions are strictly illegal in China, family-planning officials repeatedly coerce women into abortions or sterilisation; condemns the so-called ‘social maintenance fee’, an often exorbitant fine that parents have to pay in the event of extra births, as was the case in the tragedy of Feng Jianmei; wholeheartedly supports Chinese voices that call for an end of the one-child policy;
Amendment 189 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 199 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 219 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 j (new)
Paragraph 8 j (new)
(j) Admires the courage and activism of those Chinese citizens who act in socially responsible ways to promote and defend human rights, and address issues such as corruption, abuse of office, environmental damage, AIDS infection, food poisoning, construction fraud concerning schools, and illegal land and property expropriation; denounces all incidences of official retaliation against these Chinese citizens; and expects a responsible Chinese leadership to comply strictly with domestic and international human rights law;
Amendment 231 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 244 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
(b) Recognises the significant efforts by the Chinese Government to develop Tibet and Xinjiang economically and the impact of such efforts on nomad communities and traditional livelihoods; urges the Chinese Government to meaningfully engage 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 through forcible assimilation, cultural destruction or repressive police and security methods;
Amendment 248 #
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 replavise policies and practices their ineffective policy of controlling religion with one offering realat curtail any citizen's right to freedom of religion and belief;
Amendment 259 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Wishes to see the flourishing Protestant house churches and undergrouProtestant and Catholic churches granted official recognition by the Chinese State as well; strongly condemns all attempts by the authorities to deprive these non-registered churches of their fundamental right of freedom of religion and 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 293 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Underlines the global importance of the South China Sea, through which one-third of the world's trade passes, and therefore urgently appeals to all involved parties to settle their conflicting territorial claims in the South China Sea by international arbitration and to refrain from unilateral political and military actions and ensure regional stability;
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 313 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Observes that the new American strategy of ‘rebalance’ or ‘pivot’ towards Asia is perceived as a threat by the Chinese leadershipnewed focus on Asia is perceived by the Chinese leadership as an attempt by the USA to contain China's rapid economic and political ascension; encourages China and the USA to avoid tensions and an arms race in the Pacific; urges China to honour America's vital interest in ensuring freedom of circulation on the seas;
Amendment 315 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. ANotes that the increasing Chinese presence in Africa has contributed to economic development, with a particular focus on infrastructure projects, however warns China against repeating the ethical and strategic flaws of European colonialism in supporting repressive regimes; appreciates the Chinese leadership's acknowledgement of the serious criticism of its imbalanced, raw- material-centred African policy during the Forum of Chinese-African Cooperation (FOCAC), held on 20 July 2012 in Beijing, which is shown by its current open promotion of a diversification of its activities on the continent; points to the obvious ethical and strategic flaws of China's non- intervention principle in Africa's domestic policies in cases of popular resistance against repressive regimes (e.g., Sudan), or in cases of regime change (e.g., Libya); notes that the increasing Chinese presence in Africa has led to grave social tensions, but welcomes the fact that Chinese companies have expressed their willingness to place greater emphasis on social responsibility in their African activities;
Amendment 2 #
2012/0309(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The imposition of the visa requirement on the nationals of Dominica, Grenada, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, the United Arab Emirates and Vanuatu is no longer justified. These countries do not present any risk of illegal immigration or a threat to public policy for the Union in accordance with the criteria set out in recital 5 of Regulation (EC) N° 539/2001. Consequently, nationals of those countries should be exempt from the visa requirement for stays of no more than three months in all and references to those countries should be transferred to Annex II.
Amendment 4 #
2012/0309(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Exemption from the visa requirement for nationals of Dominica, Grenada, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, the United Arab Emirates and Vanuatu should not come into force until bilateral agreements on visa waiver between the Union and the countries concerned have been concluded in order to ensure full reciprocity.
