BETA

257 Amendments of Jaromír ŠTĚTINA

Amendment 1 #

2018/2159(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter,
2019/01/11
Committee: AFET
Amendment 21 #

2018/2159(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
- having regard to its recommendation of 15 November 2017 to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the Eastern Partnership, in the run-up to the November 2017Summit1a, _________________ 1a P8_TA(2017)0440
2019/01/11
Committee: AFET
Amendment 39 #

2018/2159(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas cooperation is necessary with regional organisations, such as the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe and its 1975 Helsinki Final Act, which among others stipulates the principles of the non-use of force, territorial integrity of states, equal rights and self-determination of peoples, play a key role in conflict prevention and mediation;
2019/01/11
Committee: AFET
Amendment 259 #

2018/2158(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
13. Underlines that Russia and the EU will remain key economic partners in the foreseeable future, but Nord Stream 2 reinforces EU dependency on Russian gas supplies, threatens the EU internal market and is not in line with EU energy policy, and therefore needs to be stopped;
2019/01/16
Committee: AFET
Amendment 281 #

2018/2158(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
15. Stresses the importance of continued political and financial support for civil society activists, human rights defenders, bloggers, independent media, investigative journalists, outspoken academics and public figures, and NGOs; calls on the Commission to programme more ambitious financial assistance to Russian civil society from the existing and future external financial instruments;
2019/01/16
Committee: AFET
Amendment 322 #

2018/2158(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
18. Believes that the EU should stand ready to consider adopting further sanctions, including targeted personal sanctions, in response to Russia’s continued actionsdisruptive actions to the international public order;
2019/01/16
Committee: AFET
Amendment 340 #

2018/2158(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
19. CStrongly calls for a European version of the Magnitsky Act;
2019/01/16
Committee: AFET
Amendment 350 #

2018/2158(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Reiterates its call to appoint an EU Special Envoy for Crimea and the Donbas region, whose responsibility would also cover the Sea of Azov;
2019/01/16
Committee: AFET
Amendment 2 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
- having regard to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 5 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A
A. whereas the situation in Libya is highly fragile and the country is facing a number of complex, interrelated challenges regarding political stability, economic development, and security;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 9 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas EU action is showing result on the migration front taking into account that figures went down one third at the end of 2017 compared to 2016 and whereas for the early months of 2018 the figures are down 50 per cent compared with the numbers of the same period last year;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 12 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the EU should communicate more proactively on its diplomatic efforts and its large financial contribution to the consolidation of the security and socio-economic situation in Libya;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 14 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Bc. whereas the economy of Libya is characterized by an inflated public sector, a huge amount of subsidies and a flourishing black market, it is fully dependent on oil and gas revenue and whereas the control and distribution of Libya´s hydrocarbon wealth is a driving element of the conflict;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 15 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Bd. whereas daily life of ordinary Libyans is characterised by ever more difficult living circumstances, further complicated by a cash crisis, water cuts and frequent power outages and the health care system of the country is widely catastrophic;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 18 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B e (new)
Be. whereas the political climate in Libya is characterised by a deep mistrust between the main political and military actors from different regions;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 19 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B f (new)
Bf. where countries like Turkey, Qatar, Egypt and the UAE have a significant influence on various groups of the warring factions;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 20 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B g (new)
Bg. whereas Russia maintains contacts with many key actors in Libya but uncertainty about Russia's long term motives and interests in Libya persists;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 27 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D
D. whereas the Libyan Political Agreement and the UN Action Plan for Libya constitute currently the only viable framework for a solution to the crisis;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 54 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to intensify their diplomatic efforts to support and help consolidate the Libyan Government of National Accord in its efforts to create political consent, guarantee security and extend its authority to the whole territory of Libya, as the necessary precondition for state building and any peacekeeping operation; to ensure that the ownership of the stabilization process and the decision about the future form of state must be with the Libyans; and to ensure that the necessary country- wide reconciliation and an urgently needed compromise about the way forward for a united Libya be based on a realistic and frank analysis of the realities on the ground;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 57 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) to work for means to foster institution building, the build-up of a true civil society, as well jump-starting the economy, and move away from an overly stretched public service and foster sustainable private sector development, which are necessary to ensure long term stability and prosperity in the country;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 59 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b b (new)
(bb) to support Libyan efforts to work on a new constitutional order which should include a formula for the just distribution of oil wealth as well as a clear division of task and obligations of the historic regions on the one side and an eventual national government on the other side; to recall that such a new constitution, which in part could be inspired by elements of the amended 1963 constitution, would help efforts to reach country-wide elections which should be held only once the necessary conditions are truly met to ensure a high turnout and public acceptance;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 60 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) to further reflect on and discussprioritize within the EU institutions how to better to address all aspects of the Libyan conflict, including bywhich tools and instruments to involve in these efforts and in which sectors to engage, in addition to devoting greater attention to local dynamics, and to show unity of purpose and initiative among all institutions and the Member States in order to ensure coherence of the measures by all actors involved;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 66 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) to enhance its presence, visibility and understanding of the complexity of the situation in the country by re- establishing the EU delegation in Tripoli and by returning permanent EU staff to the delegation;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 69 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) to continue to emphasise that there can be no military solution to the Libyan crisis and to reaffirm the need for all parties and armed groups in Libya to refrain from violent rhetoric and from the use of violence, and to demobilise and commit to a peaceful solution to the conflict, thus avoiding further damage and loss of life; considers that negotiations should serve tosupporting the objectives of disarming, demobilising, and reintegrating members of armed groups into the society, while unifying the Libyan security forces from all regions in order to build a civilian- controlled national security architecture, and under the Government of National Accord; considers that negotiations should lead to the signing of a protocol that commits all armed groups to renouncing the use of force and violence, and the withdrawal of all heavy weapons from the cities; believes that the signing of such a protocol should bring about economic and financial incentives and prompt the signatories to work towards building the new institutions of state;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 74 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(d a) to intensify diplomatic efforts with all local actors in order to work for a number of regional ceasefires, which ideally will be culminating in a country- wide ceasefire, which is the precondition for any successful stabilisation efforts;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 83 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
(e) to intensify cooperation with all international organisations and other actors on the ground in order to strengthen the coherence of international action; to step up diplomatic efforts with all regional actors and neighbouring countries, especially Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt as well as with Turkey, Qatar and the UAE, to ensure they contribute to a positive solution to the crisis in Libya in line with the UN Action Plan – the only possible framework for a solution to the crisis;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 89 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) to reflect on the crisis in Libya in a wider, regional and pan-African context, bearing in mind that Libya is key to the stability of North Africa and the Sahel; to consider, as part of this reflection, the impact of the situation in Libya on the dynamics and challenges with which the EU is confronted; to develop a comprehensive policy towards Libya which takes into account the regional and pan-African perspective and encompasses development policies, migration policies, the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, security, the fight against terrorism and countering violent extremism; to ensure that this policy is backed by adequate and sufficient funding for its implementation, including the next Multiannual Financial Framework, in order to yield concrete results;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 98 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) to ensure that EU funds are effectively deployed in projects that help the Libyan population and civil society and that adequate support is provided to municipalities in their provision of essential services and in building local governance, so as to ensure basic living standards for the population; to increase humanitarian support to all parts of the country, in particular regarding health care; to support the construction and maintenance of power plants and the country´s power grid, to ensure coordination between central authorities and local municipalities in order to identify the priorities to invest in; to promote projects that foster locally embedded dialogue and conflict-resolution mechanisms, involving young people in particular; to ensure the money under the EU Emergency Trust Fund is only granted when accompanied by a sound analysis of local authorities and recipients;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 118 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i a (new)
(ia) to accelerate efforts regarding the UNHCR emergency evacuation mechanism funded by the EU that has allowed around 1000 most vulnerable refugees in need of protection to be evacuated from Libya; encourage the Libyan counterparts to expand the current number of nationalities which Libya currently allows UNHCR to work with;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 119 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i b (new)
(ib) to continue its support for voluntary returns of Africans from Libya to their home countries, conducted by IOM and funded by the EU, and to work with Libyan counterparts on the issue of exit visas that are one of the barriers in realisation of such voluntary departure/returns of migrants;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 120 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) to address the issue of migration in Libya, bearing in mind the need to find long-term, effective and viable solutions, which should include addressing the root causes of migration in Africa and establishing legal channels of migration to Europe; to promote in the international community the need to take appropriate measures to resolve the multifaceted development and security challenges of Libya and the Sahelo-Saharan region, including effective means to counter the trafficking of human beings and smuggling of migrants;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 131 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
(ja) to further develop its efforts against all acts of people smuggling and human trafficking into, through and from the Libyan territory and off the coast of Libya which undermines the process of stabilisation of Libya and endangers the lives of thousands of people; in that sense to ensure continuity of EU contribution to countering these problems by assisting Libyan counterparts in building the long- needed capacity to secure its land and sea borders and engaging with the Libyan authorities to put in place a comprehensive border management strategy;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 136 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j b (new)
(j b) to support engagement with Libyan coastguard which allowed nearly 19 thousand migrants to be rescued in Libyan territorial waters between January and the end of October 2017; to assist the Libyan authorities in notifying formally their Search and Rescue (SAR) area, to put in place a set of clear standard operating procedures for disembarkation and to ensure a functioning monitoring system of the Libyan coast guard; to further engage with Libyan authorities to step up preparatory works on a maritime rescue coordination centre in Libya with the aim to enhance their search and rescue capacity; to ensure continuation of specialised training provided by IOM and UNHCR to the Libyan Coast Guard on the international protection, refugee law and human rights;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 147 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) to investigate thoroughly the allegations about abuses and inhuman treatment of migrants and refugees in Libya by criminal groups; to devise initiatives to prevent any such incidents from occurring in the future and to close as soon as possible those facilities which are found not to be in line with international standards or where appropriate to convert them into reception centres or safe spaces; to ensure that migrants are treated in a manner accordant with the relevant international human rights instruments and to allocate the necessary funding from the EU budget; to ensure that the EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) in Libya is actively contributing to developing the capacities of the Libyan authorities, notably the Libyan Coast Guard, in line with the highest standards of international law; EUBAM should also provide support to the authorities on issues such as a comprehensive border management strategy, the engagement with neighbouring countries; to help Libyan authorities to strengthen protection of its southern borders and to continue successful cooperation with Niger which has already allowed the flows coming into Libya from Niger to be reduced significantly;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 158 #

2018/2017(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) to investigate allegations of migrant smuggling and to intensify efforts to combat this crime and bring the perpetrators to justice; to continue and intensify the work of EUNAVFOR Med in order to prevent the loss of life at sea and, to fight against smuggling as well as to work towards the implementation of the UN arms embargo on the high seas off the cost of Libya;
2018/03/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 327 #

2018/0248(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Each Member State shall ensure, in partnership with local and regional authorities, meaningful participation of social civil society organisations, national human rights institutions and other relevant organisations in the programming, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of policies and initiatives supported by the AMF strand under shared management with regards to all the objectives of the fund enlisted in Art 3.
2018/12/12
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 384 #

