Activities of Josep-Maria TERRICABRAS
Plenary speeches (111)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance NL
European citizens’ initiative (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Implementation of the Treaty provisions related to EU Citizenship - Implementation of the Treaty provisions concerning enhanced cooperation - Implementation of the Treaty provisions on Parliament’s power of political control over the Commission - Implementation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU institutional framework (debate)
Regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties (Statute of the European Ombudsman) (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017 (debate)
Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017 (debate)
Response to the caravan of Central American migrants at the Mexican border (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 17 and 18 October 2018 (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Humanitarian emergency in the Mediterranean: supporting local and regional authorities (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Preparation of the European Council meeting of 28 and 29 June 2018 (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Media pluralism and media freedom in the European Union (short presentation)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Protection of investigative journalists in Europe: the case of Slovak journalist Ján Kuciak and Martina Kušnírová (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Composition of the European Parliament (debate)
Reform of the electoral law of the European Union (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 14 and 15 December 2017 (debate)
EU support to the Colombian peace process (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Rule of law in Malta (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 19 and 20 October 2017 and presentation of the Leaders’ Agenda (Building our future together) (debate) ES
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 19 and 20 October 2017 and presentation of the Leaders’ Agenda (Building our future together) (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
State of the Union (debate) FR
Presentation of the programme of activities of the Estonian Presidency (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Statute and funding of European political parties and foundations (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Negotiations with the United Kingdom following its notification that it intends to withdraw from the European Union (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Review of the regulation on the statute and funding of European political parties and foundations (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Statement by the President of the Commission on the White Paper on the future of the European Union ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Activities of the Committee on Petitions 2015 (debate)
Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2015 (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Internal Security in the EU - Progress made in the implementation of adopted security measures and challenges ahead (debate)
Europol-China Agreement on Strategic Cooperation (A8-0265/2016 - Claude Moraes)
Avoiding conflicts of interest of past and present Commissioners - Bahamas leaks (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2015 (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Follow-up of the Strategic Framework for European cooperation in education and training (ET2020) (debate) ES
State of play of the external aspects of the European migration agenda: towards a new 'Migration Compact' (debate)
State of play of the external aspects of the European migration agenda: towards a new 'Migration Compact' (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
EU Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Public access to documents for the years 2014-2015 (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 17 and 18 March 2016 and outcome of the EU-Turkey summit (debate)
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 17 and 18 March 2016 and outcome of the EU-Turkey summit (debate)
One-minute speeches (Rule 163)
Preparation of the European Council meeting of 17 and 18 March 2016 and outcome of the EU-Turkey summit (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Programme of activities of the Dutch Presidency (debate)
Programme of activities of the Dutch Presidency (debate)
Situation in Poland (debate)
One-minute speeches (Rule 163) FR
One-minute speeches (Rule 163) ES
A new animal welfare strategy for 2016-2020 (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) (debate)
EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) (debate)
Reform of the electoral law of the EU (debate)
European Citizens' Initiative (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Mortgage legislation and risky financial instruments in the EU: the case of Spain (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
State of the Union (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Report of the extraordinary European Council meeting (23 April 2015) - The latest tragedies in the Mediterranean and EU migration and asylum policies (debate) ES
One-minute speeches (Rule 163) ES
International Roma Day – anti-Gypsyism in Europe and EU recognition of the memorial day of the Roma genocide during WW II (B8-0326/2015) ES
The European integration process of Kosovo (B8-0214/2015) ES
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2013 and the EU policy on the matter (debate)
Annual report on EU competition policy (A8-0019/2015 - Morten Messerschmidt) ES
Humanitarian crisis in Iraq and Syria, in particular in the IS context (RC-B8-0136/2015, B8-0136/2015, B8-0137/2015, B8-0138/2015, B8-0139/2015, B8-0140/2015, B8-0141/2015, B8-0142/2015)
US Senate report on the use of torture by the CIA (B8-0098/2015, RC-B8-0123/2015, B8-0123/2015, B8-0133/2015) ES
Anti-terrorism measures (B8-0100/2015, RC-B8-0122/2015, B8-0122/2015, B8-0124/2015, B8-0125/2015, B8-0126/2015, B8-0127/2015, B8-0132/2015)
One-minute speeches (Rule 163) ES
Situation in Egypt (RC-B8-0012/2015, B8-0012/2015, B8-0019/2015, B8-0022/2015, B8-0023/2015, B8-0024/2015, B8-0026/2015, B8-0028/2015) ES
Freedom of expression in Turkey: Recent arrests of journalists, media executives and systematic pressure against media (RC-B8-0036/2015, B8-0036/2015, B8-0040/2015, B8-0041/2015, B8-0042/2015, B8-0043/2015, B8-0044/2015, B8-0045/2015) ES
Possibility for the Member States to restrict or prohibit the cultivation of GMOs (A8-0038/2014 - Frédérique Ries) ES
Provisions for fishing in the GFCM (General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean) Agreement area (A8-0057/2014 - Gabriel Mato) ES
Preparations for the European Council meeting (18-19 December 2014) (debate) FR
Preparations for the European Council meeting (18-19 December 2014) (debate) ES
Election of the Ombudsman ES
Motion of censure on the Commission (B8-0249/2014) ES
25th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (B8-0285/2014) ES
Employment and social aspects of the EU2020 strategy (B8-0252/2014) ES
Summary expulsions and the proposed legalisation of 'hot returns' in Spain (debate) ES
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance ES
Peace process in Northern Ireland (B8-0218/2014) ES
Presentation by the Commission President-elect of the College of Commissioners and their programme (debate) DE
Programme of activities of the Italian Presidency (debate) IT
Reports (1)
REPORT on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017 PDF (502 KB) DOC (76 KB)
Shadow reports (25)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision authorising Member States to become parties, in the interest of the European Union, to the Council of Europe Convention on an Integrated Safety, Security, and Service Approach at Football Matches and Other Sports Events (CETS No 218) PDF (174 KB) DOC (64 KB)
REPORT on the implementation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU institutional framework PDF (327 KB) DOC (107 KB)
REPORT on a draft regulation of the European Parliament laying down the regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties (Statute of the European Ombudsman) and repealing Decision 94/262/ECSC, EC, Euratom PDF (266 KB) DOC (99 KB)
REPORT on the implementation of the Treaty provisions related to EU citizenship PDF (264 KB) DOC (102 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision amending the Act concerning the election of the members of the European Parliament by direct universal suffrage, annexed to Council Decision 76/787/ECSC, EEC, Euratom of 20 September 1976 PDF (456 KB) DOC (59 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Algerian competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (371 KB) DOC (54 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Moroccan competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (369 KB) DOC (53 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and Tunisia on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Tunisian competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (370 KB) DOC (53 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Arab Republic of Egypt on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Egyptian competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (370 KB) DOC (51 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the State of Israel on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Israeli competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (370 KB) DOC (54 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Lebanese Republic on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Lebanese competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (369 KB) DOC (52 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Turkey on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Turkish competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (372 KB) DOC (56 KB)
REPORT on the recommendation, by the Commission, for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the European Union and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on the exchange of personal data between the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Jordanian competent authorities for fighting serious crime and terrorism PDF (370 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European citizens’ initiative PDF (1 MB) DOC (172 KB)
REPORT on media pluralism and media freedom in the European Union PDF (525 KB) DOC (93 KB)
REPORT on the implementation of Directive 2011/99/EU on the European Protection Order PDF (590 KB) DOC (73 KB)
REPORT on the situation of fundamental rights in the EU in 2016 PDF (333 KB) DOC (70 KB)
REPORT on the draft Council implementing decision amending Decision 2009/935/JHA as regards the list of third States and organisations with which Europol shall conclude agreements PDF (463 KB) DOC (58 KB)
REPORT on the activities of the Committee on Petitions 2015 PDF (761 KB) DOC (199 KB)
REPORT on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2015 PDF (893 KB) DOC (123 KB)
RECOMMENDATION FOR SECOND READING on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and replacing and repealing Council Decisions 2009/371/JHA, 2009/934/JHA, 2009/935/JHA, 2009/936/JHA and 2009/968/JHA PDF (444 KB) DOC (90 KB)
REPORT on public access to documents (Rule 116(7)) for the years 2014-2015 PDF (402 KB) DOC (132 KB)
REPORT on the European Citizens’ Initiative PDF (170 KB) DOC (118 KB)
PDF (245 KB) DOC (328 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a European Union agency for law enforcement training (Cepol), repealing and replacing Council Decision 2005/681/JHA PDF (651 KB) DOC (340 KB)
Opinions (2)
OPINION on the implementation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU institutional framework
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Rights and Values programme
Shadow opinions (34)
OPINION on the implementation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU institutional framework
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council Establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument
OPINION on implementation of the Treaty provisions related to EU citizenship
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European citizens’ initiative
OPINION on the situation in Hungary (pursuant to the European Parliament resolution of 17 May 2017)
OPINION on monitoring the application of EU law 2016
OPINION on EU Citizenship Report 2017: Strengthening Citizens’ Rights in a Union of Democratic Change
OPINION on implementation of the European Disability Strategy
OPINION on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2018
OPINION on monitoring the application of EU law 2015
OPINION on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2017
OPINION on the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going migration, refugee and security crisis
OPINION on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2015
OPINION on Europe for Citizens
OPINION on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2015
OPINION on European Defence Union
OPINION on the establishment of an EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Asylum Support Office (EASO) for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Police College for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the European Union’s general budget for the financial year 2014, Section IX – European Data Protection Supervisor
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of Eurojust for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (Frontex) for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the European Union general budget for the financial year 2014, Section III – Commission
OPINION on transparency, accountability and integrity in the EU institutions
OPINION on the discharge in respect of implementation of the budget of the European Police Office (Europol) for the financial year 2014
OPINION on the discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agencies for the financial year 2014: performance, financial management and control
OPINION on the EU role in the framework of international financial, monetary and regulatory institutions and bodies
OPINION on the role of the EU within the UN – how to better achieve EU foreign policy goals
OPINION on the European Citizens’ Initiative
OPINION on the 30th and 31st Annual Reports on monitoring the application of EU Law (2012 and 2013)
OPINION on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union (2013-2014)
Institutional motions (44)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Guatemala PDF (155 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Nicaragua PDF (137 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on women’s rights defenders in Saudi Arabia PDF (160 KB) DOC (63 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the right to peaceful protest and the proportionate use of force PDF (141 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco, the Implementation Protocol thereto and an exchange of letters accompanying the said Agreement PDF (153 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Kingdom of Morocco, of the other part PDF (151 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul PDF (180 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the rise in neo-fascist violence in Europe PDF (300 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Bahrain, notably the case of Nabeel Rajab PDF (292 KB) DOC (59 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Nicaragua PDF (248 KB) DOC (46 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Gaza strip PDF (350 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of UNRWA PDF (267 KB) DOC (55 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the recent human rights situation in Turkey PDF (343 KB) DOC (57 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Venezuela PDF (250 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on combating sexual harassment and abuse in the EU PDF (309 KB) DOC (61 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the funding of political parties and political foundations at European level PDF (156 KB) DOC (49 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Multiannual Framework for 2018-2022 for the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights PDF (261 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on making relocation happen PDF (275 KB) DOC (55 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation on Hungary PDF (277 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Guatemala, notably the situation of human rights defenders PDF (165 KB) DOC (57 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of human rights and democracy in Nicaragua, the case of Francesca Ramirez PDF (259 KB) DOC (48 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Guatemala, notably the situation of human rights defenders PDF (356 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the conclusion of the EU-Canada CETA PDF (271 KB) DOC (57 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo PDF (276 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo PDF (267 KB) DOC (50 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on EU-Turkey relations PDF (275 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on EU-Turkey relations PDF (253 KB) DOC (61 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Guarani Kaiowa people in Brazil PDF (391 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of journalists in Turkey PDF (152 KB) DOC (81 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Thailand, notably the situation of Andy Hall PDF (153 KB) DOC (80 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Thailand, notably the case of Andy Hall PDF (435 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sudan PDF (353 KB) DOC (54 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Somalia PDF (295 KB) DOC (91 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the recent developments in Poland and their impact on fundamental rights as laid down in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union PDF (173 KB) DOC (73 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Honduras: situation of human rights defenders PDF (162 KB) DOC (85 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Honduras and the situation of human rights defenders PDF (326 KB) DOC (86 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION in support of the peace process in Colombia PDF (277 KB) DOC (78 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the peace process in Colombia PDF (362 KB) DOC (75 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the report of the extraordinary European Council (23 April 2015) - Latest tragedies in the Mediterranean and EU migration and asylum policies PDF (244 KB) DOC (70 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Venezuela PDF (220 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Libya PDF (239 KB) DOC (73 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on recognition of Palestinian statehood PDF (131 KB) DOC (63 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the disappearance of 43 teaching students in Mexico PDF (140 KB) DOC (62 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the abduction of 43 students in Guerrero/Mexico PDF (154 KB) DOC (61 KB)
Oral questions (23)
Need for a comprehensive Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights mechanism PDF (105 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Need for a comprehensive Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights mechanism PDF (105 KB) DOC (20 KB)
10th anniversary of the Horizontal Directive proposal PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Integrity policy of the Commission PDF (193 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Interpol arrest warrants (Red Notices) and Turkey PDF (104 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Interpol arrest warrants (Red Notices) and Turkey PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Shrinking space for civil society PDF (191 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Shrinking space for civil society PDF (190 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Ruling by the General Court of the European Union on the Commission's decision of 10 September 2014 to refuse to register the European Citizens' Initiative 'STOP TTIP' PDF (198 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Effects of the General Court's Orders on the EU-Turkey Statement PDF (193 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Combatting racism, xenophobia, homophobia, sexism and other forms of intolerance PDF (95 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Combatting racism, xenophobia, homophobia, sexism and other forms of intolerance PDF (95 KB) DOC (17 KB)
The EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women PDF (203 KB) DOC (18 KB)
The EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women PDF (202 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Impunity of Francoist crimes in the Spanish state PDF (196 KB) DOC (27 KB)
Reports of consistent abuse of asylum-seekers by Bulgarian police PDF (105 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Commission's answers to Written Questions PDF DOC
Outsourcing of asylum processing and search and rescue operations to third countries PDF DOC
Monitoring the rule of law and founding values of the EU in the Member States PDF DOC
Monitoring the rule of law and founding values of the EU in the Member States PDF DOC
European measures to fight against organised crime and corruption PDF DOC
European measures to fight against organised crime and corruption PDF DOC
Summary expulsions and the proposed legalisation of 'hot returns' in Spain PDF (108 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Written explanations (2)
Situation in Venezuela (B8-0082/2019, B8-0083/2019, B8-0084/2019, B8-0085/2019, B8-0086/2019, B8-0087/2019)
. – I voted against the resolution of 31 January 2019 on the situation in Venezuela, which recognises Mr Guaidó as the legitimate interim President of Venezuela. I decided to vote against this resolution because my position was fully covered by the resolution tabled by my own group –Greens/EFA – in which there is no unilateral recognition of Mr Guaidó as President of Venezuela, but instead there is a condemnation of the escalation of violence in Venezuela, as well as an honest call on all sides to enter into an inclusive and credible dialogue aimed at finding a long-term and lasting solution.
EU Citizenship Report 2017: Strengthening Citizens' Rights in a Union of Democratic Change (A8-0385/2017 - Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea)
. – We voted against the EU Citizenship Report 2017. This report includes a paragraph (Recital G) that is completely unacceptable. Surprisingly enough, the EPP had collected 77 signatures to table an amendment to supress this paragraph, including 6 members of the Partido Popular who ended up withdrawing their signatures. However, by virtue of Rule 169(5) that establishes that where an amendment is withdrawn by its author it shall fall unless it is immediately taken over by another Member, 7 other MEPs stamped their signatures in support of the amendment and it was finally put to vote in plenary. The amendment fell by an extremely narrow margin (256 in favour vs. 285 against the deletion of that very paragraph, with 102 abstentions) and thus, Recital G remained in the final text of the resolution, which forced our vote against the whole report. We strongly deplore the wording and content of this paragraph. Changes in the borders of a Member State can happen as a result of a democratic exercise, when a majority of citizens express their will in a peaceful democratic mandate. Democracy is, after all, one of the values enshrined in Article 2 of the TEU.
Written questions (208)
Scandal involving espionage and sabotage operations against political opponents in Spain PDF (46 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Human rights violations in Brumadinho (Brazil) PDF (46 KB) DOC (18 KB)
VP/HR - Murder of Dilma Ferreira of the Movement of People Affected by Dams (MAB) in Brazil PDF (58 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Breaches of EU law in the Alsasua case PDF (45 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Use of certain terms prohibited in Catalan public media by Electoral Board PDF (42 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Discrimination against EU citizens and cross-border commuters with non-Italian number plates PDF (39 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Modernisation of the EU-Mexico Global Agreement PDF (40 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Marine pollution in the North Sea PDF (51 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Principle of non-discrimination PDF (50 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Applicability of ECN+ to regional competition authorities PDF (99 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Economic war against Catalonia PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Partido Popular's attempt to manipulate the 1 October trial PDF (104 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Criminalisation of humanitarian assistance PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Violation of judicial independence in Spain and Article 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights - violation of Articles 6 and 47-49 of the EU Charter and of Directive 2016/343 PDF (107 KB) DOC (20 KB)
VP/HR - Arms exports to Saudi Arabia PDF (106 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Infringement of the EU telecom framework and Regulation (EU) 2015/2120 PDF (107 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Far-right violence in Catalonia and legality of apologetics for fascism and Francoism PDF (107 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Privatisation of the Register of Beneficial Owners of Companies in Spain PDF (107 KB) DOC (19 KB)
The rights of the Macedonian minority in Bulgaria PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Right to freedom of movement in the European Union PDF (195 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Recommendations from the report on fundamental rights in the EU in 2015 PDF (101 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Exhumation of victims of Francoism and rededication of the Cuelgamuros basilica PDF (103 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Waste incineration and clean air in Andalusia PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
MEPs' right of access to prisons and detention centres without hindrance PDF (105 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Licences to harvest red coral off the Catalan coast PDF (7 KB) DOC (19 KB)
EU trade with Israeli settlements PDF (101 KB) DOC (18 KB)
IT security failure in Spain's system for the exchange of judicial information PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
New agreement between Europol and Israel PDF (100 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Freedom of expression in Spain PDF (104 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Arbitrary use of European Arrest Warrant (EAW) PDF (109 KB) DOC (19 KB)
The situation in detention centres in Spain PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Racism in Spain PDF (106 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Unaccompanied minors in Spain PDF (102 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Detention of the Proactiva Open Arms boat by Italy for promoting irregular migration PDF (105 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Hate speech and ultranationalist violence against Catalans PDF (105 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Political prisoners in Spain PDF (106 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Freedom of expression under threat in Spain PDF (198 KB) DOC (21 KB)
The Castor project: taking action in response to calls from the European Parliament PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Military exercises in natural areas protected by the Natura 2000 network PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Unfair trading practices in the food supply chain PDF (6 KB) DOC (18 KB)
VP/HR - Activities of the EU Delegation to Morocco in occupied Western Sahara PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Misuse of the European Arrest Warrant by Spain PDF (194 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Safety in the Ebro Delta and Spanish dams- compliance with the Water Framework, Floods, Birds and Habitats Directives, and the Aarhus Convention PDF (103 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Integrated Sediment Management Plan for the Ebro Basin - Compliance with the Water Framework Directive and the Floods Directive PDF (108 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Sediment bypass in the Ebro Basin - compliance with the Water Framework Directive, the Floods Directive, the Birds Directive and the Habitats Directive PDF (103 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Possibility of including sediment management in EU legislation PDF (102 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Use of military force against the civilian population PDF (106 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Anomalies in out-of-country voting PDF (102 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Rule of law in Spain PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Violence employed by the Spanish police in Catalonia PDF (99 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Spain: threat to arrest 712 democratically elected Catalan mayors PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Detention of top officials of the Regional Government of Catalonia PDF (99 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Violation of the privacy of users' communications PDF (103 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Application of Relocation Decisions 2015/1523 and 2015/1601 ahead of their expiration date (26 September 2017) PDF (196 KB) DOC (21 KB)
Freedom of the press, freedom of information and freedom of assembly in Spain PDF (107 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Catalonia: attack on fundamental rights by Spanish police PDF (108 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Change in Spanish electricity prices PDF (102 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Bailout of Spanish motorways PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
VP/HR - Turkey's misuse of Interpol warrants PDF (107 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Unpaid internships at the European Commission PDF (196 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Compliance with Parliament mandate for the Castor project PDF (108 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Unfair treatment of the Catalan police force PDF (105 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Bilateral agreements on airspace and competition PDF (5 KB) DOC (17 KB)
The freedom of expression of elected officials and the separation of powers in Spain PDF (8 KB) DOC (18 KB)
State of the rule of law in Spain: state prosecutor files a complaint against Catalan Minister Borràs for the purchase of ballot boxes PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Restrictions on vineyard planting permits in the Cava DO PDF (106 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Military exercises in natural areas protected by the Natura 2000 network PDF (7 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Language discrimination case: sanction for speaking in Catalan with Spanish policemen at Barcelona airport PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Uniform implementation of the EU Framework to strengthen the rule of law in all Member States and judicial independence - Venice Commission's report on Spain's Constitutional Court PDF (193 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Meat imports to the EU from Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil PDF (6 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Royal Decree 4/2017 on dockworkers PDF (6 KB) DOC (16 KB)
DG NEAR funds for the education of refugee and host community children PDF (101 KB) DOC (17 KB)
System for allocation of additional cohesion policy funding in Spain PDF (104 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Unfair trading practices in the food supply chain PDF (6 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Internment centres for foreigners in Spain PDF (107 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Ineffective investment in the Mediterranean Corridor PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
The bombing of Guernica PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Spain's acceptance of refugees PDF (102 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Compatibility of the Spanish electricity market with the common European energy market PDF (107 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Spanish government guarantee for the high-speed railway to Mecca (Saudi Arabia): illegal state aid pursuant to Article 107 TEU, public finances and compliance with EU deficit rules PDF (106 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Spanish Minister of Home Affairs involved in a conspiracy scandal PDF (102 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Installation of energy plants in the territory of Western Sahara PDF (102 KB) DOC (16 KB)
VP/HR - Spanish Government's consent to the use of Ceuta's port facilities by Moscow warships undermining EU sanctions and possible family links with Commissioner Arias Cañete PDF (199 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Case of refugee Αhmad H. facing a life sentence in Hungary PDF (101 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Independence of the Spanish judiciary PDF (106 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Upholding fundamental rights and the rule of law in Spain PDF (101 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Role of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in the forced return of ten Syrian asylum seekers from Greece to Turkey on 20 October 2016 PDF (104 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Spanish Government's violation of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement and Regulation (EC) No 539/2001, between the Union and Kosovo PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Obstruction of justice to maintain impunity for the crimes of the Franco dictatorship PDF (102 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Modifying VAT for feminine hygiene products (II) PDF (105 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Promotion of technologies for locating missing persons PDF (6 KB) DOC (15 KB)
The establishment of a European missing persons platform PDF (6 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Investigation and coordination with regard to missing persons PDF (99 KB) DOC (15 KB)
African elephants PDF (100 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Tree-felling in Gavà PDF (8 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Access to asylum and legal representation in connection with inadmissibility recommendations issued by the European Asylum Support Office PDF (190 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Serious social consequences of General Electric's takeover of Alstom's power generation and grid arm PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
European statistics on missing persons in the EU PDF (6 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Three leading human rights advocates jailed in Turkey PDF (199 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Self-protection plan for Girona train station PDF (101 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Missing persons and Directive 2011/36 /EU PDF (6 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Lack of investment in the Mediterranean Corridor PDF (103 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Modifying VAT for feminine hygiene products PDF (103 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Appeal against Law 24/2015 of 29 June 2015 on urgent measures to address the housing and energy poverty crisis PDF (105 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Applying international law to the forced relocation of refugees PDF (103 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Links between the 'Panama Papers' and the Commissioner for Climate Action & Energy PDF (104 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Active employment policies and correctly implementing them at regional level PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
The Youth Guarantee in Spain PDF (101 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Profitable plants are being closed so that they can be relocated PDF (102 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Sanctions imposed by UEFA for displaying democratic symbols PDF (102 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Detention of a Swedish citizen in Peru PDF (102 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Environmental flow of the Ebro delta PDF (101 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Returning migrants/refugees to war-torn countries PDF (102 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Repatriation of possible victims of trafficking in breach of the suspension order issued by the Rome Court (First Chamber) PDF (103 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Regulation on self-consumption of electricity in Spain PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Suspension of energy poverty measures and mortgage foreclosures PDF (100 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Language rights in the EU: the case of Omrop Fryslân PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Closure of the Valeo plant in Martorelles (Barcelona) PDF (105 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Commission monitoring of the market in fruit and vegetables PDF (6 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Disturbance and/or serious imbalance in the fruit and vegetables market PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
VP/HR - Israel's attack on the Freedom Flotilla III: act of international piracy against the vessel 'Marianne' in international waters on 28 June 2015 PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Xylella fastidiosa: a deadly threat to European agriculture PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Education system in the Community of Valencia: monitoring and main conclusions regarding the 'Crea Escola' Programme PDF (104 KB) DOC (26 KB)
The Juncker Plan as a catalyst for the Mediterranean Corridor PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Arbitrary nature of Spanish Mortgage Law: illegality of one-month deadline for appealing evictions PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Breaches of EU data protection legislation by Facebook PDF (104 KB) DOC (24 KB)
The education system in the Valencian Community PDF (104 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Castor project: dominant position of ENAGÁS PDF (104 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Castor project: non-compliance with the Directive on services in the internal market PDF (101 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Castor project: arbitrariness and lack of transparency PDF (101 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Measures to protect the fruit and vegetable sector from the Russian embargo PDF (193 KB) DOC (26 KB)
New emergency measures for the distribution of refugees in the EU PDF (105 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Protocol for locating missing persons in Europe PDF (104 KB) DOC (25 KB)
European Aid for Nepal PDF (99 KB) DOC (27 KB)
Refusal of extradition requests PDF (101 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Linguistic discrimination at the Spanish Consulate in Brussels PDF (100 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Spanish State aid to the banking sector PDF (192 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Seventieth anniversary of the liberation of Mauthausen PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Tax avoidance by big firms PDF (105 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Active farmer PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Succession inter vivos under the Basic Payment Scheme PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Payment for young farmers PDF (101 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Fraudulent payments in Spain to people who are not farmers PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Erasmus+ PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Mediterranean agriculture: an ongoing issue in the EU PDF (105 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Declassification of the PKK as a 'terrorist organisation' by the EU PDF (102 KB) DOC (23 KB)
VP/HR - Declassification of the PKK as a 'terrorist organisation' by the EU PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Mechanisms for democratic monitoring by the EU of agreements with Turkey PDF (103 KB) DOC (23 KB)
VP/HR - Denial of due process, and violation of human rights of Spanish citizens PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Total ban on the use of languages other than the official language of Bulgaria during election campaigns PDF (197 KB) DOC (29 KB)
European Citizen's Prize to Societat Civil Catalana PDF (106 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Active inclusion policies PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Torture in Saudi Arabia PDF (193 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Commemoration of authoritarian and Fascist regimes PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Creation of specific compensation funds in relation to new trade agreements with third countries PDF (100 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Situation of the Ciutat de Cremona state school in Alaquàs (Valencia) PDF (104 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Creation of a European sub-network of whale and dolphin 'sanctuaries' - Representative example of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura PDF (104 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Breach of Directive 1999/70/EC in relation to substitute judges and deputy magistrates PDF (103 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Solutions to air pollution in the Greater Barcelona area PDF (101 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Combating the apple snail plague in the Ebro Delta (Spain) PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Combating the apple snail plague in the Ebro Delta (Spain) PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Application for political asylum by Hassana Alia PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Coca-Cola Iberian Partners' redundancy plan PDF (195 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Cross-border cooperation between Gibraltar and Spain PDF (97 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Attack on the freedom of expression of Judge Santiago Vidal PDF (105 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Law on Public Safety PDF (104 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Need for protection of social rights PDF (193 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Increase in the number of evictions in Spain PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Death of Ziad Abu Ein, a Palestinian Authority minister PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Impunity in Mexico - Disappearance of 43 students in Iguala PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
The crisis in the pork sector PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Pork prices PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Response to the agricultural market crisis PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
European system of market management and distortions in the farming sector PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Financing market management measures through the crisis reserve fund PDF (99 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Renewable energy sector in Spain PDF (6 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Energy contracts and the cost of energy consumption PDF (6 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Closure of Google News in Spain PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Xenophobic demonstrations by Pegida in Dresden PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Proposed hydrocarbons law in Spain PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Refusal by the FOBR to publish reports on the sale of Catalunya Banc PDF (6 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Labour reform in Spain and recommendations by the Commission and the ECB PDF (99 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Violence and sport PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Fresh fruit sector and the OPFH PDF (104 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Fresh fruit PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Establishment of a European minimum income PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Criminalisation by the Hungarian police of women who suffer sexual abuse PDF (101 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Uncontrolled antifraud unit to track down cases of corruption in Catalonia PDF (102 KB) DOC (23 KB)
New Spanish legislation on the aggregators' levy PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - Political situation in Nagorno-Karabakh PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Fiscal consolidation policy in the European Union PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Participatory processes in the European Union PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Greenpeace action and Spanish navy's response PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Unemployment benefit for fishermen in Catalonia PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
VP/HR - EU recognition of the Palestinian State PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Border between Spain and Gibraltar PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Bluefin tuna quota PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
NGO access to detention centres PDF (103 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Access to information on the detention of third-country nationals PDF (103 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Police surveillance of judges in favour of the right to decide PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Fascist political group legalised in Spain PDF (101 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Suspension of the Catalan Regional Government's energy poverty measures PDF (104 KB) DOC (25 KB)
VP/HR - Role of the EU in the conflict in Kurdistan PDF (100 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Support of authoritarian regimes in the Spanish State PDF (106 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Compensation for the Castor project PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
PCE/PEC - Statement on the political future of Catalonia PDF (102 KB) DOC (25 KB)
House-building on the protected island of Tagomago (Ibiza, Balearic Islands) PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Youth unemployment and active policies to create jobs in the EU PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Written declarations (3)
Amendments (958)
Amendment 1 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 (new)
Paragraph –1 (new)
-1. Recalls that Union citizenship, as established by Article 20 TFEU, besides granting the rights mentioned therein to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States, the right to vote and to stand as candidates in elections to this Parliament and in municipal elections in their Member State of residence, the right to consular protection by another Member State, if necessary, and the right to petition and to turn to the European Ombudsman in any of the Treaty languages, has also extended implications and confers rights in the field of democratic participation, as derived from articles 11 TEU and 24 TFEU, and chapter V of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, among others;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
— having regard to Articles 2, 3, 6, 9, 120, 11, 21, 23 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), and to Articles 8, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 45, 46, 47, 48, 153, 165 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),
Amendment 2 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 a (new)
Paragraph –1 a (new)
Amendment 3 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 b (new)
Paragraph –1 b (new)
-1b. Stresses the importance of the right to petition, as established by Articles 227 TFEU and 44 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, respectively, and the right to refer to the Ombudsman consigned in Articles 228 TFEU and 43 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights; commends the work of the EU Ombudsman in combating maladministration in the Union institutions, bodies and agencies, and particularly on the field of transparency; stresses the importance of transparency for an adequate democratic functioning and participation within the Union that generates trust among its citizens; endorses in this regard the recommendations by the Ombudsman in its recent Special Report on transparency of the Council legislative process;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that EU institutions should enhance efforts to ensure greater effectiveness of the electoral rights of Union citizens; highlights the fact that electoral laws in many Member States remain complex and in occasions put excessive hurdles to the exercise of the right to vote or directly prevent it, particularly in the case of EU citizens having exercised their right to free movement, which are estimated to amount 15 million people; urges the Commission to call on the Member States to actively uphold best practices which help citizens to vote in and stand for EU elections pursuant to Article 22(2) TFEU, including the publication of electoral laws one year before EU elections, the combating of fake news and the promotion of media pluralism;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 14 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas Article 8 TFEU establishes the principle of gender mainstreaming by stating that ‘In all its activities, the Union shall aim to eliminate inequalities, and to promote equality, between men and women’;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates the outcomes of the public hearing held by the Committee on Petitions in June 2017 on ‘Restoring Citizens’ Trust and Confidence in the European Project’, which underlined, inter alia, the need to render the EU electoral procesdecision- making process and institutions more open and transparent for all Union citizens as a way of strengthening EU public discourse and countering perceptions of a democratic deficit; insists that by credibly leading the fight against corruption the Union would make an crucial step, not only in ensuring a good administration in all Member States and protecting tax-payers general interest, but also in reinforcing its image as such in the eyes of EU citizens; considers that the EU should be exemplary and apply the highest standards to prevent any conflict of interests, also with regards to the appointments to relevant posts in the EU institutions and agencies; regrets recent episodes of revolving doors by commissioners that undermine the perception of the Union by the public opinion;
Amendment 33 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that EU citizenship is additional to citizenship of a Member State; underlines that EU citizenship enables the complementarity of differentmultiple identities for the citizen, and that exclusive nationalistm and populist ideologies undermine that capacity; is of the opinion that exercising active citizenship is keywhich should be linked to residency is key to reinforcing the sense of belonging to a political project and to building open, inclusive and resilient societies;
Amendment 33 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Believes that, the EU being conceived as a union of Member States but also citizens as such, individuals having enjoyed EU citizenship by means of the membership in the Union of the Member State they were nationals of should not be automatically dispossessed from it, but be entitled to still enjoy the most substantial of its rights and benefits, on the basis of their residence;
Amendment 34 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Is convinced that the full deployment of the different dimensions of the social pillar within the scope of the treaties is a priority in order to enhance the implications of EU citizenship within people's daily life; considers it essential in order to improve the perception of the added value of the Union for its citizens and residents and revert the current trend of disaffection; stresses that full accessibility of EU institutions and the content of their policies, also by digital means and for persons with disabilities, is imperative; recalls the Union commitment within the framework of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and underlines the clear link of its fulfilment with the full enjoyment of EU citizenship by every person.
Amendment 39 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the Erasmus+ programme, the Rights, Equality and Citizenship programme, and the Europe for Citizens programme bring, for EU citizens and in particular the young, great benefits by raising their awareness of their status as EU citizens and enhancing their knowledge of the rights deriving from that status and its underlying values; takes the view that European voluntary programmes such as European Voluntary Service and the European Solidarity Corps also play an integral part in building European citizenship; underlines the paramount importance of such programmes, especially among young people, and calls for them to be financially reinforced;
Amendment 40 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Recalls that Union citizenship, besides granting freedom of movement, voting rights, consular protection, right to petition and to turn to the European Ombudsman, has also extended implications and confers rights in the field of democratic participation as derived from Articles 10 and 11 TEU among others;
Amendment 41 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Stresses that for the exercise of the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union, decisions should be taken as openly and as closely possible to the citizen and it is therefore fundamental to ensure relevant guarantees on transparency in decision-making and fight against corruption;
Amendment 42 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3 c. Stresses that for the full enjoyment of Treaty provisions linked to EU citizenship, including participation in the democratic life of the Union, it is essential that fundamental rights are protected and promoted;
Amendment 42 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the right to petition, pursuant to Article 227 TFEU, represents a formal channel for citizens to communicate directly with the EU institutions and to signal the incorrect application or transposition of Union law by national authorities, as well as indicating possible loopholes within the acquis; notes that while citizens across the Union are aware of the right to petition, and there is a persisting lack of clarity as to the proper delineation of competences between the Union and the Member States; calls on the Commission to increase communication efforts to clarifyexpectation of an added value of the Union by a thorough handling of their concerns, they often experience arbitrariness and lack of clarity as to the proper delineation of competences between the Union and the Member States, resulting in inaction from the Union institutions; considers that this is detrimental to the perception of Union citizenship and calls on the Commission to increase efforts to exercise its duty of guardian of the treaties and play a proactive role within the Union competences, especially in the policy areas which garner the highest number of petitions, namely: the environment, fundamental rights (notably voting rights and rights of the child), the free movement of persons, social affairs and employment, discrimination and immigration;
Amendment 43 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3 d. Points out at the worrying tendency of shrinking space for civil society in the world and also in Europe and of increasing criminalisation, bureaucratisation and funds restrictions for fundamental rights organisations, in particular women’s rights organisations and activists;
Amendment 44 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3 e. Regrets that gender mainstreaming is not consistently implemented in all EU activities which prevents the full enjoyment of the rights linked to EU citizenship by women;
Amendment 46 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is concerned at the trend to decline in voter turnout in both national and European Parliament elections; is convinced that the strengthening of the EU public sphere and the full implementation of European citizenship has the potential to help reverse that decline by increasing citizens’ sense of belonging to a European community and boosting representative democracy;
Amendment 46 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers that multilingualism within the institutions and in their interaction with citizens is an essential aspect to reinforce the notion of EU citizenship; calls for more efforts to be taken in ensuring as much as possible the availability of official documents beyond the three working languages; is convinced that expanding the communication of the Union with citizens to those languages that while not yet official at the Union level do enjoy recognition and are widely spoken in Member States would have a positive impact in the perception of EU citizenship; suggests that necessary provisions are adopted so that these languages can also be used by Members in plenary sittings, upon prior notification;
Amendment 48 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Recalls that transnational lists have the potential to reinforce the EU public sphere in the framework of EU elections by promoting a EU wide debate based on EU related policies instead of framing the electoral campaign on national issues;
Amendment 49 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Recalls that according to Article 17 TEU the appointment of the President of the Commission needs to take into account the result of the elections to the European Parliament; underlines the political importance and symbolism of this figure in terms of reinforcing EU citizenship;
Amendment 50 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Stresses that, in order to protect the political rights of all EU citizens, it is fundamental to combat the barriers women face when participating in the democratic life of the Union;
Amendment 52 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Considers that, in a system of representative democracy, it is essential to ensure the proper functioning of EU institutions in order to protect all political rights of EU citizens; calls for more determined steps to be taken to ensure the right to good administration for EU citizens, as established in Article 41 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, and particularly within the field of the right to access to documents granted by it Article 42;
Amendment 52 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that the revision of the legal framework governing the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) presents an opportunity to enhance citizen participation in EU policy making by rendering the instrument less bureaucratic and more accessible; underlines that enough infrastructure and support for the conduction of ECIs throughout its process have to be resourced from the Union; calls on the Commission to develop more robust practices as regards the political and legal follow-up given to successful ECIs.