Amendment 6 #
2012/0309(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – point 1 – point a
Article 1 – point 1 – point a
(a) in point 1, the references to Dominica, Grenada, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, the United Arab Emirates and Vanuatu are deleted and a reference to South-Sudan is inserted;
Amendment 7 #
2012/0309(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – point 2 – point a – two last references
Article 1 – point 2 – point a – two last references
"Tuvalu*", "United Arab Emirates*" and "Vanuatu*"
Amendment 25 #
2011/2316(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
F a. whereas Azerbaijan has progressed rapidly in the field of ICT, in particular with regard to e-governance, which increases the transparency of public administration and helps to combat corruption and increased ease of access to public services and information provides an additional impetus to the democratisation of Azerbaijan;
Amendment 84 #
2011/2316(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(f a) reiterate that neither of the conflicting parties could by any means profit from any attempt to resolve the issue in a non-peaceful way, but would, as a consequence, instead invite third parties to extend their sphere of influence;
Amendment 87 #
2011/2316(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(f a) reassure the EU's support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan;
Amendment 91 #
2011/2316(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
(f b) consider that a peacekeeping operation would probably involve monitoring the return of displaced ethnic Azerbaijanis to the region, along with the withdrawal of Armenian troops; stress that the peacekeeping forces to be deployed between the conflicting sides should have a genuine multinational composition, which is a prerequisite for guaranteeing the necessary trust of both parties to those forces;
Amendment 124 #
2011/2316(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point n a (new)
(n a) stress the importance of Azerbaijan's unique geographic location for enabling a direct and unimpeded transit link between the EU and the countries of the Central Asia. In this connection welcome the efforts to develop the trans-Caspian transit cooperation with Kazakhstan and explore ways of establishing such cooperation with Turkmenistan;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2315(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the unresolved conflicts are between Armenia and Azerbaijan is undermining the stability and development of Armenia and the South Caucasus region; whereas Armenia continues the occupation of the Nagorno- Karabakh region and seven adjacent districts of the Republic of Azerbaijan violating the fundamental norms and principles of international law and undermining the United Nations Security Council Resolutions 822, 853, 874 and 884; whereas in its Joint Communication on ‘A new response to a changing neighbourhood’ the EU stated its ambition to engage more pro-actively in conflict resolution in the South Caucasus;
Amendment 77 #
2011/2315(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(h a) reiterate that neither of the conflicting parties could by any means profit from any attempt to resolve the issue in a non-peaceful way, but would, as a consequence, instead invite third parties to extend their sphere of influence;
Amendment 33 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas different EU Member States have unique experiences to offer in terms of overcoming authoritarian regimes in their own past, and whereas this transition experience should be better utilised in the Union's relations with partner countries in strengthening democracy and human rights;
Amendment 68 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Believes that the promotion and support of non-violence reflects an international value that should constitute a priority for the EU's human rights and democracy policies, particularly considering that the non-violent methodology offers an effective and appropriate means and outcomes in terms of the prevention of conflict and support for democracy, rule of law and civil society around the world;
Amendment 73 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. InvitUrges the HR/VP in her drafting of future Annual Reports to consult actively and, systematically and in a transparent fashion with Parliament, and to report on the way that Parliament's resolutions have been taken into account; asks the HR/VP to more regularly provide information on the stage of preparation of future Annual Reports whenever requested to do so by Parliament;
Amendment 90 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Further recommends that, whenever a gross breach of human rights occurs by a partner country with which an international agreement such as a PCA has been concluded, the EU takes bolder steps in carrying out the appropriate sanctions as stipulated in the human rights clauses of the agreement, including possible temporary suspension of the agreement;
Amendment 167 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Stresses that the application of the clause as it currently stands , for example with the Colombia/Peru Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) due to come before Parliament, provides an opportunity for the European Parliament itself to explore the potential for setting human rights benchmarks in advance of ratification, in order to achieve concrete and verifiable progress in respect for human rights; encourages the Commission to draft a new ‘model clause’ referring to the parties' international obligations, comprising a procedure for consultation and specifying political and legal mechanisms to be used in the event of a request for cooperation to be suspended on the grounds of repeated or systemic human rights violations in breach of international law; recommends that a clear system of sanctions short of suspension be developed; insists strongly on the need for Parliament to be a joint decision-maker with the Commission and the Council in this respect;
Amendment 231 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 58
Paragraph 58
58. Welcomes the indefatigable championingemphasis put ofn women's empowerment by the HR/VP and calls on her to institutionalise the EU Inter- institutional Informal Task Force on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) by providing it with a full- time chair, who will also act as the gender focal point in the EEAS, as part of allocating adequate human and financial resources to its task;
Amendment 276 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 66 a (new)
Paragraph 66 a (new)
66 a. Recommends initiatives for EU legislation to ensure attention is paid in EU human rights policy and instruments of cooperation to eliminate caste discrimination, and action in caste- affected countries, including Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Yemen;