2018/0248(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 6
6. The thematic facility shall in particular, support actions falling under the implementation measure 2(b) of Annex II that are implemented by the local and regional authorities or civil society organisations. In that regard, a minimum of 7% of the financial envelope of the thematic facility shall be granted under direct or indirect management to local and regional authorities or civil society organisations implementing integration and reception actions.
2018/12/12
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 71 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
(2) Those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforccultivated, protected and sharpromoted among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the EU project. Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the EU budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism and divisions, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law. It is also crucial to create an enabling environment for peaceful democratic dialogue between representatives of different views. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As part of the new Fund, the Justice Programme will continue to support the further development of Union area of justice and cross-border cooperation. The Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Programme Rights, Equality and Citizenship established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149, (hereafter ‘the predecessor Programmes’) and it will be adjusted to address new challenges to European values. __________________ 8 Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme for the period 2014 to 2020 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62) 9 Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of 14 April 2014 establishing the ‘Europe for Citizens’ programme for the period 2014- 2020 (OJ L 115, 17.4.2014, p.3)
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 78 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
(3) The Justice, Rights and Values Fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities, which contribute to make our common values, rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes a vibrant, resilient and empowered civil society, encouragingwhich fosters people’s democratic, civic and social participation and fosteringcultivates the rich diversity of European society, based on our common values, history and memory. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union further specifies that the institutions shall maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall, by appropriate means, give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 82 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
(4) The Rights and Values programme (the ‘Programme’) should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field. That should be achieved byddress the most important challenges to the promotion and protection of values, taking into account that the challenges may vary across the Union. To ensure concrete impact, the Programme should building on the positive experiencelessons of the predecessor Programmes. This will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies, to more effectively support the policy areas covered and toIt should also take advantage of synergies with other policies and programmes of the Union and of other actors. This will increase their effectiveness and efficiency and will increase their potential to reach people. To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies, their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor-made approaches.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 84 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 a (new)
(4a) Full respect and promotion of rule of law and democracy is a fundamental Union value. It is also the basic condition for building citizens’ trust in the Union as well as between Member States. Respect for the rule of law within the Union is a prerequisite for the protection of fundamental rights, as well as for upholding all rights and obligations deriving from the Treaties. This programme should therefore promote and safeguard fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law at local, regional, national and transnational levels.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 95 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
(6) Remembrance activities and critical reflection on Europe’s historical memory are necessaryimportant to make citizens aware of the common history and values, as the foundation for a common future, moral purpose and shared values. The relevance of historical, cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account, as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a European identity and sense of belonging together.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 115 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
(18) Independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of the Union’s common values under Article 2 TEU, and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law, including the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU. As reflected in the European Parliament Resolution of 189 April 2018, adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively. Complementing efforts at national level, EU funding should therefore contribute to support, empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of humanUnion values such as democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights, whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under EU law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, including through advocacy and watchdog activities, as well as to promote, safeguard and raise awareness of the Union’s common values at national level.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 119 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
(20) TIn relation to the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting equality and rights, citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union, and combating violence against groups at risk, the Programme should be open, subject to certain conditions, to the participation of European Free Trade Association (EFTA) members which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) and EFTA members which are not members of the EEA and other European countries. Acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidate countries benefiting from a pre- accession strategy should also be able to participate in the Programme.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 120 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
(21) In order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, it is necessary to ensure the European added value of all actions carried out, their complementarity to Member States’ actions, while consistency, complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund — and thus with the Justice Programme — as well as with Creative Europe programme, and Erasmus+ to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture, media, arts, education and creativity. It is necessary to create synergies with other European funding programmes, in particular in the fields of employment, internal market, enterprise, youth, health, citizenship, justice, migration, security, research, innovation, technology, industry, cohesion, tourism, external relations, trade and developmentincluding on local, national and international levels, directed at promoting and safeguarding the values enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union. The Commission should seek consistency, synergies and complementarity with Member States’ actions and with other funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to Justice, Rights and Values Fund, including with Creative Europe programme, and Erasmus+, as well as with relevant policies of the Union.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 122 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
(23) Regulation (EU, Euratom) No [the new FR] (the ‘Financial Regulation’) applies to this Programme. It lays down rules on the implementation of the Union budget, including the rules on grants, prizes, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees. It is necessary to ensure that the Programme’s grant-making procedures and requirements are user- friendly for potential beneficiaries, including for local grassroot civil society organisations, and that they ensure full transparency on the use of resources, sound financial management and prudent use of resources.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 123 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
(24) The types of financing and the methods of implementation under this Regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, for the Commission and the beneficiaries, the capacity of potential beneficiaries and the expected risk of non- compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates and, unit costs, financial support for third parties, as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation. Co- funding should be accepted in kind, including in form of voluntary work, and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding. In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council24. In accordance with the Financial Regulation, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. __________________ 20 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999,(OJ L248, 18.9.2013, p. 1. 21 Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95 of 18 December 1995 on the protection of the European Communities financial interests (OJ L 312, 23.12.95, p.1). 22 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L292.15.11.96, p.2). 23 Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L283, 31.10.2017, p.1). 24 Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2017 on the fight against fraud to the Union’s financial interests by means of criminal law (OJ L 198, 28.7.2017, p. 29).
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 124 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24 a (new)
(24a) In order to increase accessibility and provide guidance and practical information in relation to the Programme, contact points should be set up in Member States to provide assistance to both beneficiaries and applicants.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 125 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
(25) TIn relation to the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting equality and rights, citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union, and combating violence against groups at risk, third countries which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) may participate in Union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the EEA agreement, which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement. Third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments. A specific provision should be introduced in this Regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) as well as the European Court of Auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 130 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. The general objective of the Programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the EU Treaties, including particular by supporting civil society organisations at local, national and transnational levels, in order to sustain open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 133 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
(aa) to promote and protect democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights on local, national and transnational levels (Union values strand).
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 144 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) promoting equality as a universal fundamental right and a core value of the Union;
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 157 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 a (new)
Article 5a Union values strand The programme shall focus on protecting and promoting democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights by providing financial support for independent civil society organisations which cultivate these values at local, national and transnational levels, creating enabling environment for democratic dialogue between representatives of different views, and protecting and promoting fundamental rights, including strengthening freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, media freedom, and pluralism of the media, academic freedom, freedom of religion or belief and the right to privacy and family life, all by supporting, empowering and building the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of values referred to in Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 166 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. No less than 65% of funds referred to in points (a) and (b) of paragraph 2 of this Article shall be allocated to action grants, operating grants and core funding for civil society organisations.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 168 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2
2. The Programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the Financial Regulation, which shall ensure sound financial management, prudent use of public funds, low administrative burden for the Programme operator and for beneficiaries as well as accessibility of the Programme funds to potential beneficiaries. The Programme shall provide funding primarily through action grants, annual and multiannual operating grants and core funding. It may use lump sums, unit costs, flat rates and financial assistance for third parties. Co- funding shall be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 170 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 a (new)
Article 9a Activities eligible for funding The general and specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2 shall be pursued in particular through support to the following activities carried out by one or several eligible entities: (a) awareness raising, public education, promotion and dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of the policies, principles and rights in the areas covered by the Programme and its objectives; (b) analytical monitoring, reporting and advocacy activities to improve the understanding of the situation in the Member States and at Union level in the areas covered by the Programme as well as to improve the proper transposition and implementation of Union law, policies and common Union values within Member States, such activities to include for instance the collection of data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, where appropriate, indicators or benchmarks; studies, researches, analyses and surveys; evaluations; impact assessment; and the elaboration and publication of guides, reports and educational material; (c) training relevant stakeholders to improve their knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered by the Programme and strengthening relevant stakeholders’ capability to advocate for the policies and rights in the fields covered by the Programme; (d) promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the protection of personal data, privacy, and digital security, as well as addressing targeted misinformation through awareness raising, trainings, studies and monitoring activities; (e) strengthening citizens’ awareness of European culture, history, core values and remembrance as well as their sense of solidarity and belonging to the Union; (f) bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities and projects; (g) encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as raising awareness, promoting and defending rights and values through support to civil society organisations; (h) financing the technical and organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU)No 211/2011], thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives; (i) supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme at all levels, as well as developing the capacity of European networks and civil society organisations to contribute to the development, awareness raising and monitoring of the implementation of Union law, policy goals, values and strategies; (j) strengthening the capacity and independence of human rights defenders and civil society organisations monitoring the situation of the rule of law and supporting actions on the local, regional and national levels; (k) supporting initiatives and measures to promote and protect freedom and pluralism of the media and to build capacity for new challenges such as new media and countering hate speech; (l) support and build capacity for civil society organisations active in promoting and monitoring transparency and integrity of public administration and fighting corruption; (m) supporting civil society organisations active in the area of protection and promotion of fundamental rights, including support for actions to raise awareness of fundamental rights and contribute to human rights education; (o) supporting activities aimed at promoting peaceful democratic dialogue between people of different political views.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 173 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 a (new)
Article 18a Programme Contact Points The Commission shall set up contact points in all Member States in cooperation with local partners or the Member State in question. The contact points shall provide stakeholders and beneficiaries of the Programme with impartial guidance and practical information and assistance in relation to all aspects of the Programme, including in relation to the application procedure, project implementation procedures, reporting and other formalities. The contact points may be managed by Member States or civil society organisations or consortia thereof.
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 175 #

2018/0207(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Annex I
Activities of the Programme The specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2(2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following activities: (a) of information to improve the knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the Programme; (b) of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding and civic and democratic engagement; (c) activities31 to improve the understanding of the situation in the Member States and at EU level in the areas covered by the Programme as well as to improve the implementation of EU law and policies ; (d) improve their knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered; (e) Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance; (f) of European culture, history and remembrance as well as their sense of belonging to the Union; (g) different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities; (h) participation in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as awareness of rights and values through support to civil society orgadeleted awareness raising, dissemination mutual learning through exchange analytical and monitoring training relevant stakeholders to information and Communiscations (i) organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU)No 211/2011], thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives; (j) European networks to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme. (k) programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen outreach, including by setting up and supporting programme desks/national contact network. __________________ 31 These activities include for instance the collection of data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, wher strengthening citizens’ awareness bringing together Europeans of encouraging and facilitating active financing the technical and developing the cappropriate, indicators or benchmarks; studies, researches, analyses and surveys; evaluations; impact assessment; the elaboration and publication of guides, reports and educational material.acity of enhancing knowledge of the
2018/10/30
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 65 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates the fact that the EU’s position on Georgia’s constitutional reform coincides with the Venice Commission’s overall positive assessment; regrets the postponement of the implementation of a fully proportional electoral system until 2024 and in that regard calls upon political dialogue among main stakeholders to find an intermediary solution for the 2020 parliamentary elections; reiterates its readiness to observe future elections in Georgia and to assist the Georgian authorities in following up on and implementing the recommendations that will be presented;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 75 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Supports efforts of the Parliament of Georgia to strengthen parliamentary oversight and urges to put in place more rigorous mechanisms of active scrutiny of the executive, including ability of the members of the Parliament to ask questions to ministers and Prime Minister on regular basis and thus account publicly for their decisions;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 89 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 105 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 d (new)
8d. Welcomes Georgia´s participation in civil and military crisis management operations under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP);
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 130 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the progress of the judicial reform; calls for more transparency of the judicial system and for further improvements to its independenceTakes note of the ongoing judicial reform and urges to address longstanding unresolved issues related to e.g. appointment and selection procedures of judges and presidents of courts; calls for more transparency of the judicial system and for further improvements to its independence and accountability; recalls the importance of an effective and unbiased judiciary free of cases of selective justice as an upmost relevant indicator of a genuine consolidated democracy;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 147 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes the establishment of a Human Rights Department within the Ministry of Internal Affairs; cCalls on the Georgian authorities to further operationalise the country’s human rights coordination mechanism and strengthen its cooperation in multilateral fora; underscores the need for Georgia to ensure a safe and secure environment for human rights defenders residing within its territory; in this regard refers to the European Parliament resolution of 15 June 2017 on the case of Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Mukhtarli (2017/1722 (RS)) and expresses concern over the lack of progress in the investigation of his abduction from Tbilisi; calls upon the Georgian Government to ensure prompt conclusion of the investigation;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 149 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Urges the Georgian authorities to implement without delay the judgement of the European Court of Human Rights Grand Chamber in relation to the former Prime Minister Vano Merabishvili. Reminds that Mr Merabishvili remains the only individual in relation to whom breach of Article 18 of the European Convention of Human Rights has been established but still remains in custody;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 182 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
20. Recalls the importance of free and independent mass media and a pluralistic media environment as key democratic principles; recalls the long-running dispute over ownership of opposition Rustavi 2 TV channel and the ECtHR ruling of 3 March 2017 to suspend the enforcement of Georgia´s Supreme Court’s decision regarding its ownership; notes with satisfaction the improvements in Georgia ranking as reflected in the 2018 World Press Freedom Index established by Reporters Without Borders; stresses that Reporters Without Borders consider Georgia´s media pluralist but still very polarized and not yet independent;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 203 #