Amendment 55 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Insists that by credibly leading the fight against corruption the Union would make a crucial step, not only in ensuring a good administration in all Member States and protecting tax-payers general interest, but also in reinforcing its image as such in the eyes of EU citizens; considers that the EU should be exemplary and apply the highest standards to prevent any conflict of interests, also with regards to the appointments to relevant posts in the EU institutions and agencies; regrets recent episodes of revolving doors by commissioners that undermine the perception of the Union by the public opinion;
Amendment 55 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Believes that EU citizenship programmes as "Erasmus+" or "Europe for Citizens" together with other initiatives aimed at promoted democratic participation in the life of the Union, such as crowdsourcing, are crucial elements that need to be renewed and boosted within the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework;
Amendment 56 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6 c. Considers that the revision of the legal framework governing the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) presents an opportunity to enhance citizen participation in EU policy making by rendering the instrument less bureaucratic and more accessible;
Amendment 57 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6 d. Considers that multilingualism within the institutions and in their interaction with citizens is an essential aspect to reinforce the notion of EU citizenship;
Amendment 58 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the benefits that free movement brings to EU citizens and the Member States’ economies; points out that the rights derived from Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their families to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States are not always known and respected, which leads to obstacles to free movement and residence for EU citizens and their families; recalls the obligation of the Member States to protect freedom of movement rights, including family reunification, for same-sex couples:
Amendment 58 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Considers that the Charter of Fundamental Rights enclosed in the Lisbon Treaty is the most essential piece, both symbolically and in content, framing EU citizenship; regrets that its article 51, combined with a recurrent restrictive interpretation thereof, often renders it of void application, generating frustration and eventually disenchantment of concerned citizens towards the common project; considers that this fact ought to be corrected at the earliest possible stage, ultimately by suppressing this article from the Charter;
Amendment 62 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Reminds that the Lisbon Treaty foresees in itself the procedure for its revision, as established in article 48 of the Treaty of the European Union; underlines that this is a valuable tool in order to further upgrade the possibilities of EU citizenship; notes that ten years have passed since the last treaty revision, one of the longest periods without reviews during the past decades; considers that the reality of Brexit represents a clear pretext and a unique trigger to undergo a new process of revision; invites to the launch of a new European Convention for this purpose;
Amendment 66 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Stresses that in order to truly protect freedom of movement, the EU needs improve its measures to avoid social dumping; fair pay, union rights and decent working conditions must be secured through EU legislation;
Amendment 69 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 3 a (new)
Subheading 3 a (new)
Petition the European Parliament and complain to the European ombudsperson
Amendment 70 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Stresses the importance of the right to petition, as established by Articles 227 TFEU and 44 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, respectively, and the right to refer to the Ombudsman consigned in Articles 228 TFEU and 43 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights; commends the work of the EU Ombudsman in combating maladministration in the Union institutions, bodies and agencies, and particularly on the field of transparency; stresses the importance of transparency for an adequate democratic functioning and participation within the Union that generates trust among its citizens; endorses in this regard the recommendations by the Ombudsman in its recent Special Report on transparency of the Council legislative process;
Amendment 71 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11 b. Notes that while citizens across the Union are aware of the right to petition, and there is a persisting expectation of an added value of the Union by a thorough handling of their concerns, they often experience arbitrariness and lack of clarity as to the proper delineation of competences between the Union and the Member States, resulting in inaction from the Union institutions; considers that this is detrimental to the perception of Union citizenship and calls on the Commission to increase efforts to exercise its duty of guardian of the treaties and play a proactive role within the Union competences, especially in the policy areas which garner the highest number of petitions, namely: the environment, fundamental rights (notably voting rights and rights of the child), the free movement of persons, social affairs and employment, discrimination and immigration;
Amendment 75 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Suggests that the Commission, through the procedure established in Article 25 TFEU, extend the rights listed in Article 20(2) TFEU in order to allow EU citizens to choose whether to vote in their Member State of nationality or of residence and that this be extended to include all elections, in line with the constitutional possibilities of each Member State;
Amendment 78 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Proposes, in the next revision of the Treaties, to link EU citizenship to residency in a EU Member State;
Amendment 79 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13 b. Recommends that the President of the next Commission should be proposed by the European Council amongst the "Spitzenkandidaten" who can gather a majority within the European Parliament;
Amendment 82 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 c (new)
Paragraph 13 c (new)
13 c. Strongly encourages the European political parties and their party members to ensure a gender balanced representation of candidates by means of zipped lists or other equivalent methods;
Amendment 83 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 d (new)
Paragraph 13 d (new)
13 d. Suggests a revision of Regulation 1049/2001 on access to documents in order to upgrade the enjoyment of this right by EU citizens and its civil society;
Amendment 84 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 e (new)
Paragraph 13 e (new)
13 e. Calls on the Commission to develop more robust practices as regards the political and legal follow-up given to successful ECIs;
Amendment 85 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 f (new)
Paragraph 13 f (new)
13 f. Calls for more efforts to be taken in ensuring as much as possible the availability of official documents beyond the three working languages; is convinced that expanding the communication of the Union with citizens to those languages that while not yet official at the Union level do enjoy recognition and are widely spoken in Member States would have a positive impact in the perception of EU citizenship; suggests that necessary provisions are adopted so that these languages can also be used by Members in plenary sittings, upon prior notification;
Amendment 87 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Calls for the consistent implementation of gender mainstreaming in all EU activities, in particular when adopting legislation or implementing policies linked to EU citizenship;
Amendment 88 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14 b. Requests to increase EU measures addressed to combat social dumping through, among others, a Minimum Income Directive, the adoption of fair leaves in the ongoing revision of the Parental Leave Directive and reinforcing other measures to combat the gender pay and pension gaps;
Amendment 94 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Urges to conclude the adoption of the horizontal EU Anti-discrimination Directive[1], in order to further guarantee fundamental rights concretely within the Union by means of adoption of concrete EU legislation, and therefore avoiding the current interference of Article 51; [1] 2008/0140(CNS) Proposal for a Council Directive on implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation
Amendment 96 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18 b. Considers that the Charter of Fundamental Rights is an essential dimension for the implementation of EU citizenship; regrets that Article 51, combined with its restrictive interpretation, often narrows the application of the Charter, generating frustration and eventually disenchantment towards the European project; considers that this fact should be corrected at the earliest possible stage, ultimately by suppressing this Article from the Charter;
Amendment 98 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 c (new)
Paragraph 18 c (new)
18 c. Recalls the obligation laid down in the Treaties to accede to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR); considers that its completion would introduce further safeguards in protecting fundamental rights of Union citizens and residents; asks to take the necessary steps to eventually eliminate the legal barriers that prevent the conclusion of the accession;
Amendment 101 #
2018/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 34 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas women and girls in the EU experience structural gender inequality in a variety of forms and in a range of settings – including gender discrimination, gender- based violence and misogynistic hate speech – which severely limits their ability to enjoy their rights and to participate on an equal footing in society; whereas in 2017, the #MeToo movement raised awareness of the scale and intensity of the sexual harassment and sexual and gender- based violence women face; whereas in recent years reports have pointed out a growing backlash against women’s rights and gender equality in the EU;
Amendment 104 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the signing of the EU’s accession to the Istanbul Convention on 13 June 2017, despite the limitation to only two mandates; regrets that, to date, only 19 Member States have ratified the Convention and calls on the remaining Member States to do so without delay; regrets that in some Member States, discussions around the ratification of the Istanbul Convention have been accompanied by campaigns against perceived gender ideology; points out that campaigns against perceived gender ideology go against principles of universal human rights and are harmful to society at large; recognises that when it comes to determining European standards for the protection of women againstagainst gender-based violence, the Istanbul Convention is the most important point of reference; calls on the Council to swiftly agree on the Code of Conduct, which will govern the implementation of the Convention by the EU;
Amendment 118 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Welcomes the discussions and conclusions of the Commission’s 2017 Colloquium on fundamental rights, which focused on women’s rights and the actions carried out throughout the year to support national actors in their fight to prevent and combat violence against women and to raise awareness about the problem; welcomes the Commission’s initiative to support work-life balance for working parents and carers and its action plan to combat gender pay gap.
Amendment 149 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that public deliberation and debate are the lifeblood of a healthy and functioning democracy and encourages, in this context, the EU and the Member States to take further steps to safeguards and protect freedom of speech and assembly as basic principles of democratic processes; strongly condemns in this regard the increasing restrictions on freedom of assembly, which the authorities have enforced in some cases with violence against protesters; recalls that, according to the Report by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe on the state of Democracy, Human Rights and the Rule of Law 2017, opportunities for peaceful protest are limited where public assemblies are subject to undue restrictions, including in countries with long-standing democratic traditions; reaffirms the crucial role of these fundamental freedoms in the functioning of democratic societies and calls on the Commission to take an active role in promoting these rights in line with international human rights standards;
Amendment 154 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Recalls that, in the performance of their duty, law enforcement officials must respect and protect human dignity and maintain and uphold the human rights of all persons; Stresses that any excessive and unjustified use of force by law enforcement officials must be subject to impartial and exhaustive investigations by the relevant authorities of each Member State.
Amendment 160 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Expresses its concerns that few specific legal provisions to ensure the protection ofor policy frameworks protecting journalists and media actoworkers from violence, threats and pressuresintimidation can be identified at national level in EU Member States; expresses its concern over the precarious working conditions forof many journalists and media workers and the amount of physical and psychological violence they witness, which compromises their ability to work appropriately and thus hampers media freedomare subjected to, which may hamper their ability to carry out their work thus having an impact on media freedom and pluralism; stresses the importance of EU-wide projects, such as the Media Pluralism Monitor and Mapping Media Freedom, that monitor risks to media pluralism across Europe, map violations of media freedom, conduct awareness raising campaigns and provide support for journalists under threat and for cross-border investigative journalism; underlines that financing for such and similar issues should be secured under the new MFF;
Amendment 167 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines the fact that whistle- blowing is an essential element in investigative journalism and pressmedia freedom, and in this context recalls its resolution of 24 October 2017 on legitimate measures to protect whistle- blowers acting in the public interest when disclosing the confidential information of companies and public bodies3; __________________ 3welcomes the proposal made by the Commission to strengthen whistle-blower protection across the EU and underlines the importance of a swift follow-up by the co- legislators, so that the proposal can be adopted before the end of this legislature. __________________ 3 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2017)0402. Texts adopted, P8_TA(2017)0402.
Amendment 171 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the Commission’s decision to establish a High Level Expert Group on fake news and online disinformationCommunication on Tackling online disinformation: a European approach and the actions it contains, which aim at creating a more transparent, trustworthy and accountable online ecosystem, improving the security and resilience of election processes, fostering education and media literacy, increasing support for quality journalism, and strengthening the Union’s strategic communication capabilities; expresses its concern about the potential threat the notion of “fake news” could pose to freedom of speech and expression and to the independence of the media, while underlining the negative effects that the spread of false newsdisinformation might have on the quality of political debate and on the well-informed participation of citizens in democratic society;
Amendment 202 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Points out that EU Member States should address adequateffectively discriminatory orand violent reactionincidents against the schooling of migrant and refugee children, both through law enforcementegal responses and by promoting mutual understanding and social cohesion; calls on Member States to structurally addressensure that regular school curricula includes effective measures guaranteeing respect for diversity, intercultural understanding and human rights, including children’s rights, in regular school curricula;.
Amendment 224 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the Member States to makenhance efforts to systematically record, collect and publish annually comparabledisaggregated data on ethnicracial discrimination and hate crimes in order to enable them and other key stakeholders to develop effective, evidence-based legal and policy responses to these phenomena; recalls that any data should be collected in accordance with national legal frameworks and EU data protection legislation; welcomes the compilation of guiding principles on hate crime for law enforcement and criminal authorities and on access to justice, protection and support for victims of hate crime developed by the High level Group on Racism, Xenophobia and other forms of intolerance.
Amendment 235 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Member States to continue their efforts to ensure the effective practical enforcement of the Race Equality Directive (2000/43/EC)4 and to ensure effective enforcement of the Framework Decision on Racism and Xenophobia to tackle persisting discrimination against Roma, anti- Semitism, Islamophobia, Afrophobia and, anti- Gypsyism and Aporophobia; points out that the Member States should review and amend, if necessary, their national integration strategies to ensure that all people regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender or any other status are truly empowered to engage aparticipate effectively in the process of inclusion by promoting their social, economic, political and cultural participation in society; __________________ 4and protecting their human rights; __________________ 4 OJ L 180, 19.7.2000, p. 22. OJ L 180, 19.7.2000, p. 22.
Amendment 255 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Deplores the fact that in 2017, LGBTI people were still victims of discrimination and hatred and encourages the Member States to adopt laws and policies to combat homophobia and transphobia; condemns firmly the promotion and the practice of LGBTI conversion therapies and pathologisation of trans and intersex identities; urges all Member States to adopt similar measures that respect and uphold the right to gender identity, gender expression, physical integrity and self-determination;
Amendment 259 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Is concerned over the lack of knowledge and interventions by law enforcement authorities particularly towards trans people and marginalised LGBTI people; reminds that combating violence related to the gender identity, gender expression, sex characteristics or sexual orientation of a person falls in the EU gender-based violence remit; calls upon the Commission to mainstream gender identity perspective in it; calls upon Member States to combat impunity in anti-trans crimes as a threat to the rule of law on the one hand, and develop together with civil society effective measures protecting trans people effectively against stigma, discrimination and violence;
Amendment 288 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Expresses concern that, despite the fact the fact that most Member States have adopted legislation to ensure judicial independence and impartiality, in compliance with Council of Europe standards, problems remain in the way these standards are applied, leaving national judiciaries open to political influence and fuelling public perceptions of interference in the judicial process and bias among individual judges.
Amendment 309 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Recalls that, in accordance with article 1 in both the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), all peoples within the European Union have the right to self- determination, by which they can freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development.
Amendment 311 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Calls on the European Parliament to send ad-hoc delegations to Member States when there is clear evidence of serious breaches of Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights
Amendment 317 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Stresses that corruption not only constitutes a significant systemic obstacle to the realisation of democracy and the respect for the rule of law, but it may also cause many fundamental rights violations; expresses its concerns about new legislative initiatives put forward in certain European countries that might reverse reforms previously undertaken to strengthen the prevention of corruption; Calls in this regard on all Member States and the EU institutions to firmly fight systemic corruption and to devise effective instruments for preventing, combating and sanctioning corruption;
Amendment 337 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Expresses concern about persistent fundamental rights challenges in the area of migration, with regard to access to territory, reception conditions, asylum procedures, immigration detention and protection of unaccompanied children; notes with concern that fast-track procedures, safe-country-lists, but also deportation to other unsafe Member States in Dublin procedures put LGBTI asylum seekers at a heightened risk to be deported before being able to substantiate their claim for asylum to foreign or other Member States, where they fear prosecution on grounds of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics;
Amendment 364 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Emphasises that the EU and the Member States should develop credible and effective systems that would make it unnecessary to detain children for asylum or return purposes; stresses the importance of taking the principle of the best interests of the child into consideration in all aspects concerning children as well as of the practical implementation of the right to be heard; recalls that Article 14 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and Article 28 of the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child guarantee the right to education to every child, including migrant and refugee children, both unaccompanied and accompanied and avoiding separated schooling and segregation; stresses that Member States should ensure that migrant and refugee children are effectively supported through linguistic, social and psychological support based on individual assessment of their needs; Is concerned over the specific needs and vulnerabilities of asylum seekers from marginalised groups, such as LGBTI asylum seekers; calls upon member states to ensure that the specific needs for safety, healthcare, legal recognition of trans asylum seekers are met;
Amendment 368 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24a. Welcomes the establishment of a European Network on Guardianship following the Commission communication on the protection of children in migration and the subsequent Council conclusions. The network will facilitate cooperation between relevant national authorities and exchange of good practice on guardianship.
Amendment 410 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Welcomes the operational work of the Agency in different areas for example at the migration hotspots in Greece and Italy, awareness rising activities and training in the area of human rights; calls that the overall statutory mission of the Agency also includes the operational task to provide technical assistance, training and capacity-building on fundamental rights issues to EU institutions, bodies and agencies, as well as to Member States when they are implementing EU law.
Amendment 414 #
2018/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Is of the opinion that the EU institutions should provide for enhanced forms of consultation, impact assessments and legal scrutiny, including by requesting advice from appropriate independent expert bodies, such as FRA, whenever a legislative file potentially promotes or negatively affects fundamental rights; considers in this regard that more regular consultation of FRA could be provided for in a revised version of the inter-institutional agreement on better law-making.
Amendment 1 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 1
Annex – recital 1
(1) The regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman's duties should be laid down in compliance with the provisions of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, particularly Articles 20 and 228, the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
Amendment 2 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 2
Annex – recital 2
(2) In particular, Article 41 of the Charter of the Fundamental Rights of the European Union recognises the right to good administration as a fundamental right of European citizens. In its turn, Article 43 of the Charter recognises the right to refer to the European Ombudsman cases of maladministration in the activities of the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union. In order for these rights to be effective and to enhance his or ther capacity to conduct thorough and impartial inquiries, the Ombudsman should be provided with all the tools that are necessary to perform his or her duties the duties of the office successfully.
Amendment 3 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 4a (new)
Annex – recital 4a (new)
(4a) The Ombudsman should have the right to make recommendations where finding that an institution, body, office or agency is not properly applying a court ruling.
Amendment 4 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 6
Annex – recital 6
(6) In order to strengthen the Ombudsman’s role, it is desirable to allow the Ombudsman, without prejudice to his or ther primary duty of handling complaints, to conduct own-initiative inquiries with a view to identifying repeated instances of maladministration and promoting good administrative practices within the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies.
Amendment 5 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 7
Annex – recital 7
(7) In order to increase the effectiveness of his or her actionthe office, the Ombudsman should be entitled, on his or her own initiative or by virtue of a complaint, to conduct inquiries following up previous inquiries so as to ascertain whether and to what extent the institution, body, office or agency concerned has complied with his or ther recommendations put forward. The Ombudsman should also be entitled to include in his or ther annual report to the European Parliament an assessment of the compliance rate of his or ther recommendations and an assessment of the adequacy of the resources made available to perform his or her dutiesthe duties of the office.
Amendment 6 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 8
Annex – recital 8
(8) The Ombudsman should have access to all the elements required for the performance of his or her dutiesthe duties of the office. To that end, Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies are to be obliged to supply the Ombudsman with any information which he or she requestsed of them, without prejudice to the Ombudsman's obligation not to divulge such information. Access to classified information or documents should be subject to compliance with the rules on the processing of confidential information by the Union institution, body, office or agency concerned. The institutions, bodies, offices or agencies supplying classified information or documents should inform the Ombudsman of such classification. For the implementation of the rules on the processing of confidential information by the Union institution, body, office or agency concerned, the Ombudsman should have agreed in advance with the institution, body, office or agency concerned the conditions for treatment of classified information or documents. If the Ombudsman finds that the assistance requested is not forthcoming, he or she should inform the European Parliament, which should make appropriate representations.
Amendment 7 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 9
Annex – recital 9
(9) The Ombudsman and his or ther staff thereof are to be obliged to treat in confidence any information which they have acquired in the course of their duties. However, the Ombudsman should inform the competent authorities of facts which he or she considersthat might relate to criminal law and which have come to his or ther attention of the Ombudsman in the course of his or heran inquiriesy. The Ombudsman should also be able to inform the Union institution, body, office or agency concerned of the facts calling into question the conduct of a member of their staff.
Amendment 9 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 10
Annex – recital 10
(10) Account should be taken of the recent changes concerning the protection of the Union’s financial interests against criminal offences, notably the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office by Council Regulation (EU) 2017/19392 , so as to allow the Ombudsman to notify it of any information falling within the latter’s remit. Likewise, in order to fully respect the presumption of innocence and the rights of the defence enshrined in Article 48 of the Charter of the Fundamental Rights of the European Union, it is desirable that, where he or she notifies the European Public Prosecutor’s Office is notified of information falling within the latter’s remit, the Ombudsman reports that notification to the person concerned and to the complainant. __________________ 2 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 L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1).
Amendment 10 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 11
Annex – recital 11
(11) It is desirable to take steps so as to allow the Ombudsman to develop his or her cooperatiocooperation of the Ombudsman with the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, since such cooperation may render the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties more effective. A provision should also be made for the possibility of cooperation between the Ombudsman and authorities of the same type in the Member States, in compliance with the national laws applicable.
Amendment 11 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – recital 13
Annex – recital 13
(13) The Ombudsman should perform his or her dutiesact with complete independence and give a solemn undertaking before the Court of Justice that he or she will do so when taking up his or her dutieswhen taking up the office. The incompatibilities, the remuneration, the privileges and the immunities of the Ombudsman should be laid down.
Amendment 12 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex – article 1 - paragraph 2
Annex – article 1 - paragraph 2
2. The Ombudsman shall perform his or her dutiesact with independence from the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, in accordance with the powers conferred on them by the Treaties, and with due regard to Articles 20 and 228 of the TFEU and Article 41 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union on the right to good administration.
Amendment 13 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 1 – paragraph 3
Annex - article 1 – paragraph 3
3. In the performance of his or her duties, the Ombudsman may not intervene in cases before courtwhere the alleged facts are or have been the subject of legal proceedings nor may the Ombudsman question the soundness of a court's ruling or a court’s competence to issue a ruling.
Amendment 15 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 4
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 4
4. A complaint shall be made within twohree years of the date on which the facts on which it is based came to the attention of the complainant and shall be preceded by the appropriate administrative approaches to the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies concerned.
Amendment 16 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 5
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 5
5. The Ombudsman shall determine whether a complaint is within his or ther mandate of the office and, if so, whether it is admissible. Where a complaint is outside the mandate or inadmissible, the Ombudsman, before closing the file, may advise the complainant to address it to another authority.
Amendment 17 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 7
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 7
7. When tThe Ombudsman, because of shall not be entitled to take a decision while legal proceedings are in progress or concluded concerning the facts which have been put forward, has to declare a complaint inadmissible or terminate consideration of it, the outcome of any inquiries or where a legal proceeding concerning such facts has been concluded. However, the Ombudsman shas carried out up to that point shall be filed definitivelyll have the right to make recommendations where it finds that an institution, body, office or agency is not properly applying a court ruling.
Amendment 18 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 8
Annex - article 2 – paragraph 8
8. No complaint may be made to the Ombudsman that concerns work relationships between the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and their officials and other servants unless all the possibilities for the submission of internal administrative requests and complaints, in particular the procedures referred to in Article 90 of the Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union [and the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the Union], laid down in Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom, ECSC) No 259/683 (“the Staff Regulations”), have been exhausted by the person concerned and the time-limits for replies by the institution, body, office or agency concerned have expired. Specific implementing provisions to ensure that cases of sexual harassment are dealt with in an appropriate mannershall be adopted. __________________ 3 OJ L 56, 4.3.1968, p. 1.
Amendment 19 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 1
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 1
1. The Ombudsman shall, on his or her own initiative or following a complaint, conduct all the inquiries, including those following up previous ones, which the Ombudsman considers justified to clarify any suspected maladministration or those of a more strategic or structural nature, which the Ombudsman considers justified to combat maladministration and promote good administrative practices in the activities of Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies. The Ombudsman shall inform the institution, body, office or agency concerned of such action, which may submit any useful comment to the Ombudsman.
Amendment 21 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 2
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 2
2. Without prejudice to his or ther primary duty of handling complaints, the Ombudsman may conduct own-initiative inquiries in order to identify repeated instances of maladministration and promote good administrative practices within the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies.
Amendment 22 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 4
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 4
The institutions, bodies, offices or agencies concerned shall give access to documents originating in a Member State and classified as secret by law only where that Member State has given its prior agreemente appropriate measures for the handling of the documents with an equivalent level of security have been established by the Ombudsman.
Amendment 23 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 4a (new)
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 4a (new)
They shall give access to other documents originating in a Member State after having informed the Member State concerned.
Amendment 24 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 5
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 5
Officials and other servants of Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies shall, at the request of the Ombudsman, testify to facts which relate to an ongoing inquiry by the Ombudsman. The officials or servants in question shall speak on behalf of and as instructed by their institution, body, office or agency. They shall continue to be bound by the obligations arising from the rules to which they are subjectOmbudsman shall process this testimony according to the need for confidentiality.
Amendment 27 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 6
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 3 - subparagraph 6
Amendment 29 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 4
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 4
4. In so far as their national law allows, tThe competent authorities of the Member States shall, at the request of the Ombudsman or on their own initiative, transmit to the Ombudsman any information or document that may help to clarify instances of maladministration by Union institutions, bodies, offices or agencies. Where such information or document is covered by national law on the processing of confidential information or by provisions preventing its being communicated, the Member State concerned may allow the Ombudsman to have access to this information provided that he or she undertakes not to divulge itfollowing an agreement on the adequate handling of the confidential information .
Amendment 30 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 5
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 5
5. If the assistance which he or she requestsed is not forthcoming, the Ombudsman shall inform the European Parliament, which shall make appropriate representations.
Amendment 32 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 6
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 6
6. If the Ombudsman finds there has beenWhere grounds of maladministration, he or sheave been found, the Ombudsman shall inform the institution, body, office or agency concerned, where appropriate making draft recommendations. The institution, body, office or agency so informed shall send the Ombudsman a detailed opinion within three months.
Amendment 34 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 8
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 8
8. Where appropriate in relation to an inquiry into the activities of a Union institution, body, office or agency, the Ombudsman may request to appear before the European Parliament, on the Ombudsman's own initiative or at the request of the European Parliament, at the most appropriate level.
Amendment 36 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 10
Annex - article 3 – paragraph 10
10. At the end of each annual session the Ombudsman shall submit to the European Parliament a report on the outcome of his or ther inquiries carried out. The report shall include an assessment of the compliance with the Ombudsman’s recommendations and an assessment of the adequacy of the resources available to perform the Ombudsman’s duties. These assessments may also be the subject of separate reports.
Amendment 37 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 a (new)
Annex - article 3 a (new)
Article 3 a The Ombudsman and the staff of the Ombudsman shall deal with requests for public access to documents in accordance with the conditions and limits provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001. With regards to complaints regarding the right of public access to official documents, the Ombudsman shall, following due analysis and all necessary considerations, issue a recommendation concerning the access or else to said documents, which the institution, body, office or agency concerned shall deliver within the deadline provided for by Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001. If the concerned institution, body, office or agency does not follow the recommendation to divulge the said documents, it shall duly state the reasons for its refusal. In this case, the Ombudsman shall inform the complainant about the legal remedies available, including the procedures available to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
Amendment 38 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 b (new)
Annex - article 3 b (new)
Article 3 b The Ombudsman shall also be entitled to open new inquiries based on the information provided by whistle-blowers, who may report in confidentiality and anonymity, in case the practices described may represent instances of maladministration in the Union. To that end, applicable staff regulations regarding secrecy may be waived if necessary.
Amendment 39 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 c (new)
Annex - article 3 c (new)
Article 3 c The Ombudsman shall conduct regular assessments of the whistleblowing policies and procedures in place in the relevant institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union, and formulate appropriate recommendations for improvement. The Ombudsman may confidentially provide impartial expert guidance to potential whistle-blowers concerning the scope of application of the relevant provisions in Union law.
Amendment 40 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 3 d (new)
Annex - article 3 d (new)
Article 3 d The Ombudsman shall ensure the impartiality of the Union’s administrative actions, and shall accordingly have the capacity to assess whether the general procedures applicable in the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union and their concrete application in particular cases comply with this principle. The Ombudsman may identify and assess possible instances of conflicts of interest at all levels within the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union, which could constitute a source of maladministration. Where appropriate, the Ombudsman shall inform the European Parliament of its findings.
Amendment 41 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 4 – paragraph 1
Annex - article 4 – paragraph 1
Amendment 43 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Annex - article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
If, in the course of inquiries, the Ombudsman learns of facts which he or she considers might relate to criminal law, the Ombudsman shall notify the competent national authorities and, in so far as the case falls within their powers, the European Anti- fraud Office and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. If appropriate, the Ombudsman shall also notify the Union institution, body, office or agency with authority over the official or servant concerned, which may apply the second paragraph of Article 17 of Protocol No 7 on the Privileges and Immunities of the European Union.
Amendment 45 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 5
Annex - article 5
The Ombudsman and his or ther staff thereof shall deal with requests for public access to documents, other than those referred to in Article 4(1), in accordance with the conditions and limits provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001.
Amendment 46 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 6 – paragraph 1
Annex - article 6 – paragraph 1
1. The Ombudsman may cooperate with authorities of the same type in the Member States provided that the Ombudsman complies with the national law applicable. The Ombudsman may not by this means demand to see documents to which he or she would not have access under Article 3.
Amendment 48 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 6 – paragraph 2
Annex - article 6 – paragraph 2
2. Within the scope of his or her dutiesthe duties of the office, the Ombudsman shall cooperate with the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. The Ombudsman may, under the same conditions, cooperate with institutions and bodies of Member States in charge of the promotion and protection of fundamental rights. The Ombudsman shall avoid any duplication with the activities of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights or the relevant institutions or bodies of the Member States.
Amendment 49 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 7 – paragraph 2
Annex - article 7 – paragraph 2
2. The Ombudsman shall be chosen from among persons who are Union citizens, have full civil and political rights, offer every guarantee of independence, and meet the conditions required for the exercise of the highestof impartiality equivalent to those required for a judicial office in their country orand have the acknowledged competence and experience to undertake the duties of Ombudsman.
Amendment 50 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 8 – paragraph 1
Annex - article 8 – paragraph 1
1. The Ombudsman shall cease to exercise his or her dutiesthe duties of the office either at the end of his or ther term of office or on his or her resignation or dismissal.
Amendment 51 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 8 – paragraph 2
Annex - article 8 – paragraph 2
2. Save in the event of his or her dismissal, the Ombudsman shall remain in office until a new Ombudsman has been elected.
Amendment 52 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 9
Annex - article 9
Where the European Parliament intends to request the dismissal of the Ombudsman in accordance with Article 228(2) of the TFEU, it mayshall hear the Ombudsman before making such a request.
Amendment 53 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 10 – paragraph 1
Annex - article 10 – paragraph 1
1. In the performance of his or herthe office duties, the Ombudsman shall act in accordance with Article 228(3) of the TFEU. The Ombudsman shall refrain from any act incompatible with the nature of his or herthe office duties.
Amendment 54 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 10 – paragraph 2
Annex - article 10 – paragraph 2
2. When taking up his or her dutiesthe office, the Ombudsman gives a solemn undertaking before the Court of Justice sitting as a full Court that he or she will perform his or her dutiesof the commitment to act with complete independence and impartiality and that during and after his or her term of office he or she willo respect the obligations arising therefrom during and after the term of office, in particular his or ther duty to behave with integrity and discretion as regards the acceptance, after the or she has ceased to holdend of the term of office, of certain appointments or benefits.
Amendment 55 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 11 – paragraph 1
Annex - article 11 – paragraph 1
1. During his or ther term of office, the Ombudsman may not engage in any political or administrative duties, or any other occupation, whether gainful or not.
Amendment 56 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 12 – paragraph 1a (new)
Annex - article 12 – paragraph 1a (new)
1a. The Ombudsman shall aim to achieve gender parity within the composition of the secretariat.
Amendment 58 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 12 – paragraph 4
Annex - article 12 – paragraph 4
4. In matters concerning his or ther staff, the Ombudsman shall have the same status as the institutions within the meaning of Article 1a of the Staff Regulations.
Amendment 60 #
2018/2080(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex - article 12 a (new)
Annex - article 12 a (new)
Article 12 a The Ombudsman shall appoint within the secretariat a person or structure that is able to assess in a timely manner whether harassment cases of all kind and nature are handled adequately within the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union and, where appropriate, to provide advice to Union staff.
Amendment 15 #
2018/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Iinsists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; if such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with People´s Democratic Republic of Algeria;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the Arab Republic of Egypt as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Arab Republic of Egypt if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 20 #
2018/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; If such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Arab Republic of Egypt;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the Lebanese Republic as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Lebanese Republic if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2065(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; If such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Lebanese Republic;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the Kingdom of Morocco as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Kingdom of Morocco if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protectef by the Charter;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; if such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Kingdom of Morocco;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to Tunisia as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Tunisia if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; if such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Tunisia;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the State of Israel as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; Calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with State of Israel if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 21 #
2018/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; if such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with State of Israel;
Amendment 20 #
2018/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the Republic of Turkey as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Republic of Turkey if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; if such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Republic of Turkey;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note that to date no appropriate impact assessment has been conducted in order to assess in depth the risks posed by transfers of personal data to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan as regards individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection, but also for other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter; asks the Commission to carry out an appropriate impact assessment so as to define the necessary safeguards to be integrated in the agreement; calls on the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan if the conclusions of the impact assessment cannot guarantee a sufficient and adequate level of protection of individuals’ rights to privacy and data protection and other fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Charter;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that the level of protection resulting from the agreement should be essentially equivalent to the level of protection in EU law; if such level should not be guaranteed, asks the Council and the Commission to refrain from starting any negotiation with Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan;
Amendment 158 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title 1
Title 1
Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL establishing the Asylum, Migration and MiIntegration Fund
Amendment 173 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) In order to support efforts to ensure a comprehensive approach to management of migration grounded on mutual trust, solidarity and responsibility sharing among Member States and Union institutions, with the objective of ensuring a common sustainable Union policy on asylum and immigration, Member States should be supported by adequate financial resources in the form of the Asylum, Migration and MiIntegration Fund (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Fund’).
Amendment 214 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Considering the crucial role played by local and regional authorities and civil society organisations in the field of integration and to facilitate the direct access of these entities to funding at Union level, the Fund should facilitate the implementation of actions in the field of integration by local and regional authorities or civil society organisations, including through the use of the thematic facility and through a higher co-financing rate for these actions.
Amendment 287 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016, there is a need to evaluate this Fund on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burden, in particular on Member States. These requirements, where appropriate, can include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Fund on the ground. In order to measure the achievements of the Fund, common indicators and related targets should be established in relation to each specific objective of the Fund. Through these common indicators and financial reporting, the Commission and the Member States should monitor the implementation of the Fund, in accordance with the relevant provisions of Regulation (EU) …/2021 of the European Parliament and of the Council [Common Provisions Regulation] and this Regulation. A centralised report outlining monitoring results and implementation of AMIF actions at both local and regional, national and EU level, including specific projects and partners, should be made publicly available and communicated to the European Parliament.
Amendment 335 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a Partnership For the purposes of the Fund, the partnership referred to in Article 6 of the Common Provisions Regulation shall include: (a) local and regional authorities; (b) economic and social partners; (c) relevant bodies representing civil society, environmental partners and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, fundamental rights, rights of persons with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination. These partners shall be involved in the preparation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of programmes.
Amendment 369 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. At least 30% of the financial resources of the thematic facility in line with point (b) of paragraph 2, shall be allocated to activities carried out by local and regional authorities and at least 30% shall be allocated to activities carried out by civil society organisations.
Amendment 371 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point e
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point e
e) support to Member States at local, regional and national level and civil society organisations therein, contributing to solidarity and responsibility efforts; and
Amendment 385 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 6
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 10% of the financial envelope of the thematic facility shall be granted under direct or indirect management to local and regional authorities implementing integration actions.