Amendment 314 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Recognises the need for human rights concerns to be mainstreamed through the work of all parliamentary committees and delegations dealing with external relations; recommends that Members of the European Parliament systematically meet with human rights defenders during official missions to third countries, including with imprisoned activists wherever possible, to provide the latter with greater visibility; welcomes the decision to augment the resources available to the Subcommittee on Human Rights in the light of the changes arising from the Treaty of Lisbon;
Amendment 23 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes with concern that recent budget cuts are in addition to a pattern of Member States under-investing and under-spending in the fields of security and defence for over a decade;
Amendment 29 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Urges all Member States to meet their agreed obligations as members of the NATO Alliance to spend 2% of their GDP on military capabilities (a target currently only met by France and the UK);
Amendment 50 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Deplores the way in which most of these funds are spent, based on national defence planning decisions taken in almost total isolation, resulting not only in persistent capability gaps, but also in wasteful overcapacities and duplications, as well as fragmented industry and markets which results in the EU not having either the visibility, resources or reach of 200 billion Euros worth of spending;
Amendment 83 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Stresses that such a White Paper, by setting out a common vision of challenges and solutions will build trust and provide focused strategic guidance on the form that EU forces should take;
Amendment 107 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Stresses that pooling resources must go hand in hand with enhanced specialisation where Member States giving up certain capabilities can be confident that others will provide them and recognises that this will require serious political commitment by national governments;
Amendment 164 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 a (new)
Paragraph 39 a (new)
39a. Supports the EDA's calls for harmonised defence requirements, combined R&D investment, the promotion of effective cooperative armaments programmes and increased market competition in defence procurement;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the future Association Agreement with Ukraine heralds a new generation of association agreements and involves an unprecedented level of integration between the European Union and a third country; whereas with this agreement Ukraine commits itself to implementing a large portion of the acquis communautaire; whereas the negotiations with Ukraine are amongst the most advanced in the Eastern Neighbourhood and therefore serve as an example for the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) as a whole,
Amendment 18 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the EU favours a stable and democratic Ukraine that respects the principles of a social market economy, the rule of law, human rights and the protection of minorities and which guarantees fundamental rights; whereas Ukraine's efforts to build domestic political stability and augment internal reform are accelerating and facilitating the further development of Ukraine's European integration process,
Amendment 26 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas there are recent concerns about the freedom of media, freedom of civil society, conduct of elections and the rule of law in Ukraine,
Amendment 44 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas Ukraine's progress on the path of European integration must be based on a policy of systematic and irreversible reforms in a number of important ‘institutional, economic and social areas; whereas important reforms have already been carried out or are being carried out but there are also concerns about democratic backsliding in Ukraine; whereas the framework provided by the Association Agreement will constitute a crucial modernisation tool for Ukraine and a roadmap to steer its internal domestic reforms,
Amendment 49 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas Ukraine should be commended for its sound economic performance, including reducing its budget deficit, spending restraint as well as pension reform, which have contributed to a more positive foreign credit rating and increased FDI,
Amendment 64 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to make all necessary progress in order to achieve the rapid conclusion of an EU- Ukraine Association Agreement by no later than the end of 2011;
Amendment 68 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
Amendment 95 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) to stress the importance of freedom of the media and freedom of civil society;
Amendment 132 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
(oa) to stress the importance to Ukraine of a fair and impartial justice system that is not manipulated for political purposes and that the legal proceedings against Yulia Tymoschenko must be conducted strictly according to the rule of law;
Amendment 24 #
2011/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that as part of the EU’s strategic cooperation with relevant key partners such as the USA, Russia and Japan, Japan and Canada, an early- warning mechanism for market distortion and supply shortage should be established and complemented by a monitoring group at EU level comprising representatives of the EU institutions, the Member States and relevant industry sectors;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the EU-Russia human rights consultations,
Amendment 10 #
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, and responsible to meet the obligations as a member of these organisations;
Amendment 45 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the EU-Russia relations continue to suffer from the failure of Russia to fully embrace democratic values and strengthen the rule of law;
Amendment 54 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) ensure that the new agreement provides a comprehensive and forward- looking framework for the further development of relations with Russia in upcoming years, and take the necessary action to ensure that the negotiations with Russia continue at a steady paceregret that negotiations with Russia, at this stage, have not led to expected results and that the strategic partnership can only exist if both sides agree to follow universal democratic principles;
Amendment 63 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) actively work on the conclensure that further negotiations will have reinforced focusi on of the negotiations for an agreement which will be beneficial for both parties and in line with their increased and ever deepening cooperationdemocracy, the rule of law and human rights and that the new agreement provides a comprehensive and forward-looking framework for the further development of relations with Russia in upcoming years;