2017/2282(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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 progress in DCFTA implementation;
2018/09/12
Committee: AFET
Amendment 57 #

2017/2131(INL)

Motion for a resolution
Annex I – point 10
(10) In recent years the Hungarian Government has extensively used national consultations. On 27 April 2017, the Commission pointed out that the national consultation “Let’s stop Brussels” contained several claims and allegations which were factually incorrect or highly misleading. Nevertheless, the Hungarian Government subsequently continued to have recourse to similar consultations, such as in the case of the so-called “Soros plan” national consultation based again on false statements targeting particularly the person of George Soros and the EU, and inducing hatred towards migrants.
2018/05/17
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 110 #

2017/2131(INL)

Motion for a resolution
Annex I – point 23 a (new)
(23a) In its 2017 report on press freedom the Freedom House raised serious concerns about the freedom of the press in Hungary. This is due to independent media being extorted from the market, partly through acquisition of regional newspapers by government-affiliated owners and creation of government friendly private outlets, as well as selective awarding of advertising contracts by government and state-owned companies, which results in depriving independent media outlets from income. The limited advertisement market and extensive government spending on social advertising encourages media to avoid controversial subjects to maintain good relations with public and private advertisers.
2018/06/25
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 111 #

2017/2131(INL)

Motion for a resolution
Annex I – point 23 b (new)
(23b) Both the Freedom House in its report of 2017 as well as Mertek Media Monitor observe that the government also seeks to control the media through selective allocation of radio broadcasting frequencies. This together with exerting their influence over public broadcasters and raising the profile of friendly private outlets deprives independent media from having a fair access to the market.
2018/06/25
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 116 #

2017/2131(INL)

Motion for a resolution
Annex I – point 25
(25) On 18 October 2012, the Venice (25) Commission adopted its Opinion on Act CXII of 2011 on Informational Self- Determination and Freedom of Information of Hungary. Despite the overall positive assessment, the Venice Commission identified the need for further improvements. However, following subsequent amendments to that law, the right to access government information has been significantly restricted further. Those amendments were criticised in the analysis commissioned by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media in March 2016. Furthermore, in the report from the mission to assess the pre-election environment and the preparations for the elections, undertaken from 29 January to 1 February 2018, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights noted that the 2016 amendments to the Freedom of Information Act brought restrictive changes, including the introduction of high fees for the expenses associated with managing information requests, and new grounds for refusing to respond to requests.
2018/06/25
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 144 #

2017/2131(INL)

Motion for a resolution
Annex I – point 34
(34) On 9 July 2014, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights indicated in his letter to the Hungarian authorities that he was concerned about the stigmatising rhetoric used by politicians questioning the legitimacy of NGO work in the context of audits which had been carried out by the Hungarian Government Control Office concerning NGOs which were operators and beneficiaries of the Norwegian Civil Fund. On 8-16 February 2016, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders visited Hungary and indicated in his report that significant challenges stem from the existing legal framework governing the exercise of fundamental freedoms, such as the rights to freedoms of opinion and expression, and of peaceful assembly and of association, and that legislation pertaining to national security and migration may also have a restrictive impact on the civil society environment.
2018/06/25
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 161 #

2017/2131(INL)

Motion for a resolution
Annex I – point 38
(38) In February 2018, a legislative package consisting of three draft laws, also known as the “Stop-Soros Package” (T/19776, T/19775, T/19774), was presented by the Hungarian Government. On 14 February 2018, the President of the Conference of INGOs of the Council of Europe and President of the Expert Council on NGO Law made a statement indicating that the package does not comply with the freedom of association, particularly for NGOs which deal with migrants. On 15 February 2018, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights expressed similar concerns. In its concluding observations of 5 April 2018, the UN Human Rights Committee expressed concerns that by alluding to the “survival of the nation” and protection of citizens and culture, and by linking the work of NGOs to an alleged international conspiracy, the legislative package would stigmatise NGOs and curb their ability to carry out their important activities in support of human rights and, in particular, the rights of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. It was further concerned that imposing restrictions on foreign funding directed to NGOs might be used to apply illegitimate pressure on them and to unjustifiably interfere with their activities. The legislative package will deprive NGOs of legal remedy to appeal against arbitrary decisions.
2018/06/25
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 124 #

2017/2130(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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 sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, fundamental human rights, equal rights and the right of peoples to self-determination and political, social and economic development of the partners and of the region as a whole;
2017/09/19
Committee: AFET
Amendment 152 #

2017/2130(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point r
(r) to call for anon the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides to immediate end ly stop military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan 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 countriesprinciples and commitments of the 1975 Helsinky Final Act 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; to make the ratification of new agreements between the EU and each of the parties conditional on meaningful commitments to solving the conflict through maintaining the ceasefire and supporting the implementation of the 2009 Basic Principl, supporting Minsk Group Co-chairs' proposals based on the principles of territorial integrity, equal rights and self-determination of peoples and non-use of force or threat of force and implementing ceasefire investigative mechanism; to call on the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijani to commit to genuine confidence -building and to dialogue between Armenian and Azerbaijani civil societies;
2017/09/19
Committee: AFET
Amendment 488 #

2017/2125(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Reiterates that beside the crucial fight against the rhetoric of hatred and fear, the European Union must also make more dedicated political efforts and ensure sufficient resources in order to counteract disinformation and propaganda against it by third parties. Stresses that purposeful dissemination of false information about the EU, rule of law and fundamental rights represents an immense threat to the EU´s democratic values and its unity.
2017/11/20
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 42 #

2017/2068(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Ba. The spreading of fake news and half-truths by actors from third countries, in particular the Russian Federation, is an ever growing threat in the Member States, for example in the form of interference in the conduct of democratic elections; in this context, calls on the European Commission and the EEAS to enhance its strategic communication and, inter alia, to significantly strengthen the East StratCom Task Force, both financially and in terms of staff;
2017/06/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 52 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 64 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 81 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) to provide for regular and in-depth dialogue, notably on politicalpushing for solid reforms aimed at bolstering institutions, such as the judiciary in order to make them more democratic and independent, onwith a strong focus on the judiciary, upholding of human rights, and onprotecting investigative journalism, fostering a strong civil society and ensuring its involvement in the reform process; to include in the new agreement regular reporting mechanisms on the status of the above- mentioned reforms;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 128 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k r (new)
(kr) to ensure that Azerbaijani authorities immediately cease the practice of positioning military equipment in the civilian areas and thus endangering its own civilian population living in close vicinity to the conflict zone;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 148 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 160 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n
(n) to put in place specific proviclosely monitor and evaluate, before any agreement is in place, Azerbaijan´s progress in fighting corruption, money laundering and tax evasions; to support Azerbaijan in fighting corruption, money laundering and tax evasiontake into account and push for the investigation of all recent disclosures related to the Azeri Laundromat, a money-laundering operation which, according to OCCRP, handled $2.9 billion over a two-year period, between 2012 and 2014, through four shell companies registered in the United Kingdom, as well as for the investigation of the findings related to Azerbaijan in the PANA fact finding EP mission’s report in Malta; to be aware that there is evidence revealing government ministries as the direct source of some of this money, as well as strong connections to high-ranking Azeri officials;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 171 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 196 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 216 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 231 #

2017/2056(INI)

Motion for a resolution
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;
2018/04/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 10 #

2017/2052(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the importance of the different EU funds and highlights that actions in the field of security and migration should not only be covered by dedicated, yet limited, instruments, such as the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) or the Internal Security Fund (ISF), but should also be included by design in more generic future instruments such as the European Social Fund (ESF), the Cohesion Fund or Security Union Fund (corresponding to the European Agenda on Security); recommends that all Justice and Home Affairs (JHA) agencies should have access to these funds to strengthen their operational capabilities; considers it necessary that all ESI Funds be continued post-2020, and stresses that certain funds, such as the ESF, should significantly address the issue of programmes for combating radicalisation, marginalisation, hate crime and xenophobia;, as well as the purposeful dissemination of disinformation that undermines and attacks the rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights in Member States and EU itself.
2017/11/23
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 17 #

2017/2052(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights that increased funding is needed for an effective European response to modern challenges and to tackle Europe’s new priorities, which are reflected in the EU Global Strategy and the renewed European Neighbourhood policy, including development aid, human rights violations, bad governance, security threats, andlong with new hybrid threats such as purposeful dissemination of false information, armed conflicts, and natural disasters and climate change as well as the refugee and migratory challenges caused by some of these issues;
2017/12/05
Committee: AFET
Amendment 27 #

2017/2052(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 – introductory part
6. Stresses the importance played by the JHA agencies and newly created Union bodies as part of the Security Union Agenda, as well as the significant role they play in countering trans-border crime, fraud and money laundering; calls for the allocation of appropriate resources for their operations and activities, so as to the agencies´ cooperation with CSDP missions:
2017/11/23
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 47 #

2017/2052(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Stresses the importance of fight against purposeful dissemination of disinformation with regard to the protection of fundamental democratic principles, values and the unity of the EU. In this regard calls for the allocation of sufficient financial resources to this course.
2017/11/23
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 60 #

2017/2052(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the importance of strengthened support for the rule of law, democracy and human rights as a cross- cutting issue in EU instruments in view of ongoing developments in the European Neighbourhood and beyond; stresses that the dangerous rise of populism, the current global attack on human rights’ values and new hybrid threats are challenges which require a new, innovative approach.
2017/12/05
Committee: AFET
Amendment 24 #

2017/0242(COD)

Proposal for a decision
Recital 16
(16) A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance should be that Georgia respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system exerting an effective oversight of the executive – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights. The assistance should be conditional upon a strong commitment and concrete measures to ensure an independent and impartial judiciary and to sustain the conditions for a pluralistic and free media environment. In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Georgia, and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, employment creation and fiscal consolidation. Both the fulfilment of the preconditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission and the European External Action Service throughout the life-cycle of the macro-financial assistance. The Commission should provide a publicly available assessment on the fulfilment of the pre-conditions clearly indicating the benchmarks used.
2017/12/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 44 #

2017/0242(COD)

Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be that Georgia respects effective democratic mechanisms, including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, andexerting an effective oversight of the executive, and the rule of law, the independence of judiciary, pluralistic and free media environment, and that it guarantees respect for human rights.
2017/12/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 50 #

2017/0242(COD)

Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission, in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 7(2), shall agree with the Georgian authorities on clearly defined economic policy and financial conditions, focusing on structural reforms and sound public finances, to which the Union’s macro- financial assistance is to be subject, as well as democracy and the rule of law related conditions, such as measures for strengthening the independence of judiciary and pluralistic and free media environment, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding (the "Memorandum of Understanding”) which shall include a timeframe for the fulfilment of those conditions. The economic policy and financial conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding shall be consistent with the agreements or understandings referred to in Article 1(3), including the macroeconomic adjustment and structural reform programmes implemented by Georgia with the support of the IMF.
2017/12/08
Committee: AFET
Amendment 24 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
(3) Increased digitisation and connectivity lead to increased cybersecurity risks, thus making society at large more vulnerable to cyber threats and exacerbating dangers faced by individuals, including vulnerable persons such as children. Moreover, the increasingly frequent conduct of malicious cyber operations by third-country actors, both non-state actors and governments, threatens to disrupt democratic processes and to destabilize democratic societies across Europe. In order to mitigate thisese risks to society, all necessary actions need to be taken to improve cybersecurity in the EU to better protect network and information systems, telecommunication networks, digital products, services and devices used by citizens, governments and business – from SMEs to operators of critical infrastructures – from cyber threats.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 30 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
(5) In light of the increased cybersecurity challenges faced by the Union, there is a need for a comprehensive set of measures that would build on previous Union action and foster mutually reinforcing objectives. These include the need to further increase capabilities and preparedness of Member States and businesses, as well as to improve cooperation and coordination across Member States and EU institutions, agencies and bodies. Furthermore, given the borderless nature of cyber threats, there is a need to increase capabilities at Union level that could complement the action of Member States, in particular in the case of large scale cross-border cyber incidents and crises. Additional efforts are also needed to increase awareness of citizens and businesses on cybersecurity issues. Moreover, the trust in the digital single market should be further improved by offering transparent information on the level of privacy and security of ICT products and services. This can be facilitated by EU- wide certification providing common cybersecurity requirements and evaluation criteria across national markets and sectors can contribute to this objective. However, voluntary measures implemented by the private sector, inter alia by IoT operators and service providers, should also be encouraged.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 42 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
(28) The Agency should contribute towards raising the awareness of the public about risks related to cybersecurity and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations. To improve the overall level of preparedness and resilience, the Agency should also contribute to promote best practices and solutions at the level of individuals and organisations by collecting and analysing publicly available information regarding significant incidents, and by compiling reports with a view to providing guidance to businesses and, citizens and improving the overall level of preparedness and resiliencerelevant authorities at European and national level. The Agency should furthermore organise, in cooperation with the Member States and the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies regular outreach and public education campaigns directed to end-users, aiming at. These campaigns should promotinge safer individual online behaviour and raisinge awareness of potential threats in cyberspace, including cybercrimes such as phishing attacks, botnets, financial and banking fraud, as well as promoting basic authentication and data protection adviceforgery and illegal content, as well as advocate data protection and basic authentication to prevent data and identity theft. The Agency should play a central role in accelerating end-user awareness on security of devices.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 44 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28 a (new)
(28a) The Agency should raise the awareness of the public about risks of data fraud incidents and thefts that may seriously affect the fundamental rights of individuals, pose threat to the rule of law and endanger the stability of democratic societies including democratic processes in the Member States.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 48 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
(35) The Agency should encourage Member States and, hardware and software producers as well as service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal cybersecurity. In particular, service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recyclensure that the products and services that do nothey place on the market meet cybersecurity standards. In cooperation with competent authorities, ENISA may disseminate information regarding the level of cybersecurity of the products and services offered in the internal market, and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the security, including cybersecurity, of their products and services.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 49 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37
(37) Cybersecurity problemthreats are a global issues. There is a need for cchallenge. Closer international cooperation to improveis needed to mitigate these threats, in particular as regards information sharing and the development of common security standards, including the definition of common norms of behaviour, and information sharing, promoting swifter international collaboration in response to, as well as a common global approach to, network and information security issues. Furthermore, international collaboration in response to network and information security issues should be accelerated and a global approach on these issues promoted. To that end, the Agency should support further Union involvement and cooperation with third countries and international organisations by providing, where appropriate, the necessary expertise and analysis to the relevant Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies..
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 54 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 55
(55) The purpose of European cybersecurity certification schemes should be to ensure that ICT products and services certified under such a scheme comply with specified requirements. Such requirements concern the ability to resist, at a given level of assurance, actions that aim to compromise the availability, authenticity, integrity and confidentiality of stored or transmitted or processed data or the related functions of or services offered by, or accessible via those products, processes, services and systems within the meaning of this Regulation. It is not possible to set out in detail in this Regulation the cybersecurity requirements relating to all ICT products and services. ICT products and services and related cybersecurity needs are so diverse, as is their lifecycle, that it is very difficult to come up with general cybersecurity requirements valid across the board. It is, therefore necessary to adopt a broad and general notion of cybersecurity for the purpose of certification, complemented by a set of specific cybersecurity objectives that need to be taken into account when designing European cybersecurity certification schemes. The modalities with which such objectives will be achieved in specific ICT products and services should then be further specified in detail at the level of the individual certification scheme adopted by the Commission, for example by reference to standards or technical specifications in close consultation with the Member States and industrial stakeholders, for example by reference to standards or technical specifications. The individual certification schemes should be designed in such a way that all actors involved in the development of relevant IT products and services are encouraged to develop and adopt standards, norms and principles which ensure the highest possible level of security throughout the lifecycle.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 63 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8
(8) ‘cyber threat’ means any potential circumstance, capability or event that may adversely impact network and information systems, their users and affected persons.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 71 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 6
6. The Agency shall promote the use of certification, including by contributing to the development of European and international standards on cybersecurity, the establishment and maintenance of a cybersecurity certification framework at Union level in accordance with Title III of this Regulation, with a view to increasing transparency of cybersecurity assurance of ICT products and services and thus strengthen trust in the digital internal market.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 84 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point a – point 1
(1) preparing candidate European cybersecurity certification schemes for ICT products and services in cooperation with industry in accordance with Article 44 of this Regulation;
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 86 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) pool, organise and make available to the public, through a dedicated portal, information on cybersecurity, provided by the Union institutions, agencies and bodies and made available by Member States and public and private stakeholders;
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 88 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
(ea) Create a network of national education points of contact to support better coordination and exchange of best practices among Member States on cybersecurity education and awareness.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 89 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point g
(g) organise, in cooperation with the Member States and Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencie, agencies and other relevant stakeholders regular outreach campaigns to increase cybersecurity and its visibility in the Union.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 98 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1
1. In order to facilitate the combating of fraud, corruption and other unlawful activities under Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council39 , the Agency shall, within six months from the day it becomes operational, accede to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 25 May, 1999 concerning internal investigations by the European Anti-fraud Office (OLAF) and shall adopt without delay the appropriate provisions applicable to all the employees of the Agency, using the template set out in the Annex to that Agreement. _________________ 39 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1).
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 99 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 2
2. The Court of Auditors shall have the power of audit, on the basis of documents and on the spot inspections, over all grant beneficiaries, contractors and subcontractors who have received Union funds from the Agency.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 101 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 1
1. Following a request from the Commission, ENISA shall prepare a candidate European cybersecurity certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in Articles 45, 46 and 47 of this Regulation. Member States or, the European Cybersecurity Certification Group (the ‘Group’) established under Article 53, or industry representatives may propose the preparation of a candidate European cybersecurity certification scheme to the Commission.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 121 #

2017/0225(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 6
6. Certificates shall be issued for a maximum period of three years and may be renewed, under the same conditions,determined on a case by case basis for each scheme and may be renewed provided that the relevant requirements continue to be met.
2018/02/09
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 4 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
- having regard to the signing of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention) by all Member States,
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 16 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas preventing violence by investing in awareness-raising campaigns, education, training of professionals is a crucial element in combating gender-based violence;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 17 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Cb. whereas the Istanbul Convention obliges the parties to prevent gender violence and stereotypes through addressing the role of the media;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 19 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D
D. whereas one of the most important security aspects of every society is the protection of the personal integrity and freedom of every individual; whereas the European Agenda on Security does notshould include the safeguarding of personal safety and the protection of all individuals from gender-based violence as ainto priorityies;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 30 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital G
G. whereas the Istanbul Convention signed on behalf of the EU, as well as by all Member States, stipulates that all of its provisions, in particular measures to protect the rights of victims, shall be secured without discrimination on any ground;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 81 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Commission to set up a European Registry System to collect information on EPOs from all Member States; in this regard encourages the Member States to play an active role in cooperation with the Commission;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 92 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses that victims of crime who have or would consider obtaining a national protection order need to be, preferably both orally and in writing informed and reminded of the possibility of requesting an EPO during criminal proceedings;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 126 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
21. Calls on the Commission to monitor the implementation of this directive and launch without delay infringement proceedings against all Member States that breach it;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 127 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to carry out a thorough examination of possible ways of improving EPO-related legislation and practical support in order to guarantee the rights to international protection and to assistance and support enjoyed by victims of violence protected at national level; welcomes the obligation laid down by Istanbul Convention to set up state-wide 24/7 telephone helplines free of charge to provide advice to callers in relation to all forms of violence covered by the scope of the Convention; encourages the Member States to use this tool in relevant cases as well to provide victims with information related to the EPO;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 130 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Acknowledges the existence of e- justice portal run by the Commission with contributions from Member States; welcomes the Commission’s initiative to extend the existing “victims´ corner” within the e-justice portal and to comprise all relevant information concerning victims´ rights; highlights the need to design "victims ‘corner" as easy to use practical tool and information source which should be available in all EU official languages;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 131 #

2016/2329(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22b. Encourages the Member States to put in place a user-friendly website dedicated to victims rights which would also include EPO and which could be easily accessible via e.g. the national justice information portals;
2017/12/13
Committee: LIBEFEMM
Amendment 68 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3 a (new)
(3 a) The ETIAS represents one of the priorities identified in the Bratislava Roadmap of 16 September 2016, signed and agreed by the 27 Heads of State and Government of the Union.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 69 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 a (new)
(5 a) The Commission together with the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and in cooperation with the Member States should attach high relevance to foreign policy aspects of the establishment of ETIAS and communicate its objectives to the governments of the third countries concerned in a timely and concise manner, emphasizing the fundamental political, legal and practical differences between visa obligation and travel authorisation.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 70 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 b (new)
(5 b) The Commission should launch communication campaigns in the relevant third countries in due time before the ETIAS Regulation enters into force so that travellers will be duly informed about the application process for ETIAS authorisation, the legal remedies available in the event of a refusal as well as about the positive aspects of enabling smooth and faster border crossing for travellers with prior travel authorisation.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 75 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
(16) To meet its objectives, the ETIAS should provide an online application form that the applicant should fill in with declarations relating to his or her identity, travel document, residence information, contact details, education and current occupation, his or her condition of family member to EU citizens or third country nationals benefiting from free movement not holding a residence card, if the applicant is minor, identity of the responsible person and answers to a set of background questions (whether or not the applicant is subject to any disease with epidemic potential as defined by the International Health Regulations of the World Health Organisation or other infectious or contagious parasitic diseases, criminal records, presence in war zones, decision to return to borders/orders to leave territory). Access to the applicants' health data should only be allowed to determine whether they represent a threat to public health.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 79 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17 a (new)
(17 a) ETIAS should provide application kiosks for applicants at the main departure air terminals and seaports and at major land border crossings.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 91 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 50 – indent 1
- to adopt a predetermined list of answers concerning the questions on the level and field of education, the current occupation and the job title to be indicated in the application for a travel authorisation,
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 93 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 50 – indent 3
- to amend the amount of the fee, to lay down the payment methods and process for the travel authorisation fee taking into account the technological developments and their availability and to amend the amount of the fee, in order not to hinder visa-free third country nationals who may not have access to certain payment means when applying for an ETIAS authorization,
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 98 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
(e a) irregular migration risk means the risk of a third country national not fulfilling the conditions of entry and stay as set out in Article 6 of Regulation (EU) 2016/399 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 99 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point e b (new)
(e b) security risk means a risk of a threat to public policy, internal security or international relations of any of the Member States;
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 102 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1
1. Applicants shall lodge an application by filling in the online application form via the dedicated public website or, via the mobile app for web devices or where applicable via application kiosks, sufficiently in advance of any intended travel.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 107 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – point h
(h) education (level and field);deleted
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 112 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 3
3. The applicant shall choose the level and field of education, the current occupation and the job title from a predetermined list. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 78 to lay down these predetermined lists.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 114 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 78 on the payment methods and process for the travel authorisation fee and on changes to the amount of that fee. The Commission shall take into account technological developments and their availability, in order not to hinder visa-free third country nationals who may not have access to certain payment means when applying for an ETIAS authorization.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 123 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 3
3. In any case, Europol shall not have access to the personal data concerning the education of the applicant as referred to in Article 15(2)(h) and the health of the applicant as referred to in Article 15(4)(a).
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 134 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 4 – point c
(c) education level;deleted
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 139 #