Amendment 546 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 1 – point c
Annex II – point 1 – point c
(c) enhancing solidarity and responsibility-sharing between the Member States, in particular towards those most affected by migratory flows, as well as providing support to Member States and local and regional authorities contributing to solidarity efforts;
Amendment 575 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 1 – point a a (new)
Annex III – point 1 – point a a (new)
(a a) the establishment and development of local integration strategies;
Amendment 586 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 2 – point a
Annex III – point 2 – point a
(a) providing material aid, including assistance at the border and emergency services provided by local authorities;
Amendment 636 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 3 – point k a (new)
Annex III – point 3 – point k a (new)
(k a) building the capacity of integration services provided by local authorities, including first accommodation, counselling, shelters, housing, education and vocational trainings.
Amendment 67 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) It is essential to further step up cooperationacilitate safe and legal paths onf migration with partner countries, and asylum, including increapsing the benefits of well- managed and regular migration and effectively addressing irregular migration. Such cooperation should contribute to ensuring access to international protection, addressing the root causes of irregular migration, enhancing border management and pursuing efforts in the fight against irregular migration, trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling, and working on returns, readmission and reintegration where relevresettlement capacities of the Union and the Member States. Cooperation with third countries should contribute to ensuring access to international protection, addressing the root causes of forced displacements, protecting victims of trafficking and smuggling of human beings as well as addressing its demantd, on the basis of mutual accountability and full respect of humanitarian and human rights obligations. Therefore, third countries' effective cooperation with the Union in this area should be an integral element in the general principles of this Regulation. An increased coherence between migration and development cooperation policies is important to ensure that development assistance supports partner countries to manage migration more effectively. This Regulation should contribute to a coordinated, holistic and structured approach to migration, maximising the synergies and applying the necessary leveragethe full respect of European and international human rights obligations and of the principles of solidarity, non-discrimination and non- refoulement.
Amendment 70 #
2018/0243(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
Amendment 104 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Amendment 152 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The Programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities, including through more flexible learning mobility formats, and by fostering participation ofmobility formats, simplified administrative procedures, targeting of beneficiary organisations working with groups under-represented in Erasmus+, youth-friendly and clear information and communication about the programme and by fostering and supporting the participation of local organisations and small organisations, in particular newcomers, youth organisations, volunteer-based and community-based grassroots organisations that work directly with disadvantaged learners of all ages. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants, in particular those with fewer opportunities and those for whom moving physically to a country other than their country of residence would be an obstacllearners with fewer opportunities of all ages, and organisations working with and supporting people from marginalised groups, such as people with an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and LGBTI people. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants and complement the mobility experience.
Amendment 223 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) The Programme should also enhance the learning of languages, including minority and unofficial languages, as well as national sign languages, in particular through widened use of accessible online tools, as e-learning offers additional advantages for language learning in terms of access and flexibility. The online tools and portals must be fully accessible in line with Directive (EU) 2016/2102 on the accessibility of the websites and mobile applications of public sector bodies.
Amendment 429 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) language learning opportunities, including those supporting mobility activities., and including minority and unofficial languages, as well as national sign languages;
Amendment 629 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. All Programme documents shall be available in all the official and co- official languages of the European Union in order to ensure equal opportunities.
Amendment 76 #
2018/0136(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The identification of a generalised deficiency requires a qualitative assessment by the Commission. That assessment, assisted by a representative panel of independent experts. That assessment should be impartial and transparent and could be based on the information from all available sources and recognized institutions, including judgments of the Court of Justice of the European Union, reports of the Court of Auditors, reports and opinions of other institutions, bodies, offices or agencies of the Union, such as the European Parliament, the Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and conclusions and recommendations of relevant international organisations and networks, such as the bodies of the Council of Europe and the European networks of supreme courts and councils for the judiciary.
Amendment 6 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes this first report on the monitoring of the application of EU law following the entry into force of the Better Regulation Agenda in 2015; recalls that the principles of better law-making encompass the requirement to demonstrate the need to legislate at EU level, in a way that is strictly proportionate to the aims of the legislative action, and to ensure that the legislation is correctly implemented at the right level; recalls that any expansion of EU law that is not built on such principles is detrimental to the proper application thereofEU law must comply with the principles of conferral, legal certainty, equality before the law and the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality; stresses, therefore, the importance of upholding these principles of subsidiarity and proportionalityalso in the application of EU law;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Deplores the high number of negative trends revealed in the current report, notably the substantial increase in the opening of infringement cases, representing a 67.5 % increase over the past year and a five-year peak, together with a recorded increase in complaints and a decrease in rates of resolution; notes the Commission’s aim, in line with its communication entitled ‘EU law: Better results through better application’1 , to make use of the EU Pilot only; points that the three Member States against which the Commission filed the most complaints where it provides effective added value in the infringement resolution processItaly, Spain and France; welcomes the fact that the report acknowledges the role of Parliament in calling the Commission’s attention to shortcomings in the application of EU law in Member States by means of parliamentary questions and petitions; _________________ 1 C(2016)8600, OJ C 18, 19.1.2017, p. 10.
Amendment 15 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the crucial importance of transparency in the drafting and application of EU law by the EU institutions, meaning that EU legislation has to be clear, understandable, consistent and precise, while also taking into consideration the jurisprudence of the Court of Justice of the European Union, which insists on the need for foreseeability and predictability in EU norms2 ; _________________ 2Judgment of the Court of Justice of 10 September 2009, Plantanol GmbH & Co. KG v Hauptzollamt Darmstadt, C-201/08, ECLI:EU:C:2009:539, paragraph 46.he proper application of EU law, including the adequate and timely transposition of EU directives by the Member States;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Points out that EU Pilot is a working tool that has no legal status and that allows a discretionary power to the Commission that does not comply with the proper standards of transparency and accountability; considers that these shortcomings can be addressed through the adoption of a regulation that should clarify the legal rights and obligations of individual complainants and the Commission;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 4 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents,
Amendment 9 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the outcomes of the Media Pluralism Monitor of the European University Institute’s Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom,
Amendment 11 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16
Citation 16
— having regard to the outcomes of the World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders, and to those of the Media Pluralism Monitor of the European University Institute’s Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom,
Amendment 53 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas citizens are confronted with a radical evolution of the media system, the emergence of new online media and new powerful actors, such as search engines and social media platforms; whereas this development represents both a challenge and opportunity for the promotion of freedom of expression and for democratizing the production of news by involving citizens in the public debate, and for converting a growing number of information users into information producers; whereas, however, the concentration of power of media conglomerates, platform operators and internet intermediaries risks negative consequences for the pluralism of public debate and access to information;
Amendment 55 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
E a. whereas journalists require direct, immediate and unencumbered access to information by public administration to properly hold authorities to account;
Amendment 56 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
E b. whereas information obtained both by right of inquiry as well as through whistle-blowers are complementary to each other and both essential for journalists' ability to fulfil their public interest mission;
Amendment 57 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
E c. whereas journalists require fullest legal protection to use and disseminate such information of public interest in their line of work;
Amendment 58 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
E d. whereas the right to demand and receive information from public administrations remains scattered and incomplete across the European Union;
Amendment 67 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas research consistently finds evidence that women are in the minority across media sectors, particularly in creative roles, and are severely underrepresented at senior, decision-making levels; whereas studies of women’s participation in journalism suggest that, while there is a relatively good gender balance among entrants into the journalism profession, the distribution of decision-making responsibility is characterised by significant gender disparity;
Amendment 132 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Notes the attempts by public officials to restrict the dissemination of information by journalists by the abuse of secrecy or intellectual property legislation; Calls on the Commission to propose broader safeguards for journalists to freely access, use and re-use information obtained in their course of work;
Amendment 138 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to ensure that journalists are given the proper tools to inquire and receive information from EU and Member State administrations;
Amendment 139 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Calls on the Commission to urgently review Regulation 1049/2001 and to propose improvements to the public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents; calls on the Commission to abstain from any more efforts to prevent or deter journalists and members of the public from seeking and obtaining information held by the Commission through arbitrary hurdles; Notes with indignation any attempts to deny access to information by the use of delay tactics, bogus reasons for dismissal or unjustified narrowing of the scope of information that was requested;
Amendment 141 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Highlights the important role exerted by independent and pluralistic media in political debate and on the right to pluralistic information both during electoral terms and in the intervening periods; stresses the need to guarantee full expression for all political actors, regardless of and base their presence in public broadcasters on journalistic and professional criteria and not on their degree of institutional representativeness;
Amendment 151 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that any measures restricting internet content should only be adopted in well-definedspecified, explicit and legitimate circumstances and under strict judicial oversight, in line with international standards, the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, and Article 52 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 170 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Recognises that the new digital environment has exacerbated the problem of the spread of disinformation, or the so- called ‘fake’ or ‘false’ news; recalls, however, that this is not a new phenomenon, nor is it restricted to the online sphere; expresses its concern at the potential threat it can pose to the freedom of expression if states increase censorship under the pretext of preventing the circulation of fake news; deplores he fact that the term is increasingly being used by certain states and politicians to undermine public trust in the media and enable attacks on activists and journalist; stresses the importance of effective systems of self-regulation which are based on the principles of accuracy and transparency and which provide for proper obligations and instruments regarding source verification and fact checking;
Amendment 176 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Emphasises that a critical use of media content is essential to people’s understanding of current issues and to their contribution to public life; media literacy empowers citizens and is a crucial democratic competence, calls, therefore, on the Commission and the Member States to promote and support media literacy projects and develop further activities under EU funding programmes, such as ESI-Funds and Horizon 2020;
Amendment 196 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Underlines that whistle-blowing is an essential element for investigative journalism and freedom of press; recalls that journalists can be subject to legal prosecution rather than legal protection when, acting in the public interest, they disclose information or report suspected misconduct, wrongdoing, fraud or illegal activity; therefore calls on the Commission to set up a framework for a common European legislation to protect whistle-blowers and journalists;
Amendment 200 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14 b. Encourages the media sector to safeguard gender equality in media policy and practice, through co-regulatory mechanisms, internal codes of conduct and other voluntary actions;
Amendment 201 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)
Paragraph 14 c (new)
14 c. Urges the European Commission and the Member states to engage on social campaigns, education programmes, and more targeted training and awareness- raising (including for industry decision- makers) to promote egalitarian values and practices through funding and promotion at the national and European level in order to address gender inequality in the media sector effectively;
Amendment 203 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 d (new)
Paragraph 14 d (new)
14 d. Underlines that media professionals often work in precarious conditions with regard to their contracts, salaries and social guarantees, which compromises their ability to work appropriately and thus hampers media freedom;
Amendment 205 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 e (new)
Paragraph 14 e (new)
14 e. Underlines that all citizens have the right to access to independent information in their mother tongue, be it state or minority language; asks the Commission and the Member States to push forwards polices that would guarantee that access;
Amendment 209 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the Member States to adopt and implement legislative frameworks in order to avoid horizontal concentration of ownership in the media sector, to guarantee transparency of media ownership and management, and to ensure independent oversight and effective compliance mechanisms in order to prevent conflicts of interest, revolving doors and ensure editorial and journalistic independence and safeguard the media’s role as public watchdog;
Amendment 213 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Underlines the importance of supporting and promoting new models of sustainable financing to support innovation in digital news and high-level independent journalism in order to reduce the high economic dependence on private advertising, thus creating the proper environment for a free press and independent media;
Amendment 220 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15 b. Calls on the Commission to allocate permanent and adequate funding in the EU budget to support the Media Pluralism Monitor at the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom and create a yearly mechanism of assessment of the risks for media pluralism in the EU member states; stresses that the same mechanism should be applied to measure Media Pluralism in candidate countries and the results of the Media Pluralism Monitor should have actual bearing on the progress of the negotiation process;
Amendment 224 #
2017/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 c (new)
Paragraph 15 c (new)
15 c. Calls on the Commission to take into account the recommendations contained in the European Parliament’s resolution of 25 October 2016 on the establishment of an EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights; in this sense, calls on the Commission to inlcude the results and the recommendations of the Media Pluralism Monitor on the risks for media pluralism and media freedom in the EU when drawing up the annual Report on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights (European DRF Report);
Amendment 8 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Shares the concerns expressed by the Venice Commission in its opinions on Hungarian legislation since 2011, including the opinions on the Fundamental Law and the amendment thereto; believes that many of those concerns have not been properly addressed and remain relevant;
Amendment 15 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Is concerned about the impact of constitutional and legislative reforms on the judiciary; calls for the jurisdiction of the Constitutional Court to be restored in full; recommends to review the functioning and powers of the National Judicial Council to ensure that it can fulfil its role as Hungary’s independent body of judicial self-government;
Amendment 16 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Is concerned about the reintroduction at the constitutional level of provisions that should fall into the scope of ordinary law and were already found unconstitutional, with the aim to avoid constitutional review; stresses that this practice jeopardises the principles of a constitutional State under the rule of law;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4 d. Is worried by the shrinking space for civil society organisations, the attempts to control NGOs and to restrict their ability to carry out their legitimate work, such as the adoption of the Law on the Transparency of Organisations Receiving Support from Abroad and introduction of the so-called 'Stop Soros' legislative package;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4 e. Expresses its concerns at the politicized fines of the Hungarian State Audit Office and most recent decision of the National Electoral Committee on national lists which clearly limits the possibilities of smaller parties to run for elections and especially to form coalitions for the elections;
Amendment 23 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Takes note of the rule of law framework established by the Commission in 2014 and regrets that the Commission did not respond to Parliament’s call to activate that framework, as contained in its resolutions of 10 June 2015 and 16 December 2015 on the situation in Hungary; points out that this mechanism falls short in preventing an emerging systemic threat to the rule of law and urges the creation of a common Union mechanism based on proper expertise and independence to respond to breaches of the rule of law and fundamental rights at Member State level;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Believes that the current situation in Hungary represents a clear risk of a serious breach of the values referred to in Article 2 TEU and warrants the launch of procedure set out in Article 7(1) TEU ;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2127(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the Committee on Petitions (PETI) receives a considerable number of petitions each year referring to the difficulties encountered by people with disabilities across the EU in relation to all areas identified in the European Disability Strategy, in particular access to work and employment, education and transport, and participation in political, public and cultural life; notes that the progress report on the implementation of the European Disability Strategy (2010 - 2020) reflects the challenges which remain on the lack of access to transport and access to the built environment; points to the large number of petitions on the issue of accessibility received by the Committee and calls on the Commission to further develop a EU standard on accessibility;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2127(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the protection role played by the Committee on Petitions through the petition process in the context of the EU framework for the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), and stresses that the petitions received by the Committee illustrate the need to adopt a horizontal, human rights approach to disability policies; stresses the role of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights in strengthening the fundamental rights for people with disabilities in the EU and the Agency's role in supporting the EU's implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
Amendment 45 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
- having regard to the 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families,
Amendment 49 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital 7 b (new)
Recital 7 b (new)
- having regard to the OHCHR Recommended Principles and Guidelines on Human Rights at International Borders,
Amendment 77 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas Article 21 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights states that any discrimination based on any ground such as sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin, genetic features, language, religion or belief, political or any other opinion, membership of a national minority, property, birth, disability, age or sexual orientation shall be prohibited.
Amendment 87 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the aberrant governance practices, including the participation of parties promoting racist and xenophobic ideas, policies and practices in coalition governments, seen in some Member States reflect a selective approach to the benefits and responsibilities of EU membership, and whereas the refusal by those Member States to fully uphold EU law, the separation of powers, the independence of the judiciary and the predictability of State actions is undermining the credibility of the EU as a legal area;
Amendment 91 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas , in contrast tot he rule- by-law, the Rule of Law implies the safeguarding of fundamental rights and freedoms and the respect of the separation of powers as a basic principle in order to ensure not only that the law is binding because it is procedurally correct but because it also enshrines justice, thus providing legitimacy to public authority in liberal democracies.
Amendment 112 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the influx of migrants into Europe is continuingasylum seekers and migrants keep on losing their lives while trying to reach safety at the European shores; whereas many of these migrants place their lives in the hands of trafficksmugglers and criminals; whereas , according to UNHCR data, 27% of the migrants arriving in Europe via the Mediterranean are children; whereas , according to the IOM, 23% of these children stated that they had never been to school and are vulnerable to violations of their rights, including violence, abuse and exploitation;
Amendment 120 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. wWhereas the dangers faced by refugee and migrant children include separation from their families, detention, multiple discrimination especially Afrophobia, anti-Gypsysism, Islamophobia and sexual and gender- based violence, exploitation and physical and psychological damage;
Amendment 136 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the ongoing wave of terrorist attacks across the EU has fuelled widespread mistrust of Muslim migrants, or those perceived as such, and whereas certain political parties are employing the rhetoric of cultural isolationism and hatred of those who are different on the grounds of race, ethnicity, religion/belief and sexual orientation/gender identity;
Amendment 149 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the systematic use of states of emergency, including their institutionalisation in ordinary legislation, discriminatory new criminal justice and administrative measures and border controls does very little to deter terrorists, who have all, thus far, been long-term residents and even citizens of EU Member States;
Amendment 156 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the political measures taken by a number of Member States in response to the ongoing influx of migrantasylum seekers’ and migrants’ arrivals include the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area, a step which is increasingly seen as permanent rather than just temporary;
Amendment 162 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas refugees and migrants in Europe are increasingly confronted with mistrust and hatred spurred by right-wing populism and extremism; whereas hate speech includes all forms of expression which propagate, encourage, promote or justify racial hatred, xenophobia, anti-SemitismAfrophobia, anti-Gypsyism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, or other forms of hatred based on intolerance; whereas the development of new kinds of media is making it easier to engage in online hate speech;
Amendment 173 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas there is a risk that the increased levels of racial violence and hatred, xenophobia and, Afrophobia, anti- Gypsyism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, or other forms of hatred based on intolerance whether expressed in the form of hate crimes, anonymous messages spread on social networks, protests or political propaganda, will come to be seen as normal in the Member States;
Amendment 182 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas the report published in March 2014 by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights entitled ‘Violence against women: an EU-wide survey’ shows that one-third of all women in Europe have experienced physical or sexual acts of violence at least once during their adult lives, 20 % have experienced online harassment, one in twenty have been raped and more than one-tenth have suffered sexual violence involving the use of force;
Amendment 184 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas violence against women and gender-based violence, both physical and psychological, are widespread in the EU and are to be understood as an extreme form of discrimination and a violation of human rights affecting women at all levels of society, regardless of age, education, income, social position or country of origin or residence, and representing a major hindrance to equality between women and men, also economically and politically; whereas further measures are needed to encourage women who have been the victims of violence to report their experiences and seek assistance, and to ensure that they receive appropriate support in line with their needs, are informed about their rights, and have access to justice in order for the perpetrators to be prosecuted;
Amendment 226 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the European Council and Commission to do all that is necessary to restore the Rule of Law principle to its status as a foundation of liberal democracy in Europe by countering any form of abuse of power committed by the Member States.
Amendment 277 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes that the flow of migration towards the EU is continuing and that it mostly consists of people from Africa who have not left a country which is at war or where their lives are at risk, but who have come to Europe in search of a better lifeasylum seekers and migrants keep losing their lives and suffering multiple dangers, including robberies at the hands of criminal gangs, abuses by smugglers and some state authorities, as well as the risk of death while trying to avoid detection. Notes that forced migration derives from multiple, complex and often interconnected situations of violent conflicts, climate change, structural and direct violence, protracted instability, poverty or gender inequality and notes that women and children are a significant proportion of migrants and refugees;
Amendment 294 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Takes the view, therefore, that a clear distinction should be drawn between migrants who can legitimately claim refugee status and those who cannot; calls for migrants to be identified and fEU migration and asylum policies should reflect the complexity of this phenomenon and allow for realistic and flexible channels both for asylum seekers to achieve protection in the European Union and for migrants to reunite with their families, work and study in the European Union; calls for specific procedures to be developed and put in place to ensure protection of all children, both unaccompanied and with their parents or otheir requr caregivers, regardlests for entry into the EU to be processed before they comeof migration status, in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and for family reunification to be prioritised;
Amendment 312 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Strongly condemns the upsurge in the trafficking of human beings in Africa and towardsin Europe, the perpetrators of which – including official and governmental players – should be made to feel the full force of the lawaccountable;
Amendment 322 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Takes the view that, as the working-age population in the Union is projected to decline by 7.5 million by 20201a and projections on the development of labour market needs in the Union point to emerging and future shortages in specific fields, legal channels should be available for migrationnts, including from Africa, but not for all the men and women hopto reunite with their families, study and work ing to come to Europehe European Union; takes the view that the best way to protect the rights of persons who cannot legally enter Europe wshould be to bring about thesupport a rapid and robust development of Africa, which Europe could promote by stepping up its involvement on the African continent; by stepping up development cooperation crucially aimed at eradicating poverty; _________________ 1aSee: Joint EU-OECD Policy Brief "Matching Economic Migration with Labour Market Needs in Europe", September 2014, p. 5.
Amendment 332 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Recalls that the European Parliament, in its resolution of 12april 2016 on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration, called on the Union to establish, in the medium and long term, more general rules governing the entry and residence for third-country nationals seeking employment in the Union, including in low and medium- wage sectors.
Amendment 348 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses the imperative need for persons of Islamic faith and culture, including those who have already been living here for a long time, to be integrated as effectively as possible into European society; stresses that integration of this kind will be the best way to tackle Islamicsocial inclusion, social cohesion and integration to be prioritised and adequately funded; stresses that integration and social inclusion and social cohesion play a key role in addressing marginalisation and radicalisation in Europe;
Amendment 351 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Believes that a comprehensive policy to prevent the radicalisation and recruitment of citizens of the Union by terrorist organisations can only be successful if accompanied by long-term proactive de-radicalisation processes in the judicial sphere; stresses the need to develop strategies on social inclusion, education, employment and housing and policies tackling discrimination and exclusion in order to prevent vulnerable individuals from joining violent extremist organisations;
Amendment 354 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Highlights the fact that the principles of equal treatment, non- discrimination and equal opportunities should always be ensured when designing and implementing social inclusion and integration policy and measures; stresses that multiple discrimination should be addressed holistically throughout all migration and integration policies; calls on Member States to refrain from inciting fear and hatred in their citizens towards migrants and asylum seekers for political gains, therefore, calls on Member States to put an end to their strongly biased xenophobic communication strategies;
Amendment 364 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses the need for measures to be taken as a matter of priority in all the Member States to give imall migrant children access to education, language learning, healthcare, good living conditions and the opportunity to be reunited with their family;
Amendment 446 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes the view that particular attention should be paid to the situation of women and the rights of women in the EU, be they immigrants, victims of abuse or modern slavery, alone or accompanied by children; points out that the EU and the Member States must set an example in this regard;
Amendment 464 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Expresses concern at the rhetoric of hatred and fear directed at migrants entering Europe and the upsurge in anti- Islamic,by increasing racism and xenophobia in the form of Afrophobia, anti-Gypsyism, Anti- Semitism, Islamophobia and anti-migrant sentiment; condemns incidents of hate crime and speech motivated by racism, xenophobia or religious intolerance or by bias against a person's disability, sexual orientation or gender identity, which occur in the EU on a daily basis; welcomes the annual EU Colloquium on Fundamental Rights and the appointment of Coordinators on anti-Semiticsm and anti-African rhetoric; Muslim hatred; encourages the Commission to appoint Coordinators on Afrophobia and anti-Gypsyism and recommends adoption of European frameworks for national strategies to combat Afrophobia, anti-Gypsyism, anti- Semitism and Islamophobia;
Amendment 474 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Strongly deplores the fact that the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area is increasingly seen as a permanent rather than just a temporary measure; urges the Member States to make use of alternative and proportionate measures that can provide the same level of security;
Amendment 477 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15b. Stresses that the right to freedom of movement and residence of European citizens and their families laid down in the Treaties and guaranteed by the Directive on freedom of movement is one of the fundamental rights of European citizens; condemns any attempt to review this acquis, and calls for any breach of the rules to result in action before the Court of Justice, particularly in cases where the principle of non-discrimination on grounds of political or any other opinion, nationality, ethnic or racial origin or sexual orientation is breached;
Amendment 479 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 c (new)
Paragraph 15 c (new)
15c. Recalls that freedom of expression, information and the media are fundamental with a view to ensuring democracy and the rule of law; strongly condemns violence, pressure or threats against journalists and the media, including in relation to the disclosure of information about breaches of fundamental rights; calls for a decriminalization of defamation;
Amendment 497 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Emphasises that the EU’s accession will provide a coherent European legal framework to prevent and combat violence against women and gender-based violence and to protect and support victims in the EU’s internal and external policies, as well as bringing about better monitoring, interpretation and implementation of EU laws, programmes and funds relevant to the Convention, together with better collection of comparable disaggregated data at EU level; considers that by acceding to the Convention the EU will become a more efficient global actor in the field of women’s rights;
Amendment 501 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Welcomes the signing of the EU’s accession to the Istanbul Convention on 13 June 2017;regrets, however, that the limitation to two areas, i.e. matters related to judicial cooperation in criminal matters and asylum and non-refoulement, raises legal uncertainties as to the scope of the EU’s accession, as well as concerns regarding the implementation of the Convention; Urges the Estonian Presidency to accelerate the EU’s ratification of the Istanbul Convention;
Amendment 505 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 c (new)
Paragraph 17 c (new)
17c. Condemns all forms of discrimination and violence against lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual and intersex people (LGBTI), as fostered by laws and policies that restrict the fundamental rights of LGBTI people; calls on the Commission and Member States to adopt laws and policies to combat homophobia and transphobia; calls, in this regard, on the Commission to issue an action plan or strategy for equality on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, as repeatedly called for by the Parliament and as promised by Commissioner Jourova in the process of the Commission hearings;
Amendment 517 #
2017/2125(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Stresses the importance of maintaining and stepping up efforts in thekey areas ofsuch as data protection, safeguards for children, the protection of victims of criminal acts, Roma people, LGTBI people, violence against women, freedom of religion and belief, public health, the recognition of marital status in the EU, gender equality, equality on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, the rights of persons with a disability and the rights of elderly persons, among others;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 (new)
Paragraph –1 (new)
-1. having regard to the EU CFR, and in particular articles 44 and 51;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, and in particular articles 44 and 51;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 a (new)
Paragraph –1 a (new)
-1a. having regard to the Study by the Policy Department C on “The interpretation of Article 51 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights: the dilemma of stricter or broader application of the Charter to national measures”;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Study by the Policy Department C on “The interpretation of Article 51 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights: the dilemma of stricter or broader application of the Charter to national measures”;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 b (new)
Paragraph –1 b (new)
-1b. having regard to the hearing by the committee on Petitions on “Broadening the scope of the EU Charter on Fundamental Rights (Article 51)?” of 23rdFebruary 2016;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 25 October 2016 on “EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights” (In’t Veld report), particularly its paragraph 20;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 c (new)
Paragraph –1 c (new)
-1c. having regard to the Parliament resolution on “EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights” (In’t Veld report) of 25thOctober 2016, particularly its paragraph 20;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 16 February 2017 on “Possible evolutions and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the European Union” (Verhofstadt report), particularly its paragraph 45;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 d (new)
Paragraph –1 d (new)
-1d. having regard to the Parliament resolution on “Possible evolutions and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the European Union” (Verhofstadt report), particularly its paragraph 45;
Amendment 6 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 e (new)
Paragraph –1 e (new)
-1e. Reaffirms that the fundamental right to petition, enshrined in Article 44 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Articles 20 and 227 TFEU, is one of the pillars of European Citizenship and a crucial element of participatory democracy, aiming at bringing the citizens closer to the EU through an open, democratic, inclusive and transparent procedure;
Amendment 7 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that an increasing number of petitions submitted to Parliament after the entry into force of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights in December 2009 invoke the Charter as the legal basis for the alleged violation of their fundamental rights as EU citizens; notes that these petitions are evidence of a serious structural lack of a fundamental rights- based approach in the drafting of legislation and policymaking both at EU level and in the implementation of legislation in Member States; considers that EU citizens can benefit from an enhanced interaction between the committee of Petitions and the Fundamental Rights Agency when it comes specifically to handling of petitions, with the agency providing direct feedback upon petitioners' concerns on possible fundamental rights violations;
Amendment 12 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Notes that the Ombudsman also plays a relevant role in guaranteeing the respect of Fundamental Rights in the context of the Charter, not only concerning Article 41 on the right to good administration itself, but also taking into account that such good administration is a cornerstone in securing other Fundamental Rights; recalls the exemplary work of the Ombudsman in the field of transparency and freedom of information among others, as well as the Special Report on Frontex1a during this parliamentary terms concerning particularly on the complaint rights by asylum-seekers and migrants; __________________ 1a Special Report of the European Ombudsman in own-initiative inquiry OI/5/2012/BEH-MHZ concerning Frontex (2014/2215(INI))
Amendment 13 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Notes that the entry into force of the Charter has been probably one of the few tangible added values of Union membership directly perceived by its citizens and residents;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Points out that the loopholes in transposition and proper implementation of EU law in Member States can have actual impacts in the enjoyment of EU Fundamental Rights; recalls in this sense the role of the Commission as guardian of the treaties, thus as ultimate -if not primary- responsible of safeguarding Fundamental Rights, when needed through infringement procedures; calls in this regard for a more determined leadership in ensuring an adequate implementation of EU legislation, notably concerning the right to environmental protection conferred in article 37 of the Charter, by means of more diligent, determined and thorough infringement procedures; recalls the importance of a prompt deployment and adequate implementation of the Access to Justice Pillar of the Aarhus Convention;
Amendment 19 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas the commitment in the European Pillar of Social Rights to delivering new and more effective rights for citizens in the areas of equal opportunities and access to the labour market, fair working conditions and social protection and inclusion further enhances the rights enshrined in the Charter;
Amendment 20 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
G b. whereas the principle of gender equality is a core value of the EU and is enshrined in the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights; whereas Article 8 TFEU establishes the principle of gender mainstreaming by stating that ‘In all its activities, the Union shall aim to eliminate inequalities, and to promote equality, between men and women’;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G c (new)
Recital G c (new)
G c. whereas the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) is tasked with developing, analysing, evaluating and disseminating methodological tools in order to support the integration of gender equality into all EU policies and the resulting national policies and to support gender mainstreaming in all EU institutions and bodies;
Amendment 23 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that the expectations of most EU citizens submitting petitions in relation to the rights conferred on them by the Charter are high and go far beyond their current scope of application; stresses that an excessively narrow or incoherent interpretation of Article 51 alienates citizens from the EU; urges the Commission to take steps to ensure that the interpretation of the scope of Article 51 is as coherent and wide as possible;
Amendment 26 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Deplores the fact that the Charter of Fundamental Rights only applies in Member States when implementing EU law; reiterates that many citizens have found its implementation to be unclear and unsatisfactory;
Amendment 27 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Is convinced that a re-launch of the Union to increase its appreciation by citizenship can be mainly achieved by upgrading the scope of protection of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Charter;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Calls on the Commission to introduce a fundamental rights impact assessment in all relevant new legislative proposals for the purposes of mainstreaming fundamental rights in all relevant policy areas;
Amendment 29 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that the procedures established by the EU institutions to assess the compatibility of legislative proposals with the Charter are mainly of an internal nature; stresses the need to provide for enhanced forms of consultation, impact assessments, including specific gender impact assessments, and legal scrutiny with the full involvement of independent fundamental rights experts; calls on the Commission to promote structured and regulated cooperation with independent external bodies, such as the FRA, the EIGE and civil society organisations working in the field, whenever a legislative file potentially promotes or negatively affects fundamental rights;
Amendment 29 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Deems crucial that, besides the general guarantee of freedoms1a and equality safeguards1b as well as political rights1c, the Union takes resolute steps to step up particularly its own engagements in guaranteeing the enjoyment of the social rights1d of the charter; _________________ 1a Title II 1b Title III 1c Title IV 1d Title IV
Amendment 29 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1c. Calls on the Commission, the other EU institutions and Member States’ national and regional governments to regularly consult the Fundamental Rights Agency when fundamental rights are at stake; calls, furthermore, for the introduction within the framework of the European Semester of a compulsory assessment and review of Member States’ adherence to the provisions of the Charter;
Amendment 31 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Urges to conclude the adoption of the horizontal EU Anti-discrimination directive1a, in order to further guarantee further fundamental rights concretely within the Union by means of adoption of concrete EU legislation, and therefore avoiding the current interference of article 51; _________________ 1a 2008/0140(CNS) Proposal for a Council Directive on implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation
Amendment 32 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Underlines that the Charter is probably the main tool to defend and promote the Union values into reality, namely by implementing it within the different concrete policies and political action; stresses that it is essential that the EU upholds these values both in its external policy and internally by enhancing the coverage of the Charter to its citizens and residents, as well as in hosting refugees and the reception of migrants;
Amendment 32 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 d (new)
Paragraph 1 d (new)
1d. Invites the different EU institutions to consider an enhancement of the scope of application of the Charter, including the deletion of its Article 51, in the next revision of the Treaty.