Amendment 74 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) remain vigilant and firm on the requirements that the EU intends to set as regards respect for democratic principles, and consider this respect as an absolute prerequisite for the signature of a EU- Russia Agreement;
Amendment 89 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) emphasise the importance for Russia to ensure the functioning of an independent and impartial judicial system and to strengthen the fight against corruption;
Amendment 90 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point h b (new)
(hb) call on Russia to respect the obligation to guarantee free and fair elections in order to ensure the legitimacy of the political system;
Amendment 95 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) stress the importance of Russia's full compliance with its international legal obligations and with the fundamental human rights principles enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), both of which Russia is party to; recall that political pluralism, media freedom, independence of the judiciary, freedom of speech and assembly, and non- discrimination are the necessary preconditions for Russia's further development and modernisation and the development of bilateral relations;
Amendment 106 #
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; 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 109 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
(ja) firmly reassert that repeated attempts to curtail human rights, notably freedom of expression and assembly, in relation to sexual orientation and gender identity at the regional and federal levels runs against Russia's commitments under its constitution, the European Convention on Human Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights;
Amendment 116 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
(ka) stress once more that democracy and human rights must be at the core of the new comprehensive agreement with the Russian Federation, with regard, in particular, to the definition and inclusion of an effective and operational human rights clause, and that the quality and depth of future relations depend on the respect and support for such values;
Amendment 138 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
(oa) call on Russian authorities to put an end to the widespread climate of impunity for human rights violations and the absence of rule of law in the North Caucasus;
Amendment 148 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) pursue the efforts for full implementation of common steps towards visa-free short-term travel, with a view of a gradual phasing out of the visa regime between the Schengen countries and Russia; facilitate as much and as quick as possible visa facilitation for academics, students and, researchers and journalists;
Amendment 176 #
2011/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y
Paragraph 1 – point y
(y) ensure the inclusion of a substantial and legally binding chapter on energy to secure a reliable and cost-efficient energy supply to the EU, in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Energy Charter Treaty, and to organise such an energy partnership on the principles of transparency, fair competition, reciprocity and non-discrimination;
Amendment 1418 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 29 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Farmers complying with the requirements laid down in Article 29(1) of Regulation (EC) No 834/2007 as regards organic farming shall be entitled ipso facto to the payment referred to in this Chaptershall be entitled ipso facto to payment referred to in this Chapter when they fall within the following categories: - farmers which have at least 20 % of forest areas; - farmers with more than 50 % of the eligible agricultural area covered by grassland; - farmers which are 100 % certified as using sustainable farming methods, including of integrated farming.
Amendment 1550 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 30 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. The first paragraph shall not apply to farms: - where the arable land is entirely used for grass production or other herbaceous forage, entirely left fallow, entirely cultivated with crops under water for a significant part of the year or a combination of these, or; - where the arable land of the farmer covers up to 50 hectares and more than 50% of the eligible agricultural area of the holding is covered by permanent crops.
Amendment 1625 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Member States shall ensure the maintenance of the ratio of the land under permanent grassland in relation to the total agricultural area. That obligation shall apply at national or regional level. The reference ratio shall be established as relation between the land under permanent grassland and total agricultural area declared by the farmers in 2014.
Amendment 1643 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 2
Article 31 – paragraph 2
2. Farmers shall be allowed to convert a maximum of 5 % of their reference areas under permanent grassland. That limit shall not appMember States shall ensure that the ratio under this Article shall not decrease to the detriment of land under permanent grassland by more than 10 % relatively into the case of force majeure or exceptional circumstancesratio for the relevant reference year.
Amendment 1667 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 3
Article 31 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 55 laying down rules concerning the increase of reference areas under permanent grassland as laid down in the second subparagraph of paragraph 1, the renewal of permanent grassland, the reconversion of agricultural area into permanent grassland in case the authorised decrease referred to in paragraph 2 is exceeded, as well as the modification of the reference areas under permanent grassland in case of transfer of land. For the purposes of paragraph 2, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 55 laying down rules on maintenance of permanent grassland, in particular to ensure that measures are taken to maintain the ratio, including individual obligations to be respected such as obligation to reconvert areas into permanent grassland where it is established that the ratio of land under permanent grassland is decreasing.
Amendment 1728 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1
Article 32 – paragraph 1
1. FWhere the arable land and area covers more than 20 hectares, farmers shall ensure that at least 7 % of their eligible hectares as defined in Article 25(2), excluding areas under permanent grassland and permanent crops, is ecological focus area such as land left fallow, terraces, landscape features, buffer strip like hedges or stone walls, buffer strips, land planted with nitrogen-fixing crops, land cultivated according to environmentally friendly methods and afforested areas as referred to in article 25(2)(b)(ii).