2016/0357(COD)

2. A travel authorisation shall be valid for fivthree years or until the end of validity of the travel document registered during application, whichever comes first, and shall be valid for the territory of the Member States.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 142 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 4
4. Consultation of the ETIAS Central System shall, in the event of a hit with data recorded in an application file, give access to the data referred to in Article 15(2)(a) to (g) and (j) to (m) as recorded in that application file as well as to data entered in that application file in respect of the issuing, refusal, revocation or annulment of a travel authorisation in accordance with Articles 33 and 37. Access to the data referred to in Article 15(2)(i) and in (4) (b) to (d) as recorded in the application file shall only be given if consultation of that data was explicitly requested by the operating units in the reasoned electronic request submitted under Article 44(1) and approved by the independent verification. Consultation of the ETIAS Central System shall not give access to data concerning the education as referred to in Article 15(2)(h) or on whether or not the applicant may pose a public health risk as referred to in Article 15(4)(a).
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 145 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 62 – paragraph 1
The Commission shall, in cooperation with the ETIAS Central Unit, and the Member States, accompanylaunch well in advance before the start of the ETIAS operation with an information campaign, to inform third country nationals falling within the scope of this Regulation of their travel authorisation requirement to be in possession of a valid travel authorisation for crossing the external borders.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 146 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 63 – paragraph 2
2. The infrastructures supporting the public website, the mobile app, the kiosks and the carrier gateway shall be hosted in eu-LISA' sites or in Commission sites. These infrastructures shall be geographically distributed to provide the functionalities laid down in this Regulation in accordance with the conditions of security, availability, quality and speed laid down in paragraph 3.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 147 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 64 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Following the entry into operations of the ETIAS, eu-LISA shall be responsible for the technical management of the Central System and the National Uniform Interfaces. It shall ensure, in cooperation with the Member States, at all times the best available technology, subject to a cost- benefit analysis. eu-LISA shall also be responsible for the technical management of the Communication Infrastructure between the Central system and the National Uniform Interfaces as well as for the public website, the mobile app for mobile devices, the kiosks, the email service, the secure account service, the carrier gateway, the web service and the software to process the applications referred to in Article 6.
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 151 #

2016/0357(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 73 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) education;deleted
2017/06/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 14 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
– having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran, in particular those of 10 March 2011 on the EU's approach towards Iran1[1], 17 November 2011 on Iran – recent cases of human rights violations, 14 June 2012 on situation of ethnic minorities in Iran, and of 3 April 2014 on the EU strategy towards Iran2 , __________________ 2 Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0339. Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0339.
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 18 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the EU Strategic Framework and Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy; having regard to the EU Annual reports on Human Rights,
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 20 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to its previous resolutions on EU Annual reports on Human Rights; having regard to its resolution of 8 October 2015 on death penalty,
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 55 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that EU-Iran relations should be developed through multi-layered dialogue involving political, technical and people-to-people contacts; supports the opening of EU-Iran relations for the mutual benefit of both parties, based on a realistic assessment of common interests and differences, with a view to encouraging step-by-step expansion of cooperation in a climate of confidence-buildingparticular attention to fundamental human rights, foremost for the benefit of the peoples of Iran and the EU; supports, in this regard, the Commission’s commitment to a renewed engagement with Iran based on ‘a dialogue of the four Cs’: a dialogue that is comprehensive in scope; cooperative in the fields where Iran and the EU have mutual interests; critical, open and frank in areas where Iran and the EU disagree but are looking for common ground; and that is overall constructive in tone and practice;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 74 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
4. Insists on the importance of developing the parliamentary dimension of EU-Iran relations as part of the strategy for re-establishing mutual trust; reiterates its support, in this regard, for the proposal discussed between Parliament and the Majlis for an inter- parliamentary dialogue on counter- terrorism; wWelcomes the renewed political dialogue between the EU and Iran, including on human rights; recognises that while there is suspicion and mistrust on both sides, there is also a long history between many Member States and Iran and that Iran has a strongthe ambition to have good relations with Europe, which provides the potential for a relationship based on mutual trust and respect; reiterates that the EU does not seek to interfere in internal political choices in this country or in any other, but seeks cooperation based on mutual respect for international standards and principles, human rights and rule of law; believes that the full normalisation of relations can only occur when the conditions laid down by Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) are fully met within the timeframe agreed and by means of regular and sustained dialogue and that the immediate priority should be to broaden the scope of EU-Iran relations in areas where there is common agreement to do so; believes, however, that the ultimate aim must be one of partnership between Iran and the EU; notes the proposal discussed between Parliament and Majlis for an inter-parliamentary dialogue on counter- terrorism;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 105 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
5. Recognises that differences exist between the EU and Iran on the use of the death penalty; nevertheless believes cooperation on anti-narcotics programmes andCondemns Iran on the continuous and frequent use of the death penalty, especially death penalty against juveniles; sees ending the application of death penalty as one of the core objectives, especially on the question of juvenile executions, in line with Iran's own commitments, could provide a common agenda for addressing this question;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 109 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
6. Takes note of the fact that eliminating the death penalty for drug- related offences wcould drastically reduce the number of executions (up to 80 % according to Iranian estimates); calls for EU-Iran cooperation in the fight against drugs as a way of addressing the issue of executions in the country; calls on the Commission to provide technical assistance and administrative capacity- building for Iran to enable it to secure its borders with Afghanistan and Iraq;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 124 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls for EU-Iran cooperation in the fight against drugs as one measure addressing the issue of executions related to drug offences in the country; calls on the Commission to provide technical assistance and administrative capacity- building for Iran to enable it to secure its borders with Afghanistan and Iraq;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 127 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the EEAS to explore the possibility of establishing an institutional framework for cooperation with Iran, such as a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) or a Framework Agreement.deleted
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 144 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
8. Takes note of Iran’s stated objective of achieving a yearly growth rate of 8 %; believes that European investments are key for Iran to achieve this goal; stresses that for Iran to realise its economic potential, it will have to take steps to create a transparent economic environment conducive to international investment and take anti-corruption measures, particularly regarding compliance with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force; calls on the EU to fully support Iran’s efforts in this process via, in particular, support for work towards forging a bilateral investment treaty between the EU and Iran; calls for the EU to develop economic cooperation with Ir, and to guarantee that financial flows to terrorists and terrorist groupings are prevented, detected and halted; calls on the EU to support Iran’s efforts in this process; calls for the EU to develop economic cooperation with Iran once the FATF has concluded after its twelve months review confirming that Iran would have had implemented the Action Plan; takes note that Iran is the world’s largest economy outside the WTO; supports, in this regard, Iran’s bid to join the WTO after it has been removed from the FATF black list;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 158 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Is worried about the extensive control of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps over the Iranian economy, urges the Commission to find mechanisms for EU companies to be able to verify before signing contracts with Iranian partners that the money will not be transferred to the war zones in the region;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 169 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
9. Recalls the impact that extraterritorial US sanctions, in particular US-related sanctions on banks, have on businesses willing to invest in Iran; insists on the need to address this and other financial matters in line with FATF recommendations to create the necessary conditions for businesses to prosper in Iran and contribute to Iranians feeling relief from sanctions in their everyday lives;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 254 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Takes note of the June 2016 U.S. State Department annual report on global terrorism listing Iran as the top state sponsor of terrorism;
2016/08/10
Committee: AFET
Amendment 256 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
20. Expresses concern about growing militarisation in the wider region and supports efforts towards greater arms control, while recognising legitimate defence concerns, but within a context of seeking to promote full respect for sovereignty of all countries in the region itself; leads attention to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) interferences in the region, particularly in supporting the Syrian regime; remains concerned about Iran's financial and arms support for Hezbollah;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 275 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
21. BelievNotes that the nuclear deal could opens the possibility for cooperation in resolving the region’s security crisis; believes that Iran can and should play a stabilisation role in the region; believes that the whole region can benefit from a normalisation of relations with Iran;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 301 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Believes that there can be no solution to conflicts in the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf region as long as there is an on-going military interference by various countries; calls therefore on Iran as a gesture of good will and building confidence to withdraw all its military forces particularly from Syria and Iraq to let the people of those countries to have a chance to find long term solutions;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 319 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes Iran’s readiness to support the current efforts to bring stability to Iraq, this should include withdrawing its military forces from Iraq, and calls for additional efforts to bring all the militias operating in the country under the authority of the Iraqi army; welcomes Iran’s contribution to the fight against ISIS/Da’esh; notes the agreement between Iran and Australia to share intelligence on the fight against ISIS/Da’esh;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 332 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
25. Believes that regional rivalries are an underlying factor in conflicts in several countries in the region; calls for active EU diplomacy to de-escalate tensions between Tehran and Riyadh, including confidence building, track II diplomacy and de- escalation measures in the normalisation of their relations; calls on the EU to work with the US and Russiakey actors such as the US to that end and, in particular, in supporting the development of a new regional security infrastructure that takes into account Iran and Saudi Arabia’s threat perceptions and legitimate security concerns and provides security guarantees both to Iran and the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council; stresses that cooperation on maritime security in the Persian Gulf, including the signing of a charter on free navigation, could be a first confidence-building measure in developing regional trust and cooperation;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 363 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Notes that the February 2016 parliamentary elections in Iran did not meet the standards free and fair elections, as the opposition was banned and thousands of candidates were filtered by the 'Guardian Council' under orders of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 369 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26b. Notes that the situation of women has been deteriorating in recent years with new laws that further restrict their rights; is alarmed about reports of recent deployment of 7000 plain-clothes 'morality police' in the capital Tehran to repress women for 'improper veiling';
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 384 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
27. Notes with concern that Iran has the highest level of death-penalty executions per capita in the world; is alarmed by reports that the number of executions have continued to rise since the beginning of the nuclear negotiations with almost 1000 people hanged during 2015; stresses that eliminating the death penalty for drug- related offences wcould dramaticallyhelp to decrease the number of executions; welcomes, in this regard, the possibility that the newly- elected Majlis is considering legislation to exclude some drug-related offences from the list of crimes punishable with the death penalty;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 403 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
28. Welcomes the fact that the adoption of the 2013 Islamic Penal Code and Iran’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child prohibits child executions and allows all juvenile offenders sentenced to death prior to 2013 to seek retrial; calls on Iran to ensure this prohibition is fully implemented and that all relevant offenders are made aware of this right; notes with concern that Iran still remains a leading executioner of juvenile offenders; calls on Iran to declare a moratorium on the death penalty, at least for juvenile offenders;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 413 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Is deeply concerned about the rising number of individuals imprisoned from religious minority communities due to their beliefs, including Sunnis, Sufi Muslim dissenters, Baha'is, Christian converts and Jews, since President Hassan Rouhani took office in 2013; deplores that religious minority activists have been sentenced to death for "enmity against God";
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 417 #

2015/2274(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 b (new)
28b. Believes that EU should use its improving relations with Iran to urge the country to grant access to the UN special rapporteur on Human Rights in Iran to visit Iran;
2016/08/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 204 #

2015/2272(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that in order to gain more credibility as a global security and foreign policy actor, the EU should take greater responsibility and focus on filling the security vacuum in its neighbourhood and among our neighbours’ neighbours; strongly calls for the increase of EU capacity to forecast, address and respond to disinformation activities by external actors;
2016/02/25
Committee: AFET
Amendment 7 #

2015/2114(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas there is an inherent right of individual or collective self-defence according to Art. 51 of the Charter of the UN;
2015/09/24
Committee: AFET
Amendment 27 #

2015/2114(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Supports the supply of defensive arms in case of a legitimate self-defence; welcomes the decision of some Member States to supply defensive arms to the Peshmerga in Iraqi Kurdistan and to Ukraine;
2015/09/24
Committee: AFET
Amendment 45 #