Amendment 34 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses the need for a close cooperation with the EIGE in its role of disseminating accurate methodological tools and with a view to the more effective implementation of gender mainstreaming in the legislative and decision-making processes of the European Union;
Amendment 34 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Points out to the link between the Union values with the Charter, as well as with the Copenhagen Criteria for accession of third countries to the Union, in terms of guaranteeing Fundamental Rights; suggests that these conditions within the Copenhagen Criteria are not simply used once as accession preconditions, but that also Member States are periodically assessed against those in order to ensure the maintenance of the democratic quality of the Union over time;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates its call on the Commission to revise its decision to divide its considerations on fundamental rights into the current three categories in its impact assessment – economic, social and environmental effects – and to create atwo specific categoryies entitled ‘Effects on fundamental rights’ and 'Gender impact assessment', to ensure that all aspects of fundamental rights are considered;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Points out that the loopholes in transposition and proper implementation of EU law in Member States can have actual impacts in the enjoyment of EU Fundamental Rights; recalls in this sense the role of the Commission as guardian of the treaties, thus as ultimate -if not primary-responsible of safeguarding Fundamental Rights, when needed through infringement procedures; calls in this regard for a more determined leadership in ensuring an adequate implementation of EU legislation, notably concerning the right to environmental protection conferred in article 37 of the Charter, by means of more diligent, determined and thorough infringement procedures; recalls the importance of a prompt deployment and adequate implementation of the Access to Justice Pillar of the Aarhus Convention;
Amendment 38 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that it is of paramount importance in the interests of EU citizens to guarantee the effectiveness of the protection granted them under the current system, particularly in the field of social rights, but also with regard to civil liberties and democratic participation, by broadening the application of the Charter; calls on the Commission, in this regard, to introduce a fundamental rights impact assessment in all relevant new legislative proposals for the purposes of mainstreaming fundamental rights in all relevant policy areas; suggests developing and applying a 'Fundamental Rights by Design' concept, aimed at promoting the embedding of the highest standards of fundamental rights from the earliest stages in all policy-making;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses that all Union institutions and each of its agencies and bodies, including Frontex, as well as the Member States are fully bound by the provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 45 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Recalls that both the Treaties and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights make reference to the protection of national minorities and discrimination practised on the grounds of language; calls for concrete administrative steps within the EU institutions to encourage national governments to find durable solutions and to promote the culture of linguistic diversity in their Member State, beyond the official EU languages;
Amendment 46 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Underlines that the Charter is probably the main tool to defend and promote the Union values into reality, namely by implementing it within the different concrete policies and political action; stresses that it is essential that the EU upholds these values both in its external policy and internally by enhancing the coverage of the Charter to its citizens and residents, as well as in hosting refugees and the reception of migrants;
Amendment 47 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Recalls the obligation laid down in the Treaties to accede to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR); considers that its completion would introduce further safeguards in protecting fundamental rights of Union citizens and residents; asks to take the necessary steps to eventually eliminate the legal barriers that prevent the conclusion of the accession;
Amendment 47 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Points out to the link between the Union values and the Charter, as well as with the Copenhagen Criteria for accession of third countries to the Union, in terms of guaranteeing Fundamental Rights; suggests that these conditions within the Copenhagen Criteria are not simply used once as accession preconditions, but that also Member States are periodically assessed against those in order to ensure the maintenance of the democratic quality of the Union over time;
Amendment 48 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8 b. Regrets that gender mainstreaming is not consistently implemented in all EU activities which prevents the effective implementation of measures to combat gender discrimination and promote gender equality;
Amendment 48 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Stresses that all Union institutions and each of its agencies and bodies, including Frontex, as well as the Member States are fully bound by the provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 49 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8 c. Stresses the need for an institutional cultural shift through a systematic and planned process for organisational learning within the institutions in order to achieve gender equality both internally and especially in regard to working results and outcomes;
Amendment 49 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that Member States themselves can, and have the moral obligation to, implement the provisions of the Charter in their legislation, even when they are not directly transposing EU law; encourages the creation and promotion of national human rights institutions, which contribute to ensuring that fundamental rights are observed both in policy and law-making processes, and their implementation, as well as assisting to individuals in concrete cases;
Amendment 49 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Recalls that both the Treaties and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights make reference to the protection of national minorities and discrimination practised on the grounds of language; calls for concrete administrative steps within the EU institutions to encourage national governments to find durable solutions and to promote the culture of linguistic diversity in their Member State, beyond the official EU languages;
Amendment 50 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 d (new)
Paragraph 8 d (new)
8 d. Recalls that both the Treaties and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights make reference to the protection of national minorities and discrimination practised on the grounds of language; calls for concrete administrative steps within the EU institutions to encourage national governments to find durable solutions and to promote the culture of linguistic diversity in their Member State, beyond the official EU languages;
Amendment 50 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that Member States themselves can, and have the moral obligation to, implement the provisions of the Charter in their legislation, even when they are not directly transposing EU law; considers that the arbitrary or excessive use of violence by police or other Member State's security corps against peaceful assemblies is contrary to the provisions of the Charter;
Amendment 50 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 f (new)
Paragraph 3 f (new)
3f. Encourages the creation and promotion of national human rights institutions, which contribute to ensuring that fundamental rights are observed both in policy and law-making processes, and their implementation, as well as assisting to individuals in concrete cases;
Amendment 51 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Deems it crucial that the Union takes resolute steps to strengthen its own engagements in guaranteeing the enjoyment of the social rights of the Charter; Regrets the almost complete absence of references to fundamental rights within the legal framework regulating EU economic and monetary policy; recalls, in this regard, that recourse to intergovernmental arrangements does not relieve the EU institutions – a process in which they are nevertheless involved – of their obligations to assess the compatibility of such instruments with EU law, including the Charter;
Amendment 54 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Welcomes the ratification of the Marrakech Treaty on access by Visually Impaired People to adapted published works, as it is an essential step in the context of the article 26 of the Charter on equality of persons with disabilities;
Amendment 55 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Calls on the Commission to ensure that the European Semester process, including the country-specific recommendations and the annual growth survey recommendations, comply with the normative components of the social rights of the Charter;
Amendment 55 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Takes note of petition 0657/2016 and stresses the importance that article 10 of the Charter on freedom of thought, conscience and religion is respected in all Member States, and within all instances and institutions under the public sphere, particularly in the domain of education;
Amendment 56 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Proposes the development of a Fundamental Rights Scoreboard in order to monitor the respect of fundamental rights in the Member States;
Amendment 57 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission, the other EU institutions and Member States’ national and regional governments to regularly consult the Fundamental Rights Agency when fundamental rights are at stake; calls, furthermore, for the introduction within the framework of the European Semester of a compulsory assessment and review of Member States’ adherence to the provisions of the Charter; proposes the development of a Fundamental Rights Scoreboard in order to monitor the respect of fundamental rights in the Member States;
Amendment 57 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Points out to the relation between the conditions of access to justice throughout the EU and the actual protection of fundamental rights; considers that given the role of national courts as the primary instance of interpretation of EU law, the existing discrepancies between the quality of justice systems in different Member States, such as the length of the proceedings or their costs, create effective inequality between EU citizens; considers of paramount importance in this sense the monitoring role of the Commission and a bigger involvement of the CJEU, for instance through the currently underused preliminary rulings in order to ensure compliance with fundamental rights; stresses the need to incorporate this logic further in national courts proceedings, legislative procedures and juridical analysis, and proposes seeking preliminary advice from the Fundamental Rights Agencies or any other concerned EU body;
Amendment 59 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Points out to the relation between the conditions of access to justice throughout the EU and the actual protection of fundamental rights; considers that given the role of national courts as the primary instance of interpretation of EU law, the existing discrepancies between the quality of justice systems in different Member States, such as the length of the proceedings or their costs, create effective inequality between EU citizens; considers of paramount importance in this sense the monitoring role of the Commission and a bigger involvement of the CJEU, for instance through the currently underused preliminary rulings in order to ensure compliance with fundamental rights; stresses the need to incorporate this logic further in national courts proceedings, legislative procedures and juridical analysis, and proposes seeking preliminary advice from the Fundamental Rights Agencies or any other concerned EU body;
Amendment 62 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Takes note of the CLARITY1a interactive online tool developed by the Fundamental Right's Agency in order to enable an easy identification of the most appropriate non-judicial body with human rights remit for a particular fundamental rights issues; _________________ 1a Complaints, Legal Assistance and Rights Information Tool for You
Amendment 63 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Amendment 63 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Recalls the promise by the former Commission to create a new tool, besides the last recourse to the existing article 7 TEU, that goes beyond the mere current infringement procedures in terms of sanctions, when it concerns cases of apparent violation of Fundamental Rights of the Charter, particularly when Member States' governments are involved;
Amendment 66 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Stresses that the notion of "exceptional circumstances", which is included in the TSCG allowing for a deviation from the medium-term objective or the adjustment path announced, should not be interpreted in a way where Members States are allowed not to comply with their obligations under the social provisions of the Charter;
Amendment 66 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Calls for a review of the Commission's Strategy for the effective implementation of the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights1a elaborated in 2010, in order to update it with the new challenges and institutional reality, particularly after the Brexit; __________________ 1a Commission communication (COM(2010) 573 final) – Strategy for the effective implementation of the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights
Amendment 67 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Recalls the political agreement between the major EU institutions and the Member States for the EU to access the European Convention of Human Rights; considers that its completion would introduce further safeguards in protecting fundamental rights of Union citizens and residents; asks to take the necessary steps to eventually eliminate the legal barriers that prevent the conclusion of the accession;
Amendment 68 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls for a review of the Commission's Strategy for the effective implementation of the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights1a elaborated in 2010, in order to update it with the new challenges and institutional reality, particularly after the Brexit; _________________ 1a Commission communication (COM(2010) 573 final) – Strategy for the effective implementation of the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights
Amendment 71 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Recalls the context in which article 51 of the Charter, alongside its protocol 30, was introduced into the final text; considers that the Brexit process and the new political scenario and institutional challenges the Union is confronted with nowadays, represent a unique opportunity to reconsider the existence of these clauses;
Amendment 75 #
2017/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7c. Recalls the political agreement between the major EU institutions and the Member States for the EU to access the European Convention of Human Rights; considers that its completion would introduce further safeguards in protecting fundamental rights of Union citizens and residents; asks to take the necessary steps to eventually eliminate the legal barriers that prevent the conclusion of the accession;
Amendment 85 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Points out that the loopholes in transposition and proper implementation of EU law in Member States can have actual impacts in the enjoyment of EU Fundamental Rights; recalls in this sense the role of the Commission as guardian of the Treaties, thus as ultimate -if not primary-responsible of safeguarding Fundamental Rights, when needed through infringement procedures; calls in this regard for a more determined leadership in ensuring an adequate implementation of EU legislation;
Amendment 86 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)
Paragraph 20 b (new)
20 b. Points out to the link between the Charter and the Copenhagen Criteria for accession of third countries to the Union, in terms of guaranteeing Fundamental Rights; suggests that these conditions within the Copenhagen Criteria are not simply used once as accession preconditions, but that also Member States are periodically assessed against those in order to ensure the maintenance of the democratic quality of the Union over time;
Amendment 95 #
2017/2089(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Urges to conclude the adoption of the horizontal EU Anti-discrimination Directive1a,in order to further guarantee further fundamental rights concretely within the Union by means of adoption of concrete EU legislation, and therefore avoiding the current interference of Article 51; _________________ 1a 2008/0140(CNS)Proposal for a Council Directive on implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation
Amendment 7 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Is of the opinion that European citizenship should be granted by the EU, and no longer be a derivative of the national citizenship;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is engaged in enhancing the democratic dimension of the European elections by reforming current European electoral law with a view to increasing citizens’ participation and confidence in the EU democratic system, thanks to increased transparency and awareness and, new voting systems, including e- democracy tools, and the creation of transnational lists which will contribute to the reinforcement of the European public sphere;
Amendment 27 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the Commission’s planPoints at the decreasing number of citizens’ initiatives tabled as a result of a burdensome procedure, a restrictive registration process and a lack of appropriate follow up by the Commission; stresses the need to reviseform the European Citizens’ Initiative Regulation with a view to improving its functioning and welcomes the Commission’s plan to revise it; strongly supports the regulation as an important tool for participatory democracy that, if used to its full potential, could increase citizens’ trust in the EU institutions and contribute to the construction of a genuine and inclusive European Union;
Amendment 30 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses that the protection of fundamental rights is a key dimension to enable EU citizens to fully participate in the democratic life of the Union; calls therefore on the EU institutions to implement a binding mechanism for the protection of fundamental rights in line with its resolution of 25 October 2016 with recommendations to the Commission on the establishment of an EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights;
Amendment 36 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 14 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Considers that, as regards AMIF, priority should be given to projects supporting asylum seekers and integration of migrants and refugees; acknowledges the positive contribution of regional and local authorities as well as civil society organisations in that regard, and asks for the Union and the Member States to support their actions including by granting them direct access to AMIF;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Deplores the increasing Union financial support to third countries such as Libya or Turkey to prevent migration, despite concerns related to the human rights situation in those third countries;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2 c. Stresses the significant role played by civil society organisations in saving the lives of migrants and asylum seekers at the external borders as well as in safeguarding, promoting and implementing their rights; calls for more financial support to be given to strengthen the activities of civil society;
Amendment 19 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 d (new)
Paragraph 2 d (new)
2 d. Deplores the fact that AMIF funds are currently used by Member States to operate internment centres for foreigners for the purposes of return operations; underlines that some of these facilities, for example in Spain, have been criticised by civil society for degrading treatment and physical assaults by police officers, discrimination on grounds of nationality, lack of care for members of vulnerable groups, and disregard for the health of the inmates;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Regrets the significant budget reduction for the Internal Security Fund (ISF) (35,6 % in PA); stresses that in light of the continued security threat in the Union, ISF funding should be sufficient to aid Member States in dealing with threats to internal security; highlights the need to sufficiently fund efforts to improve information sharing and to fight cybercrime;
Amendment 26 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Regrets that part of the budgetary envelope initially foreseen for the Dublin reform in 2018 was redistributed to reinforce security measures such as strengthening the equipment pool of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency or increasing the Eurosur funding; calls for increased funding for reception and integration of migrants and asylum seekers;
Amendment 27 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Deplores the fact that, in the context of the Union Passenger Name Records (PNR) system, the Commission proposes an additional amount of EUR 70 million of funding to assist Member States in setting up their passenger information units on top of the EUR 50 million already provided through the ISEC 2007- 2013 programme; notes that according to a recent Commission implementation report, only four Member States have fully functional or almost functional PNR systems in place despite the political pressure put on the European Parliament by some Member States in 2015-2016 to adopt the PNR Directive as soon as possible; calls on the Commission to redistribute this funding to more cost- effective projects;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3 c. Regrets that more than EUR 115 million for the Entry-Exit System and more than EUR 55 million for the ETIAS have been already earmarked in the ISF for 2018, despite the fact that these systems have failed to demonstrate their cost-effectiveness, proportionality and practical feasibility and also raise severe data protection concerns;
Amendment 32 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes the proposed increases in the DB 2018 for expenditure and establishment plans for all agencies in the area of Justice and Home Affairs classified as holding “new tasks”; regrets however that the increases proposed are lower than those requested by most agencies; stresses the importance of staff increases for eu-LISA and Europol; welcomes the budget increase for the European Data Protection Supervisor in view of the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation1 .; calls for a budget increase for Eurojust due to the increased requirements for judicial cooperation in the Union, in particular in light of the establishment of an EPPO; underlines that the additional financial resources for Europol and Eurojust should be invested preferably into the funding of Joint Investigation Teams; _________________ 1 Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC ( General Data Protection Regulation) (OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1).
Amendment 40 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Welcomes the substantial increase (+530%) of the budget for the European Border and Coast Guard Agency's supporting operational activities (Frontex Fundamental Rights Officer), which are related to the strategic cooperation with Frontex's Consultative Forum on Fundamental Rights and the setting-up and running of the complaints mechanism;
Amendment 45 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Believes that there is no direct link between migration and terrorism in Europe; asks for increased funding to fight against the phenomenon of radicalisation leading to violent extremism within the Union; considers that this can be achieved by promoting integration and fighting against discrimination, racism and xenophobia;
Amendment 46 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Calls for additional human resources to be allocated to the EASO in order to support an enhanced mandate to transform EASO into a fully-fledged agency which is capable of providing the necessary operational and technical assistance to the Member States;
Amendment 48 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5 d. Calls for additional human resources to be allocated to the Fundamental Rights Agency; regrets that the Fundamental Rights Agency's mandate still limits its role in support of fundamental rights; underlines that the Fundamental Rights Agency should be able to offer opinions on legislative proposals on its own initiative and that its remit should extend to all areas of rights protected under the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, including, for instance, issues of police and judicial cooperation;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Calls for maintaining the EU support to sports policy, the sports chapter of the Erasmus+ programme and the financing of Special Events, such as the Special Olympics in 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Commission communication of 19 May 2015 on ‘Better regulation for better results - An EU agenda’, (COM(2015) 215 final),
Amendment 3 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/2014 of 7 January 2014 on the European code of conduct on partnership in the framework of the European Structural and Investment Funds,
Amendment 36 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P a (new)
Recital P a (new)
P a. whereas the European Commission invites, as part of an expanded Better Regulation Agenda, on an ad-hoc basis local authorities for Territorial Impact Assessment of future legislative proposals;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P b (new)
Recital P b (new)
P b. whereas it is important to involve local and regional authorities at the earliest part in policy-making cycle and to enhance them as an integral part in Territorial Impact Assessments;
Amendment 40 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that there is no legal basis in the Treaties allowing cities to be formally involved in decision-making at EU level; believes, howeverBelieves, in line with the Treaty principles of sincere cooperation, subsidiarity and proportionality and respective of regional and local self- government, that the current institutional set-up allows for encouraging platforms of cooperation between cities, and between cities and their representative organisations and the decision-making bodies at both national and EU level;
Amendment 46 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that at the level of secondary law, cities do have a certain role in the implementation of certain policies and instruments, such as in the area of the European structural and investment funds, and in particular the Partnership Principle;
Amendment 66 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Advocates the consolidation of the involvement of associations representing local authorities and urban interests in policy design, such as the Eurocities network and the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and others, and considers that such associations should become permanent consultants of EU policieskey partners of the EU Institutions by way of setteing a permanet structured dialogue mechanims particularly at the pre-legisaltive stage;
Amendment 71 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Believes that this permanent structured dialogue mechanism with local and urban authorities representative organisations should be grounded in the Secretariat General of the Commission and expand the existing provisions of the 2015 Better Regulation package to enable them to contribute to territorial impact assessments, advice on the design and provide evidence on commissioned preparatory studies and evaluation, and provide regular technical expertise on the implementation at subnational level of EU legislation;
Amendment 79 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Encourages the Council to consider launching meetings of the Council especially dedicated to urban matters; calls for cities and regions and their representative associations to have access to the Council working groups so that they can follow and more accurately provide input into the work of the Council in areas that impact them and their competences;
Amendment 102 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Insists that such an objective will only be feasible if the debates and consultations are held in urban areas other than national or regional capitals, which may constitute an easily accessible forum for citizens living nearby;
Amendment 122 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Believes that the consolidation of the cities’ position in shaping the EU policies does not undermine the trust in the Member States, as it reinforces multi-level governance and subsidiarity based on the bilateral trust between the EU, Member States and regional and local structurauthorities;
Amendment 123 #
2017/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Believes that given that, as there is a significant diversity of size and competences of cities across the EU, most of the above mentioned provisions are equally applicable to all subnational levels of government in addition to cities;
Amendment 6 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part A – point 2
Annex I – part A – point 2
2. The objective of the revision is, in compliance with the Treaties, to enable citizens both to register and to submit a citizens’ initiative successfully and in a cost-effective manner, and to provide for their peensure that successful initiations toves receive an appropriate follow-up, including legal proposals, from the Commission.
Amendment 8 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 (new)
(-1) Recital 1 is replaced by the following: " The Treaty on European Union (TEU) reinforces citizenship of the Union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the Union by providing, inter alia, that every citizen is to have the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union by way of a European citizens’ initiative. That procedure affords citizens the possibility of directly approaching the Commission with a request inviting it to submit a proposal for a new legal act or the abrogation or revision of any existing legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing or revising the Treaties similar to the right conferred on the European Parliament under Article 225 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and on the Council under Article 241 TFEU."
Amendment 12 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 a (new)
(-1a) Recital 7 is replaced by the following: "It is appropriate to fix a minimum age for organising and supporting a citizens’ initiative. That should be set at 16."
Amendment 14 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 b (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 b (new)
(-1b) Recital 8 is replaced by the following: "A minimum organised structure is needed in order to successfully carry through a citizens’ initiative. That should take the form of a citizens’ committee, composed of natural persons (organisers) coming, in order to encourage the emergence of European-wide issues and to foster reflection on those issues, from at least seven different Member States. In order to limit the personal liability of the organisers, it should be possible to register the citizens’ committee as an organisation with legal personality in one of the Member States in accordance with national law. For the sake of transparency and smooth and efficient communication, the citizens’ committee should designate representatives to liaise between the citizens’ committee and the institutions of the Union throughout the procedure."
Amendment 15 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 c (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 c (new)
Amendment 16 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Invites the Commission to increase the transparency of its decision-making process and to formally clarify ECI admissibility criteria by exhaustively substantiating the reasons for ECI approval/rejection in all Commission Decisions published in the ECI register; calls upon the Commission tofor the establishment of an independent body to carry out the initial legal check for the registration and therefore avoiding the conflict of interests of the Commission: Encourages the Commission to take into account and codify the rulings of the Court of Justice in the cases relating to the “Minority Safepack” and “Stop TTIP” initiatives; welcomes the Commission’s change in practice to allow for partial ECI registration; calls on the Commission to allow ECIs that require treaty amendments
Amendment 18 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 d (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 d (new)
(-1d) The following recital is inserted: "(14a) The Commission should operate a free and open-source online collection system incorporating the relevant technical and security features necessary in order to comply with the provisions of this Regulation as regards online collection systems. The organisers should have the possibility to use the servers operated by the Commission free of charge when using other certified online collections systems;"
Amendment 19 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 e (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 e (new)
(-1e) Recital 15 is replaced by the following: "It is appropriate for Member States which decide not to use the system provided by the Commission to verify the conformity of online collection systems with the requirements of this Regulation before statements of support are collected."
Amendment 20 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 f (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 f (new)
(-1f) Recital 16 is deleted;
Amendment 22 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 g (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 g (new)
(-1g) The following recital is inserted: "(19a) When the Commission receives a citizens’ initiative supported by the requisite number of signatories which fulfils all requirements set out by this Regulation, the organisers should be entitled to present that initiative at a public hearing in the European Parliament. Within one month from the public hearing, the European Parliament should hold a debate concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution with its recommendation to the Commission."
Amendment 24 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 h (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 h (new)
(-1h) Recital 20 is replaced as follows: "The Commission should examine a citizens’ initiative and set out its legal and political conclusions separately. It should also set out the action it intends to take in response to it, within a month of the adoption of the motion for resolution adopted by the European Parliament. In order to demonstrate that a citizens’ initiative supported by at least one million Union citizens and its possible follow-up are carefully examined, the Commission should explain in a clear, comprehensible and detailed manner the reasons for taking or not taking any action."
Amendment 25 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 i (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 i (new)
(-1i) The following recital is inserted: "(20a) In the normal run of events there is a presumption that the Commission should react to a citizens' initiative by submitting a legislative proposal to the European Parliament and to the Council."
Amendment 26 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 j (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 j (new)
Amendment 27 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 k (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 k (new)
(-1k) Recital 21 is replaced by the following: "Directive 95/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 October 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this Regulation. In this respect, for the sake of legal certainty, it is appropriate to clarify that the organisers of a citizens’ initiative or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them, and the competent authorities of the Member States are the data controllers within the meaning of Directive 95/46/EC, and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens’ initiative may be retained. In their capacity as data controllers, the organisers or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them, need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by Directive 95/46/EC, in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing, the security of the processing activities, the provision of information and the rights of data subjects to have access to their personal data, as well as to provide for the correction and deletion of their personal data."
Amendment 28 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 l (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point –1 l (new)
(-1l) Recital 22 is replaced by the following: "Chapter III of Directive 95/46/EC on judicial remedies, liability and sanctions is fully applicable as regards the data processing carried out in application of this Regulation. The organisers of a citizens’ initiative or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them, should be liable in accordance with applicable national law for any damage that they cause. In addition, Member States should ensure that organisers are subject to appropriate penalties for any infringement of this Regulation."
Amendment 30 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1
Amendment 30 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for the simplification of online signature collection (“OCS”) and verification and for a progressive approach to countering the technological barriers to OCS; invites the Commission to address data requirement divergences in national systems, especially regarding nationality and place of residence; welcomes the AFCO proposal that the Commission runemphasises the importance of a free, centralised OCS system; suggests that this system make use of existing, proven online platform technologies and enable synergies with social media tools to galvanize more widespread signature collection; welcomes the Commission’s public survey on creating a “Collaborative ECI Platform”; invites the Commission to prolong the collection period such that the clock for collection starts running from the date of ECI registration; calls for greater increase of transparency measures for ascertaining ECI financingand quality of checks on the funding and sponsorship of ECIs sponsorship of ECIs; invites the Commission to encourage Member States to reduce data requirements and to remove identification number requirements except for Member States that absolutely need them to verify signatures;
Amendment 32 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1 – point a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1 – point a (new)
(a) paragraph 1 is replaced by the following: “1. The organisers shall be citizens of the Union and shall be aged 16 or over.”
Amendment 33 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1 – point b (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1 – point b (new)
(b) the first subparagraph of paragraph 2 is replaced by the following: “2. The organisers shall form a citizens’ committee of at least seven persons who are residents of at least seven different Member States. The citizens’ committee may be registered as an organisation with legal personality in one of the Member States in accordance with national law.”
Amendment 35 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1 – point c (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 1 – point c (new)
(c) paragraph 4 is replaced by the following: "4. In order to be eligible to support a proposed citizens’ initiative, signatories shall be citizens of the Union and shall be aged 16 or over."
Amendment 37 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 2
Amendment 39 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 3
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 – paragraph 3
Amendment 43 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 1 a (new)
(1a) the following Article is inserted: "Article 3a Requirements for the Commission and Member States 1. Throughout the organisational phase preceding the registration of a proposed citizens’ initiative, the organisers may ask Europe Direct and the Commission European Citizens’ Initiative (“ECI”) services, which shall provide full legal and practical assistance and guidance free of charge. 2. The Commission, together with the relevant stakeholders, shall create an open-source online platform to support the exchange of information and best practices between stake holders, including independent experts, NGOs, and other institutions and bodies of the Union. Use of this system shall be made available free of charge to all organisers. 3. Member States may establish one- stop-shops on their territories to help organisers setting up a citizens’ initiative by providing exhaustive information as well as specific technical and legal advice.";
Amendment 44 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point –a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point –a (new)
(-a) the fourth subparagraph of paragraph 1 is replaced by the following: "After the registration is confirmed in accordance with paragraph 2, for the purpose of including it in the register, the organisers may provide the proposed citizens’ initiative in other languages authorised by the Member States in accordance with applicable national law. The Commission shall provide free translation services into all the official languages of the Union.";
Amendment 46 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point a
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point a
Amendment 48 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point a a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point a a (new)
Amendment 49 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls upon the Commission to create a one-stop shop for ECI information dissemination and citizen advisory services, in particular the provision of support in defining a compliant legal basis for an initiative; welcomes the AFCO proposal for a provision calls for the facilitating the new Regulation on ECI communicatiouse of any of the official languages in eactivities at EU levelh Member State; urges the Commission to link such efforts to the principles set out in the EU eGovernment Action Plan 2016- 2020; stresses that youth civic engagement is fundamental for the future of all democracies and proposes to lower the minimum age threshold for being entitled to support an ECI to 16 years;
Amendment 52 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point b – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point b – paragraph 2
“3. The Commission may register an initiative partially and shall refuse the registration in whole or in part if the conditions laid down in paragraph 2 are not met.
Amendment 54 #
2017/2024(INL)
Where it refuses to register a proposed citizens’ initiative or part thereof, the Commission shall inform the organisers exhaustively and in full detail of the reasons for such refusal and of all possible judicial and extrajudicial remedies available to them. If a part of a proposed citizens’ initiative does not meet the conditions laid down in paragraph 2, the Commission shall give to the organisers a period of 10 days to amend their request for registration.
Amendment 55 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point b – paragraph 4
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 2 – point b – paragraph 4
For the purposes of this Article, special attention shouldall be paid to Article 296(2) of the Treaty on the functioning of the European Union.
Amendment 57 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 3 – point a – paragraph 1
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 3 – point a – paragraph 1
in paragraph 1, the following subparagraph iss are added:
Amendment 57 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Supports the AFCO proposal totresses the importance of ensureing the follow-up of successful ECIs, in terms of concrete legislative proposals from the Commission, whileithin 12 months of the submission of a successful ECI; calls for using the whole potential of the European Parliament as a co-legislator by adopting a plenary resolution with its recommendation on the follow-up of successful ECIs; calls for maintaining the current system of designating lead committees thematically according to competence, with PETI as associated committee; recalliterates the importance of public hearings in ensuring that an inclusive approach is taken to increasing attendance by various stakeholders;
Amendment 58 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 3 – point –a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 3 – point –a (new)
(-a) The first subparagraph of paragraph 1 is replaced by the following: "The organisers or, if applicable, the organisation created by them in accordance with Article 3(2) of this Regulation shall be responsible for the collection of the statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens’ initiative which has been registered in accordance with Article 4.";
Amendment 60 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 3 – point a – paragraph 2 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 3 – point a – paragraph 2 a (new)
On a voluntary basis, signatories shall be able to provide their e-mail addresses in the statement of support form.
Amendment 66 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 1
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 1
Amendment 67 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 1 – point a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 1 – point a (new)
(a) the first subparagraph of paragraph 1 is replaced by the following:
Amendment 68 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 2
“Statements of support may be collected online. The Commission shall on a permanent basis operate a free Commission-run centralisedn open-source online collection system in order to simplify the collection of statements of support as well as to facilitate the checking of those statements by the national authorities. The use of this system shall be made available free of charge to all organisers.
Amendment 71 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 3
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 3
The organisers may use other certified online collection systems. The data that they produce and shall have the possibility to use the servers operated by the Commission free of charge when using other certified online collections systems. Where statements of support are collected online, the data obtained through the online collection system shall be stored in the territory of a Member State.the European Union”.
Amendment 74 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 3 a (new)
The second subparagraph of paragraph 1 is replaced by the following: "Whenever the system provided by the Commission will not be used, any online system used to collect data for the purposes of this Regulation shall be certified in accordance with paragraph 3 in the Member State or States in which the data collected through the online collection system will be stored."
Amendment 75 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Amendment 78 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 a (new)
(4a) in Article 7, paragraph 2 is replaced by the following: "2. In at least one quarter of the Member States, signatories shall comprise, at the time of registration of the proposed citizens’ initiative, at least the minimum number of citizens set out in Annex I. Those minimum numbers shall correspond to the number of the Members of the European Parliament elected in each Member State, multiplied by the total number of Members of the European Parliament at the moment of registration."
Amendment 80 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 4 a (new)
(4a) in Article 9, paragraph 1 is replaced by the following: "After obtaining the certificates provided for in Article 8(2), and provided that all relevant procedures and conditions set out in this Regulation have been complied with, the organisers may submit the citizens’ initiative to the Commission no later than 18 months after the date of registration of the proposed citizens’ initiative, accompanied by information regarding any support and funding received for that initiative. That information shall be published in the register."
Amendment 81 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 5 – point a – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 5 – point a – paragraph 2
“within three monthsone month of the adoption of the motion for resolution referred to in Article 11a, set out in a communication its legal and political conclusions on the citizens’ initiative, the action it intends to take, if anyd, and itsin full detail, the reasons for taking or not taking that action. ”
Amendment 88 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 5 – point b – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 5 – point b – paragraph 2
“In the case of a successful citizens’ initiative, in the normal run of events there is a presumption that the Commission will submit a legislative proposal to the European Parliament and to the Council within twelve months of the end of the three month period referred to in point (c). If the Commission is of the opinion that there are good reasons not to submit such a proposal, then it shall duly justify its decision. For the purposes of this Article, special attention should be paid to Article 296(2) of the Treaty on the functioning of the European Union..
Amendment 94 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2
“1. The European Parliament shall hold a debate on those citizens’ initiatives that successfully meet all of the criteria laid down in this Regulation during the plenary session following the public hearing referred to in Article 11. Those debates may shall be concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution .”;containing the European Parliament’s recommendation to the Commission on the actions needed as a follow up to the citizens’ initiative.
Amendment 97 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 7 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Where the conclusions in the communication of the Commission referred to in Article 10(1)(c) and the recommendation of the European Parliament referred to in paragraph 1 differ, the European Parliament may exercise the right conferred on it under Article 225 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU)."
Amendment 99 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 7 a (new)
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 7 a (new)
Amendment 101 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 8 – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 8 – paragraph 2
“ Organisers or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them, shall be liable for any damage they cause in the organisation of a citizens’ initiative through acts that are unlawful and committed intentionally or with culpable or serious negligence, in accordance with applicable national law.”;
Amendment 104 #
2017/2024(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 9 – paragraph 2
Annex I – part B – point 1 – point 9 – paragraph 2
Member States and Union Institutions, and in particular the European Commission , shall proactively carry out information campaigns and use all public channels available in order to raise public awareness of the existence of the ECIuropean citizens' initiative, thereby maximising its added- value and promoting the active participation of citizens in the political life of the Union.”".
Amendment 2 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points to the need to reout that that proper application of EU law is essential for building trust in the EU’'s institutions and those of the Member States, trust being the basis for good cooperation and effective application of EU lawand calls on the Member States to increase their efforts to make the transposition and implementation of EU law effective and timely;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that the unchecked expansion of the EU’s acquis is detrimental to its proper application; stresses therefore the importance of upholdingStresses the importance of upholding the principles of conferral, legal certainty, and equality before the law as well as the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality; welcomes the practice by the Commission of taking due account of the principles of better law-making when selecting priorities for monitoring the application of EU law in the Member States;
Amendment 26 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Points out that the inclusion of national parliaments in the law-making process willhas the potential to foster effective application of EU law; highlighsupports, for that reason, the necessity to ensure genuine application of the yellow-card procedure as specified in Protocol (No 2) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality; idea of introducing a ‘green card’ mechanism, which would allow a qualified number of national parliaments to invite the Commission, within the framework of its powers, to submit appropriate proposals on matters where they consider that a legal act of the Union is required for the purpose of implementing the Treaties;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Insists that national parliaments have an essentialimportant role to play in both prepost- legislative scrutiny of draft legal acts and post-legislative scrutiny of their correctthe proper implementation of legal acts by the Member States; highlights its continued determination to support them in such efforts;
Amendment 43 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 47 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. BPoints out that EU Pilot is a working tool that has no legal status and bestows discretionary power on the Commission that does not comply with the proper standards of transparency and accountability; believes that the Commission’'s efforts should go beyond simple guidelines with no binding legal force; insists on the need for both efficiency and legal certainty in the pre- infringement phase; calls therefore on the Commission to propose a regulation governing the rules of the pre- infringement and infringement procedures under Article 298(2) TFEU, with clear deadlines for different steps of the procedure and clear roles for all parties, including the Commission and the Member State’'s authorities and complainants;
Amendment 49 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Regrets the fact that it does not yet receive transparent and timely information on the implementation of EU laws; recalls that, in the revised Framework Agreement on relations between the European Parliament and the Commission, the Commission undertakes to 'make available to Parliament summary information concerning all infringement procedures from the letter of formal notice, included, if so requested, [...] on the issues to which the infringement procedure relates', and expects this clause to be applied in good faith in practice;
Amendment 52 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. InsistNotes that the effectiveness of European integration is also conditional on the extent to which the EU’s policies are incorporated into legislation and applied by the Member States; recalls in that respect Article 197 TFEU which states ‘effective implementation of Union law by the Member States, which is essential for the proper functioning of the Union, shall be regarded as a matter of common interest’. implementation of EU law by Member States and regions is essential in order to make European integration effective;
Amendment 12 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
Having regard to the judgement of the General Court of the European Union in Case T-754/14 Michael Efler and Others v Commission,
Amendment 13 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The Treaty on European Union (TEU) reinforces citizenship of the Union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the Union by providing, inter alia, that every citizen of the Union has the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union. The European citizens’ initiative is a Union instrument of participatory democracy which affords citizens of the Union the possibility of directly approaching the Commission with a request inviting it to submit a proposal for a new legal act or the abrogation or revision of any existing or envisaged legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing or revising the Treaties, similar tobeyond the right conferred on the European Parliament under Article 225 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and on the Council under Article 241 TFEU.
Amendment 19 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Regulation aims to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, less burdensome and easier to use for organisers and supporters, in order to achieve the full potential of the European citizens’ initiative as a tool to foster debate and citizen participation at Union level, and to brito streng the Union closer ton its democratic dimension and to close the gap between the Union and its citizens.
Amendment 28 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) It is appropriate to set a minimum age for organising or supporting an initiative. To achieve the full potential of the European citizens’ initiative as an instrument of participatory democracy and to foster citizen participation at Union level and civic engagement in general, especially among young European citizens, that age should be set at 16 years.
Amendment 29 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In accordance with Article 11(4) of the TEU an initiative inviting the European Commission, within the framework of its powers, to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the Union is required to implement the Treaties, is to be taken byrequires not less than one million citizens of the Union who are nationals of a significant number of Member States. to be considered successful;
Amendment 31 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The Treaty on European Union (TEU) reinforces citizenship of the Union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the Union by providing, inter alia, that every citizen of the Union has the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union. The European citizens’ initiative is a Union instrument of participatory democracy which affords citizens of the Union the possibility of directly approaching the Commission with a request inviting it to submit a proposal for a new legal act or for the abrogation or the amendment of any existing legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing the Treaties, including with the view to their amendment, similar to the right conferred on the European Parliament under Article 225 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and on the Council under Article 241 TFEU.
Amendment 36 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) In order to ensure that an initiative is representative and to ensure similar conditions for citizens to support an initiative, it is also appropriate to establish the minimum number of signatories coming from each of those Member States. Those minimum numbers of signatories required in each Member State should be degressively proportional and correspond to the number of Members of the European Parliament elected in each Member State, multiplied by 750the total number of Members of the European Parliament at the time of registration of the initiative.
Amendment 41 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Regulation aims to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, less burdensome and, easier to use for organisers and supporters, and strengthen its follow-up in order to achieve the full potential of the European citizens’ initiative as a tool to foster debate and citizen participation at Union level, and to bring the Union closer to its citizens.
Amendment 42 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13 a (new)
Recital 13 a (new)
(13 a) In order to raise awareness and foster the debate concerning on-going initiatives as national level, where signatures are collected, it is important to involve both national and regional parliaments from an early stage and that the offices of the representations of the Commission and the European Parliament in the Member States put their facilities at the service of citizens' initiatives. At the Union level, the neutral role of the European Economic and Social Committee makes it suitable to play a role of facilitator and institutional mentor during the on-going citizens' initiatives.
Amendment 44 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7 a (new)
Recital 7 a (new)
(7a) In order to ensure an inclusive participation, Union citizens should have the possibility to use languages other than the official languages of the Institutions of the Union that are authorised by a Member State in accordance with the applicable national law.
Amendment 46 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to ensure coherence and transparency in relation to initiatives and to avoid a situation where signatures are collected for an initiative which does not comply with the conditions laid down by the Treaties and this Regulation, initiatives that comply with the conditions laid down in this Regulation should be registered by the Commission before collecting statements of support from citizens. The Commission should deal witho prevent any conflict of interest in the exercise of its multiple duties concerning citizens' initiative, the Commission should establish an independent body to deal with this merely legal examination. Officers will be appointed for this exclusive purpose will deal with the registration in accordance with the general principles of good administration, under the EU Ombudsman's scrutiny.
Amendment 49 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) In order to ensure that an initiative is representative and to ensure similar conditions for citizens to support an initiative, it is also appropriate to establish the minimum number of signatories coming from each of those Member States. Those minimum numbers of signatories required in each Member State should be degressively proportional and correspond to the number of Members of the European Parliament elected in each Member State, multiplied by 750the total number of the Members of the European Parliament.
Amendment 53 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In order to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, and taking into account that the procedures and conditions required for the European citizens’ initiative should be clear, simple, user-friendly and proportionate, it is appropriate to partially register an initiative in cases where only part or parts of the initiative meet the requirements for registration under this Regulation. Initiatives should be partially registered where a substantial part of the initiative, including its main objectives, does not manifestly fall outside the framework of the Commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementingaccording to the Treaties and all the other registration requirements are met. Clarity and transparency should be ensured as regards the scope of the partial registration and potential signatories should be informed of the scope of the registration and of the fact that statements of support are collected only in relation to the scope of the registration of the initiative.