Amendment 1763 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 32 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. By way of derogation from paragraph 1, the minimum percentage indicated in paragraph 1 is reduced to: - 5% in cases of joint undertakings of groups of farmers putting in place continuous, adjacent ecological focus areas; - 1,5% in the Member States with at least 45% of their total terrestrial area covered by forests or; - 1,5% in the Member States where utilised agricultural area constitute is less than 35% of the total terrestrial area.
Amendment 18 #
2011/0238(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Union-law requires Member States to take all appropriate measures to ensure fulfilment of the obligations arising out of the Treaties or, and especially Article 194 thereof, and resulting from the acts of the institutions of the Union. Member States should therefore avoid or eliminate any incompatibilities between Union law and international agreements concluded between Member States and third countries.
Amendment 28 #
2011/0238(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The Commission should make all received information available to all other Member States in electronic form. The Commission should respect requests from Member States to treat information, in particular commercial information, submitted as confidential. Requests for confidentiality should however not restrict access of the Commission itself to confidential information as the Commission needs to have comprehensive information for its own assessment. The requests for confidentiality are without prejudice to the right of access to documents as provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documentand in the article 15 of Lisbon Treaty regarding public access to documents of the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies.
Amendment 29 #
2011/0238(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) A permanent exchange of information on intergovernmental agreements at Union level should allow to develop best practices. On the basis of those best practices the Commission, in cooperation with the EEAS as regards EU external policies, should recommend standard clauses for the use in intergovernmental agreements between Member States and third countries. The use of these non- binding standard clauses should exclude conflicts of intergovernmental agreements with Union law or with international agreements of the Union. The Commission should also suggest non- binding standard clauses in reference to EU policies such as the respect of human rights, democracy, good governance, the rule of law and social dialogues including corporate social responsibility, climate change, the protection of the environment, energy efficiency, renewable energies, and EU biofuel targets.
Amendment 32 #
2011/0238(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 15 a (new)
Recital 15 a (new)
(15a) A member of the European Commission responsible for energy and High Representative of the Union for foreign affairs and security policy, in cooperation with the EEAS, shall act actively according to this Decision, promote it with third countries, and annually submit a report on the application of this Decision to the European Parliament, the Council and the European Economic and Social Committee.
Amendment 41 #
2011/0238(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 - paragraph 1 (a)
Article 6 - paragraph 1 (a)
1. (a) review developments in relation to intergovernmental agreements; and ensure consistency and coherence in the EU’s external energy relations with key producer, transit, and consumer countries;
Amendment 42 #
2011/0238(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 - paragraph 1 (b)
Article 6 - paragraph 1 (b)
1. (b) identify common problems in relation to intergovernmental agreements and, to consider appropriate action to address these problems, and to propose possible solutions for the Member States;
Amendment 12 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty hais broughtinging a new dimension to European external action and will be instrumental in enhancing the coherence, consistency and effectiveness of EU foreign policy,
Amendment 17 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the Lisbon Treaty is creating a new momentum in EU foreign policy, notably enablingenables the Union to take on an international role compatible with its prominent economic status and its ambitions and to organise itself in such a way as to be an effective global player, able to share responsibility for global security and take the lead in defining common responses to common challenges,
Amendment 24 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
Amendment 30 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Council's annual report and commends its transparent and theme- driven structure, which provides a clear overview of policies and actions in the field of the common foreign and security policy; welcomes also the Council's ambition to place further emphasis and a stronger focus on the regional context of conflicts and issues; deploregrets, however, the fact that no possible approaches to resolving those conflicts and issues are outlined in the report;
Amendment 35 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that the annual report on the CFSP should draw on the new momentumpotential created by the Lisbon Treaty and serve as an instrument for enhanced interinstitutional dialogue, notably by discussing the implementation of an EU foreign policy strategy, evaluating its effectiveness and outlining its future direction;
Amendment 36 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates its position in favour of developing a coherent EU foreign policy strategy, based on the objectives and principles establishedlaid down in Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), which should clearly identify the common foreign and security policy interests of the EU; calls on the VP/HR to use to the full her powers to initiate, implement and ensure compliance with CFSP, involveing Parliament's relevant bodies fully in that endeavour;
Amendment 48 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Expects the EEAS, by promoting closer coordinationg between the CFSP and other external policies, to help strengthen the EU's role and influence on the global stage and enable it to project its interests and values more efficiently, in a manner commensurate with its existing international trade and economic status;