2015/2114(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that EU Member States are major global arms exporters, accounting for EUR 36.7 billion in exports in 2013, of which EUR 26.7 billion is to non-EU countries; considerNotes that the defence industry should aims to primarily ensure defence and security of EU Member States; is seriously concerned by the consequences for the security andconsiders it essential to further develop the EU industrial defence base, ensuring that the EU´s defence innovation and technology is not defpenceding ofn the EU caused by the transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology to third countrieird countries; underlines that research and development in the defence industries have an important spill-over effect contributing to numerous civilian applications;
2015/09/24
Committee: AFET
Amendment 93 #

2015/2114(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Commends the fact that the EU has a legally binding framework, unique in the world, through which arms export control is being enforced, including in crisis regions and countries with questionable human rights records; and welcomes the fact, in this connection, that several European and third countries have joined the arms exports control system on the basis of the Common Position;
2015/09/24
Committee: AFET
Amendment 94 #

2015/2114(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Welcomes the fact that Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Macedonia, Iceland, Montenegro and Norway have aligned themselves with the criteria and principles of the Common Position 2008/944CFSP; notes that a special information exchange system between the EU and the aligned third countries has been in place since 2012;
2015/09/24
Committee: AFET
Amendment 316 #

2015/2095(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
10. Underlines that military operations should not be the predominate aspect of any holistic approach to migration and reiterate, but are important to save lives and combat smugglers; considers that CFSP Operation "Sophia must not distract" and Mare Sicuro are an essential contribution to the effectiveness of search and rescue operations and to the assets already deployed in the Mediterranean forom saving lives at sea;
2016/02/22
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 321 #

2015/2095(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. welcomes the recent decision to use NATO assets in the Eastern Mediterranean to combat traffickers and smugglers who are exploiting innocent migrants
2016/02/22
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 902 #

2015/2095(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 65
65. Acceptstresses that the Union needs to strengthen its external border protection and further develop the CEAS, and that measures are necessary to enhance the capacity of the Schengen Area to address the new challenges facing Europe and preserve the fundamental principles of security and free movement of persons;
2016/02/22
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 922 #

2015/2095(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 69
69. Takes notewelcomes that on 15 December 2015 the Commission came forward with a proposal for a targeted revision of the Schengen Borders Code, proposing to introduce systematic controls of all Union nationals (not only on third-country nationals) against the relevant databases at the external borders of the Schengen Area;
2016/02/22
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 1111 #

2015/2095(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 94 a (new)
94a. Deplores that the UNHCR appeal to increase funding has been ignored by Member States and that WFP had to reduce their nutrition ratio to 80% because of reductions of funds; calls on the Member States and the EU to increase funding to the UN agencies and their partner NGOs in third countries;
2016/02/22
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 65 #

2015/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas Russia suspended its participation in the Treaty of Conventional Arms Control of Europe in 2007 and has declared 10th of March 2015 about stopping its engagement also in the consultative group of the Treaty and by that fully pulling out of CFE;
2015/03/27
Committee: AFET
Amendment 166 #

2015/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
12. Expresses hope that the Minsk ceasefire agreement reached on 12 February 2015 will hold, although there are signs of violation by the Russian side and the separatists and thereby provide the time for a negotiated political solution;
2015/03/27
Committee: AFET
Amendment 176 #

2015/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
13. Believes that, in the event thatuntil Russia does not honourfully implement the Minsk ceasefire agreement, and continues the destabilisation of eastern Ukraine and the illegal annexation of Crimea, the sanction regime should be continued and even strengthened;
2015/03/27
Committee: AFET
Amendment 205 #

2015/2036(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on Russia to respect the rights of the local population in Crimea, especially the native Crimean Tatars, thousands of whom have left their homeland for fear of persecution and have sought refuge in other regions in Ukraine; condemns the systematic persecution of especially Crimean Tatars who have participated in demonstrations to support Ukrainian territorial integrity; calls on Russian authorities to immediately stop harassing the executive body of Crimean Tatars, the Mejlis;
2015/03/27
Committee: AFET
Amendment 462 #

2015/2002(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses the need to actively promote and assist in the peaceful settlement of conflicts in the region, using different tools and instruments, on the basis of the added value they may provide – such measures include its; commends the role of EU Special Representatives, and calls for more confidence-building programmes and CSDP missions, public communication strategies and innovative approaches as well as CSDP missions; underlines the need for unconditional access for representatives of the EU to Nagorno- Karabakh and surrounding regions in support of conflict transformation activities in full complementarity with the efforts of the Minsk Group;
2015/05/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 577 #

2015/2002(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
33. Stresses the importance of free movement of people, and supports enhancing visa facilitation and visa liberalisation within the neighbourhood, particularly for students, young people and researchers; calls on the Commission, in cooperation with the Member States, to further enhance mobility partnerships within the neighbourhood and develop possibilities for circular migration schemes, which would encourage and reward regular migrantsextend their scope also to students, young people and researches hailing from unrecognized areas within the ENP zone, and develop possibilities for circular migration schemes, which would encourage and reward regular migrants; highlights that the entry and residence of third-country nationals for the purposes of research, studies, pupil exchange is a tool which will have a great impact in the field of education, culture and further democratic development and engagement of civil society;
2015/05/13
Committee: AFET
Amendment 25 #

2015/2001(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B
B. whereas, in reaction to and despite Russia’s aggression against Georgia and violation of its territorial integrity in 2008, and the ongoing occupation of Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, the EU opted for an increased cooperation model as a way to appease Russia; whereas, in line with this, rather than taking restrictive measures, a series of generous initiatives for deeper cooperation – such as the common spaces, the Partnership for Modernisation, the negotiations on a New EU-Russia Agreement, and the Human Rights dialogue – have been launched or deepened;
2015/03/31
Committee: AFET
Amendment 53 #

2015/2001(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D
D. whereas Russia is the instigator of and, directly or indirectly, party to a number of ‘frozenexisting conflicts in its neighbourhood – in Transnistria, South Ossetia, AbkhasAbkhazia and Tskhinvali regions of Georgia, and Nagorno Karabakh – that constitute serious impediments to the development and stability of the neighbouring countries concerned;
2015/03/31
Committee: AFET
Amendment 88 #

2015/2001(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F
F. whereas these restrictive targeted measures are not directed against the Russian people but aim at stimulating a change in Russian policy towards, and actions in, the common neighbourhood; whereas the sanctions could be lifted, partially or fully, as soon as Russia commits itself to implementing, fully and honestly, as soon as Russia fully implements the provisions of the Minsk agreements and the return ofs Crimea to Ukraine; whereas the sanctions will be strengthened should Russia chose to do otherwise and refrain from taking any positive step to change its policy;
2015/03/31
Committee: AFET
Amendment 184 #

2015/2001(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Underlines that the signature of the so called "Treaty on alliance and strategic partnership" between the Russian Federation and Georgia's region of Abkhazia and the so called Treaty on alliance and integration" with the Tskhinvali region of Georgia demonstrates Russia´s intention to de facto annex these territories and are detrimental to the ongoing efforts to stabilize the security situation in the region, in the breach of Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, contradicting the principles of international law and the international commitments of the Russian Federation, including the 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement;
2015/03/31
Committee: AFET
Amendment 269 #

2015/2001(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
5. CommendsStresses that the solidarity and the unity demonstrated by the Member States in the context of Russia's undeclared war against Ukraine, allowing the adoption and further extension of responsive measures should also be expressed by insisting that Russia fully implements the Minsk Agreements and returns Crimea to Ukraine, allowing further extension of existing sanctions if it goes otherwise; calls on the Member States to consider as an absolute priority the preservation of this unity; reiterates that unity and solidarity amongst the Member States, as well as between the EU and the Eastern Partnership countries, is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of the EU's policies and its ability to withstand external challenges and pressures;
2015/04/01
Committee: AFET
Amendment 1 #

2015/0314(NLE)

Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 1
1. RejectApproves the Commission proposal as amended;
2016/04/15
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 107 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) ‘external borders’ means the land and sea borders of the Member States and their airports and seaports, to which the provisions of Title II of Regulation (EC) No 562/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council 38 apply; and land and sea borders of Member States with third countries to which the provisions do not yet apply. __________________ 38 Regulation (EC) No 562/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 establishing a Community Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code) (OJ L 105, 13.4.2006, p. 1).
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 162 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point r
(r) assist Member States and third countries in the context of operationaltheir cooperation between them in the fields of external border management and return.
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 177 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 3
3. The risk analysis prepared by the Agency shall cover all aspects relevant to the European integrated border management, in particular border control, return, irregular secondary movements of third-country nationals within the Union, the prevention of cross-border crime including facilitation of irregular immigration, trafficking in human being and terrorism, as well as the situation in neighbouring third countries and countries of origin and transit for irregular migration with a view to developing a pre- warning mechanism which analyses the migratory flows towards the Union.
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 246 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) coordinate at technical and operational level the return activities of the Member States, including voluntary returns, to achieve an integrated system of return management among competent authorities of the Member States, with the participation of relevant authorities of third countries and other relevant stakeholders;
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 247 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(a a) cooperate with third countries in order to facilitate the return activities of the Member States;
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 248 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) ‘external borders’ means the land and sea borders of the Member States and their airports and seaports, to which the provisions of Title II of Regulation (EC) No 562/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council 38 apply; and land and sea borders of Member States with third countries to which the provisions do not yet apply. __________________ 38 Regulation (EC) No 562/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 establishing a Community Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code) (OJ L 105, 13.4.2006, p. 1).
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 320 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 53 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. A Status Agreement shall be concluded by the EU with the third country for the deployment of the members of the teams in joint operations where members of the team will conduct executive powers, or in other actions when necessary. This agreement shall cover all aspects that are necessary for carrying out the actions, in particular the description of the scope of the operation, civil and criminal liability, tasks and powers of the members of the teams. The agreement shall ensure the full respect of fundamental rights during the operations.
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 321 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 53 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. The Commission, shall draw up a model Status Agreement for actions on the territory of third countries.
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 338 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 – paragraph 1
1. The Agency may deploy experts of its own staff as liaison officers, who should enjoy the highest possible protection to carry out their duties, in third countries. They shall form part of the local or regional cooperation networks of immigration liaison officers and security experts of the Union and of the Member States, including. The Agency shall coordinate and ensure the proper functioning of the network set up pursuant to Council Regulation (EC) No 377/2004.49 __________________ 49 Council Regulation (EC) No 377/2004 of 19 February 2004 on the creation of an immigration liaison officers network (OJ L 64, 2.3.2004, p. 1).
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 340 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 – paragraph 3
3. The tasks of the Agency’s liaison officers shall include, in compliance with Union law and in accordance with fundamental rights, establishing and maintaining contacts with the competent authorities of the third country to which they are assigned with a view to contributing to the prevention of and fight against irregular immigration and the return of illegally staying third-country nationals. Those liaison officers shall coordinate closely withand form part of Union delegations.
2016/04/22
Committee: AFET
Amendment 401 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point r
(r) assist Member States and third countries in the context of operationaltheir cooperation between them in the fields of external border management and return.
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 446 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 3
3. The risk analysis prepared by the Agency shall cover all aspects relevant to the European integrated border management, in particular border control, return, irregular secondary movements of third-country nationals within the Union, the prevention of cross-border crime including facilitation of irregular immigration, trafficking in human being and terrorism, as well as the situation in neighbouring third countries and countries of origin and transit for irregular migration with a view to developing a pre- warning mechanism which analyses the migratory flows towards the Union.
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 732 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) coordinate at technical and operational level the return activities of the Member States, including voluntary returns, to achieve an integrated system of return management among competent authorities of the Member States, with the participation of relevant authorities of third countries and other relevant stakeholders;
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 735 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) cooperate with third countries in order to facilitate the return activities of the Member States;
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 965 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 53 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. A Status Agreement shall be concluded by the EU with the third country for the deployment of the members of the teams in joint operations where members of the team will conduct executive powers, or in other actions when necessary. This agreement shall cover all aspects that are necessary for carrying out the actions, in particular the description of the scope of the operation, civil and criminal liability, tasks and powers of the members of the teams. The agreement shall ensure the full respect of fundamental rights during the operations.
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 966 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 53 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. The Commission shall draw up a model Status Agreement for actions on the territory of third countries.
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 986 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 – paragraph 1
1. The Agency may deploy experts of its own staff as liaison officers, who should enjoy the highest possible protection to carry out their duties, in third countries. They shall form part of the local or regional cooperation networks of immigration liaison officers and security experts of the Union and of the Member States, including. The Agency shall coordinate and ensure the proper functioning of the network set up pursuant to Council Regulation (EC) No 377/2004.49 __________________ 49 Council Regulation (EC) No 377/2004 of 19 February 2004 on the creation of an immigration liaison officers network (OJ L 64, 2.3.2004, p. 1).
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 991 #