Amendment 54 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) In order to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible and to provide support to citizens and organisers, the Commission should provide information and assistance to organisers and, together with the relevant stakeholders, make available an open- source online collaborative platform to provide a dedicated discussion forum and information and advice about the European citizens’ initiative. To ensure proximity to citizens, Member States should establish one or more contact points in their respective territories to provide citizens with information and assistance regarding the European citizens’ initiative.
Amendment 56 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 a (new)
Recital 16 a (new)
(16 a) Multilingualism is an essential policy of the Union, and it becomes even more crucial when related to the European citizens' initiative, which aims to reach the broadest possible range of support throughout the whole Union territory for issues of pan-European relevance. Cost-free translation of the initiative is to be granted to the group of organisers in all the EU official languages, not only including the text of the initiative itself, but also other texts of reasonable length associated to it, such as explanatory statements or annexes including concrete legislative proposals. In the same logic, it is important that translations into other languages used in Member States other than EU official languages are also included in the register, in order to maximise the participatory dimension of initiatives.
Amendment 57 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14 a (new)
Recital 14 a (new)
(14a) The Commission should create a committee of independent experts that should decide on the admissibility of an initiative.
Amendment 59 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In order to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, and taking into account that the procedures and conditions required for the European citizens’ initiative should be clear, simple, user-friendly and proportionate, it is appropriate to partially register an initiative in cases where only part or parts of the initiative meet the requirements for registration under this Regulation. Initiatives should be partially registered where a substantial part of the initiative, including its main objectives, does not manifestly fall outside the framework of the Commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a new legal act or the abrogation or amendment of any existing legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing the Treaties, including with the view to their amendment, and all the other registration requirements are met. Clarity and transparency should be ensured as regards the scope of the partial registration and potential signatories should be informed of the scope of the registration and of the fact that statements of support are collected only in relation to the scope of the registration of the initiative.
Amendment 59 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Statements of support for an initiative should be collected within a specific time limit. In order to ensure that an initiative remains relevant, whilst taking into account the complexity of collecting statements of support across the Union, that time limit should not be longer than 128 months from the date of the start of the collection period determined by the group of organisers.
Amendment 65 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) In order to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, less burdensome and easier to use for organisers and citizens, the Commission should set-up and operate an open-source central system for the online collection of statements of support. That system should be made available free of charge to groups of organisers and should comprise the necessary technical features allowing online collection including the hosting and software as well as accessibility features ensuring that citizens with disabilities can provide support to the initiatives. That system should be set-up and maintained in accordance with Commission Decision (EU, Euratom) 2017/4626 . _________________ 26 Commission Decision (EU, Euratom) 2017/46 of 10 January 2017 on the security of communication and information systems in the European Commission (OJ L 6, 11.1.2017, p. 40–51).
Amendment 66 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) A group of organisers should have the possibility to set-up its own online collection systems for the collection of statements of support across the Union and to decide whether they wish to use the servers made available by the Commission for that purpose or, if they use their own servers, in which Member State the data collected for the initiative should be stored. The group of organisers should use a single individual online collection system for each initiative. Individual online collection systems set up and operated by a group of organisers should have adequate technical and security features in order to ensure that the data are securely collected, stored and transferred throughout the procedure. For that purpose, the Commission should set out detailed technical specifications for the individual online collection systems, in cooperation with the Member States. The Commission may seek advice of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) which assists the Union institutions in developing and implementing policies related to security of network and information systems.
Amendment 67 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Where an initiative has received the necessary statements of support from signatories, each Member State should be responsible for the verification and certification of statements of support signed by its nationals or residents therein, in order to assess whether the required minimum numbers of signatories having the right to support a European citizens' initiative have been reached. Taking account of the need to limit the administrative burden for Member States, such verifications should be carried out on the basis of appropriate checks, which may be based on random sampling. Member States should issue a document certifying the number of valid statements of support received.
Amendment 69 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In order to promote participation and public debate on the issues raised by the initiatives, where an initiative supported by the required number of signatories and fulfilling the other requirements of this Regulation is submitted to the Commission, the group of organisers should have the right to present that initiative at a public hearing at Union level. The public hearing should be co- organised by the Commission and the European Parliament in its premises within three months from the submission of the initiative and ensure a balanced representation of relevant public and private interests well as the representation at an appropriate level of the Commission. Other institutions and advisory bodies of the Union, as well as interested stakeholders should have the opportunity to participate in the hearing.nd in particular the European Economic and Social Committee, should have the opportunity to participate in the hearing. Interested stakeholders should also be able to attend. The main aim of the hearing, being the sole opportunity for the group of organisers to present their initiative in detail publicly to a broad audience including the main Union institutional actors, is for the group of organisers to provide detailed explanations on the purpose of their initiative and their concrete expectations in terms of legislative outcome;
Amendment 70 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In order to promote participation and public debate on the issues raised by the initiatives, where an initiative supported by the required number of signatories and fulfilling the other requirements of this Regulation is submitted to the Commission, the group of organisers should have the right to present that initiative at a public hearing at Union level. The public hearing should be co- organised by the Commission andCommission and the European Parliament should ensure that the public hearing is organised at the European Parliament within three months from the submission of the initiative and ensure a balanced representation of relevant public and private interests well as the representation at an appropriate level of the Commission. Other institutions and advisory bodies of the Union as well as interested stakeholdernd, where relevant, representatives of national and regional parliaments should have the opportunity to participate in the hearing.
Amendment 74 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
Recital 23 a (new)
(23a) In order to assess the political support of an initiative, the European Parliament, which is the body that represents the citizens of the Union, should hold a debate on the submitted initiative during the plenary session following the public hearing. The debate should be concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution including a European Parliament recommendation to the Commission on the actions needed as a follow-up to the citizens’ initiative.
Amendment 80 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24 a (new)
Recital 24 a (new)
(24a) Where the conclusions of the Commission and the recommendation of the European Parliament differ, the European Parliament should be able to exercise the right conferred on the European Parliament under Article 225 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
Amendment 81 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) To ensure the effective participation of citizens in the democratic life of the Union, the Commission should examine a valid initiative and respond to it. The Commission should therefore set out its legal and political conclusions as well as the action it intends to take within a period of five months from the receipt of the initiative. It is presumed that the Commission will follow up with a concrete legislative proposal within twelve months of its communication. The Commission should explain in a clear, comprehensible and detailed manner the reasons for its intended action, and should likewise give its reasons if exceptionally it does not intend to take any action.
Amendment 85 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
This Regulation establishes the procedures and conditions required for an initiative inviting the European Commission, within the framework of its powers, to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens of the Union consider that a new legal act or the abrogation or amendment of any existing legal act of the Union is required for the purpose of implementing the Treaties, including with the view to their amendment, (the ‘European citizens’ initiative’ or ‘initiative’).
Amendment 86 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) The support and funding for initiatives should be transparent. Therefore groups of organisers should provide updated information on the sources of support and funding for their initiatives between the date of registration and the date at which the initiative is submitted to the Commission. Entities, notably organisations which under the Treaties contribute to forming European political awareness and expressing the will of citizens of the Union, should be able to promote and provide support and funding to initiatives, provided that they do so in accordance with the procedures and conditions laid down by this Regulation and with full transparency. To ensure as much as possible a level playing field, allocation of Union's funding to cover expenses related to kicking-off viable initiatives should be foreseen.
Amendment 94 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) in at least one quarter of the Member States, the number of signatories is at least equal to the minimum number set out in Annex I, corresponding to the number of the Members of the European Parliament elected in each Member State, multiplied by 750the total number of Members of the European Parliament, at the time of registration of the initiative.
Amendment 97 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
A citizens' initiative may concern a proposal for a new legal act by the Commission, or the abrogation or revision of any existing or envisaged legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing or revising the Treaties;
Amendment 98 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
The Commission shall make available an online collaborative platform providing citizens and groups of organisers with a discussion forum and informa, together with the relevant stakeholders, shall create an open-source online collaborative platform to support the exchange of information and best practices between stakeholders, including groups of organisers, independent experts, NGOs and other institutions and advice about the European citizens’ initiativebodies of the Union.
Amendment 98 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 a (new)
Article 1 a (new)
Article 1 a Scope 1. A citizens' initiative may concern a proposal for a new legal act by the Commission, or the abrogation or revision of any existing or envisaged legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing or revising the Treaties;
Amendment 100 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Citizens residing in Member States other than those of their nationality shall have the right to support an initiative either in their country of residence or in their country of origin.
Amendment 101 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Member States and the Commission shall adopt all the necessary provisions to facilitate the exercise, by persons with disabilities, of their right to support a citizens' initiative.
Amendment 102 #
2017/0220(COD)
4a. A group of organisers may, in addition, provide translations of the information referred to in Annex II, as well as of the Annex and the draft legal act referred to in Annex II, into languages other than the official languages of the Institutions of the Union that have been authorized by a Member State in accordance with applicable national law.
Amendment 103 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) in at least one quarter of the Member States, the number of signatories is at least equal to the minimum number set out in Annex I, corresponding to the number of the Members of the European Parliament elected in each Member State, multiplied by 750the total number of Members of the European Parliament, at the time of registration of the initiative. (Update Annex I accordingly)
Amendment 105 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. For the purpose of paragraph 1 a signatory shall decide whether to be counted in its Member State of nationality or residence.
Amendment 107 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – title
Article 4 – title
Information and assistance by the Commission, other Union institutions and by Member States
Amendment 109 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Throughout the organisational phase preceding the registration of a proposed citizens’ initiative, the organisers may ask Europe Direct and the Commission European Citizens’ Initiative (“ECI”) services for assistance. Those services shall provide full legal and practical assistance and guidance free of charge.
Amendment 110 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 a (new)
Article 5 a (new)
Article 5a ECI Committee 1. The Commission shall create a committee of independent experts (the ‘ECI Committee’) in order to assess the admissibility of a submitted initiative in accordance with Articles 5 b and 6. 2. The European Parliament and the Council, acting by means of regulations in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure, shall adopt the provisions for the establishment and the functioning of the ECI Committee before 1 July 2019.
Amendment 111 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 b (new)
Article 5 b (new)
Amendment 113 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point a
(a) without prejudice to Article 4 (4a), transmit the information referred to in Annex II in one of the official languages of the Union;
Amendment 114 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The Commission shall make available an online, open-source, collaborative platform providing citizens, groups of organisers another relevant stakeholders with a discussion forum and information and advice about the European citizens’ initiative, as well as an exchange of best practices. Use of this platform shall be made available free of charge to all organisers.
Amendment 115 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. The Commission shall refer to the ECI Committee the information referred to in Annex II. Without prejudice to paragraph 4, the ECI Committee shall decide on the admissibility of the initiative in accordance with Article 5b within one month of the receipt of the information.
Amendment 117 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 4
Article 4 – paragraph 4
4. After the Commission has registered an initiative in accordance with Article 6, it shall provide the free translation of the content of that initiative into all the official languages of the Union for its publication in the register and its use for the collection of statements of support in accordance with this Regulation. A group of organisers may, in addition, provide translations into all the official languages of the Unionof the proposed citizens’ initiative in other languages authorised by the Member States in accordance with applicable national law as well as translations of the Annex for its publication in the register and also, as the case may be, of thean explanatory statement into all the official languages of the Union, for the publication of both in the register. If a draft legal act, as referred to in Annex II and, is submitted in accordance with Article 6(2), it may also be included in the register. If an Annex or an explanatory statement has less than 5 000 characters (adjusted mean per language), the group of organisers may also request the Commission to translate the Annex free of charge into all official languages of the Union.
Amendment 118 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) none of the parts of the initiative manifestly falls outside the framework of the Commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing the Treaties;the ECI Committee declares the initiative admissible.
Amendment 120 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point d
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point d
Amendment 120 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. The European Economic and Social Committee shall be entitled to offer institutional mentoring and facilitation to the group of organisers, as it sees more appropriate to raise awareness of initiatives, while respecting its remit and preserving a neutral role. It shall be entitled to organise one or more hearings in its premises, since the registration of an initiative and through the signature collection phase, inviting the group of organisers to present their initiatives.Relevant independent experts may be also invited. It shall be entitled to also contribute to the promotion of the citizens' initiative in general as a tool to foster democratic participation within the Union.
Amendment 121 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 6
Article 4 – paragraph 6
6. Each Member State shall establish one or more contact points to provide information and, as well as specific technical and legal advice and other assistance to groups of organisers in setting up a European citizens’ initiative. Such one- stop-shops shall be present at least in the different Commission representation offices in all Member States;
Amendment 122 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point e
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point e
Amendment 126 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
If one or more of the requirements set out in points (a) to (ec) are not met, the Commission shall refuse to register the initiative, without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5.
Amendment 129 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Where it considers that the requirements laid down in paragraph 3 (a), (b), (d) and (eb) are met but that the requirement laid down in paragraph 3(c) is not mete ECI Committee considers the initiative partially admissible, the Commission shall, within one month of the submission of the request, inform the group of organisers of itsthe assessment and of the reasons thereofECI Committee.
Amendment 129 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
2. The members of the group of organisers shall be citizens of the Union, of the age to be entitled to vote in elections to the European Parliamentaged 16 or over and residents of at least seven different Member States.
Amendment 130 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
In that case, the group of organisers may either amend the initiative to take into account the ECI Commissionttee’s assessment to ensure that the initiative is in conformity with the requirement laid down in paragraph 3(c)oint (c) of paragraph 1 of Article 5b or maintain or withdraw the initial initiative. The group of organisers shall inform the Commission of its choice within one month of the receipt of the ECI Commissionttee’s assessment giving the reasons thereof, and shall, as the case may be, transmit amendments to the information referred to in Annex II to replace the initial initiative.
Amendment 132 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3 – introductory part
Where the Commission receives the information from the organisers it shall refer the information to the ECI Committee which will decide on the admissibility of the amended initiative within 15 working days. The Commission shall:
Amendment 132 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The group of organisers may be registered as a legal entity, namely an organisation with legal personality in one of the Member States in accordance with national law.
Amendment 134 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3 – point a
(a) register the initiative, if it meets the requirement laid down in paragraph 3(c)the ECI Committee declares the initiative admissible;
Amendment 136 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3 – point b
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3 – point b
(b) partially register the initiative if a substantial part of the initiative, including its main objectives, does not manifestly fall outside the framework of the Commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing the Treatiesthe ECI Committee declares the initiative partially admissible;
Amendment 136 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 5
Article 5 – paragraph 5
5. Without prejudice to the liability of the representative of the group of organisers as data controller under Article 82(2) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679, the members of a group of organisers or, if applicable the legal entity created by them, shall be jointly and severally liable, in accordance with applicable national law, for any damage caused in the organisation of an initiative by unlawful acts committed intentionally or with serious negligence.
Amendment 141 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 7
Article 6 – paragraph 7
7. Where it refuses to register or only partially registers an initiative in accordance with paragraph 4, the Commission shall inform the group of organisers of the reasons for its decisionthe ECI Committee’s decision on the admissibility and of all possible judicial and extrajudicial remedies available to them.
Amendment 142 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The Commission shall create an independent body for the specific purpose to assess the admissibility of submitted citizens' initiative, exclusively on the basis of the criteria set out in paragraph 3. This independent body shall refrain from political considerations and shall merely perform a legal compliance check. Its administrative procedure shall be ultimately subject to the scrutiny of the Union Ombudsman.
Amendment 143 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
The Commission shall register the initiative if according to the independent assessment body referred to in paragraph 2a:
Amendment 145 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) none of the parts of the initiative does not manifestly falls outside the framework of the Commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a new legal act or the abrogation or revision of any existing legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing or revising the Treaties;
Amendment 150 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
The Member States may, in addition, authorise the use of additional languages other than official languages of the Institutions of the Union in accordance with applicable national law.
Amendment 151 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Member States shall inform the Commission as to whether they wish to use additional languages other than the official languages of the Institutions of the Union before 1 July 2019 and shall provide the translation of Annex III into those languages.
Amendment 152 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 152 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
In that case, the group of organisers may either amend the initiative to take into account the Commission's assessment to ensure that the initiative is in conformity with the requirement laid down in paragraph 3(c) or maintain or withdraw the initial initiative. The group of organisers shall inform the Commission of its choice within onetwo months of the receipt of the Commission's assessment giving the reasons thereof, and shall, as the case may be, transmit amendments to the information referred to in Annex II to replace the initial initiative.
Amendment 153 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
For the purpose of online collection of statements of support, the Commission shall set-up and operate, by 1 January 2020, an open-source central online collection system, in accordance with Commission Decision (EU, Euratom) 2017/46 of 10 January 2017.
Amendment 154 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The data collected through the individual online collection system may be stored in the servers made available by the Commission for that purpose and in any case shall be stored in the territory of a Member State.
Amendment 155 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 11 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Within one month of the registration of an initiative, and at the latest 10 working days before the start of the collection period, the group of organisers shall inform the Commission as to whether it wishes to use the servers of the Commission.
Amendment 161 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 7
Article 6 – paragraph 7
7. Where it refuses to register or only partially registers an initiative in accordance with paragraph 4, the Commission shall inform the group of organisers of the reasons for its decision asetting out full details concerning the grounds of the refusal, taking into account any Annexes submitted and expressly referring to the legal bases used, and make those publically available with due regard of Article 296(2) TFEU and Article 41 of the Union Charter of Fundamental Rights, providing also all possible judicial and extrajudicial remedies available to them.
Amendment 166 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
The Commission and the European Parliament shall co-organiseensure that the public hearing is organised at the European Parliament. Representatives of the other institutions and advisory bodies of the Union, as well as interested stakeholders,nd, where relevant, representatives of national and regional parliaments shall be given the opportunity to participate in the hearing.
Amendment 169 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
All statements of support shall be collected within a period not exceeding 128 months from a date chosen by the group of organisers (the 'collection period'), without prejudice to Article 11(6). That date must be not later than threnine months from the registration of the initiative in accordance with Article 6.
Amendment 170 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Amendment 173 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Where the group of organisers wishes to terminate the collection of statements of support before the end of 128 months after the beginning of the collection period, it shall inform the Commission of the date at which the collection period is to end. (This amendment applies throughout the whole text.)
Amendment 174 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. The group of organisers, or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them in accordance with Article 5(2a) and (7) of this Regulation, shall be responsible for the collection of the statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens’ initiative which has been registered in accordance with Article 6.
Amendment 175 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
The Commission and the competent authorities of Member States shall adopt all the necessary provisions so that Union citizens residing in a Member State other than that of their nationality shall have the possibility to choose whether their support to an initiative is counted either in their country of residence or in their country of origin. Competent authorities from the different Member States shall coordinate to ensure a proper allocation of the statements of support in their respective accounts.
Amendment 177 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 a (new)
Article 14 a (new)
Article 14a Examination by the European Parliament The European Parliament shall hold a debate on the submitted initiative during the plenary session following the public hearing referred to in Article 14. The debate shall be concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution including a European Parliament’s recommendation to the Commission on the actions needed as a follow-up to the citizens’ initiative.
Amendment 178 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
The central online collection system shall be open-source and shall be accessible for persons with disabilities.
Amendment 179 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 11 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. The group of organisers using other certified online collection systems shall still have the possibility to use the servers operated by the Commission free of charge. Where statements of support are collected online, the data obtained through the online collection system shall be stored in the territory of the European Union.
Amendment 181 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Within five months after the publication of the initiative in accordance with Article 14(1), and after the public hearingEuropean Parliament resolution referred to in Article 14(2) b, the Commission shall set out in a communication its legal and political conclusions on the initiative, the action it intends to take, if any, and its reasons for taking or not taking action exhaustively and in full detail.
Amendment 184 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 3
Article 15 – paragraph 3
3. TWhen the contact information of the signatories is available in accordance with Articles 17 (2) and (3), the Commission and the group of organisers mayshall inform the signatories on the response to the initiative in accordance with Article 17 (2) and (3).
Amendment 185 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1
1. When the Commission receives a valid initiative in respect of which the statements of support have been collected and certified in accordance with Articles 8 to 12, it shall publish without delay a notice to that effect in the register and transmit the initiative to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and, the Committee of the Regions, as well as to national parliaments.
Amendment 187 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 a (new)
Article 15 a (new)
Amendment 191 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
The Commission and the European Parliament shall co-organizse the public hearing at the European Parliament. Representatives of the other institutions and advisory bodies of the Union, as well as interested stakeholdersnd in particular the European Economic and Social Committee, shall be given the opportunity to participate in the hearing. The attendance of other interested stakeholders shall be subject to the consent of the group of organisers. The public hearing shall be web-streamed and publically available thereafter.
Amendment 192 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1
Article 24 – paragraph 1
The Commission shall periodically review the functioning of the European citizens’ initiative and present a report to the European Parliament and the Council on the application of this Regulation no later than fivthree years from the date of application of this Regulation, and every fivthree years thereafter. The reports shall be made public.
Amendment 195 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
The hearing shall pursue the public interest. The exclusive objective of the hearing is to inform exhaustively about the content and aims of a initiative.
Amendment 196 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 b (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 b (new)
The main aim of the hearing shall be to provide, in the public interest, the group of organisers with a forum to present the content of their initiative. The focus of the initiative shall be to provide detailed exposition of its purpose and to suggest concrete legislative goals.
Amendment 197 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Amendment 202 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall be represented in the hearing at an appropriate level. The presence of at least one member of the College of Commissioners shall be assured at the hearings.
Amendment 206 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. The European Parliament shall hold a debate on those citizens’ initiatives that successfully meet all of the criteria laid down in this Regulation during the plenary session following the public hearing referred to in Article 14, and no later than one month thereafter. The debate shall be concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution with European Parliament’s recommendation to the Commission on the actions needed as a follow up to the citizens’ initiative.
Amendment 208 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. A second hearing may be organised by the Parliament, for instance at the request of the group of organisers including their participation, subsequently to the communication by the Commission, in order to contribute to the assessment of its reply and any concrete legislative proposal contained therein.
Amendment 209 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3 c (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 3 c (new)
3 c. National and regional parliaments may also organise hearings on the citizens' initiatives, inviting where appropriate the organisers, with particular emphasis on Member States where a successful initiative has reached the minimum threshold of signatures.
Amendment 210 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 a (new)
Article 14 a (new)
Article 14 a Involvement of the Parliament after the submission of an initiative 1. Upon notification by the Commission that a valid and certified initiative has been received in accordance with Articles 8 to 12, the European Parliament shall organise the public hearing referred to in Article 14 on its premises as early as possible, and in any event no later than three months after the submission of the initiative. The European Parliament shall adopt the necessary provisions to ensure consistency in the organisation of hearings of the different citizen's initiatives over time. 2. The European Parliament shall hold a debate on those citizens’ initiatives that successfully meet all of the criteria laid down in this Regulation during the plenary session following the public hearing referred to in Article 14. The debate shall be concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution with European Parliament’s recommendation to the Commission on the actions needed as a follow up to the citizens’ initiative. 3. After the communication by the Commission is published, the Parliament may organise a new public hearing in presence of the organisers of the citizens' initiative, as well as independent experts. 4. Where the conclusions in the communication of the Commission referred to in Article 15(2) and the recommendation of the European Parliament referred to in paragraph 2 differ, the European Parliament may exercise the right conferred on the European Parliament under Article 225 TFEU. 5. Registered citizens' initiatives that at the end of the collection period do not reach the minimum amount of supports to be validated in accordance with Article 3 may be examined by the Parliament by other means, by analogy with petitions.
Amendment 218 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. In the case of a successful initiative, the Commission shall by default submit a legislative proposal to the European Parliament and to the Council within twelve months of the end of the period referred to in paragraph 2. If exceptionally the Commission is of the opinion that there are good reasons not to submit such a specific proposal, then it shall duly justify its decision on an exhaustive and fully detailed manner, thus allowing for its proper assessment by the European Parliament and other institutions, organisers and signatories, concerned stakeholders and public in general. For the purposes of this Article, special attention should be paid to Article 296(2) TFEU and Article 41 of the Union Charter of Fundamental Rights.
Amendment 219 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 b (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. No later than four months after the reception of the communication, the European Parliament shall assess the Commission's reply to the citizens' initiative in form of legislative action or absence thereof. The European Parliament may organise a second hearing in presence of the organisers of the initiative as well as independent experts, and it shall hold a plenary debate on this issue, according to its Rules of Procedure. Those debates shall be concluded by the adoption of a motion for resolution.
Amendment 220 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 c (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 2 c (new)
2 c. Where the conclusions in the communication of the Commission referred to in Article 15(2) and the recommendation of the European Parliament differ, the European Parliament may exercise the right conferred on the European Parliament under Article 225 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
Amendment 225 #
Amendment 226 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
The group of organisers shall provide, for the publication in the register, and as the case may be on their campaign website, information on the sources of support and funding for the initiative exceeding 5100 euros per sponsor.
Amendment 227 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 16 – paragraph 2 a (new)
An annual appropriation in the Union's Budget shall be allocated to support the organisation of citizens' initiatives. An established group of organisers may apply for financial coverage of expenses related to legal advice and support prior to the submission or after the conclusion of the signature collection. The group of organisers of registered initiatives shall be entitled to a grant, aimed at covering expenses related to communication and logistical aspects of their signature collection campaign.
Amendment 229 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1
Article 17 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission, with the support of the European Parliament and other Union Institutions, as well as Member States, shall raise public awareness about the existence of the European citizens’ initiative through proactively carrying out communication activities and information campaigns, thereby using all public channels available, thereby maximising its added- value and contributing to promoting the active participation of citizens in the political life of the Union. The Commission may grant financial support to entities that contribute to the overall promotion of the citizens' initiative as a democratic participation instrument, provide free technical support and legal advice to the organisers.
Amendment 231 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. As an additional means of raising awareness on a registered ECI, the group of organisers of a registered initiative shall be entitled to present their initiative in a public hearing at the premises of the official representation of the Commission or the European Parliament in the Member States. This shall take place at no cost to the group of organisers, in the month of their choice between the date of the registration and the termination of collection of statements of support, and at least once in each Member State. The responsible services of the Commission and the European Parliament shall ensure that adequate official communication about the event takes place at the national level.
Amendment 233 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph –1 (new)
Article 18 – paragraph –1 (new)
-1. In processing personal data pursuant to this Regulation, the group of organisers of a citizens’ initiative or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them, and the competent authorities of the Member State shall comply with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 .
Amendment 234 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 18 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. The organisers or, if applicable, the legal entity created by them, shall ensure that personal data collected for a given citizen’s initiative are not used for any purpose other than their indicated support for that initiative.
Amendment 241 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1
Article 24 – paragraph 1
The Commission shall periodically review the functioning of the European citizens' initiative and present a report to the European Parliament and the Council on the application of this Regulation no later than fivthree years from the date of application of this Regulation, and every fivthree years thereafter. The reports shall be made public.
Amendment 245 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 2
Annex II – point 2
2. The content of the initiative on which the Commission is invited to act, in no more than 10 200 characters (adjusted mean per language);
Amendment 250 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – part 1 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Annex III – part 1 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
I want my statement of support to be counted in my the Member State I reside / I am national of ((Tick where appropriate.In case of choice by nationality, indicate the Member State))
Amendment 251 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – part 2 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Annex III – part 2 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
I want my statement of support to be counted in my the Member State I reside / I am national of ((Tick where appropriate.In case of choice by nationality, indicate the Member State))
Amendment 27 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – subparagraph 1
Amendment 29 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(1a) In Article 3, paragraph 1, the following point is inserted: ‘(ba) its members and its elected members in the European Parliament, national parliament or regional parliament or assembly, are not members of another European political party.’
Amendment 36 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)
(2a) In Article 18, the following paragraph 2a is inserted: “2a. Its member parties running in the elections of the European Parliament shall publish on their website the political programme and logo of the European political party to which they are affiliated, as well as information on the gender composition of their candidate lists and among their elected Members of the European Parliament.”
Amendment 38 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 18 – paragraph 3 a
Article 18 – paragraph 3 a
3a. A European political party shall include in its application evidence demonstrating that its member parties have continuously published on their websites, during 12 months preceding the moment at which the applications is made, the political programme and logo of the European political party as well as information, in relation to each of the member partiethe information, in relation to each of its member parties that ran in the previous elections of the European political partyParliament, on the gender representation amongcomposition of their candidates at the laist elections to the European Parliaments and among their elected Members of the European Parliament.
Amendment 41 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 19 – paragraph 1
Article 19 – paragraph 1
Amendment 52 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 20 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 20 – paragraph 1 a (new)
(4a) In Article 20, after paragraph 1 the following paragraph is inserted: “1a. Donations to European political parties and European political foundations may be used to reimburse annual reimbursable expenditure of a European political party or to cover eligible costs of a European political foundation.”
Amendment 62 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6 a (new)
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
(6a) In Article 32, paragraph 1, the following point is inserted: “(ja) an updated list of Members of the European Parliament which are direct or indirect members of a European political party pursuant Article 17(1), (3) and 19(1).”
Amendment 64 #
2017/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Regulation (EU, Euratom) No. 1141/2014
Article 40 a – paragraph 1
Article 40 a – paragraph 1
Amendment 15 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the European Parliament is the only EU institution directly elected by citizens, and whereas the right to petition offers them the means to draw the attention of their elected representatives to matters that concern them; whereas unfortunately the committee on Petitions does not have sufficient inquiry capacity by itself at the moment;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Committee on Petitions is best able to show citizens what the European Union does for them and what solutions it can provide at European, national or local level; whereas the Committee on Petitions can do excellent work explaining and eventually proving the successes and benefits of the European project;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the right to petition should enhance the European Parliament’s capacity to react, helping to resolve problems relating mainly to how EU legislation is applied, as petitions constitute a valuable source of first-hand information inbased on own experiences which help detecting deficiencies in how EU legislation is appliedimplemented at national level, and ultimately monitored by the Commission in its role of guardian of the Treaties; whereas petitions are a basic tool in the early detection of those Member States lagging behind in transposition and actual enforcement of EU law;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L a(new)
Recital L a(new)
La. whereas besides providing relevant feedback on the application of existing legislation, petitions can also help identifying loopholes within the EU law as well as to assess the impacts of absence of regulation in certain fields, hence becoming a trigger for further legislative efforts;
Amendment 57 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas petitioners actively contribute to the work of the Committee, providing additional first-hand information to its members, the Commission and representatives of the Member States who may be present; whereas petitioners, by taking part in these discussions and presenting their petitions along with more detailed information, contribute to establishing a fluid dialogue with Members of the European Parliament and with the European Commission; whereas in 2015, 191 petitioners attended and were involved in the Committee’s deliberations; whereas although this number seems relatively low, the meetings of the Committee on Petitions are broadcast, enabling petitioners to follow live discussions both in real time and delayed by means of internet streaming;
Amendment 69 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U
Recital U
U. whereas the Commission intends to strengthen the application of EU legislation on the basis of transposition and systematic checks on compliance of national legislation; whereas the Commission stated that it will take appropriate measures, including launching new EU Pilot cases and infringement procedures, when it detects possible breaches of EU law;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital X
Recital X
X. whereas the key issues of concern raised in petitions pertain to a wide range of issues, such as environmental legislation (in particular, waste water treatment, waste management, river basin management, gas and hydrocarbon prospection and extraction), fundamental rights (in particular the rights of the child and of persons with disabilities), the free movement of persons, discrimination, immigration, employment, animal welfare, the application of justice (in particular custody rights regarding minors) and breaches of consumer rights;
Amendment 76 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Y
Recital Y
Y. whereas the web portal of the Committee on Petitions which began to operate in late 2014 is up and running, yet not finalized; whereas the portal is aimed at providesing EU citizens with an electronic tool that enables them to file and continuously track petitions, electronically sign their own petitions and add their support for other petitioners whose issues are of interest to them; whereas the shortcomings in some basic functionalities such as the search engine which persisted throughout the whole 2015 and until very recently undermined the role of the portal as an interactive space of exchange among citizens; whereas this problem has been finally resolved;
Amendment 78 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Z
Recital Z
Z. whereas this portal is conceived to makes the petition procedure more transparent and more interactive and also ensures more effective administration in the interest of petitioners, Members and the general public; whereas the second phase of the project, intended mainly to enhance the administrative handling of petitions but also enabling a real-time follow-up of petitions by the original petitioners and the latter supporters, had no substantial progress during 2015, when according to initial planning it should have been already completed by then;
Amendment 79 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AA
Recital AA
AA. whereas all open petitions received in 2013, 2014 and 2015 were uploaded to the portal and work is currently under waythe successive delays in the further phases of the project have generated an additional workload within the Secretariat of the committee on Petitions, due to the need to manually upload relevant files in the different data- bases; whereas there are still petitions pending to be uploaded, since only open petitions received in 2016 thus enhanc3, 2014 and 2015 have been included ing transparency and improving access for petitioners to information on the status of their petitionshe portal so far and work is currently under way to upload petitions received in 2016;
Amendment 80 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB
Recital AB
AB. whereas the shortcomings in some basic functionalities such as the search engine, which persisted throughout the whole 2015 and until very recently, severely undermined the role of the portal as an interactive space of exchange among citizens; whereas certain deficiencies have been remedied, particularly in the search function and regarding petitioner confidentiality, and whereas work is under way to remedy certain shortcomings andexpectedly under way from the second half of 2016 to make the service more useful and visible to citizens;
Amendment 81 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB a (new)
Recital AB a (new)
ABa. whereas admissibility of petitions is grounded on the criteria set in article 227 of the TFEU; whereas the concept of field of activity of the Union goes much beyond the simple aggregation of competences; whereas a declaration of inadmissibility can be subject to judicial review if not duly justified according to these criteria;
Amendment 82 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB b (new)
Recital AB b (new)
AB b. whereas the national courts have primary responsibility for ensuring that EU legislation is properly implemented in the Member States; whereas, in this context, a preliminary ruling from the European Court of Justice is a useful tool available to national judicial systems; whereas this procedure has been little used, if at all, in some Member States; whereas petitions provide an alternative and independent avenue for inquiry and for checks on compliance with EU legislation, and whereas these two alternative procedures should therefore not be mutually exclusive;
Amendment 86 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AD
Recital AD
AD. whereas the Committee on Petitions is of the opinion that, three years after the entry into force on 1 April 2012 of Regulation (EU) No 211/2011, its implementation should be assessed in order to identify weaknesses and propose concrete viable solutions for its swift revision so that its implementafunctioning can be improved;
Amendment 97 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a(new)
Paragraph 1 a(new)
1a. Invites the Commission to make greater use of its powers when it comes to ensuring an effective implementation of the EU legislation, for instance by pursuing a more swift use of the infringement procedure under articles 258 and 260 TFEU;
Amendment 106 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the fact that the Committee on Petitions has an opportunity and the huge challenge of maintaining a trustworthy and fruitful dialogue with citizens as it has the possibility to bring the EU’s institutions and citizens together once again; considers that for this purpose providing an adequate response to their petitions is crucial, both in terms of timing and quality of the answer;
Amendment 113 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that petitions are very important for the legislative process, as they detect existing loopholes and deficiencies in the transposition of Community legislation and provide other Parliament committees with useful and direct input for their legislative work in their respective fields; welcomes an increased interaction of the committee on Petitions with the rest of the parliamentary committees, as well as a more frequent presence of matters related to petitions in plenary; applauds the setting up of an informal petitions network within Parliament, with the participation of Members representing every committee of Parliament, in order to ensure smooth and effective coordination of petitions work; considers that petitions are not solely the responsibility of the Committee on Petitions, but should be a shared endeavour of all of the European Parliament’s committees; urges all parliamentary committees concerned to pay due attention to the petitions forwarded to them and to undertake the necessary efforts so as to provide the information necessary for petitions to be processed properly;
Amendment 119 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the fact that in 2015 the time taken to process petitions fell, maintains nonetheless that the Secretariat of the Committee on Petitions is in need of greater technical resources and personnel in order to guarantee a reduction in the time taken to process petitions while ensuring the quality in their treatment;
Amendment 125 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that, as mentioned by Vice- President Timmermans at his meeting with the Committee on Petitions on 5 May 2015, the Commission is involved with and committed to the petition process and responds as quickly as possible to new petitions forwarded to it by Parliament; points out that Commission replies are usually detailed and pertain to the petitions for which it has jurisdiction; recalls however that on many occasions the Commission does not bring any new information in its replies to petitions for which a review has been requested owing to a change in their status and context; notes that the written responses are monitored, as are explanations given during oral debates held by the Committee on Petitionsregrets the occasions where the Commissions focuses essentially on procedural aspects and does not enter in the substance of the matter; notes that wthen the Commission cannot provide a detailed response to a request from the Committee on Petitions, it is because it has no jurisdiction in the matter written responses are monitored, as are explanations given during oral debates held by the Committee on Petitions; notes the Commission’s commitment in sending generally competent officials to meetings of the Committee on Petitions; regrets that during public debates with petitioners and Members of Parliament the officials sent by the Commission do not always provide any new or relevant information that might enable a solution to the issues raised; insists that the quality of the overall treatment of petitions increases when the highest-ranked officials possibly available represent the Commission in the debates;
Amendment 130 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Considers that in its role of guardian of the treaties, and particularly when it refers to environmental matters, the Commission should go beyond a mere formal examination of procedural compliance, and focus more on the actual content of the core issue; recalls the precautionary principle and the ultimate spirit of the EU environmental legislation to prevent irreversible damage on ecologically sensitive areas, and urges the Commission to adopt an approach that allows to make use of its powers and prerogatives on an ex-ante basis;
Amendment 132 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Confirms that, in the interests of transparency and in a spirit of faithful cooperation between the EU institutions, and pursuant to the Framework Agreement on relations between the European Parliament and the European Commission, upon request and where required the Commission will provide the European Parliament with a synthesis of the individual cases related to the EU Pilot procedures; notes that, according to confirmation from the Court of Justice,beyond the confidentiality requirements which apply to dialogue between the Commission and Member States concerning open EU Pilot cases, and also notes that such information is confidentialrelevant information concerning these exchanges should be provided to the Parliament upon request, at least after the closure of the procedure;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Considers that the necessary information concerning infringement procedures initiated as a result of inquiries related to petitions should be timely provided to the Parliament, and particularly upon the request of the committee on Petitions;
Amendment 144 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes the restrictive and narrow interpretation of the European Commission in relation to Article 51(1) of the Charter of Fundamental Rights which states, inter alia, that the Charter is addressed to the Member States ‘only when they are implementing Union law’; notes that Article 51(2) of the Charter states that the Charter ‘does not extend the field of application of Union law beyond the powers of the Union’; notes, however, that this does not mean that citizens are unprotected if they believe that their fundamental righturges for a broader interpretation of the scope of application of the Charter, and to ultimately reassess the pertinence of this article in future revisions of the Charter and the treaties; underlines thave been violated in cases where EU law is not applied, as in such cases it is up to the Member States to ensure the protection of fundamental rights in accordance with their national legislation andt nothing prevents Member States to engage in a full application of the provisions of the Charter in their national legislation in order to ensure the protection of fundamental rights of their citizens beyond the implementation of Union law and reminds that they are bound also by other international obligations;
Amendment 153 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Deplores the strict way in which the Commission has interpreted Article 51 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights with its stipulation that ‘the provisions of the [...] Charter are addressed to the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union with due regard for the principle of subsidiarity and to the Member States only when they are implementing Union law; recalls that, owing tonotwithstanding the existence of Article 51 of the Charter, the expectations of citizens often go beyond what the Charter’s legal provisions strictly allow for; calls on the European Commission to adopt a new approach that is more consistent with those expectations;
Amendment 160 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Urges for a prompt ratification at the EU level of the Marrakech Treaty to facilitate access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled, regardless of the conflict over competences before the CJEU; reminds that in its 'Concluding Observations' in September 2015, the CPRD Committee pointed out some deficiencies within the EU for full compliance of the Convention; notes that the EU is required to swiftly adopt an amended European Accessibility Act including effective and accessible enforcement and complaint mechanisms; notes the requirement to decouple the roles of the European Commission by removing it from the independent monitoring framework, to ensure that the framework has adequate resources to perform its functions;
Amendment 167 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Regrets the very restrictive approach of the Commission in its responses to petitions relating to different aspects of animal welfare, when it comes to the interpretation of its responsibilities under article 13 TFEU; urges the Commission to reconsider the current approach and to explore further its legal basis to play a role in ensuring a better protection of animal rights across the EU;
Amendment 174 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Believes that the organisation of public hearings is an important way of examining problems raised by petitioners more in depth, as well as general aspects of the functioning of the EU as underlying shortcomings therein; draws attention to the public hearings organised on 26 February 2015 with the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety in response to the ECI on ‘Water is a Human Right’, and with the Committee on Legal Affairs for the ECI entitled ‘One of Us’;
Amendment 185 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Deplores the fact that the Commission considers that it is too early to revise Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 of 1 April 2012 which entered into force three years ago; considers that it is necessary to thoroughly evaluate its implementation to identify possible deficiencies and propose workable solutions with a view to revising it soon; welcomes the Commission’s report of 31 March 2015 on the ECI, and the European Ombudsman’s Decision OI/9/2013/TN, and calls on the Commission to ensure, in its revision of this instrument, that all the appropriate legal measures are taken with a view to providing proper follow-up when an ECI is deemed to have been completed successfully; regrets currently existing lack of legal clarity and the rejection to register a massive initiative opposing the TTIP within this framework; calls on the Commission, in view of the various weaknesses identified, to present a proposal for reform of Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 as soon as possible;
Amendment 187 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Draws attention to its resolution of 8 October 2015 on mortgage legislation and risky financial instruments in Spain in the light of the petitions received, concerning which Parliament issued a series of recommendations for the proper application of EU mortgage legislation and combatting banking abuses; calls on the Commission to supervise closely the implementation in all Member States of Directive 2014/17/EU on credit agreements, Directive 93/13/EEC on unfair terms in consumer contracts, and to share best practices in order to improve protection for citizens in financial difficulties;
Amendment 190 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Is concerned with the evidences of shortcomings on proper access to justice in certain Member States unveiled as a result of the processing of petitions; considers that this is an essential issue to be addressed without delay in order to guarantee a proper democratic functioning of the Union and the exercise of fundamental rights by its citizens and residents; considers that example should be provided by the Union by deploying the pillar of the Aarhus convention on access to justice on environmental matters;
Amendment 193 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Welcomes the resumption of a more normal level of activity in the field of fact-finding visits, and expects that the full potential of this specific prerogative of the committee on Petitions will be exploited in the upcoming years until the very end of the legislative period; underlines the importance of the Working Documents produced after each visit, including specific recommendations, and urges the different authorities concerned to take them into due consideration; considers that the degree of compliance with these recommendations should be periodically appraised;
Amendment 194 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
Amendment 199 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Urges the competent administrative bodies to expedite the steps still needed to conclude the introduction of the remaining project phases of the Petitions web portal, whereby petitioners will be able to receive real-time information on the status of their petition, be notified of changes in the processing procedure such as the declaration of admissibility, the reception of a response from the Commission or the inclusion of their petition in the agenda of a committee meeting with a web- streaming link, all this through automated e- mail messages, and directly contact officials of the Committee on Petitions for clear, direct information on the evolution of the issue concerning them;
Amendment 201 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Is concerned that the procedure known as 'List 3', whereby registered petitions are flagged preliminary as potentially inadmissible, may result in weakened monitoring of a relevant amount of petitions by the expertise present in the committee on Petitions; considers that the lack of translation of petitions in this list, aimed at diminishing partially the overall processing workload of petitions, entails a higher risk of inadequate decisions on admissibility by Members of the committee, which are the ultimate liable parties on the matter;
Amendment 206 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses the importance of cooperation with the European Ombudsman, and the involvement of Parliament in the European Network of Ombudsmen; applauds the good relations maintained within the institutional framework between the European Ombudsman and the Committee on Petitions; commends the work of the Ombudsman so as to improve good administration in the EU, and appreciatesd in particular the Ombudsman’sr regular contributions to the work of the Committee on Petitions throughout the year;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2120(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes the use of the Flexibility Instrument under heading 3 in the Draft Budget 2017 for an amount of EUR 530 million and recalls that this amount is the maximum one that can be mobilised in 2017 with this instrument with the current MFF rules;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2120(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Acknowledges that the financial impact of the current refugee, and migration and internal security crisessituation was not accounted for when the current MFF was adopted in 2014; stresses that the Flexibility Instrument has to be used according to the purpose for which it was created, for clearly identified expenses which cannot be covered by other Union budgetary resources;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that additional financial needs are likely to arise in relation to the migration, and refugee and internal security crisessituation in 2017 and recalls that no more margin is available under the ceiling of heading 3 while the Flexibility Instrument has already been used up in its entirety for 2017; therefore, requests the Commission to clarify if and how additional funds could be possibly mobilised using the Contingency Margin to respond to possible additional financial needs for heading 3 during the course of 2017;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. NotWelcomes the proposals of the Commission to mobilise an additional EUR 2,55 billion under heading 3 over the period 2018-2020 as part of the MFF mid- term review/revision; recalls that immediate response is needed to the security, migration and refugee crisessituation and considers it important that full transparency of payments and regular monitoring/reporting of the expenditure are ensured by all actors involved.