Amendment 54 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes, however, that full coherence and consistency across EU foreign policy will not be achieved simply by setting up the EEAS, but will also require EU Member States to overcome their differing outlooks on key foreign policy issues such as Russia, Turkey and Kosovo; considers it essential, in this regard, that EU Member States not only agree on a common strategy for foreign and security policy, but also ensure thaadjust their national policies areto supportive of EU positions EU common guidelines, actions and positions and to avoid national actions which are contrary to the interests of the Union;
Amendment 68 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Notes its Treaty obligation to determine, together with national parliaments, the organisation and promotion of effective and regular interparliamentary cooperation, in particular in the field of the common foreign, security and defence policy;
Amendment 78 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Emphasises the need for optimal coordination between EU disaster responses and other EU instruments – such as CSDP civilian or military missions – which are already being deployed on the ground or which could be set up in the aftermath of a crisis; believes that a rigid distinction between military and civilian crisis-management operations reflects outdated institutional patterns rather than the reality on the ground, and therefore emphasises the fact that responses to crises usually require a combination of military and civilian instruments;
Amendment 94 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Emphasises the need to prevent the EU from becomingWarns of the risk that the EU becomes wholly dependent for its energy supplies on third countries, which would undermine the independence of EU foreign policy; recalls the urgent need to address energy challenges by implementing a common European external energy policy, based on the diversification of energy suppliers; calls, in this regard, on the VP/HR to pursue with determination Parliament's recommendations for the development of a coherent and coordinated policy, in particular by promoting EU cohesion in constructive dialogue with energy suppliers, and especially with Russia and transit countries;
Amendment 109 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Takes the view that, in order to be consistent, EU foreign policy must give absolute priority to promoting democracythe rule of law and democratic government, given that a lawful democratic society is the basis for upholding human rights; believes that the new institutional structure of the EU, with particular reference to the EEAS and its dedicated department, offers an opportunity to enhance the EU's coherence and effectiveness in this area; reiterates Parliament's strong determination, and recalls its longstanding efforts, to defend human rights and democracy in the world through bilateral relations with third countries and active participation in international forums, as well as support for international and local civil-society organisations;
Amendment 119 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Emphasises that effective multilateralism should be the overriding strategic concern of the Union and that, in this context, the EU should take a leading role in international cooperation, facilitate international consensus and advance global action; emphasises the urgent need to address global issues of common concern for EU citizens, such as terrorism, organised crime, energy security, climate change, the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the eradication of poverty, the non- proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and disarmament, migration management and the promotion of human rights and civil liberties; takes the view that, in order to speak with a strong single voice on global issues within the UN system, the EU, while retaining its observer status, should be granted complementary rights at the UN as a natural consequence of the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty; calls on the EU to improve its strategy and tactics for consultations with UN member countries, including by giving clear explanations concerning the nature of the EU and how, on the basis of its Treaty-based powers, it differs from other regional organisations; recommends placing the issue of the EU's rights at the UN high on the agenda for bilateral and multilateral summits with strategic partners; considers it essential to engage with the EU's strategic partners in order to find solutions to major regional and global problems; recommends, furthermore, that strategic partnerships be given a multilateral dimension by including global issues on the agendas for the EU's bilateral and multilateral summits;
Amendment 125 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Takes the view that, in order to speak with a strong single voice on global issues within the UN system, the EU should be granted complementary recognition and participatory rights at the UN as a logical consequence of the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty; calls on all EU States to back the VP/HR in securing the necessary enhanced status for the EU throughout the UNO; urges France and the United Kingdom, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, and in accordance with Article 34 (2) TEU, to invite the VP/HR to represent the EU whenever a common position has been defined; insists that the President of the European Council should be enabled to address the General Assembly after the manner of heads of states or government; recommends placing the issue of EU's position at the UN high on the agenda for bilateral and multilateral summits with strategic partners;
Amendment 133 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Believes that the EU should take advantage of the adoption of NATO's new Strategic Concept in order to strengthen its partnership with NATO, bearing in mind the development of the EU's foreign, security and defence policies; points to the need to find pragmatic ways of solving the difficulties – in particular the differences between Cyprus and Turkey – which are hampering the development of closer cooperation between the EU and NATO, given the importance of ensuring that existing forces and capabilities which are shared to a large extent by both organisations are used as efficiently as possible and that conditions are optimized for the security of European troops and civilian operators;