2015/0310(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 – paragraph 3
3. The tasks of the Agency’s liaison officers shall include, in compliance with Union law and in accordance with fundamental rights, establishing and maintaining contacts with the competent authorities of the third country to which they are assigned with a view to contributing to the prevention of and fight against irregular immigration and the return of illegally staying third-country nationals. Those liaison officers shall coordinate closely withand form part of Union delegations.
2016/04/21
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 176 #

2015/0269(COD)

Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Directive 91/477/EEC
Article 6
Article 6 is replaced by the following: 1. Without prejudice to Article 2(2), Member States shall take all appropriate steps to prohibit the acquisition and the possession of the firearms and ammunition listed in category A in Annex I. They shall ensure that those firearms and ammunition unlawfully held in contravention of that prohibition are seized. 2. In special cases, and without prejudice to paragraph 6.1, the competent authorities may grant authorisations for possession of such firearms and ammunition where this is not contrary to public security, public or national defence order.
2016/04/06
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 226 #

2015/0269(COD)

Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8 a (new)
(8 a) The following Article 10c is inserted: Article 10c Member States shall take measures to ensure that long semi-automatic firearms including firearms which have been converted from originally automatic firearms cannot be reconverted into automatic firearms. Mechanical design of any particular type of long semi- automatic firearms including conversions of any particular type of originally automatic firearms into semi-automatic firearms must be authorised for civilian use by a competent public authority before being placed on the market. If a Member State does not establish a competent authority, Member States shall make arrangements for exercise of authorisation by a competent authority established by the other Member State in order to ensure that the mechanical design or modifications made to a firearm make a conversion into automatic firearm impossible. The Commission shall adopt minimum technical standards and techniques to ensure that semi-automatic firearms including firearms which have been converted from originally automatic firearms cannot be converted into automatic firearms. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 13b(2).
2016/04/06
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 235 #

2015/0269(COD)

Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 13
Directive 91/477/EEC
Annex I – part II
(13) in Annex I to Directive 91/477/EC part II is amended as follows: a) point A is amended as follows: (i) in category A, the following points are amended: 6. Automatic firearms which have been converted into semi-automatic firearms which have not been authorised according to article 10c; 7. Semi-automatic long firearms for civilian use which have not been authorised according to article 10c; (ii) in category A the point 8 is deleted. (iii) in category B, the following points are amended: 4. Semi-automatic long firearms whose magazine and chamber can together hold more than three rounds and which have been authorised according to article 10c. 5. Semi-automatic long firearms whose magazine and chamber cannot together hold more than three rounds, where the loading device is removable or where it is not certain that the weapon cannot be converted, with ordinary tools, into a weapon whose magazine and chamber can together hold more than three rounds and which have been authorised according to article 10c. 6. Repeating and semi-automatic long firearms with smooth-bore barrels not exceeding 60 cm in length. 7. Semi-automatic firearms for civilian use which resemble weapons with automatic mechanisms and which have been authorised according to article 10c.
2016/04/06
Committee: LIBE
Amendment 14 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B
B. whereas since the last few yearsRose revolution Georgia has made significant progress in reforms and in strengthening relations with the EU;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 19 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas Russia continues the occupation of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, where grave cases of human rights violations have occurred;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 61 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
9. Notes the efforts by the Georgian authorities in the area of democratic reforms, including tackling the reform of the judiciary, and the need to investigate properly and fully all allegations of violations of human rights; recognises the fundamental principle of equality before the law; stresses, however, that all prosecutions should be transparent, proportionate and free fromhowever, expresses strong concern about the independence of the judiciary, cases of selective and politically motivation, and should adhere ed justrictly to due processe;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 71 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9b. Is gravely concerned with the developments aimed at the opposition, such as the widespread use of pre-trail detention and its extended length, recently launched legal case against the UNM party and the imprisonment of almost its entire leadership, countless cases of pressure, intimidation and interrogation its local activists including in some cases physical abuse (attacks); reminds that the decision to press charges and order pre-trail detention against former President Mikhail Saakashvili has been met with widespread international condemnation;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 73 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 c (new)
9c. Reiterates that the abovementioned examples raise serious concerns of the instrumentalisation of the judiciary as a tool of political retribution, reminds that the existence of a valuable political opposition is paramount to the creation of a balanced and mature political system to which Georgia is aspiring;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 107 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
19. Believes that all the provisions of the cease-fire agreement of 12 August 2008 between Russia and Georgia should be fully respected by both sides, particularly the provision which states that Russia must guarantee the EUMM full, unlimited access to the breakaway territories of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia;deleted
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 113 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Stresses the need of Russia to unconditionally fulfil all the provisions of the cease-fire agreement of 12 August 2008, particularly the commitment to withdraw all its military forces and to guarantee the EUMM full and unlimited access to the occupied territories of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, calls on Russia to reciprocate the commitment to the non- use of force against Georgia; underlines the necessity of the safe and dignified return of refugees and Internally Displaced People (IDP) into places of their permanent residence;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 117 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Calls on Russia to reverse the recognition of the separation of Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, to end the occupation of those Georgian territories and to fully respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia as well as the inviolability of its internationally- recognised borders as provided by international law;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 119 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Strongly condemns the process of the so called "borderization" around Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, which has led to the expansion of the area of occupied territories, to detriment of Georgia;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 121 #