Amendment 1167 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Rule 211 – paragraph 7 a (new)
Rule 211 – paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. In the event that the Commission fails to put forward a proposal for a legal act on a citizens' initiative successfully submitted to it in accordance with Article 9 of Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 within a twelve-month period, the committee responsible may organise a hearing in consultation with the citizens’ initiative organisers and may, if it considers this to be necessary, activate the procedure laid down in Rule 46 with a view to exercising Parliament's right to request the Commission to submit an appropriate proposal.
Amendment 7 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), as provided for in the Treaty on European Union (TEU), shall include the progressive framing of a common Union defence policy that might lead to a future common defence when the European Council, acting unanimously, so decides;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that achieving the objectives of the CSDP is to strengthen the Union’s operational capacity to act externally for peace-keeping, conflict prevention and strengthening international security as provided for in the TEU is more than ever necessary in a fast deteriorating security environmentin accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and as provided for in the TEU;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Stresses that human rights protection contributes to peace and security globally; highlights the key role of the EU in upholding the principles enshrined in international human rights law, in particular the principles of universality and indivisibility of human rights;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the VP/HR and the Member States to use the full potential of the TEU, especially Article 44 on the implementation of a CSDP task by a group of Member States and Article 46 on permanent structured cooperation with regard to a faster and more flexible deployment of CSDP missions and operations; welcomes the activation of Article 42(7) on the mutual defence clausewith regard to an effective deployment of CSDP missions and operations;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Recalls the VP/HR that the tasks of CSDP are clearly defined by the so called Petersberg Tasks of Article 43(1) TEU and exclusively focus on missions and operations in third countries; reminds that the Member States still face enormous problems with regard to force generation for military CSDP operations and making available personnel for civilian missions in line with the Petersberg Tasks described in the Treaty;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Stresses the important role of the EP in supervising policies and institutional structures including in the field of the CSDP; calls therefore to increase parliamentary oversight mechanisms in the next revision of EU Treaties by, interalia, establishing the need to consult the European Parliament to set out the objectives and analyse the risks prior to decisions on new CSDP missions and operations and on its strategic review;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Council, the Commission and the VP/HR to ensure, as provided for in the TEU, consistency between the different areas of external action and to address these areas through a global and comprehensive approach and to broaden the scope of EU civilian missions to directly support development objectives, inter alia by focussing on demobilisation, disarmament and the reintegration of former combatants;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for the establishment of the Council of Defence Ministers format and the setting up of a permanent strategic civil-military headquarters with a permanent military operational component; underlines the role of the European Defence Agency in capability developmentmilitary EU Operational Headquarters for the effective implementation of the Petersberg Tasks and the abolishment of current ad hoc structures or structures which are dependent on the foreign policy of a lead Member State; urges the VP/HR and the Member States not to merge military and civilian planning and conduct structure;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Reiterates its support for the adoption of a White Book on defence on the basis of the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy, which should be based on a joint accurate appraisal of the existing military capabilities of the Member Stateresult in the description of very precise scenarios for possible EU military operations, conditions for their launch and precise capability requirements;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 62 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Calls on the EU to mainstream climate change action into all the EU's external action guidelines, strategies and actions via new structures such as a Special Representative on Climate Security;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Calls on the EU to fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and appoint a Special Representative for Women and Conflict;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7 c. Calls on the EU to create a supervisory body and appropriate structures in the EP for permanent scrutiny of Member States' compliance with the EU Common Position on arms exports;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the fact that the Commission has set itself the goal of better regulation as a priority for this term and affirms the need to create clear, simple, effective and socially and environmentally balanced EU legislation which will consequently be easy to transpose and implement;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses that the notion of Better Law-Making can by no means be understood in a way that leads to less regulation, but rather as a way to ensuring the drafting of robust legislation which minimises loopholes and ensures a smoother transposition and enforcement by Member States;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Amendment 8 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that further development of the transparency of the negotiations process, especially as regards the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), as well as of the legislative process and enhanced scrutiny of existing legislation must be the guiding principles of the implementation of the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Regulation;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises the importance of developing and further advancing Parliament’s role as co-legislator and of ensuring equality with respect to the Council, as well as enhancing its role as a supervisory body of all EU institutions;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses that when it comes to its application, an effective EU legislation must aim at ensuring that the procedures established therein match the underlying purpose of the piece of legislation itself, and particularly the ultimate goal of protecting the environment when it comes to ensuring a high degree of environmental protection
Amendment 13 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls the numerous petitions received on the economic and social crisis in the European Union and believes that priority should be given to legislative initiatives in order to revive the economy, fight unemployment and precariousness, and to combat social inequalities and poverty;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Acknowledges the importance of the work within the committee on Petitions in assessing the quality of the EU law-making when it comes to its actual implementation, and as a source for improving legislative texts and procedures; notes in this regard the importance of a faithful inter-institutional cooperation with the European Commission when it comes to ensuring a proper examination of the petitions;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Opposes any legislative initiative or legal framework put in place with the participation of any EU institution that can lead to an actual precarisation of the labour market, risks putting a greater amount of people effectively under the poverty threshold or undermines fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Charter;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Calls for a greater consultation with social partners at an early stage, and a greater involvement of the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, and due account to be taken of their concerns;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2018(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Observes that the adoption of systematic impact assessments must not lead to a de-politicisation of the legislative process, thereby affecting Parliament’s role's core role in a democratic functioning of the Union, as the true representative of the direct will and diversity of EU citizens, nor weaken its legislative power, watering down its debates or rendering them meaningless, and replacing political decisions made therein;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
— having regard to the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),
Amendment 1 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital -A (new)
Recital -A (new)
-A. whereas the inclusion of the Charter of Fundamental Rights as a binding core element within the scope of the Lisbon Treaty generated high expectations among EU citizens of a high level of civic and social protection;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas petitions to Parliament serve as an important instrument for citizens to report breaches of fundamental rights they may have experienced in Member States where they reside;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
- having regard to the 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families,
Amendment 5 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas almost a hundred petitions received by Parliament in 2015 directly concerned alleged breaches of fundamental rights referred to in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union; whereas during the treatment of petitions further problems of effective protection by the Charter may also emerge;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 b (new)
Citation 8 b (new)
- having regard to the OHCHR Recommended Principles and Guidelines on Human Rights at International Borders,
Amendment 7 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Believes that the conclusions and opinions of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights as well as the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union constitute a good basis for the interpretation of Article 2 TFEU and the scope of the rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas some breaches of fundamental rights do not take place only directly, but are also contextually created by environmental degradation; whereas Article 37 of the Charter provides for the right to environmental protection; whereas a relevant proportion of petitions received deal with undergone or potential environmental aggressions;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Notes the obligation laid down in the Treaties to accede to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR); underlines the fact that the Treaties recognise that fundamental rights, as guaranteed by the ECHR and as they result from the constitutional traditions common to the Member States, constitute general principles of the Union's law;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas Article 34 of the Charter establishes the fundamental right to social security and assistance; whereas universal public health coverage of quality is an essential pillar of social security; whereas social housing for a decent existence falls within the scope of this article; whereas access to affordable energy supply is an essential part of life dignity;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that in case of systemic threats to the rule of law, Article 7 and Rule of Law Framework procedures should be launched to provide remedies; considers it important to establish a new consensus between the EU and its Member States regarding respect for democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Cb. whereas there is still a gap in the extent to which women fully enjoy their fundamental rights in comparison to men, particularly when it comes to the effective implementation of the provisions within the Equality and Solidarity titles of the Charter in their daily lives;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
Cc. whereas Article 24 of the Charter sets up the fundamental right of children; whereas hundreds of petitions were received in 2015 concerning children custody matters, in most of the cases with cross-border implications; whereas a specific working group was created to more effectively deal with the core of these matters;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the joint-report of the Committee on Petitions onand the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs on the Special Report of the European Ombudsman’s in own-initiative inquiry OI/5/2012/BEH-MHZ concerning Frontex established that Frontex has a duty to uphold the EU’s standards on the fundamental rights of asylum seekers in its day-to-day operationsreminded that according to its Regulation (EU) No 1168/2011 the Agency is required to ensure full respect for fundamental rights and for the rights of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in its operations; whereas this obligation includes, but it is not limited to, the setting-up of an incident reporting system as well as devising codes of conduct;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
– having regard to the report of 22 July 2014 of the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non- recurrence,
Amendment 18 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Notes, however, that Article 7 is a last resort mechanism that has not been used effectively because of the difficulty to reach a decision with such high thresholds for voting and in a body where political considerations play a prominent role;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas the current narrow interpretation of Article 51 of the Charter on its scope of application represent a real obstacle for the effectiveness of its previous provisions, which can fall short of the expectations and eventually lead to an increasing disaffection in citizens; whereas the Petitions committee recently organised a specific hearing to debate about the need of broadening the scope of the Charter;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
Db. whereas the Union cannot afford cases of suppression or undermining of fundamental civil rights such as freedom of information, nor tolerate abuse of power and institutional racism and xenophobia within its borders, as depicted by some petitions;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the importance of ensuring full respect for the Charter of Fundamental Rights throughout the whole legislative process; welcomes in this regard the Better Regulation Agreement, and draws attention to the significant role of comprehensivedraws attention to the importance to include an analysis on the impact on fundamental rights in impact assessments, as well as ofa close cooperation between the EU institutions;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Points out that the purpose of security and justice policies is to protect freedom and fundamental rights; stresses therefore that legislation and policy making in this field must be in line with the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that further efforts should be made towards a consistent and uniform implementation of the Charter, including through awareness-raising measures among practitioners and the general publice establishment of a common EU binding mechanism to respond to breaches of the rule of law and fundamental rights at Member State level;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that citizens’ expectations regarding the protection of their fundamental rights under the Charter are often disappointed, which may aggravate their disenchantment with the European project; notes that the general public has a limited grasp of the field of application of the Charter; believes that the European Commission and the Member States could do more to promote knowledge of the Charter, in particular the effect of its Article 51believes that the European Commission and the Member States could do more to promote the Charter; considers that the interpretation of its Article 51 should be broadened, paving the way for its deletion in an upcoming treaty revision;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21 a (new)
Citation 21 a (new)
- having regard to the European Union Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders,
Amendment 31 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses that all Union institutions, including each one of its agencies and bodies; agencies and Member States are bound by the provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the rights of people with disabilities, who strive to live a life as close to normal as possible to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence, social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community; calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure that these rights are properly respected and applied, notably the rights resulting from the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; is of the opinion that EU funds should not go towards projects that are in breach of this fundamental right, such as projects that aim to segregate people with disabilities from the community;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Notes its ongoing report on the Establishment of an EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights and urges the Commission, once adopted, to take into account its conclusions and to propose a EU binding mechanism to respond to breaches of the rule of law and fundamental rights at Member State level;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Emphasises the key role that an independent and expert body should play in measuring the progress of, and monitoring the compliance with, the shared values of the Union, as enshrined in Article 2 TEU;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6 c. Proposes to widen the mandate of the Fundamental Rights Agency to include the monitoring of fundamental rights and the rule of law in all Member States, both within and beyond the application of EU law;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6 d. Calls on the establishment of an independent Copenhagen Commission that, in light of the assessment of the Fundamental Rights Agency, puts forward recommendations to enforce fundamental rights and the rule of law;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 e (new)
Paragraph 6 e (new)
6 e. Proposes to enable the Commission, on the basis of the findings of the reports drafted by the Fundamental Rights Agency and the recommendations of the Copenhagen Commission, to initiate infringement procedures under Article 2 TEU, and, if necessary, the procedure under Article 7 TEU;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Member States to act, in accordance with the Charter, to ensure that citizens receive universal access to quality healthcare, justice, social services and education; underlines that asylum seekers who come into contact with Frontex should have their fundamental rights respected and should be offered full recourse to uphold those rights via an established complaints mechanism; welcomes the inclusion of an independent complaints mechanism within the Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Border and Coast Guard, as one mechanism to monitor and ensure the respect for fundamental rights in all the activities of the Agency;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Member States to act, in accordance with the Charter, to ensure that citizens receive universal access to quality healthcare -including medicines and treatments for their diseases, such as hepatitis C-, justice, social services and education, as well as decent housing conditions; underlines that asylum seekers who come into contact with Frontex should have their fundamental rights respected and should be offered full recourse to uphold those rights via an established complaints mechanism;
Amendment 62 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 36 a (new)
Citation 36 a (new)
- having regard to its resolutions on the use of torture by the CIA, in particular the latest dated 8 June 2016,
Amendment 62 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Deplores instances of discrimination against minorities, immigrants and asylum seekers, as well as restrictions on the freedom of the media regularly reflected in petitions; calls on the Member States to pay particular attention to these issues; welcomes the unblocking of the anti-discrimination directiveDirective on implementation of the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation in the European Council;
Amendment 63 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 37 a (new)
Citation 37 a (new)
Amendment 78 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Asks the Commission to act without hesitation and making full use of its powers and prerogatives, sanctioning Member States failing to live up to the fundamental rights of freedom expression and information, of assembly and association, or which enact forms of power abuse or institutional racism and xenophobia, among others;
Amendment 80 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes the frequent recurrence of petitions about problems encountered by legally resident third-country spouses of EU citizens and non-EU-national permanent residents, particularly stateless persons, in exercising their rights;
Amendment 81 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Considers that the introduction of national legislation undermining the investment climate on renewables, does not only constitute in some cases an attack to legal security as presented by some petitions received, but they can be considered also a breach of the Charter if they fail to transpose or implement legislation related to the Union’s energy and climate strategy;
Amendment 85 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls for special attention to the rights of children, in particular in the context of cross-border custody disputes, and parentaldoptions without parental consent and visitation rights; calls on the Commission to provide clear guidance on the concept of ‘best interests of the child’ in the context of the revision of the Brussels IIA Regulation;
Amendment 87 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Urges the adoption of new legislation aimed at combating energy poverty and welcomes previous initiatives at any administrative level in the direction of guaranteeing universal access to energy; considers that taking specific measures to ensure affordable energy for every household falls within the scope of social security and social assistance provided for in Article 34 of the Charter; criticises decisions made that might prevent the safeguard of this right based on mere competence disputes between authorities;
Amendment 94 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 44 a (new)
Citation 44 a (new)
– having regard to the procedure set out in the EU framework to strengthen the rule of law adopted by the Commission on 11 March 2014,
Amendment 94 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the advances made in LGTBTI rights in 2015; remains concerned about ongoing discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and limits to the freedom of speech of LGTBTI people;
Amendment 100 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Encourages the Commission to take up stronglyeffectively take up the issue of national voting rights, particularly in cases where citizens are disenfranchised in national elections when they exercise their fundamental right to free movement and residence.
Amendment 102 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Calls on the institutions and bodies of the Union and Member States when they are implementing Union law to ensure a high-level of environmental protection and to adhere to the principle of sustainable development; regrets the over-development that is taking place in parts of the EU, which is having negative effects on the environment and the lives of European citizens and residents living in the areas affected.
Amendment 104 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Highlights the fundamental right to good administration; calls on Member States to lead by example by ensuring, amongst others, that their administrative processes are open, accountable, fair, transparent and proportionate.
Amendment 113 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital -A (new)
Recital -A (new)
-A. whereas, under Article 2 TEU, the EU is founded on respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, values which are shared by all the Member States and which must be upheld by the EU, and by each individual Member State, in everything they do;
Amendment 151 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas acts of terrorism constitute one of the most serious violations of fundamental rights and freedoms; whereas it is necessary to have adequate tools in place to protect EU citizens and residents and to respond properly to such violations within the framework of the rule of law and fundamental rights;
Amendment 175 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas most of the unsolved disappearances that occur in the EU each year are related to trafficking in human beings,
Amendment 177 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
Db. whereas the legal, social and personal problems that a disappearance causes have a specific impact on those involved that must be recognised and addressed,
Amendment 208 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas today an informal system of quotas, as firstly mentioned in the Parliament's report of 3 February 2012 on women in political decision-making, is de facto still in play, where men are privileged over women and where men choose men for decision-making positions, which is not a formalised system but nevertheless a systematic and very real deep-rooted culture of preferential treatment of men;
Amendment 229 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas the EU institutions have already started procedures to overcome the so-called ‘Copenhagen dilemma’, not only for those countries applying for EU membership but also in Member States where the enforcement of fundamental rights values should be monitored and observed on a country by country basis in all circumstances;
Amendment 237 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas the migration crisis has triggered mistrust and rising hatred towards national minority communitiesrefugees and migrants in Europe are increasingly confronted with mistrust and hatred spurred by right-wing populism and extremism; whereas hate crimes against refugees, migrants and minorities increased dramatically in Europe,; which also affects traditional national minoritiereas the lives of people seeking protection in Europe in endangered by extremists attacking them and burning their accommodation centres;
Amendment 241 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M a (new)
Recital M a (new)
Ma. whereas research has shown that not only did European countries collectively fail to address the urgent humanitarian and medical needs of refugees and migrants arriving at external or internal EU borders, but the European Union's deterrence and security-centred policies – developed over the last 15 years and further strengthened in 2015 – have increased the demand for migrant smuggling networks and pushed people towards ever more dangerous routes which jeopardise their health, dignity and lives;
Amendment 247 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas the FRA’s 2016 Fundamental Rights report found that increasing discrimination and anti- Gypsyism continue to pose challenges to effective Roma integration; whereas, according to the 2015 Eurobarometer survey on discrimination, ethnic origin is considered to be the most prevalent ground of discrimination;
Amendment 250 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas many persons of Roma origin in Europe face prejudice, intolerance, discrimination and social exclusion in their daily lives; whereas segregation of Roma children in schooling remains a persistent problem in some Member Statesmost Member States; whereas discrimination of Roma in the labour market prevents them to improve their ability to break out from the vicious circle of poverty;
Amendment 255 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
Oa. whereas in 2015 the number of violent attacks targeting Jews in Europe has raised serious security concerns among Jewish communities; whereas Muslim communities have been disproportionately targeted by counter- terrorism legislation, policies and practices which can have a discriminatory bias when not grounded in reasonable suspicion or are not legitimate and proportionate; whereas people of African descent are particularly victims of discrimination and racism, in particular police violence and hate crime;
Amendment 293 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Recalls that in its relations with the wider world, the Union shall contribute to the protection of human rights; in that respect, calls upon the EU institutions to ensure a high level of the protection of human rights in external relations, as well as in internal policies having external consequences;
Amendment 345 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the social inclusion and cultural integration of all migrants and refugees in the host society is a dynamic, two-dimensional process (involving rights and duties), representing a challenge and an opportunity that requires responsibilities and efforts both by the refugees and by the Member States, their local and regional administrations and host communities;
Amendment 368 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on Member States to apply cultural, political and social inclusion policies as swiftly as possible and with adequate dedicated resources; recalls that social inclusion policies must engage local, regional and national institutions and should focus on individuals rather than on groups or communities, as this can lead to segregation;
Amendment 372 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Deplores the way in which the financial and economic crisis and the measures taken to deal with it have had an impact – in some cases a drastic one – on economic, social and cultural rights, resulting in poverty, exclusion and isolation; calls on the EU institutions and Member States, when adopting and implementing budget cuts, to guarantee that sufficient resources are still made available to guarantee fundamental rights, including economic and social rights;
Amendment 377 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Highlights the fact that the principles of equal treatment, non- discrimination and equal opportunities should always be ensured when designing and implementing social inclusion and integration policy and measures; stresses that multiple discrimination should be addressed holistically throughout all migration and integration policies; calls on Member States to refrain from inciting fear and hatred in their citizens towards migrants and asylum-seekers for political gains, therefore, calls on Member States to put an end to their strongly biased xenophobic communication strategies (such as anti-refugee billboard campaigns);
Amendment 397 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates that intercultural and inter-religious tolerance needs to be promoted via constant efforts and extensive dialogue and that the crisis arising from the waves of migration cannot be tacklintegration, social inclusion and social cohesion shall be promoted without the involvement of all relevant state and non-state actors, including churches and religious organisations;
Amendment 399 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Is deeply concerned about ongoing serious violations of migrants' fundamental rights at the external borders of the European Union and reiterates that all people are entitled to enjoy their human rights, without discrimination, including on the basis of residence status, nationality and religion; and in this context reiterates that respect and promotion of fundamental rights are unconditional and integral components of border and migration management; calls on Member States to comply strictly with the provisions of the EU and international law, in particular with the principle of non-refoulement; stresses that any external cooperation in the field of migration is possible only with countries having equivalent level of fundamental rights protection in law and practice;
Amendment 410 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Recalls that rules related to asylum seekers' and refugees' reception conditions must not deprive them of their fundamental rights to a dignified standard of living and to physical and mental health; reiterates that the use of detention for immigration purposes is restricted by international and EU law, and should thus only be used as a measure of last resort in the absence of adequate alternative measures, and that children should never be detained for immigration purposes; urges that safeguards in the Return Directive and guidance on their implementation included in the Return Handbook be fully implemented in the current context where returns are being politically prioritised;
Amendment 412 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Calls on Member States to ensure the effective and early identification of asylum seekers with special needs, their prompt access to adapted reception conditions and the provision of procedural guarantees, also in cases of high influx; encourages Member States to establish or reinforce the required legal, social and medical services to that end;
Amendment 414 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4d. Stresses that, while the development of a coherent EU-level approach to migration is long overdue, the establishment of a framework for cooperation on migration with third- countries based on sanctioning states that do not cooperate on readmission, return or prevention of irregular migration, in exchange for conditional development and trade cooperation, would be a serious abdication of responsibilities by the EU;
Amendment 416 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4e. Recalls its resolutions of 14 September 2011 on homelessness and of 16 January 2014 on an EU homelessness strategy and in particular paragraph 10 and 11 thereof; deplores that the Commission has still failed to follow-up to this resolution; emphasises that the grounds for an EU homelessness strategy are still valid;
Amendment 423 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the Commission initiatives to strengthen security cooperation between Member States and fully supports allcertain proposed measures to pave the way towards an effective Security Union, in particular the directive on combatting terrorism; stresses the importance of fully respecting the rule of law and fundamental rights in the fight against terrorism, in particular the freedom of movement, the freedom of expression and communication, as well as the right to data protection and privacy; insists on the need for democratic and judicial oversight of counter-terrorism; stresses that measures that in retrospect were not necessary, effective or proportionate need to be repealed, violations of fundamental rights investigated and redressed and new forms of democratic scrutiny developed; insists on the inclusion of sunset or periodic reauthorisation clauses in such measures and agreements; rejects the use of national security as a pretext to undermine fundamental rights;
Amendment 451 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that a European early warning and responsive system should be set up to identify groupindividuals that are at high risk of radicalisation; calls on the EU and the Member States to make greater efforts to prevent radicalisation via the Internet and social media, in particular among young people, and to assist the families of those who are at risk; encouragesregrets that Member States to exchange best pdo not use existing instruments of cooperation at their full extent; stresses that a closer cross-border cooperactices and to use intelligence-sharing mechanismson among the competent national and European authorities is needed with regard to exchange of information in order to fight terrorist networks more efficiently;
Amendment 459 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Believes that a comprehensive policy to prevent the radicalisation and recruitment of citizens of the Union by terrorist organisations can only be successful if accompanied by long-term proactive de-radicalisation processes in the judicial sphere; stresses the need to develop strategies on social inclusion, education, employment and housing and policies tackling discrimination and exclusion in order to prevent vulnerable individuals from joining violent extremist organisations;
Amendment 467 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Reiterates its resolve to ensure accountability for massive violations of fundamental rights, in particular, in the context of transportation and illegal detention of prisoners in European countries by the CIA, by means of open and transparent investigations; calls for a protection of those revealing such violations, such as journalists and whistleblowers;
Amendment 471 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7c. Deplores the conditions in the prisons of numerous Member States; calls on the Commission to propose through legislative action minimum and enforceable standards which guarantee that the recommendations of the European Committee for the prevention of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment and punishment (CPT) and the judgments of the ECtHR are implemented both in the context of pre-trial detention and criminal punishment;
Amendment 474 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 d (new)
Paragraph 7 d (new)
7d. Reiterates the recommendations to the Commission made in its resolution of 27 February 2014 on the review of the European Arrest Warrant, notably as regards the introduction of a proportionality test and fundamental rights exception in the European Arrest Warrant or mutual recognition measures more generally;
Amendment 488 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Draws attention to the link between people-trafficking and the problem of missing persons in Europe; stresses the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the particular suffering of relatives of missing persons, given the particular legal, social and emotional nature of such cases; takes the view that this strategy should be launched with a Commission communication on this issue;
Amendment 489 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8c. Considers that this strategy should focus on stepping up judicial and police cooperation, particularly during the initial phase following the reporting of disappearance suspected of being connected to a criminal offence, particularly in cross-border areas. Adds that training for the relevant staff should be promoted – with a special emphasis on caring for those affected by events – with the strong support of, and cooperation with, civil society organisations working in this field;
Amendment 498 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on Member States to make equal efforts to identify, protect and assist victims of all forms of exploitation; calls on Member States to implement the EU Anti-trafficking Directive fully and correctly and encourages the Member States, EU institutions and agencies to convene meetingoperate and exchange best practices within the framework the EU Network of National Rapporteurs or equivalent mechanisms on trafficking in human beings;
Amendment 529 #
Amendment 533 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Is concerned by increasing racism and xenophobia in the form of Afrophobia, anti-Gypsyism, Anti- Semitism, Islamophobia and anti-migrant sentiment; condemns incidents of hate crime and speech motivated by racism, xenophobia or religious intolerance or by bias against a person's disability, sexual orientation or gender identity, which occur in the EU on a daily basis; welcomes the annual EU Colloquium on Fundamental Rights and the appointment of Coordinators on anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim hatred; encourages the Commission to appoint Coordinators on Afrophobia and anti-Gypsyism and recommends adoption of European frameworks for national strategies to combat Afrophobia, anti-Gypsyism, anti- Semitism and Islamophobia;
Amendment 555 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. WIs concerned at the growing presence of hate speech on the internet; recommends Member States to put in place a simple procedure enabling members of the public to report the presence of hate content on the internet; welcomes the Commission’'s announcement of the Code of Conduct on countering illegal hate speech online;
Amendment 561 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Deplores increasing levels of hate speech from within certain institutions, political parties, individuals and media; calls on the EU to set the example of opposing hate speech within the institutions; recommends the need for strengthened procedures sanctioning hate speech by officials and parliamentarians;
Amendment 572 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. CExpresses its concern at the lack of reporting of hate crimes by victims due to inadequate safeguards and failure of authorities to properly investigate and bring convictions for hate crimes in Member States; calls on Member States to develop and disseminate tools and mechanisms for reporting hate crime and hate speech and to ensure that any case of alleged hate crime or hate speech is effectively investigated, prosecuted and tried in accordance with national law and, where relevant, in compliance with the Framework Decision on Racism and Xenophobia, European and international human rights obligations, as well as relevant ECtHR case law; expresses its concern that several Member States have not correctly transposed the provisions of Framework Decision; calls on the Commission to propose a review of the Framework Decision in order for to fully cover all forms of hate crimes and crimes committed with a bias or discriminatory motive related to the victims' personal characteristics, including on grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and to clearly define consistent investigation and prosecution standards;
Amendment 578 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Deems it crucial that all EU Member States cooperate with national or international judicial investigations attempting to clarify responsibilities and endeavouring to ascertain the truth and secure justice and redress for the victims of crimes against humanity committed in the Union by totalitarian regimes. Calls on the Member States to provide the necessary training for legal practitioners in this area; urges the European Commission to conduct an objective assessment of the state of play in such processes to foster democratic remembrance in all Member States; Warns that failing to comply with international recommendations on democratic remembrance and the principles of universal jurisdiction is a breach of the basic principles of the rule of law;
Amendment 581 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Strongly deplores the fact that the Council has still not adopted the 2008 proposal for a directive on implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation; welcomes the prioritisation of this directive by the Commission; reiterates its call to the Council to adopt the proposal as soon as possible;
Amendment 585 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14b. Notes the intersectionality between gender and other grounds of discrimination and the disproportionate impact of multiple discrimination on women; encourages Member States to work with regional and local authorities, law enforcement bodies, national equality bodies and civil society organisations to increase monitoring of the intersectionality between different grounds of discrimination and gender;
Amendment 586 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)
Paragraph 14 c (new)
14c. Condemns all forms of discrimination and violence against lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual and intersex people (LGBTI), as fostered by laws and policies that restrict the fundamental rights of LGBTI people; calls on the Commission and Member States to adopt laws and policies to combat homophobia and transphobia; calls, in this regard, on the Commission to issue an action plan or strategy for equality on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, as repeatedly called for by the Parliament and as promised by Commissioner Jourova in the process of the Commission hearings;
Amendment 587 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 d (new)
Paragraph 14 d (new)
14d. Recognises that the full extent of inequality in the EU remains unacknowledged in the absence of comparable and disaggregated equality data collected by Member States; considers the collection of such data by Member States essential for meaningful policies implementing EU equality law; calls on the Commission and the Council to acknowledge the need for reliable and comparable equality data to measure discrimination, disaggregated according to discrimination grounds, in order to inform policy-making; calls on both institutions to define consistent equality data collection principles, based on self- identification, EU data protection standards and the consultation of the relevant communities;
Amendment 590 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the EU and the Member States to strengthen the role of human rights and democracy education in national curricula as a tool for preventing racism and related intolerance, and calls for greater rights awareness; considers that a complete human rights education must also adequately include education on past human rights injustices and institutional racisms, and the importance of memory for formerly oppressed groups such as the victims of slavery;
Amendment 618 #
Amendment 626 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Highlights that improvements are still needed to combat violence against women, and calls on the Member States and the EU to sign and ratify the Istanbul Convention following the launch of the procedure by the Commission in March 2016; stresses that victims of gender-based harm, torture, rape, or other serious forms of psychological, physical or sexual violence should receive appropriate treatment and support, in line with internal rules and international obligations applicable to victims of violence such as the UN Convention against Torture and the Istanbul Convention; reiterates the request to the Commission made in its resolution of 25 February 2014 with recommendations to the Commission on combating Violence Against Women to submit a proposal for an act establishing measures to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of prevention of violence against women and girls (VAWG);
Amendment 667 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Highlights that no cultural, religious, national or ethnic background or migration status can justify any form of gender-based violence and that EU and national authorities should strengthen their cooperation;
Amendment 675 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Deplores the Commission decision to withdraw the Maternity Leave Directive; calls on the Commission to put forward a new proposal and to respect Parliament's position to increase the current minimum guaranteed maternity leave from 14 to 20 weeks fully paid and for the mandatory right to paid paternity leave;
Amendment 707 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Notes with concern that child poverty rates remain high in the EU; encourages Member States and the EU to launch programmes specifically targeting the well-being and healthy development of children; calls on Member States to step up their efforts on tackling child poverty and social exclusion through effective implementation of the European Commission Recommendation 'Investing in children: breaking the cycle of disadvantage' through integrated strategies supporting access to adequate resources, enabling access to affordable quality services and promoting children's participation in decision making that affects them; calls on the Commission to take further measures for monitoring the implementation of the Recommendation;
Amendment 724 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls for a focus on violence against children at all levels, from homes to schools, public places and to end detention centres for migrantof migrant children and families;
Amendment 728 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Calls for a multi-stage system in child protection based on the best interests of the child, which should not be designed to punish parents and care-givers, but to send a clear message that all forms of physical and emotional violence against children are unacceptable, and in which the separation of the child from the family would be the very last stepresort; reminds that state care for children is always more costly than an adequate and well-targeted support for families living in poverty;
Amendment 743 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. RecCalls that children and babies are often used in begging to trigger greon the Member States to increase their efforts in providing adequater sympathy and more money; calls for the criminalisation of forced begging and of all forms of using children for this practice inocial protection for families living in poverty and calls the Commission to help those efforts by spending EU funds in a more targeted and more effective manner; reiterates that fundamental rights apply horizontally and must be respected by the Commission and the EU Member States, as it endant all stagers the child’s health and its social and mental integrityof implementation of ESI Funds;
Amendment 759 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27 a. Recognises and deplores the impact of the current situation at the external borders of the European Union on children, and reiterates the right of every child to be treated as a child first and foremost without any discrimination; calls for the EU and Member States to ensure that all migration and asylum policies and actions include appropriate child rights impact assessments, best interests of the child determination procedures and decision-making and corrective processes to ensure compliance with children's rights;
Amendment 760 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Highlights that the announcementinformation by Europol that at least 10 000 unaccompanied refugee and migrant children went missing in the EU in 2015 has clearly shown that Member States and European agencies have to stepfailed to live up to their efforts urgently in terms of cross-border cooperation, information exchanges and joint investigations and operations in order to fight trafficking in human beings; notes that appointing guardians to unaccompanied children is an important safeguard to ensure their best interests; calls for registration and the use of convenient and dependable identification tools for children of all ages until they enter the inclusion process in order to prevent their disappearanceobligation to protect this particularly vulnerable group of children; notes that appointing guardians to unaccompanied children is an important safeguard to ensure their best interests;
Amendment 779 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Highlights that tradinational nationalor ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities who have been living together with or alongside traditional majority cultures for centuries in Europe are facing the negative consequences of the migration crisis, i.e. mistrust towards non- majority autochthonous minorities; believes that the solution to this problem l; believes that it is necessary to establish EU standards on protecting the rights of such minorities, as preserving European heritage gives added value to diversity; encourages the Member States that have not yet done so to ratify the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities inand the establishment of minimum standards on protecting the rights of traditional minoEuropean Charter for Regional or Minority Languages without further delay and, where relevant, to withdraw reservations and restricties, as preserving European heritage gives added value to diversity; ve declarations, as well as to implement the treaties in good faith; recalls also the need to implement the principles developed in the framework of the OSCE;
Amendment 796 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30 a. Calls on the governments of the Member States to condemn practices which, by means of linguistic discrimination or enforced or concealed assimilation, have in the past been – or are now – directed against the identity and language use of endangered linguistic communities or their cultural institutions;
Amendment 801 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 b (new)
Paragraph 30 b (new)
30 b. In the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (FCNM) adopted by Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in 1994, calls on the European Commission to elaborate a European level Directive in order to tackle language discrimination, as there are Directives on how to tackle racism and xenophobia;
Amendment 806 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 c (new)
Paragraph 30 c (new)
30 c. Calls on the European Commission to strengthen its plan to promote the teaching and use of regional languages, as a potential way to tackle language discrimination in the EU;
Amendment 852 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Notes that active ageing and inter- generational solidarity are important issues with respect to Europe’'s demographic changes that can be strengthened through a human rights-based approach;
Amendment 855 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Highlights that discrimination on the basis of age is highly prevalent in today's societies and is often combined with other forms of discrimination, such as discrimination on grounds of race and ethnicity, religion, disability, health or socio-economic conditions;
Amendment 865 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 a (new)
Paragraph 39 a (new)
39 a. Notes that older persons face a number of particular challenges in the enjoyment of their human rights that have not yet been fully addressed;
Amendment 877 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 b (new)
Paragraph 39 b (new)
39 b. Calls on the EU and the Member States to be actively involved in the UN Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing and step up their efforts to protect the rights of older people, including by considering the elaboration of a new legal instrument;
Amendment 879 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39 c (new)
Paragraph 39 c (new)
39 c. Invites the EU and Member States to come up with a common assessment of the progresses made in the implementation of the Regional Implementation Strategy of the Madrid International Plan of Acting on Ageing in 2017, identifying, in full respect of the principle of subsidiarity, the areas of common EU policy action that are relevant for the implementation of the Strategy;
Amendment 885 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Notes that people belonging to the Roma minority are entitled to freedom of movement, and calls on the Member States not to plan resettlement policies based on ethnic reasons; is concerned that people belonging to the Roma minority are disproportionately subjected to forced evictions in many Member States;
Amendment 890 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40 a (new)
Paragraph 40 a (new)
40 a. Recalls that several court cases have proven that unjustified placement of Roma children into special schools or classes is a part of segregation mechanisms, which effects extremely negatively the later life perspectives of those children;
Amendment 893 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. CReminds that the discrimination of Roma in the field of labour, housing, education, health or any other domain is unacceptable and harmful for the society of Europe; therefore calls on Member States, in the light of the Commission’s Report on the implementation of the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies 2015, to put in place specific measures to fight ethnic discrimination against Roma in line with the Racial Equality Directive provisions and the European Convention on Human Rights, and to combat anti-Gypsyism in line with the Framework Decision on Racism and Xenophobia; calls for the FRA to continue its data collection on the situation of Roma and develop and propose a "dashboard" of Roma inclusion indicators that would make possible tracking progress in that area; calls for the development of the European Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies into a fully-fledged European Strategy;
Amendment 901 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 a (new)
Paragraph 41 a (new)
41 a. Notes that Roma people should benefit from the EU funds on an equal footing; therefore calls on the Commission and the Member States to pay special attention that all programs are implemented in a way that directly and clearly reduces the gaps in the field of education, health, labour and housing between Roma and non-Roma;
Amendment 928 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 a (new)
Paragraph 42 a (new)
42 a. Recalls that freedom of expression, information and the media are fundamental with a view to ensuring democracy and the rule of law; strongly condemns violence, pressure or threats against journalists and the media, including in relation to the disclosure of information about breaches of fundamental rights; calls for a decriminalization of defamation;
Amendment 929 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 b (new)
Paragraph 42 b (new)
42 b. Stresses that the right to freedom of movement and residence of European citizens and their families laid down in the Treaties and guaranteed by the Directive on freedom of movement is one of the fundamental rights of European citizens; condemns any attempt to review this acquis, and calls for any breach of the rules to result in action before the Court of Justice, particularly in cases where the principle of non-discrimination on grounds of nationality, ethnic or racial origin or sexual orientation is breached; expresses its concerns about the growing trend of quick expulsions of EU citizens from their countries of residence as a result of the loss of their jobs and income, considers that this is contrary to the spirit of the freedom of mobility;
Amendment 931 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Considers it necessary to reduce administrative burdens on participation in public life and to promote e-governance EU-wide, and calls for the effectiveness of mechanisms such as the citizens’ initiative to be strengthened; believes that stateless persons and third country nationals permanently resident in the Member States should have the right to vote in local and European elections;
Amendment 945 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44 a (new)
Paragraph 44 a (new)
44 a. Underlines the need to combat environmental crime as a matter of priority; urges the Commission to examine the effective implementation in the EU of the right of access to justice in the context of the right of every person of present and future generations to live in an environment adequate to his or her health and well-being;
Amendment 951 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45 a (new)
Paragraph 45 a (new)
45 a. Notes that some directives (or minimum rules) have been adopted in recent years regarding judicial cooperation in criminal matters. Stresses, however, that there are European rules in the field of justice and home affairs that must be implemented in order to guarantee the fundamental rights of individuals subject to criminal proceedings. Calls, therefore, on the European Commission to safeguard the uniform application in all Member States of rules such as Council Framework Decision 2008/909/JHA of 27 November 2008, Council Framework Decision 2008/675/JHA of 24 July 2008 and Council Framework Decision 2009/948/JHA of 30 November 2009. Considers it important to maintain the social roots of prisoners and calls for the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU to every person in prison.