Amendment 142 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Underlines the need for close and continuous coordination of EU foreign policy with the EU'Calls for better coordination and increased cooperation between the EU and its closest ally and strategic partner, the US, enpursuring a joint approach to global governance and to challenges such as nuclear non- proliferation and terrorism; calls on the VP/HR to coordinate closely and develop synergies with the US with a view to ensuring stability and security on the European continent, including on the basis of cooperation with Russia, and with regard to stability in thfocus on a resolution of the immediate crisis caused by the Iranian government's apparent determination to make a nuclear bomb by reaching complete agreater Middle East, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistanement with the US government on the next appropriate steps;
Amendment 148 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Urges the development of a comprehensive EU-US strategy for the improvement of the security situation throughout the greater Middle East, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan which involves cooperation with Turkey, Russia and China;
Amendment 152 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Draws attention to the EU membershipvariable prospects of allEU membership of the Western Balkan countries and underlines the importance of a continuous commitment to the EU enlargement process from both the countries of the region and the EU; deplores in this regard the continuing dispute between Greece and Macedonia on the matter of the latter country's name;
Amendment 159 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes the fact that the situation in Kosovo remains stable and peaceful, but is concerned at the serious problems and breaches of electoral law which occurred in several municipalities during the recent elections; stresses the importance of fair elections as part of Kosovo's ongoing democratic transition; urges the Government of Kosovo to improve future electoral processes in order to secure the democratic rights of Kosovo citizens and to strengthen the country's European perspective; calls for the planned talks between Kosovo and Serbia to start without delay, under the sponsorship of the EU, and stresses that they have vast potentialin order to contribute to stability inthroughout Kosovo and to improvinge the situation for local people, including as regards upholding the rule of law in the north of the countryall its people; reiterates the need for the EULEX Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo to ensure that it can function effectively throughoutacross the entire territory of Kosovo, by stepping up its activities in the north of the country, and to enjoy the trust and support of the entire population;
Amendment 195 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls on the VP/HR to ensure that the EU's approach towards Russia, including in the negotiations on a new EU-Russia Agreement, is coherent, focused on enhancing the rule of law, and driven by a commitment to the values of pluralist democracy, and respect for human rights and the rule of law, including international law; stresses the importance of the Partnership for Modernisation in this context; underlines at the same time the need for a reinvigorated partnershiprelations with Russia, based on mutual respect and reciprocity, on the issues of the fight against terrorism, energy security and supply, climate change, disarmament, conflict prevention and nuclear non- proliferation, including with reference to Iran, Afghanistan and the Middle East, in pursuit of the goal of strengthening global security and stability; takes the view that cooperation on such issues should form the basis for the new EU-Russia Agreement, and therefore looks forward to speeteady progress in the current negotiations on a new comprehensive agreement that is expected substantially to enhance EU- Russia relations;
Amendment 212 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Remains concerned at the absence in the EU's Mediterranean policy of a clear long-term strategic vision for the development and stabilisation of the region, which is experiencing an increase in political, economic and social crises, despite; questions the creration of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM); stresses the urgent needale, goals and working methods of the Union for the Euro-Mediterranean integration process to become a political priority for the EU(UfM);
Amendment 218 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Recalls its role within the EU's budget procedure and emphasises the need to ensure the UfM's democratic legitimacy, that decisions are taken in a transparent manner under the auspices on the European side of the VP/HR, and that the European Parliament, the Parliamentary Assembly of the UfM and the national parliaments are involved in the decision-making process;
Amendment 219 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33a. Deplores the virtual stagnation of Turkey's accession process; reminds that the EU and Turkey are both responsible for overcoming the obstacles on Turkey's path towards the membership of the EU; warns of serious long term problems if the EU-Turkey relationship is not stabilized and the EU and NATO continue to be prevented from achieving their goal of closer cooperation; hopes in any case that Turkey will continue its modernisation along European lines;
Amendment 220 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Is monitoring the situation in Tunisia closely, and calls on the EU to support the Tunisian people in its democratic transition, including byWelcomes the flight of Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali from Tunisia and the installation of the transitional government; expects the early resignation of Hosni Mubarak in Egypt; looks forward to the transition to liberal democracy in both these countries, and supports the Arab people in extending and consolidating their efforts to achieve liberty and justice at home and across their region; commits the EU to providing appropriateny assistance that may be needed; emphasises the need to adjust funding to help alleviate the social and economic crisis in the country to enhance the political, social and economic development;