2014/2816(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 d (new)
19d. Condemns Russia's decision to conclude the so called agreement on "partnership and integration" with the Sokhumi occupation regime and considers it as a further step in the annexation of Georgian territories; strongly calls on Russia to withdraw the draft "agreement" and comply with its obligations under the 12 August 2008 cease-fire agreement;
2014/10/23
Committee: AFET
Amendment 9 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that more than 13 years of western intervention with numerous casualties (10 548 killed and wounded civilians in 2014 alone) have made it painfully clear that no military solution is possible in Afghanistan; stresses that the Western military presence, and especially its offensivReminds that Afghanistan has been torn by nearly 40 years of conflict and war which led to the destruction of the country, more than a million casualties and forced a significant part of the poperulations, are part of the conflict and not a solution to it into exile, thus making it in effect a failed state;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 25 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for a break in the vicious circle of violence so that peace may be achieved; calls, therefore, on the EU, NATO and the US to withdraw all military troops; urges all foreign parties immediately to cease all civil-military cooperation since such an approach can imply a risk for aid organisations and civil societyHighlights that under the Taliban regime Afghanistan emerged to become one of the most fertile grounds for the spread of terrorism, resulting in the tragic events of 9/11;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 33 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Reminds that Afghanistan today has achieved progress in political, security, economic and development spheres thanks to the dedication of the Afghan population as well as the commitment of the international community, funds, know-how and personnel on the ground; underlines however that the progress achieved is still fragile and reversible; and that its sustainment requires further reforms, stable relations with neighbours and a continued provision of a necessary level of security;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 40 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
3. Regrets the signing of the BSA and the NATO SOFA by the new Afghan administration as it underminesPays tribute to the efforts of the international community which provided security to Afghanistan during the sovereignty of the state of Afghanistan and its institutions and may lead to impunity of war crimes; is concerned that the NATO-Afghanistan SOFA allows Western troop deployments until the end of 2024 and beyo decade long Operation Enduring Freedom and the ISAF mission in Afghanistan , during which nearly 3 500 servicemen and women died ; welcomes the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission operating since 1st January 2015 which is mandated to train, advice and assist the Afghan security forces and; is concerned by the fact that US President Obama authorised a more expansive and combative role for the US military in Afghanistan in Novembernstitutions; reminds that the Afghan National Security Forces are fully responsible for combat operations which have been taken over from ISAF as of 1st January 20145;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 45 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Underscores the importance of the signing of the Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) between Afghanistan and the United States as well as the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) with NATO, thus providing the legal framework for the presence of international forces in Afghanistan;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 48 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
4. Is concerned about the high costs ofNotes the increased burden on the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF), which is estimated to have reached USD 6 billion in 2014, and the lack of long-term commitments by the EU, or by other members of the international community, to finance the ANSF budget; stresses that even with the planned reduction of personnel to absince 1st January 2015 when they took over full responsibility for providing security and conducting in principle exclusive military operations around the country; expresses regret due to the increasing number of casualties among the Afghan security personnel; underlines the paramount 230 000 in the coming years it will be impossible for the Afghan Government to provide the necessary financing; expresses its grave concern that this may lead to a dangerous situation in which a highly militarised and equipped police and army could look for alternative ways of generating incomeimportance of sustaining security of the Afghan people as prerequisite for the proper functioning of the state; is aware of the grave consequences of a deterioration of the security situation in Afghanistan for the future of the country and stability of the region; expresses strong concern over the presence of Daesh in Afghanistan that represent a new threat to the country's security;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 60 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the EU to support the Afghan Ggovernment in its pursuit of a comprehensive and inclusive, Afghan-led and Afghan- owned peace and reconciliation process, actively including the whole range of civil society and all conflict parties, including – following a ceasefire – combatant, with those insurgent and militia groups, as no lasting solution to the conflict can otherwise be achieved; calls on the EU actively that commit to and show respect to the constitutional order and human rights principles and to support an Afghan- led disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration into society (DDR) of former insurgents into society;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 73 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
6. CRecalls forthat the transformationmandate of EUPOL Afghanistan into a support mission for an Afghan-led DDR process, i.a. with the goals of demobilising the various militias and reducing the total number of ANSF personnel as far and as fast as possible, the EU civilian mission providing training and assistance to the Afghan Police force as well as advisory tasks at strategic level for relevant parts of the Afghani administration, has been extended until the end of 2016; Calls for an evaluation of the mission's achievements and relevance on the field; calls on the EU and on NATO to continue to support and adequately fund efforts for demining Afghanistan;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 82 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
7. StExpresses the need for inclusive regional cooperconcern about the fragile security situation within the objective of promoting long-term peace, stability and security in the wider region; promotes a new approach towards the security situation in Afghanistan and its neighbours in the form of a multilateral forum for dialogue and negotiation between country; underscores the important role which neighbouring countries should play in this regard promoting stability and security; highlights the importance of enhanced political and economic dialogue withe countries and regions concerned, covering issues and commitments on politico-security, social, economic, environmenof Central Asia, China, India, Pakistaln and human rights issues; stresses that this forum could signal a new and constructive approach of ownership, self- determination and the behaviour of states towards their citizens, as well as towards each other; emphasises that this forum should be initiated in cooperation with the Organisation of the Islamic Conference and the UNRussia, as part of a regional framework; expresses support for the "Heart of Asia" process launched in Istanbul in 2012 with the aim of building stability and prosperity in the region;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 93 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
8. Believes that women’s rights are part of the security solution and that it is impossible to achieve long-term stability in Afghanistan unless women must enjoy their full rights in political, social and economic life; is deeply concerned that Afghan women continue to be victims of discrimination, sexual abuse and rape; stresses, therefore, the need for more female employees in all public offices; points out that progress in peace talks may not be made at the cost of any of the rights acquired by women in recent years; emphasises the need to ensure that women and civil society actors play a prominent role at all stages of any peace and reconciliation process;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 100 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
9. Recognises the presidential elections 2014; regrets that every presidenWelcomes the first ever peaceful transition of power following the election of Ashraf Ghani as President to succeed his predecessor Hamid Karzai; appreciates the brokered political and parliamentary election in Afghanistan since 2005 has been marred by fraud and violence; welcomes the formation of a government of national unitycompromise between Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah leading to the creation of the Government of National Unity, thus creating a chance for the major political forces concentrated around the two major presidential candidates to work in concert for the future of Afghanistan and not to fuel political divide or violence; expresses hope with the to-date conciliatory rhetoric and constructive cooperation between the President and Chief Executive;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 107 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the stated intent of the new President Ashraf Ghani to make combating corruption one of his priorities; encourages the Afghan Government to engage in establishing an independent judiciary; encourages a thorough review process of the role and failures of the attemptscalls on the Government of National Unity to address this pressing matter as well as of drug trafficking, mismanagement, waste, security for the people; reiterates the need for the international community to esustablish a functioning justice system, as well as of the role of the EUPOL mission in this contextin its engagement in Afghanistan and to help continue rebuilding the country, developing the economy and resisting terrorism leading to sustaining and strengthening progress;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 114 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
11. Notes the lack of substantialslow progress on human and fundamental rights since 2002, in particular with regard to women and girls in Afghanistan; calls on the new government to dedicate more political capital to this issue and, in particular, to implement the National Action Plan for the Women of Afghanistan and the law on the elimination of violence against women (EVAW), as well as to comply with all other international treaties concerning human rights; calls on the Afghan authorities to promote the effective participation of women in all key bodies, nationally and internationally, and at all levels;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 132 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
13. Regrets the fact that, despite modest progress in some areas, theWelcomes the efforts of the International community that provides a large amounts of development aid provided so far has failed to improve significantly the social and economic situation of the majority of the populationto support the country; notes that progress has been done in some areas, but regrets that overall the social and economic situation of the population has not improved significantly enough; is concerned about the high rate of unemployment (which is estimated to have reached 50 %)7 , the poor access to medical care, the poor state of the health system and the fact that more than half of the population is living in poverty; __________________ 7 German Foreign Ministry progress report on Afghanistan 2014 (‘Fortschrittsbericht Afghanistan 2014’). http://www.auswaertiges- amt.de/cae/servlet/contentblob/691670/pub licationFile/199488/141119- Fortschrittsbericht_AFG_2014.pdf.
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 136 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls on the EU and Member States to continue its policy of engagement with Afghanistan; recalls that Afghanistan is the single biggest recipient of EU development aid, amounting to over 1 billion euro annually; recommends that the EU creates a Trust Fund for Afghanistan , which would raise the visibility of the EU and contribute to addressing the inefficiencies related to the distribution chain, lack of transparency and accountability;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 139 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
14. Is critical of the fact that a large portion of thEmphasises the need to enhance the local economy, to gradually decrease the dependence on international assistance aind provided through various funding channels does not serve the needs of the Afghan people, and that project fundingbuild a sustainable economy; reminds of the vast natural resources of the country which are estimated to have a value of USD 1 trillion and should be used responsibly isn often not guided by social but by military considerder to generate substantial own revenue to the state from export, extractions; urges the EU to use all allocated aid strictly for development, not for security purposes, and to encourage its allies to follow suit fees, licenses, etc. and provide incentives for sustainable development and economic progress of the country;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 147 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for an EU strategy for Afghanistan that focuses on development, in particular in rural areas wWelcomes the adoption of the European Strategy for Afghanistan 2014 - 16 in June 2014 as the operational framework for EU's support for the development of Afghanistan's institutions to provide the re the majority of the population lives; calls on the EU to prioritise poverty alleviation and to tie development aid to Afghan public employment measures to create urgently needed jobs; recognises the need to strengthen local and regional authoritiessilience needed to safeguard progress to date focusing on the objectives of promoting peace, security , regional stability, reinforcing democracy, encouraging economic and human developments, fostering the rule of law and human rights; regrets however at the same time that the EU and Afghanistan have not managed to conclude the stalled negotiations on the Cooperation Agreement on Partnership and Development (CAPD) which would constitute a long-term comprehensive engagement of the EU in Afghanistan;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 155 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
16. Is alarmed about the country’s Reminds that in order to reverse the trend of Afghanistan being an aid- addicted country its authorities need to introduce a sustainable long-term strategy whigch aid-dependency ratio, severe budget deficits and decline in domestic revenue; emphasises the need for development programmes to create a gradually more independent economy in Afghanistan, weaning it off dependence on foreign donors; highlights the potentially important role that the country’s neighbours can play for such development; encompasses all relevant actors enhancing coordination of their efforts, aiming at improving economic governance, investment in local human resources capabilities, strengthening the rule of law, investment in infrastructure (power plants, roads, providing supplies of water), eradicate corruption which increases significantly the costs of doing business ( in 2014 Afghanistan ranks 172. out of 175 in Transparency's International global corruption ranking), improve reputation as an investor friendly country (World Bank's report Doing Business 2015: Doing business in a more transparent world ranks Afghanistan 183 out of 189), create more favourable conditions for small and medium enterprises to develop, by cutting red-tape, in particular in the agriculture sector, construction, transportation, handicrafts;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 164 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the EU and the international actors to free the Afghan Government from the commitment given at the NATO Summit in Wales in September 2014 to pay a share of the USD 500 million to be allocated annually to the ANSF, which is irresponsible in light of the budget deficits, declining revenues and serious poverty that are endemic in Afghanistan; urges the Member States to meet their commitments and pay what they promised;deleted
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 170 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
18. Is concerned about the large trade deficit resulting in merchandise exports of USD 428.9 million and merchandise imports of USD 6.2 billion in 2012; recommends that higher tariffs be introduced in order to protect the economy, thereby also fostering the prospects for increased exports;deleted
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 175 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
19. Emphasises the potential of Afghanistan’s resources, which are estimated to have a value of USD 900 billion; encourages the EU to assist the government to realise this potential in a way that in the first instance benefits the Afghan people rather than safeguards the profits of multinational enterprises;deleted
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 184 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
20. Appreciates the fact that today between 8 aaround 98 million (ca. 80 %) of Afghan children attend school (whereof 40 % are girls), which is a significant increase compared to the situation in 2001, when the figure was one million, but is concerned about the low school graduation rates, and about the fact that the estimated national adult literacy rate for citizens aged 15 and older is still very low (34 %, of which women account for 18 % and men for 50 %); reminds that one of the biggest achievements of the last decade is the significant increase in the number of girls attending schools in comparison to 2001, which amounts today to some 40% of the total of 8 to 9 million children ;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 191 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
22. Highlights the importance of efforts to phase out opium cultivation in Afghanistan, but notes that they have had little success so far; calls, in this regard, for viable alternative livelihoods and for measures to help improve living conditions for populations in rural areas in general; urges the EU to consider, together with its international partners, a fundamental review of the counter-narcotics policies they are currently pursuing in Afghanistan, ensuring that they fit into a wider development strategy; proposes that measures be taken to fight money- laundering and that the creation of massive subsidy programmes for cropsubsidy for crop substitutions programmes be considered;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 194 #

2014/2230(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
23. Points out that opium cultivation and production in Afghanistan reached record levels in 2014; recognises the fact that Afghanistan suffers one of the world’s highest prevalence rates for opiate use, and that 100 000 people around the world are killed by Afghan opium each year; urges the Afghan authorities, and all other parties concerned, to combat transnational organised crime and drug trafficking;
2015/05/06
Committee: AFET
Amendment 85 #

2014/2216(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Upholds that denials of genocide and other crimes against humanity, as well as acts of racism, xenophobia or religious hatred, constitute a clear violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and as such should be condemned.
2014/12/15
Committee: AFET
Amendment 218 #

2014/2216(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Calls, ahead of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, on all EU Member States to legally acknowledge it and encourages them and the European institutions to further contribute to the recognition of the Armenian genocide.
2014/12/15
Committee: AFET
Amendment 5 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that, under Article 208 TFEU, the primary objective of EU development cooperation is to reduce and eradicate poverty; highlights the fact that EU development cooperation must be guided by that objective and not by geostrategic or economic interests; refuses to accept that development cooperation should be subordinate to external and security policypolicy shall be conducted within the framework of the principles and objectives of the Union´s external action and that the objectives of development cooperation must be taken into account in the implementation of EU policies likely to affect developing countries;
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 10 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Welcomes the Council conclusions of 12 December 2014 on a stronger role of the private sector in development cooperation; Concurs with the conclusions that "the private sector is emerging as an increasingly active player in the development field" and on "the need to strengthen the role of the private sector in implementing the future Sustainable Development Goals" based on aid effectiveness principles;
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 24 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
2. NotUnderlines that reducing poverty is not the primary objective of the private sector, by its very nature, and that that is therefore a task for the publicrequires not only public policy but also involvement of the private sector; rejectWelcomes public- private partnerships, blending and the focus on microcredit, since they finance corporate profits, above all, and do not reduce povertymicrocredits as important tools to reduce poverty and to stimulate economic growth, innovation and job creation;
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 30 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Welcomes the "Framework for Business Engagement with the United Nations" which underlines that a robust private sector delivering economic growth is essential for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and that the private sector "is making important contributions toward shared economic, social and environmental progress";
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 33 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Welcomes the involvement of the private sector in the OECD High Level Forum on aid effectiveness; Welcomes notably initiatives in that context taken on innovative ways of leveraging private sector development funding and the Joint Busan Statement in 2011 on "Expanding and enhancing public and private cooperation for broad-based, inclusive and sustainable growth";
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 39 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
3. Is dismayed that because of public procurement contract awards and debt servicing, inter alia, 61 % of official development assistance goes back to donor coWelcomes that the proportion of untied bilateral aid has continuously increased but expresses concern over continued formal and informal forms of tied aid; Calls on the EU and its Member States to implement their commitment in the European Consensus on Development to "promote further untying of aid going beyond existing OECD recommendations"; Underlines the growth potential of further untries1 ; calls for an increase in real aid and for sustainabled aid which would benefit local industries in developing countries; Calls in this context for further support to building of sustainable regional/local value chains and to strengthening the competitiveness of local and regional industries, in particular SMEs; __________________ 1 ActionAid.
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 47 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
4. Is concerned at the devastating consequences of land grabbing, inter alia, for human rights, the economy and the environment; calls for binding international rules for firms on compliance with human rights, labour law and environmental standardUnderlines the need for strong legislation on property rights in order to stop land grabbing, i.e. when large-scale land acquisitions in developing countries result in serious violations of human rights and/or cause severe damage to the natural environment; Welcomes the launching in 2014 of an EU programme to strengthen land governance in African countries; Stresses the importance of full transparency and accountability of the operations of EU companies and financial institutions in large-scale agribusiness investments and land acquisitions in developing countries;
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 61 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the EU and its Member States to support developing countries in garnering their resources, e.g. through national tax systems, and in combating illicit financial flows and corruption, as a result of which developing countries lose at least € 660-870 billion a year2 several hundred billion euros per year or several times the total official development aid; calls foron the ownership principle to be resolutely acted on; callsEU and its Member States as well as on all organisations, developed and developing countries signatories to the 2011 Busan Partnership for eEffective intDevelopment Coopernational rules against tax avoidance and evasion; to honour their commitment to intensity efforts to fight corruption and illicit financial flows; __________________ 2 Eurodad. Eurodad.
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET
Amendment 76 #

2014/2205(INI)

Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Member States to honour the commitment to give over 0.7% of their GDP to development assistance; stresses that prie need to further develop innovative funds must not be used to increase contributions artificiallyinancial mechanisms in order to leverage further private sector funding for development, complementary to Official Development Assistance.
2015/05/07
Committee: AFET