Amendment 957 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46 a (new)
Paragraph 46 a (new)
46a. Calls on the Commission to be more resolute in its use of the instruments at its disposal under the framework for the prevention of systemic threats to the rule of law in EU countries, by applying the prevention capacities provided for in the phases involving objective assessment and dialogue with the Member State concerned in cases of clear and serious breaches of the European Charter of Fundamental Rights, even if those breaches are not strictly related to the implementation of EU law;
Amendment 963 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46 a (new)
Paragraph 46 a (new)
46 a. Reiterates its call to create an effective system of monitoring of respect for democracy, the rule of law and human rights in each Member State;
Amendment 89 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points to the importance of e-voting as a system offering many potential advantages, in particular for young people, people with reduced mobility and people living or working in a Member State of which they are not a citizen or in a third country; recalls at the same time that e- voting needs to be implemented in compliance with the same legal principles of any democratic electoral process, namely, universal, equal, free, secret and direct suffrage and that e- voting needs to be implemented with measures sufficient to ensure the reliability of the result and data protection;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls the first successful European example of online voting in Estonia in its legally binding elections in 2005 as a positive example, but maintains that if the take-up of e-voting across Europe is to be successful, it will be necessary to assess the costs, benefits and challenges to develop e-voting at EU level, as well as the implications of different or divergent technological approaches;
Amendment 29 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The development of digital technologies and internet has transformed the distribution of and access to television and radio programmes. Users increasingly expect to have access to television and radio programmes both live and on- demand, using traditional channels such as satellite or cable and also through online services. Broadcasting organisations are therefore increasingly offering, in addition to their own broadcasts of television and radio programmes, online services ancillary to their broadcast, such as simulcasting and catch-up services. Retransmission services operators, which aggregate broadcasts of television and radio programmes into packages and provide them to users simultaneously to the initial transmission of the broadcast, unaltered and unabridged, use various techniques of retransmission such as cable, satellite, digital terrestrial, closed circuit IP-based or mobile networks as well as the open internet. On the part of users, there is a growing demand and need for access to broadcasts of television and radio programmes, including catch-up services, not only originating in their Member State but also in other Member States of the Union, includingespecially from members of linguistic minorities of the Union as well as from, persons who live in another Member State than their Member State of origin as well as persons who study other languages than their mother tongue.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) A number of barriers hinder the provision of online services which are ancillary to broadcasts and the provision of retransmission services and thereby the free circulation of television and radio programmes within the Union. Broadcasting organisations transmit daily many hours of news, cultural, political, documentary or entertainment programmes. These programmes incorporate a variety of content such as audiovisual, musical, literary or graphic works, which is protected by copyright and/or related rights under Union law. That results in a complex process to clear rights from a multitude of right holders and for different categories of works and other protected subject matter. Often the rights need to be cleared in a short time-frame, in particular when preparing programmes such as news or current affairs. In order to make their online services available across borders, broadcasting organisations need to have the required rights to works and other protected subject matter for all the relevant territories which further increases the complexity of the rights' clearance.
Amendment 61 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Council Directive 93/83/EEC17 facilitates cross-border satellite broadcasting and retransmission by cable of television and radio programmes from other Member States of the Union. However, the provisions of that Directive on transmissions of broadcasting organisations are limited to satellite transmissions and therefore do not apply to online services ancillary to broadcast while the provisions concerning retransmissions of television and radio programmes from other Member States are limited to simultaneous, unaltered and unabridged retransmission by cable or microwave systems and do not extend to such retransmissions by means of other technologies. _________________ 17 Council Directive 93/83/EEC of 27 September 1993 on the coordination of certain rules concerning copyright and rights related to copyright applicable to satellite broadcasting and cable retransmission OJ L 248, 6.10.1993, p. 15– 21.
Amendment 70 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Therefore, cross-border provision of online services ancillary tof broadcasters and retransmissions of television and radio programmes originating in other Member States should be facilitated by adapting the legal framework on the exercise of copyright and related rights relevant for those activities.
Amendment 78 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The ancillary online services covered by this Regulation are those services offered by broadcasting organisations which have a clear and subordinate relationship to the broadcast. They include services giving access to television and radio programmes in a linear manner simultaneously to the broadcast and services giving access, within a defined time period after the broadcast, to television and radio programmes which have been previously broadcast by the broadcasting organisation (so-called catch- up services). In addition, ancillary online services include services which give access to material which enriches or otherwise expands television and radio programmes broadcast by the broadcasting organisation, including by way of previewing, extending, supplementing or reviewing the relevant programme's content. The provision of access to individual works or other protected subject matter that have been incorporated in a television or radio programme should not be regarded as an ancillary online service. Similarly, the provision of access to works or other protected subject matter independently of broadcast, such as services giving access to individual musical or audiovisual works, music albums or videos, do not fall under the definition of ancillary online service.
Amendment 164 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to prevent circumvention of the application of the country of origin principle through the extension of the duration of existing agreements concerning the exercise of copyright and related rights relevant for the provision of an ancillary online service as well as the access to or the use of an ancillary online service, it is necessary to apply the principle of country of origin also to existing agreements but with a transitional period.
Amendment 203 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) "ancillary online service" means an online service consisting in the provision to the public, by or under the control and responsibility of a broadcasting organisation, of linear and non-linear radio or television programmes before, simultaneously with or for a defined period of time after their broadcast by the broadcasting organisation as well as of any material produced by or for the broadcasting organisation which is ancillary to such broadcast;
Amendment 236 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – title
Article 2 – title
Application of the principle of ‘country of origin’ to ancillary online services
Amendment 247 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
(1) The acts of communication to the public and of making available occurring when providing an ancillary online service by or under the control and responsibility of a broadcasting organisation as well as the acts of reproduction which are necessary for the provision of, the access to or the use of the ancillary online service shall, for the purposes of exercising copyright and related rights relevant for these acts, be deemed to occur solely in the Member State in which the broadcasting organisation has its principal establishment.
Amendment 272 #
2016/0284(COD)
Exercise of the rights in retransmission and in re-use of broadcasting organisations' on-demand services by right holders other than broadcasting organisations
Amendment 300 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 5 a (new)
(5 a) The principles of paragraphs 1 to 5 shall apply also to the integral re-use of the broadcasting organisation’s on- demand services by a party other than the broadcasting organisation under whose control and responsibility such services were primarily made available.
Amendment 281 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3
Article 1 – paragraph 3
3. This Regulation does not apply to the activities referred to in Article 2(2) of Directive 2006/123/EC with the exception of point (g) in Article 2(2) of Directive 2006/123/EC.
Amendment 362 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) receive electronically supplied services, the main feature of which is the provision of access to and use of copyright-protected works or other protected subject matter, in respect of which the trader has the requisite rights for the territory from which the consumer seeks to receive such services;
Amendment 130 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to ensure coherence and givelegal certainty tofor businesses and Member States' authorities, the notion of "incitement to hatred" should, to the appropriate extent, be aligned to the definition in the Council Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA of 28 November 2008 on combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law which defines hate speech as "publicly inciting to violence or hatred". This should include aligning the grounds on which incitement to violence or hatred is based.
Amendment 190 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Product placement should not be admissible in news and current affairs programmes, consumer affairs programmes, religious programmes and programmes with a significant children’'s audienceprogrammes. In particular, evidence shows that product placement and embedded advertisements can affect children’s behaviour as children are often not able to recognise the commercial content. There is thus a need to continue to prohibit product placement in programmes with a significantchildren's programmes. In this context, children’'s audienceprogrammes should be understood as programmes produced as mainly aimed at children. Consumer affairs programmes are programmes offering advice to viewers, or including reviews on the purchase of products and services. Allowing product placement in such programmes would blur the distinction between advertising and editorial content for viewers who may expect a genuine and honest review of products or services in such programmes.
Amendment 317 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Regulatory authorities of the Member States can achieve the requisite degree of structural independence only if established as separate legal entities. Member States should therefore guarantee the independence of the national regulatory authorities from both the government, public bodies and the industry with a view to ensuring the impartiality of their decisions. This requirement of independence should be without prejudice to the possibility for Member States to establish regulators having oversight over different sectors, such as audiovisual and telecom. National regulatory authorities should be in possession of the enforcement powers and resources necessary for the fulfilment of their tasks, in terms of staffing, expertise and financial means. The activities of national regulatory authorities established under this Directive should ensure respect for the objectives of media pluralism, cultural diversity, consumer protection, the internal market and the promotion of fair competition.
Amendment 329 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 38
Recital 38
(38) This Directive is without prejudice to the ability of Member States to impose obligations to ensure discoverability and accessibilityaccess to and appropriate prominence of content of general interest under defined general interest objectives such as media pluralism, freedom of speech and cultural diversity. Such obligations should only be imposed where they are necessary to meet general interest objectives clearly defined by Member States in conformity with Union law. In this resp. Such obligations should be proportionate and meet general interest objectives such as media pluralism, freedom of speecth, Member States should in particular examine the need for regulatory intervention against the results of the outcome of market forces. Where Member States decide to impose discoverability rules, they should only impose proportionate obligations on undertakings, in the interest of legitimate public policy considerationscultural and regional diversity, as well as language preservation, clearly defined by Member States in conformity with Union law.
Amendment 373 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a a – point iii
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a a – point iii
(iii) the principal purpose of the service or a dissociable section thereof is devoted to, or the service plays a significant role in, providing programmes and user- generated videos to the general public, in order to inform, entertain or educate;
Amendment 396 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point e a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point e a (new)
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point g a (new)
(ea) The following point is inserted: ‘(ga) 'access service' means an add-on feature of the audiovisual media service that improves the accessibility of the programmes for people with functional limitations, including persons with disabilities. The access services include subtitles, audio description, spoken or audio subtitles and sign language interpretation;’
Amendment 466 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) manifestly, seriously and gravely infringes Articles 6, 7, or 12, or both;
Amendment 495 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
The Commission shall, within threewo months following the notification of the measures taken by the Member State in application of paragraphs 2 and 3, and after having consulted ERGA, take a decision on whether those measures are compatible with Union law. That period shall begin on the day following the receipt of a complete notification. The notification shall be considered as complete if, within threewo months from its receipt, or from the receipt of any additional information requested, the Commission does not request any further information.
Amendment 520 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point a
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 4 - paragraph 1
Article 4 - paragraph 1
1. Member States shall remain free to require media service providers under their jurisdiction to comply with more detailed or stricter rules with regard to Articles 5, 6, 6a, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19 to 26, 30 and 30a, provided that such rules are in compliance with Union law.;
Amendment 554 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point d
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point d
Member States shall encourage co- regulation and self-regulation through codes of conduct adopted at national level in the fields coordinated by this Directive to the extent permitted by their legal systems. Those codes shall be such that they are broadly accepted by the main stakeholders in the Member States concerned. The codes of conduct shall clearly and unambiguously set out their objectives. They shall provide for regular, transparent and independent monitoring and evaluation of the achievement of the objectives aimed at. They shall provide for effective enforcement, including when appropriate effective and proportionate sanctions. In the event the co-regulation fails to achieve the desired level of protection, national regulatory bodies and authorities must retain effective powers.
Amendment 563 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point d a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5 – point d a (new)
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 4 – paragraph 8 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 8 a (new)
(da) The following paragraph is inserted: ‘8a. The Directive is without prejudice to the ability of Member States to impose obligations to ensure access to and appropriate prominence of content of general interest under defined general interest objectives, such as media pluralism, freedom of speech, cultural and regional diversity, and language preservation.’
Amendment 583 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 6 a - paragraph 1
Article 6 a - paragraph 1
1. Member States shall ensure that audiovisual media service providers provide sufficient information to viewers abouttake appropriate measures to ensure that media service providers under their jurisdiction do not include any programme or content which maight seriously impair the physical, mental or moral development of minors. They shall ensure that audiovisual media service providers provide sufficient information to viewers about potential harmful content for minors. For this purpose, Member States may use a system of descriptors indicating the nature of the content of an audiovisual media service.
Amendment 606 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 10
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 10
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 7
Article 7
(10) Article 7 is deleted; replaced by the following: 'Article 7 1. Member States shall ensure that media service providers under their jurisdiction make their services continuously and progressively more accessible to people with a visual or hearing disability aiming for an almost complete accessibility by the end of 2027. 2. With regard to the implementation of this Article, Member States shall encourage the development of self- co- regulatory codes of conduct. The Commission and ERGA shall encourage media service providers to exchange best practices on self-regulatory systems across the Union. 3. By ... [three years after the entry into force of this Directive] and every three years thereafter, the Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, to the Council and to the European Economic and Social Committee a report on the application of this Article.';
Amendment 637 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 – point a
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Member States and the Commission shall encourage the development of self- and co- regulatory codes of conduct regarding inappropriate audiovisual commercial communications, accompanying or included in programmes with a significant children’'s audienceprogrammes, of foods and beverages containing nutrients and substances with a nutritional or physiological effect, excessive intakes of which in the overall diet are not recommended, in particular fat, trans-fatty acids, salt or sodium and sugars.
Amendment 642 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 – point –a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 – point –a (new)
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point a
(-a) In paragraph 1, point a is replaced by the following: (a) audiovisual commercial communications shall be readily recognisable as such. Surreptitious audiovisual commercial communication shall be prohibited and distinguishable from editorial content, without prejudice to Articles 10 and 11;
Amendment 668 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) they shall not directly encourage the purchase or rental of goods or servicnews and current affairs programmes shall not be sponsored. Members States shall prohibit the showing of a sponsorship logo during children's programmes, documentaries and religious programmes;;
Amendment 686 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 13
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 13
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 11 – paragraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 2
2. Product placement shall be admissible in all audiovisual media services, except in news and current affairs programmes, consumer affairs programmes, religious programmes and programmes with a significant children's audienceprogrammes.
Amendment 725 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 15
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 15
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall ensure that providers of on-demand audiovisual media services under their jurisdiction secure at least a 230% share of European national and non-national works in their catalogue and ensure prominence of these works. The European non-national and national quota of 30% shall include works in the official languages of the territory in which they are or are distributed.
Amendment 742 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 15
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 15
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. Member States may require providers of on-demand audiovisual media services under their jurisdiction to contribute financially to the production of European works, taking into account the cultural and linguistic diversity of the territorial area in which they are located or are conducting their service, including via direct investment in content and contributions to national funds. Member States may require providers of on-demand audiovisual media services, targeting audiences in their territories, but established in other Member States to make such financial contributions. In this case, the financial contribution shall be based only on the revenues earned in the targeted Member States. If the Member State where the provider is established imposes a financial contribution, it shall take into account any financial contributions imposed by targeted Member States. Any financial contribution shall comply with Union law, in particular with State aid rules.
Amendment 780 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 16
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 16
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 20 – paragraph 2
Article 20 – paragraph 2
The transmission of films made for television (excluding series, serials and documentaries), cinematographic works and news programmes may be interrupted by television advertising and/or teleshopping once for each scheduled period of at least 230 minutes;. The transmission of children's programmes shall not be interrupted by television advertising, nor teleshopping. No commercial communication shall be inserted whilst audiovisual works are streamed or up-loaded through video-on demand audiovisual services, which ask already for a consequent fee to access such works.
Amendment 807 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 17
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 17
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 23 – paragraph 1
Article 23 – paragraph 1
1. The daily proportion of television advertising spots and teleshopping spots within the period between 7:00 and 23:00a clock hour shall not exceed 20 %.
Amendment 825 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 17
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 17
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 23 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 23 – paragraph 2 – point b
Amendment 827 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 17
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 17
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 23 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 23 – paragraph 2 – point c
Amendment 841 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 28 a – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 28 a – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Amendment 848 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 28 a - paragraph 1 - point a
Article 28 a - paragraph 1 - point a
(a) protect minors from content whichWithout prejudice to Articles 14 and 15 of Directive 2000/31/EC, Member States shall ensure by appropriate measures that video-sharing platform providers do not allow any harmful content on their platforms to protect minors from content that may impair their physical, mental or moral development;.
Amendment 856 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 28 a - paragraph 1 - point b
Article 28 a - paragraph 1 - point b
(b) Without prejudice to Articles 14 and 15 of Directive 2000/31/EC, Member States shall ensure by appropriate measures that video-sharing platform providers do not allow nor tolerate any harmful content on their platforms to protect all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred directed against a group of persons or a member of such a group defined by reference to sex, race, colour, religion, descent or national or ethnic origiial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation.
Amendment 928 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 28 a – paragraph 5
Article 28 a – paragraph 5
5. Member States shall not impose on video-sharing platform providers measures that are stricter than the measures referred to in paragraph 1 and 2. Member States shall not be precluded from imposing stricter measures with respect to illegal content. When adopting such measures, they shall respect the conditions set by applicable Union law, such as, where appropriate, those set in Articles 14 and 15 of Directive 2000/31/EC or Article 25 of Directive 2011/93/EU.
Amendment 952 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 28 a - paragraph 8 a (new)
Article 28 a - paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. To the extent that video-sharing platform providers are involved in the sale or placement of audiovisual commercial communications, Member States shall ensure that they assume the same obligations as media service providers with regard to the requirements of Articles 9 to 11 for audiovisual commercial communications, sponsoring and product placement made available on their platform.
Amendment 974 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 20
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 20
Directive 2010/13/EU
Chapter XI – title
Chapter XI – title
REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AND BODIES OF THE MEMBER STATES;
Amendment 979 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 21
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 21
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 30 – paragraph 1
Article 30 – paragraph 1
1. Each Member State shall designate one or more independent national regulatory bodies and authorities. Member States shall ensure that they are legally distinctfree from any governmental power or influence and functionally independent of any other public or private body. This shall be without prejudice to the possibility for Member States to set up regulators having oversight over different sectors.
Amendment 988 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 21
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 21
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 30 – paragraph 2– subparagraph 1
Article 30 – paragraph 2– subparagraph 1
Member States shall ensure that national regulatory bodies and authorities exercise their powers impartially and transparently and in accordance with the objectives of this Directive, in particular media pluralism, cultural diversityand regional diversity, language preservation, consumer protection, internal market and the promotion of fair competition.
Amendment 998 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 21
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 21
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 30 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 30 – paragraph 4 a (new)
‘4a. Member States shall ensure that national regulatory bodies and authorities designate a single and publicly available point-of-contact for information and complaints about the accessibility issues referred to in article 7.’
Amendment 1016 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 30 a - paragraph 2
Article 30 a - paragraph 2
2. It shall be composed of national independent regulatory authorities in the field of audiovisual media services, which may include those regional independent regulatory bodies and authorities with full competencies in the field of audiovisual media services. They shall be represented by the heads or by nominated high level representatives of the national regulatory authority with primary responsibility for overseeing audiovisual media services, or in cases where there is no national regulatory authority, by other representatives as chosen through their procedures. A Commission representative shall participate in the group meetings.
Amendment 1023 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 30 a - paragraph 3 - point b
Article 30 a - paragraph 3 - point b
(b) to advise and assist the Commission as to any matters related to audiovisual media services within the Commission's competence, and within the competence of the regulatory bodies and authorities that are members of ERGA. If justified in order to advise the Commission on certain issues, the group may consult market participants, consumers and end-users in order to collect the necessary information;
Amendment 1026 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 30 a - paragraph 3 - point d
Article 30 a - paragraph 3 - point d
(d) to cooperate and provide its members with the information necessary for the application of this Directive, in particular as regards Articles 3, 4 and 47 thereof;
Amendment 395 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 2
2. The Agency shall, at the request of the Commission, provide it with information on specific third countries which could be considered for inclusion in, suspension or removal from the common EU list of safe countries of origin in accordance with Regulation (EU) No XXX/XXX.
Amendment 398 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 11 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 401 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
The Commission or the European Parliament may request the Agency to carry out a review of the situation in any such third country with a view to assess whether the relevant conditions and criteria set out in that Directive are respected.
Amendment 405 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2
Article 12 – paragraph 2
2. The Agency shall, on its own initiative or at the request of the Commission, and in consultation with the Commission, the Consultative Forum, UNHCR and other relevant international and non-governmental organisations, develop operational standards on the implementation of the instruments of Union law on asylum and indicators for monitoring compliance with those operational standards as well as guidelines and best practices related to the implementation of the instruments of Union law on asylum. The Agency shall, following consultation with the Commission and after adoption by the Management Board, communicate those standards, indicators, guidelines or best practices to the Member States.
Amendment 414 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. The Agency, in close cooperation with the Commission, the Consultative Forum and relevant international and non-governmental organisations, shall establish a mechanism to:
Amendment 416 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) monitor the implementation and assess all aspects of the CEAS in Member States, in particular the Dublin system, reception conditions, asylum procedures, the application of criteria determining protection needincluding the procedural safeguards, including the right of appeal, redress mechanisms, access to legal aid and interpretation for applicants, the application of criteria determining protection needs, the functioning of referral mechanisms for vulnerable applicants and the nature and quality of protection afforded to persons in need of international protection by Member States, including as regards the respect of fundamental rights, child protection safeguards and the needs of vulnerable persons;
Amendment 420 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) monitor compliance by Member States with operational standards, indicators guidelines and best practices on asylum and issue recommendations to Member States for the improvement of asylum procedures and reception;
Amendment 428 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
The Agency mayshall, in particular, base its assessment on information provided by Member States, information analysis on the situation of asylum developed by the Agency, on-site visits and case sampling, case sampling and information provided by UNHCR and other relevant United Nations human rights treaty monitoring bodies, Special Procedures or Council of Europe human rights monitoring mechanisms and other relevant international and non- governmental organisations.
Amendment 435 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
For that purpose, Member States shall, at the request of the Agency, provide it with the necessary information as regards asylum procedures, including availability of free legal assistance and quality interpretation, equipment, infrastructure, reception conditions, recognition rates and quality of protection as well as staff and financial resources at national level to ensure an efficient management of the asylum and reception system. The Member States shall also cooperate with the Agency and shall facilitate any on-site visit that the Agency shall carry out for the purposes of the monitoring exercise.
Amendment 448 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
The Management BoardAgency shall, in consultation with the Commission. the Fundamental Rights Officer and the Consultative Forum, set the programme for monitoring and assessing the asylum and reception systems in each Member State, or of all Member States on the basis of thematic or specific aspects of the asylum systems. That programme shall form part of the multi- annual and annual programming referred to in Article 41.
Amendment 452 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The multi-annual programming shall list the Member States whose asylum and reception systems shall be monitored each year, ensuring that each Member State shall be monitored at least once in every fivthree-year period.
Amendment 455 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 5
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 5
The Agency may initiate a monitoring exercise for the assessment of the asylum or reception systems of a Member State on its own initiative or at the request of the Commission whenever there are serious concerns regarding the functioning of any aspect of that Member State's asylum or reception systems. The Agency may carry out ad-hoc unannounced on-site visits to verify specific aspects of a Member State's asylum or reception systems. The Agency shall timely notify Member States of the intention to carry out ad-hoc on-site visits.
Amendment 462 #
2016/0131(COD)
2. The Agency shall set up teams of experts for each monitoring exercise, including for the on-site visits as necessary. The teams of experts shall be composed of experts from the Agency's own staff, Consultative Forum and Commission representatives. The team of experts shall be responsible for drawing up a report based on the findings of on-site visits and information provided by Member States and relevant international and non- governmental organisations.
Amendment 468 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3
Article 14 – paragraph 3
3. The Executive Director shall transmit the draft report of the team of experts to the Member State concerned, which shall provide its comments on that draft report. The Executive Director shall then submit the draft report, taking into account the comments of the Member State concerned, to the Management Board. The Management Board shall adopt the monitoring report and transmit it to the Commission and to the European Parliament.
Amendment 473 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 4
Article 14 – paragraph 4
4. The Executive Director, after consultation with the Commission, the Fundamental Rights Officer and the Consultative Forum, shall submit draft recommendations to the Member State concerned outlining the necessary measures to address shortcomings identified in the monitoring report. The Member State concerned shall be given one month to comment on the draft recommendations. After giving consideration to those comments, the Management Board shall adopt the recommendations and it shall invite the Member State concerned to draw up an action plan outlining the measures to remedy any shortcomings.
Amendment 497 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 16 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) assist Member States by facilitateing the examination of applications for international protection that are under examination by the competent national authorities;
Amendment 498 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 3 – point e
Article 16 – paragraph 3 – point e
(e) assist with the provision of information on the international protection procedure, including information on the rights of the applicant, appeal procedures, access to reception and referral mechanisms for vulnerable groups, unaccompanied children and children with their families, and produce ad-hoc informative leaflets concerning CEAS provisions to be distributed to migrants and asylum seekers;
Amendment 499 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 3 – point f a (new)
Article 16 – paragraph 3 – point f a (new)
(f a) advise and coordinate the setting up or provision of referral and protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups, including unaccompanied children and children with their families, victims of torture, victims of trafficking and victims of crime
Amendment 510 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 5
Article 16 – paragraph 5
5. The Executive Director shall evaluate the result of the operational and technical measures and shall transmit detailed evaluation reports to the Management Board within 60 days from the end of those measures, together with the observations of the Fundamental Rights Officer. The Agency shall make a comprehensive comparative analysis of those results which shall be included in the annual activity report referred to in Article 65.
Amendment 518 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 8
Article 17 – paragraph 8
8. The Agency shall contribute to the asylum support teams with experts from its own staff employed and trained specifically for field work and trained interpreters.
Amendment 520 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 8 a (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Where the Member States are unable to provide the expertise deemed to be essential for operations it needs to carry out, the Agency may take the measures necessary to source such expertise from relevant experts and organisations drawing on the expertise of the Consultative Forum.
Amendment 531 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point e
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point e
(e) a detailed and clear description of the tasks, responsibilities and special instructions for the asylum support teams or experts from the asylum intervention pool, and for the members of the teams involved in activities of the Agency, including the national and European databases that they are authorised to consult and the equipment that they may use or carry in the host Member State;
Amendment 532 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point h
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point h
(h) regarding assistance with applications for international protection, including as regards the examination of such applications, specific information on the tasks that the asylum support teams or the experts from the asylum intervention pool may perform as well as a clear description of their responsibilities and accountability and reference to applicable national, international, human rights and Union law;
Amendment 535 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point i
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point i
(i) a reporting and evaluation scheme containing benchmarks for the evaluation report, including the protection of fundamental rights, and final date of submission of the final evaluation report;
Amendment 537 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k
(k) procedures whereby persons in need of international protection, victims of trafficking in human beings, victims of torture, victims of crime, unaccompanied minors and persons in a vulnerable situation are directreferred to the competent national authorities for appropriate assistance. and protection.
Amendment 538 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k a (new)
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k a (new)
(k a) procedures setting out a mechanism to receive and transmit to the Agency a complaint against any person participating in operational activities carried out by the Agency or with the participation of the Agency, including with third countries, including staff of the Agency, experts, seconded experts and other relevant staff of the host Member State or third country alleging breaches of fundamental rights in the context of the operation;
Amendment 539 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k b (new)
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k b (new)
(k b) Detailed provisions on fundamental rights safeguards;
Amendment 540 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k c (new)
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point k c (new)
(k c) provisions on risks of fundamental rights violations and steps taken to avoid such violations and ensure accountability for and non-repetition of such violations, including in relations to the powers to suspend and terminate the deployment of the asylum support teams in accordance with Article 20 (6).