Amendment 237 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Reiterates its view that Pakistan has a key role in the region and that a stable, secular, democratic and prosperous Pakistan is of vital importance to stability in Afghanistan and the wider region; stresses, furthermore, Pakistan's key role in the Afghan peace process; recognises that the devastating floods of August 2010 have been a setback for Pakistan's new government, which had been starting to make progress in dealing with numerous challenges; urges the Council and the Commission, together with the wider international community, to respond with a strong show of solidarity and concrete support to Pakistan's urgent need for post- flood reconstruction and rehabilitation and the country's aspirations to build a strong and prosperous society; welcomes and further encourages EU efforts to bolster political support for stepping up institution- and capacity- building in Pakistan and helping Pakistan's democratic institutions to combat extremism;
Amendment 258 #
2010/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Commends India's involvement in international actions, notably in Afghanistan and with the Atalanta operation; calls for more collaborative action on issues relating to global economic governance and the promotion of democracy and human rights, particularly in Kashmir; looks forward to substantial progress in the current negotiations on a free-trade agreement; expects the strategic partnership with India to develop in accordance with the Joint Action Plan, so as to yield concrete results;
Amendment 9 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas, in a multipolar world, only large regional blocintegrations will be in abetter positioned to play a leading role and to cope with social, cultural, economic, environmental and political changes,
Amendment 35 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas, for the last 15 years or so, Mediterranean countries have been developing new trading and economic partners (relations (e.g. with Russia, China, India, Brazil and the Gulf monarchistates) and their societies have been undergoing radicsubstantial changes (in terms of consumption patterns, mobility, demographic transitions and so on) with implications for internal territorial balances,
Amendment 44 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. having regard to the significant disparities between European Union Member States and Mediterranean third countries and the worrying structural problems of a socio-economic and institutional nature, which call for strong responses in the shared interest of all the states participating in the UfM; noting the need for an improved South-South regional integration,
Amendment 46 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the regional context in which the UfM is taking shape continues to be characterised by conflicts and political tensions, which have slowed down its establishment since the Paris Summit of July 2008; whereas the Middle East Peace Process has come to a standstill,
Amendment 64 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the implementation of projects announced by the UfM have suffered from general underfunding since the Paris Summits progressed only slowly since the Paris Summit, also due to general underfunding,
Amendment 89 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the governments of the UfM member countries to establish an ongoing and open political dialogue characterised by mutual respect and understanding, and reaffirms its desire to see the promotion of democracy and respect for human rights and individual and collective freedoms made the central focus of that dialogue; it believes that respect of women's rights, gender equality and sexual orientation require particular attention;
Amendment 92 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Recalls the 2008 Year of Intercultural dialogue and calls on all UfM member countries to renew their efforts to increase religious and cultural dialogue among their populations, notably through educational exchange programmes and their continued commitment to the UN Alliance of Civilizations;
Amendment 101 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is of the opinion that political tensions and regional conflicts in the Mediterranean basin must not hinder tangible progress towards multilateral cooperation in specific sectors, and that it is through the implementation of major integration projects that the UfM will help to develop a climate of trust conducive to pursuing common security goals in a spirit of solidarity and peace; at the same time notes that a climate of trust is essential to the success of the UfM and its projects; a strong determination of UfM member countries is needed for the continuation of the Middle East Peace Process; calls for a stronger EU engagement on the solution of the matter;
Amendment 140 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 - point 2
Paragraph 6 - point 2
- emphasises that, in the period leading up to the end of the 2007-2013 financial perspectives, any financial contributions made by the Union should not affect existing or planned Euro-Mediterranean regional projects; underlines the need to increase substantially the funds allocated to the UfM in the EU’s forthcoming financial perspectives for 2014-2020;
Amendment 170 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Believes that increased South-South bilateral and multilateral economic cooperation would result in tangible benefits for the citizens, as well as improve the political climate in the region;
Amendment 194 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Is keen to see new projects in the cultural field put on the UfM’s agenda in the very near future; suggests that the dimension of higher education and research of UfM should be strengthened, where priority should be given to setting up aupgrading the Euro- Mediterranean juniorcomponent of the Erasmus Mundus programme called ‘Averroës’, as a way of stepping up exchanges between secondary school pupils in UfM member countries, as well as ensuring enhanced cooperation of partner Institutions within the Euro-Mediterranean University (EMUNI), so that it becomes a centre of excellence and intercultural dialogue;
Amendment 206 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Amendment 213 #
2009/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the recent establishment of the Euro-Mediterranean Regional and Local Assembly (ARLEM) and calls for efforts to ensure proper coordination between the ARLEM’s activities and those of the EMPA, in particular through joint meetings or reciprocal invitations for members of their respective bureaux to attend working meetings;