Amendment 543 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 3
Article 20 – paragraph 3
3. When determining the composition of each asylum support team, the Executive Director shall take into account the particular circumstances of the Member State requesting assistance and its assessment of needs. The asylum support team shall be constituted in accordance with the operational plan and shall receive timely and appropriate training ahead of the deployment, including on operationalisation of fundamental rights.
Amendment 546 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 6
Article 20 – paragraph 6
6. The Executive Director shall, after informing the host Member State, suspend or terminate, in whole or in part, the deployment of the asylum support teams if the conditions to carry out the operational and technical measures are no longer fulfilled or if the operational plan is not respected by the host Member State including in relation to the respect of fundamental rights or international protection obligations.
Amendment 547 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 6 a (new)
Article 20 – paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. The Executive Director shall, after informing the host Member State, suspend or terminate the deployment of the asylum support teams if he or she considers that there are violations of fundamental rights or international protection obligations that are of a serious nature or are likely to persist. Based on recommendations by the Fundamental Rights Officer, after consultation with the Consultative Forum and other relevant actors, the Executive Director shall adopt criteria for withdrawing the financing, the suspension or the termination of an activity by the Agency. The findings of the Fundamental Rights Officer in the framework of the Complaints Mechanism shall be taken into account. The Fundamental Rights Officer may recommend the withdrawing the financing, the suspension or the termination of an activity, including the deployment of asylum support teams.
Amendment 552 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 21 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) the screening of third-country nationals, including their identification, registration, and where requested by Member States, their fingerprintingreferral;
Amendment 555 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 21 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) the provision of information on asylum procedures, including relocation and specific assistance to applicants or potential applicants that could be subject to relocation, and information on the rights of the applicant, appeal procedures, access to reception and referral mechanisms for vulnerable groups, unaccompanied children and children with their families, including through the production of ad-hoc informative leaflets on provisions of the CEAS, to be developed in cooperation with the Consultative Forum and the Fundamental Rights Officer.
Amendment 573 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 7 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. The Agency shall provide timely and adequate training to the experts of the asylum intervention pool, ahead of their deployment, including on operationalisation of fundamental rights.
Amendment 579 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1
Article 26 – paragraph 1
1. Where experts of an asylum support team or from the asylum intervention pool are operating in a host Member State, that Member State shall beand the Agency shall be jointly and severally liable in accordance with its national and EU law for any damage caused by them during their operations. Where experts of an asylum support team or from the asylum intervention pool are operating in a third country, the Agency shall be liable for any damage caused by them during their activities.
Amendment 581 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2
Article 26 – paragraph 2
2. Where such damage is caused by gross negligence or wilful misconduct, the host Member State or the Agency may address the home Member State or the Agency to obtain any sums it has paid to the victims or persons entitled on their behalf from the home Member State or the Agency.
Amendment 582 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 4
Article 26 – paragraph 4
4. Any dispute between Member States or withbetween a Member State and the Agency relating to the application of paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 of this Article which cannot be resolved by negotiations between them shall be submitted by them to the Court of Justice of the European Union in accordance with Article 273 of the Treatyies.
Amendment 585 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) when carrying out case sampling for the purposes of the monitoring exercise referred to in Article 13, for this purpose limiting processing of personal data strictly to nationality, age and gender;
Amendment 586 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) when assisting Member States in handling applications for international protection from children or vulnerable persons, upon request of Member States, as referred to in Article 13(2) and Article 16(3)(b) and (c);
Amendment 589 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point e
Amendment 593 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 32 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) where necessary to assist Member States by facilitateing the examination of applications for international protection that are under examination by the competent national authorities as referred to in Article 16(3)(b);
Amendment 595 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 2 – point g
Article 32 – paragraph 2 – point g
Amendment 597 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 32 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. The Member State which has transmitted personal data in accordance with paragraph 1 shall inform the applicant of such transmission and his or her right to, in accordance with the laws, regulations and procedures of that Member State, bring an action or, where appropriate, a complaint before the competent authorities or courts of the Member State, against wrongful use or processing of such data.
Amendment 602 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 1
Article 35 – paragraph 1
1. In matters related to its activities, in particular concerning resettlement and training on asylum procedures and protection, and, to the extent required for the fulfilment of its tasks, the Agency shallmay facilitate and encourage operational cooperation between Member States and third countries, within the framework of the Union's external relations policy, including with regard to the protection of fundamental rights, and in cooperation with the European External Action Service. The Agency and the Member States shall promote and comply with norms and standards equivalent to those set by Union legislation, including when carrying out activities on the territory of those third countries.
Amendment 605 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 2
Article 35 – paragraph 2
2. The Agency may cooperate with the authorities of third countries competent in matters covered by this Regulation with the support of and in coordination with Union delegations, in particular with a view to promoting Union standards on asylum and assisting third countries as regards expertise and capacity building for their own asylum and reception systems as well as implementing regional development and protection programmes and other actions. The Agency may carry out such cooperation within the framework of working arrangements concluded with those authorities in accordance with Union law and policy. The Agency shall consult the Consultative Forum, seek the prior approval of the Commission for such working arrangements and it shall inform the European Parliament.
Amendment 608 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 3
Article 35 – paragraph 3
Amendment 611 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 4
Article 35 – paragraph 4
4. The Agency shall coordinate actions on resettlement taken by Member States or by the Union, including the exchange of information, in full compliance with the standards and guidance set by UNHCR, so as to meet the international protection needs of refugees in third countries and show solidarity with their host countries. The Agency shall gather information, monitor resettlement to Member States and support Member States with capacity building on resettlement. The Agency may also, subject to the agreement of the third country and in agreement with the Commission, coordinate any such exchange of information or other action between Member States and a third country, in the territory of that third country.
Amendment 612 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 35 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. The confidentiality of information relating to individual resettlement cases shall be guaranteed at all times. Any exchange of information shall be carried out in full compliance with the relevant rules established in the UNHCR Resettlement Handbook, without jeopardising eligibility and selection of refugees for resettlement. Any Agency activity in the field of resettlement shall be carried out in close cooperation with UNHCR and expert non-governmental organisations and include support for resettled refugees on the territory of Member States post arrival as relevant and necessary.
Amendment 616 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 6
Article 35 – paragraph 6
6. The Agency may benefit from Union fundingtake part in Union funded projects in accordance with the provisions of the relevant instruments supporting the external relations policy of the Union. It may launch and finance technical assistance projects in third countries regarding matters covered by this Regulation.
Amendment 622 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 37 – paragraph 1
Article 37 – paragraph 1
The Agency shall cooperate with international organisations, in particular UNHCR, in areas governed by this Regulation, within the framework of working arrangements concluded with those bodies, in accordance with the Treaty and the provisions on the competence of those bodies. The Management Board shall decide on the working arrangements which shall be subject to prior approval of the Commission. The Agency shall inform the European Parliament of any such arrangements.
Amendment 623 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 38 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 38 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(c a) a Fundamental Rights Officer;
Amendment 624 #
2016/0131(COD)
(c b) a Consultative Forum.
Amendment 630 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 1 – point l
Article 40 – paragraph 1 – point l
Amendment 631 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 1 – point m
Article 40 – paragraph 1 – point m
(m) adopt an annual report on the situation of asylum in the Union in accordance with Article 65. That report shall be presented to the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission and shall be made public;
Amendment 640 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 41 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 41 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
The multi-annual programming shall set the strategic areas of intervention and explain what needs to be done to achieve the objectives. It shall include the strategy for relations with third countries or international organisations referred to in Articles 34 and 37, respectively, and the actions linked to that strategy, as well as specification of associated resources. It shall also include the fundamental rights strategy, referred to in Article XX, and the actions linked to that strategy, as well as specification of associated resources.
Amendment 641 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 45 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
The Executive Directoruropean Parliament and the Council shall be appointed by the Management Board from a list of candidates proposed by the Commission, following an open and transparent selection procedurcommon accord the Executive Director and the Deputy Executive Director based on a list of candidates proposed by the Commission, following the publication of the post in the Official Journal of the European Union and other press or internet sites as appropriate. The Executive Director shall be appointed on the ground of merit and documented high-level administrative and management skills as well as senior professional experience in the field of migration and asylum.
Amendment 644 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 3
Article 45 – paragraph 3
Amendment 646 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 4
Article 45 – paragraph 4
4. The term of office of the Deputy Executive Director and of the Executive Director shall be five years. By the end of that period, the Commission shall undertake an assessment that takes into account an evaluation of the Deputy Executive Director's and the Executive Director's performance and the Agency's future tasks and challenges.
Amendment 647 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 5
Article 45 – paragraph 5
Amendment 648 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 6
Article 45 – paragraph 6
Amendment 649 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 8
Article 45 – paragraph 8
Amendment 650 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 45 – paragraph 9
Article 45 – paragraph 9
Amendment 652 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 46 – paragraph 5 – point u a (new)
Article 46 – paragraph 5 – point u a (new)
(u a) appointing the Fundamental Rights Officer in accordance with Article XX of this Regulation.
Amendment 655 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 47 a (new)
Article 47 a (new)
Amendment 657 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 2
Article 48 – paragraph 2
2. The Consultative Forum shall constitute a mechanism for the exchange of information and sharing of knowledge. It shall ensure a close dialogue between the Agency, Fundamental Rights Officer, and relevant organisations or bodies as referred to in paragraph 1 and shall assist the Executive Director and the Management Board in matters covered by this Regulation.
Amendment 661 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 4
Article 48 – paragraph 4
4. The Consultative Forum shall assdviste the Executive Director and the Management Board in matters related to asylum and fundamental rights, in accordance with specific needs in areas identified as a priority for the Agency's work.
Amendment 663 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 48 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. The Consultative Forum shall be consulted on the further development and implementation of the fundamental rights strategy, codes of conduct, working arrangements with third countries, the complaint mechanism, operational plans and common core curricula.
Amendment 665 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 5 – point c a (new)
Article 48 – paragraph 5 – point c a (new)
(c a) be consulted on the further development and implementation of the fundamental rights strategy, codes of conduct, training activities organised or coordinated by the Agency, agreements with third countries, the complaint mechanism and operational plans.
Amendment 666 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 48 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. The Agency shall inform the Consultative Forum on the follow-up response to reports and recommendations of the Consultative Forum and include it in its annual report.
Amendment 667 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 5 b (new)
Article 48 – paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. The Consultative Forum shall have access to all information concerning the respect for fundamental rights in a timely and effective manner, including by carrying out on-the-spot visits to any operational activity carried out by the Agency or activities where the Agency participates, including in third countries.
Amendment 668 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 5 c (new)
Article 48 – paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. The Consultative Forum shall define its working methods and set up its annual work programme.
Amendment 669 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 48 – paragraph 5 d (new)
Article 48 – paragraph 5 d (new)
Amendment 670 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 49 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 49 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. The budget, including the establishment plan, shall include sufficient financing of the fundamental rights strategy and the Fundamental Rights Officer amounting to at least 5 % of the overall budget.
Amendment 671 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 52 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 52 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
By 31 March of the following financial year, the Agency shall send the report on the budgetary and financial management to the European Parliament, the Council and the Court of Auditors. The report shall provide details of expenditure for each of the tasks listed in Article 2.
Amendment 672 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 a (new)
Article 54 a (new)
Amendment 673 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 b (new)
Article 54 b (new)
Article 54 b Code of conduct 1. The Agency shall draw up and further develop a code of conduct applicable to all experts involved in support operations coordinated by the Agency. The code of conduct shall lay down procedures intended to guarantee the principles of the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights with a particular focus on children, unaccompanied minors and other persons in a vulnerable situation, as well as on persons seeking international protection. The code of conduct shall be applicable to all persons participating in the activities of the Agency. 2. The Agency shall develop and regularly update the code of conduct in cooperation with the Consultative Forum.
Amendment 674 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 c (new)
Article 54 c (new)
Amendment 678 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 61 – paragraph 3
Article 61 – paragraph 3
3. In the case of non-contractual liability, the Agency shall, in accordance with the general principles common to the laws of the Member States, make good any damage caused by its departments or by its staff in the performance of their duties. In cases referred to in Article 26 the Agency shall be liable for any damages caused by members of the teams during their operations, in particular, the damages caused by violations of fundamental rights.
Amendment 679 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 65 – paragraph 1
Article 65 – paragraph 1
1. The Agency shall draw up an annual activity report on the situation of asylum in the Union, taking due account of information already available from other relevant sources. As part of that report, the Agency shall evaluate, in cooperation with the Fundamental Rights Officer and the Consultative Forum, the results of activities carried out under this Regulation and make a comprehensive comparative analysis of them with the aim of improving the quality, consistency and effectiveness of the CEAS.
Amendment 680 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 65 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 65 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The annual report shall be made public and published on the Agency's website.
Amendment 4 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes warmly the 2 791 applications submitted under the Europe for Citizens programme in 2015, and suggests increasing participation in the coming years by making promotional campaigns for domestic media setting out clear information; regrets, however, the insufficient budgetary resources dedicated to this programme and the resulting frustration of applicants who cannot be part onf the priorities and accessibility of the programme; proposes allowing applicants to use e-participation toologramme despite their proposal fully complies with its aim and requirements;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Repeats its call for a stronger role in settdesigning the priorities and objectives of the programme, and recommends further simplifying its language to make it widely accessiblogramme by using Article 167 TFEU as legal basis and, thus, allowing the EP to be involved through the ordinary legislative procedure;
Amendment 10 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises the importance of the Member States, regions and local governments in increasing the effectiveness and popularity of the programme, including by taking on a greater role in defining the priorities of the programme and maximising the potential of the national contact points (NCP) by making it possible for them to work and exchange experience with entities responsible for similar projects – Erasmus and Creative Europe, for example;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that the objectives of the Europe for Citizens programme are similar and complementary to those of the European Citizens’' Initiative, in particular the aspiration to get citizens involved in EU workthe EU as well as encouraging a sense of ownership; believes, for that reason, that efforts should be made to link up the two programmes, possibly by means of exchanges of expehave a common approach in designing EU policies aimed at fostering a European identity so citizens' participation and the exercise of citizens' rights can be their inspiring core prienceiples;
Amendment 22 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Points out that participation in the programme by countries seeking EU membership would leads to better mutual understanding and closer cooperation; proposes, therefore, that thought should be given to promoting projects involving cooperation between EU NGOs and NGOs from Eastern Partnership countries and other countries seeking EU membership.
Amendment 1 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Maintains that the citizens of the Union may feel confident about Union law and can benefit effectively from its correct application in the Member States only if Union law isonly if Union law is implemented in an effective manner and established in full compliance with fundamental rights and the principles of conferral, legal certainty, equality before the law and the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union;
Amendment 16 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Points out that EU Pilot is a working tool that has no legal status and that allows a discretionary power to the Commission that does not comply with the proper standards of transparency and accountability; considers that these shortcomings can be addressed through the adoption of a legally binding act that should clarify the legal rights and obligations of individual complainants and the Commission;
Amendment 17 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Recalls that the European Parliament, in its resolutions, called on the Commission to propose binding rules in the form of a regulation; deplores that no follow-up has been made to these resolutions and calls, therefore, once again on the Commission to propose a legal act in the form of a regulation under the legal basis of Article 298 TFEU, so as to ensure full respect for citizens’ right to good administration as set out in Article 41 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Regrets the fact that the European Parliament does not yet receive transparent and timely information on the implementation of EU laws; recalls that, in the revised Framework Agreement on relations with Parliament, the Commission undertakes to ‘make available to Parliament summary information concerning all infringement procedures from the letter of formal notice, included, if so requested, on the issues to which the infringement procedure relates’, and expects this clause to be applied in good faith in practice;
Amendment 27 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Regrets that official documents are frequently over classified, and institutions call for in camera meetings without proper justification; an independent authority should be tasked with oversight of the classification of documents and requests for meetings to be held in camera;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Urges all the institutions, pending its desired revision, to apply Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 in the proper mannertaking into account the changes brought by the Lisbon Treaty and the Charter of Fundamental Rights; calls on the Council in particular to revise its rules, with a view to ensuring that all discussions, documents, and information are made public, and to produce transcripts of its public meetings;
Amendment 36 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Is concerned that the registers kept by the institutions still do not properly implement the provisions of Articles 11 and 12 of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 and that large numbers of documents are not in fact registered: urges all institutions, agencies and other bodies to keep records for each file of its incoming and outgoing mail, of the documents it receives and of the measures it takes and to establish an index of the files it keeps; reiterates its call for a common access point to EU documents and common procedures and criteria for registration and the assignment of an inter- institutional code so that eventually a common inter-institutional register could be established;
Amendment 40 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Points out that, as a result of the entry into force of the TEU and the TFEU, the right of access to documents covers all EU institutions, bodies, and agencies; believes, therefore, that the substance of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 should be amended in the light of the relevant case law of the EU Court of Justice and the European Court of Human Rights; stresses that the actual public access to documents and the management of registers over documents need to be based on standards which adequately respect Articles 41 and 42 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Deplores the failure to implementConsiders that institutions, agencies and other bodies of the European Union still have failed to fully take the changes brought by the Lisbon Treaty and the Charter of Fundamental Rights into account when applying Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001, in particular, as regards the obligation for the institutions to keep complete registers of documents; calls for a European policy on registers to be established and for implementing measures to standardise the classification and presentation of the institutions’' documents;
Amendment 51 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Points out that transparent law-making is of the utmost importance to citizens; reminds that the Treaties in force no longer contain any provisions comparable to the ones in Article 207(3) of the EC Treaty which could justify the application of the exception protecting the 'space to think' in Article 4(3) of the Regulation to legislative matters; recalls that access to documents and that openness in the legislative procedure contributes to strengthening democracy by allowing citizens to scrutinise all the information which has formed the basis of a legislative act; calls on the institutions actively to circulate documents forming part of, or related to, legislative procedures and to improve communication with persons who might wish to obtain them; considers in particular that the EU institutions should, by default, make as many documents as possible accessible to the public via a single publicly accessible common portal making for ease of consultation;
Amendment 69 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the institutions involved to ensure in future that negotiations will be transparent and, to that end, to allow meetings to be held in public and webstreamed and to arrange for agendas, minutes, and the main issues discussed to be published; considers, that documents created in the framework of trilogues, such as agendas, summaries of outcomes and the 'four column' documents drawn up for facilitating negotiations, which without doubt are documents related to legislative procedures cannot in principle be treated differently from other legislative documents;
Amendment 84 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Notes that international agreements have binding force and an impact on EU legislation and points to the need for negotiations to be transparent throughout the entire process, implying that the institutions should be obliged to publish the negotiating brief conferred on the Commission; considers it regrettable that negotiationthe Commission and the Council routinely classify all documents are secretlating to negotiations and citizens have no access to information, but only to documents communicated to the press, thus giving rise to speculation and misconceptions about the negotiations; maintains that the public should be given access to all of the parties’' relevant negotiating documents, in keeping with Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001;
Amendment 104 #
2015/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Invites the Interinstitutional Committee established by Article 15(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 to work more actively and report to the competent committees on the issues discussed; calls on it to meet more regularly, and to open internal discussions and deliberations by and inviting and considering submissions from civil society, the European Ombudsman and the European Data Protection Supervisor; calls on it to address as a matter of urgency the issues mentioned in this resolution;
Amendment 2 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 1 – paragraph 1
Indent 1 – paragraph 1
1. ExpStresses the view that the Member States of the European Union should move towards a shared culture of the meaning of the rule of law in the 28 Member States to be applied by all concerned even-handedlyat the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities; points out that, since the adoption of the Treaty of Lisbon, the Union recognises the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU; notes the obligation laid down in the Treaties to accede to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR); underlines the fact that the Treaties recognise that fundamental rights, as guaranteed by the ECHR and as they result from the constitutional traditions common to the Member States, constitute general principles of the Union's law;
Amendment 11 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Indent 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Believes that the conclusions and opinions of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights as well as the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union constitute a good basis for the interpretation of Article 2 TFEU and the scope of the rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 1 – paragraph 2
Indent 1 – paragraph 2
2. Considers that the procedure under Article 7 TEU is virtually unusable because of the difficulty to reach a decision with such high thresholds for voting and in a body where political considerations play a prominent role; notes that the Union has no legally binding mechanism in place to monitor regularly the compliance of the Member States and EU institutions with the EU's fundamental values; expresses the difficulty to launch the infringement proceedings when there is no link with secondary EU law;
Amendment 26 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 1 – paragraph 3
Indent 1 – paragraph 3
3. Takes note of the rule of law Framework established by the Commission in 20141 and of the creation of an annual dialogue on the rule of law in the General Affairs Council as established in December 2014; and looks to the formulation of a common ground as between these different rule of law mechanismsEU binding mechanism based on proper expertise and independence to respond to breaches of the rule of law and fundamental rights at Member State level; __________________ 1 Communication of the Commission of 11 March 2014 on "A new EU Framework to strengthen the Rule of Law" (COM(2014)0158).
Amendment 34 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 1 – paragraph 4
Indent 1 – paragraph 4
4. Considers it important to work towards a new consensuspromote a continuous dialogue between the EU and its Member States with the aim of promoting democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, proceeding from the basis that unless extreme care is taken, there will always be a danger of politicising legalitybringing positions closer in areas linked to fundamental rights that go beyond the scope of the Copenhagen criteria and the Charter of Fundamental Rights and where a consensus has not yet been reached by the Member States;
Amendment 43 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 1 – paragraph 5
Indent 1 – paragraph 5
5. Emphasises the key role that the European Parliament and the national parliamentsan independent and expert body should play in measuring the progress of, and monitoring the compliance with, the shared values of the Union, as enshrined in Article 2 TEU; notes the key role of the European Parliament and the national parliaments in maintaining the necessary continuous debate to adapt the common EU consensus on democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights to the changes of our society;
Amendment 48 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 2 – paragraph 6
Indent 2 – paragraph 6
6. Recommends the establishment on an EU mechanism for Democracy, the Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights which would include all relevant stakeholders; considers that this would, however, require a Treaty changeUrges the Commission, without prejudice to existing mechanisms already applicable in the event of serious and persistent infringements, to propose a Regulation for the establishment on an EU mechanism for Democracy, the Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights which establishes appropriate binding and corrective mechanisms in order to fill existing gaps and to allow for an automatic and gradual response to breaches of the rule of law and fundamental rights at Member State level;
Amendment 57 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 2 – paragraph 6 a (new)
Indent 2 – paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Proposes to widen the mandate of the Fundamental Rights Agency to include the monitoring of fundamental rights and the rule of law in all Member States, both within and beyond the application of EU law;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 2 – paragraph 6 b (new)
Indent 2 – paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Calls on the establishment of an independent Copenhagen Commission that, in light of the assessment of the Fundamental Rights Agency, puts forward recommendations to enforce fundamental rights and the rule of law;
Amendment 62 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 2 – paragraph 6 c (new)
Indent 2 – paragraph 6 c (new)
6c. Proposes to enable the Commission, on the basis of the findings of the reports drafted by the Fundamental Rights Agency and the recommendations of the Copenhagen Commission, to initiate infringement procedures under Article 2 TEU, and, if necessary, the procedure under Article 7 TEU;
Amendment 69 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 2 – paragraph 8
Indent 2 – paragraph 8
8. Recommends the conclusion of a pact between all EU institutions and national parliaments in order to establish an annual 'fundamental rights policy cycle' as part of a multi-annual structured dialogue among all stakeholders with the aim of adapting the existing EU consensus on democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights to the changes of our society;
Amendment 81 #
2015/2254(INL)
Draft opinion
Indent 2 – paragraph 10 a (new)
Indent 2 – paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Calls on the Commission and the Council to address the concerns raised by the Court of Justice in its Opinion 2/13 as quickly as possible in order to comply with the obligation enshrined in Article 6 TEU to accede to the ECHR;
Amendment 23 #
2015/2155(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Stresses that the Court of Auditors report adopted on 11.07.2014 states that the potential saving for the EU budget would be about 114 million EUR per year if the European Parliament centralised its activities; reiterates the call on Parliament and the Council to address, in order to create long term savings, the need for a roadmap to a single seat, as stated by Parliament in several previous resolutions;
Amendment 7 #
2015/2104(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Points out that, in order to better achieve EU foreign policy goals, it is fundamental that the EU improves its internal coordination in that area; calls on Member States and EU institutions to consider ways to provide all necessary tools to reach a fully common Foreign Affairs and Security Policy placing the EU as a single international actor;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2104(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Requests that the UN, the Commission and the Council keep Parliament fully informed about their coordination in order to involve the Parliament in the definition and revision of EU foreign policy goals;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2104(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Calls for the reform of the Security Council in order to ensure a permanent seat for the European Union in substitution of the two permanent and the rotating European members; suggests that the EU should have one single vote within this body;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2104(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Suggests a reform of the Security Council in order to allow a veto right only if this decision is supported by at least half of its permanent members;
Amendment 32 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses the need to ensure the full transparency, democratic accountability and legitimacy of the Union’s participation in existing economic and financial institutions;
Amendment 33 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses that representatives of the Union should be able to hold the rotating presidency of the G-20;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Takes the view that the Union’s representatives at the G-20 should be given an explicit democratic mandate by the EU institutions;
Amendment 35 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8c. Advocates that the Union establish a system of full transparency for lobbyists in the process of negotiation between the European institutions and these international institutions;
Amendment 36 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that Parliament should be duly informed of the Union’s activities within existing economic and financial institutions; Parliament will play a monitoring role as regards the work of Union representatives in these institutions;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Takes the view that Parliament should encourage own-initiative reports setting out its findings regarding the participation of EU representatives in these financial and economic institutions, with the aim of promoting their reform on the basis of democratic criteria of general interest;
Amendment 45 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Affirms that the European Parliament and the national parliaments will exercise democratic scrutiny over the joint programmes of these institutions with the Union;
Amendment 46 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 c (new)
Paragraph 10 c (new)
10c. Urges the Member States to sign an interinstitutional agreement to give the European Parliament powers to supervise the action of the Union in respect of these institutions;
Amendment 51 #
2015/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Stresses the need for some of these institutions to move beyond their informal nature with a view to being governed by international treaties;
Amendment 2 #
2015/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission's announcement of its intention to present, in 2016, a proposal for an new inter- institutional agreement revising theon a mandatory Transparency Register for representatives of interest groups with the participation of the Council; insists that the consultations preceding the proposal take account, in a balanced way, of the different points of view expressed;
Amendment 10 #
2015/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Regrets the limited progress in ensuring the protection of whistleblowers and journalists, who can play a significant role in the fight against corruption; regrets, therefore, that the Commission has not responded to Parliament's request to examine the possibility of establishing a European whistleblower protection programme; calls on the Commission to present a communication on this subject by the end of 2016; regrets as well the lack of progress in addressing the abuse of defamation laws to intimidate journalists and others investigating corruption; calls in particular on the Commission to initiate discussion on legislation supporting the repeal of criminal penalties for defamation in Member States.
Amendment 14 #
2015/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets the deadlock in the Council on the revision of Regulation (EC) 1049/2001 on access to documents; calls for an ambitious reform, which would be an undoubted step forward;immediate update of the Regulations, as required by the Treaty of Lisbon; believes the Parliament should play an exemplary role by listing all available documents as part of an online register.
Amendment 19 #
2015/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls the need to improve the transparency of legislative negotiations, including trialogues.; calls on the institutions, bodies and agencies of the EU to maintain up-to-date public figures on the number of classified documents they hold, according to their classification; calls on the Commission, the Council and Parliament to ensure the greater transparency of informal trialogues, by holding the meetings in public, publishing documentation including calendars, agendas, minutes, documents examined, amendments, decisions taken, information on Member State delegations and their positions and minutes, in a standardised and easy accessible online environment, by default and without prejudice to the exemptions listed in Article 4(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001;
Amendment 153 #
2015/2041(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Believes that representations of national, regional and local governments and their associations should not fall under the EU lobbTransparency register ifas they have their own mandatory lobby register and do not offer workspace for private or corporate actors within their representatioact in the public interest and are accountable to elected politicians;
Amendment 135 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Determines to set a common minimum deadline of twelve weeks before election day for the establishment of lists at national levelelectoral lists, in order to enhance electoral equality by providing candidates and voters across the Union with the same period in which to prepare and reflect ahead of the vote;
Amendment 138 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Proposes that Member States in which there are regions vested with legislative powers should subdivide their electoral area in such a way as to reflect this fact, in order to better represent the political reality of each Member State;
Amendment 139 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Proposes that 25 Members of the European Parliament should be elected to represent a constituency formed of the whole territory of the European Union, on the basis that pan-European lists would be composed of candidates drawn from at least one third of the Member States, that no more than 25% of the candidates on each list would be residents of the same Member State, and that each group of five candidates would be composed of nationals of five different Member States; each elector would be permitted to cast one vote for the EU-wide list in addition to his or her vote for the national or regional list; and seats thus won would be allocated without a minimum threshold in accordance with the Sainte-Laguë method; further, proposes that an electoral authority be established at EU level in order to regulate the conduct, and to verify the result, of the election taking place from the pan-European list;
Amendment 146 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Suggests the introduction of an obligatory threshold, ranging between 3% and 5%, for the allocation of seats in single-constituency Member States and constituencies in which the list system is used and which comprise more than 26 seats; considers this measure important for safeguarding the functioning the European Parliament, since it will avoid further fragmentationat, where a threshold is set at national level, it should not exceed 3 % of the votes cast;
Amendment 152 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Proposes that elecpolling stations in all Member States end byclose at 21:00 hours CET on the Sunday of the European elections, as this would ensure the correct application of Article 10(2) of the Electoral Act and thus reduce the possibility of the outcome of the elections being influenced if the election results in some Member States are made public before the close of polling in all Member States;
Amendment 158 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Determines to set a common deadline for the nomination of lead candidates by European political parties 12 weeks in advance of European elections; considers that the process of nomination of lead candidates constitutes an important aspect of electoral campaigns due to the implicit link between the results of European elections and the selection of the Commission President as enshrined in the Treaty of LisbonSuggests that only European political parties and European candidatures that have registered a transnational list for the EU-wide constituency should nominate a candidate for the position of Commission President, and that those candidates should be placed in the first position on the corresponding list;
Amendment 162 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Points out the implicit link between the results of European elections and the selection of the Commission President enshrined in the Treaty of Lisbon; proposes, accordingly, that the newly elected Parliament should express, through a vote in plenary, its preference regarding the candidates for the position of Commission President;
Amendment 164 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Proposes that each elector be permitted to cast one vote for the EU-wide list and one additional vote for the national or regional list;
Amendment 178 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. As a future step, recommends to Member States that they should consider ways to harmoniseDetermines to set the minimum age of voters for elections to the European Parliament at 16, in order to further enhance electoral equality among Union citizens;
Amendment 208 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Encourages Member States to take measures to promote gender balance in every aspect of European electionsthe better representation of women and ethnic, linguistic and other minorities in every aspect of European elections; with a view to achieving an equal representation of men and women in terms of distribution of seats, proposes that, in the case of constituencies using the list system, the gap between the number of female and male candidates in each list should not be greater than one and that each list should alternate candidates by gender in every position on the list;
Amendment 214 #
2015/2035(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Determines that the office of Member of the European Parliament should also be incompatible with that of member of a regional parliament or assembly vested with legislative powers;
Amendment 222 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 2
Amendment 224 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2a 1. There shall be one additional constituency formed of the entire territory of the Union. This constituency shall be represented by 25 Members of the European Parliament. 2. The European Parliament and the Council, acting in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure, shall establish a European electoral authority to conduct and verify the electoral process of the European Union constituency referred to in paragraph 1. 3. Transnational lists of candidates for election in the European Union constituency shall be registered with the European electoral authority at least 12 weeks before the start of the elections to the European Parliament. 4. Without prejudice to Article 3a, the lists shall be admissible only if: – the candidates whose names appear on the lists in question are, in the aggregate, resident in at least one third of the Member States, – no more than 25% of those candidates are resident in the same Member State, – each group of five candidates is composed of nationals of five different Member States. 5. Each elector shall have two votes, one of which may be cast for the election of Members in his or her Member State and the other of which, being a supplementary vote, may be cast for the European Union-wide list. Seats shall be allocated from the European lists in accordance with the Sainte-Laguë method.
Amendment 226 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 3
Member States may set a minimum threshold for the allocation of seats. At national level this threshold may not exceed 53 per cent of votes cast. There shall be no minimum threshold for the allocation of seats from the European Union constituency referred to in Article 2a(1).
Amendment 233 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 3 a (new)
Article 3a In the case of constituencies using the list system, the gap between the number of female and male candidates in each list shall not be greater than one. Each list shall alternate candidates by gender in every position on the list.
Amendment 238 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 3 b (new)
Article 3b 1. Only European political parties and European candidatures that have registered a transnational list for the European Union-wide constituency shall nominate a candidate for the position of Commission President. 2. Those candidates shall be placed in the first position on the corresponding transnational list. 3. The newly elected European Parliament shall express, through a vote in plenary, its preference among the candidates for the position of Commission President.
Amendment 242 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4a Member States may introduce electronic and internet voting for elections to the European Parliament and, where they do so, shall adopt measures sufficient to ensure the reliability of the result, the secrecy of the vote and data protection.
Amendment 248 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. From the European Parliament elections in 2004, tThe office of member of the European Parliament shall be incompatible with that of member of a national parliament. By way of derogation from that rule and without prejudice to paragraph 3: – members of the Irish Nat or of a regional Pparliament who are elected to the European Parliament at a subsequent poll may have a dual mandate until the next election to the Irish National Parliament, at which juncture the first subparagraph of this paragraph shall apply; – members of the United Kingdom Parliament who are also members of the European Parliament during the five-year term preceding election to the European Parliament in 2004 may have a dual mandate until the 2009 European Parliament elections, when the first subparagraph of this paragraph shall applyor assembly vested with legislative powers.
Amendment 249 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. In addition, each Member State may, in the circumstances provided for in Article 8, extend rules at national level relating to incompatibility in respect of members elected in one of its constituencies.
Amendment 250 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 7 – paragraph 4
4. Members of the European Parliament to whom paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 become applicable in the course of the five-year period referred to in Article 5 shall be replaced in accordance with Article 13a or Article 13b.
Amendment 254 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 9
Amendment 255 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 9 a (new)
Article 9a The minimum age of voters in elections to the European Parliament shall be 16.
Amendment 259 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. Elections to the European Parliament shall be held on the date or dates and at the times fixed by each Member State; f. For all Member States thise date or dates shall fall within the same period starting on a Thursday morning and ending on the following Sunday. The polling stations shall close in all Member States at 21:00 hours CET on that Sunday.
Amendment 261 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 10 – paragraph 2
2. Member States may not officially make public the results of their count until after the close of pollingFirst projections of the results shall be communicated simultaneously in theall Member State whose electors are the last to vote within the period referred tos at 21:00 hours CET on the Sunday marking the end of the electoral period specified in paragraph 1.
Amendment 269 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 12
The European Parliament shall verify the credentials of members of the European Parliament. For this purpose it shall take note of the results declared officially by the Member States and by the European electoral authority and shall rule on any disputes which may arise out of the provisions of this Act other than those arising out of the national provisions to which the Act refers.
Amendment 271 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 13
Amendment 275 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 13 a (new)
Article 13a 1. In the case of Members of the European Parliament elected in its constituencies, and subject to the other provisions of this Act, each Member State shall lay down appropriate procedures for filling any seat which falls vacant during the five-year term of office referred to in Article 5 for the remainder of that period. 2. Where the law of a Member State makes explicit provision for withdrawal of the mandate of a Member of the European Parliament elected in a constituency of that Member State, that mandate shall end pursuant to those legal provisions. The competent authorities of that Member State shall inform the European Parliament of those legal provisions . 3. Where a seat of a Member of the European Parliament elected in a Member State constituency falls vacant as a result of resignation or death, the President of the European Parliament shall immediately inform the competent authorities of the Member State concerned of that vacancy.
Amendment 277 #
2015/2035(INL)
Article 13 b (new)
Article 13b 1. In the case of Members of the European Parliament elected for the European Union constituency, and subject to the other provisions of this Act, appropriate procedures for the filling of any vacancy for the remainder of the five- year term of office referred to in Article 5 shall be laid down in accordance with the procedure established in Article 14. 2. Where the law of the Union makes explicit provision for the withdrawal of the mandate of a Member of the European Parliament elected on the European Union-wide list, that mandate shall end pursuant to those legal provisions. The electoral authority shall inform the European Parliament of those legal provisions. 3. Where a seat of a Member of the European Parliament elected for the European Union constituency falls vacant as a result of resignation or death, the President of the European Parliament shall immediately inform the electoral authority of that vacancy.
Amendment 4 #
2015/0907(APP)
Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDeclines to gives its consent to the draft Council decision;
Amendment 2 #
Amendment 5 #
2015/0809(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Calls on the Council not to adopt the draft decision until the new proposed Europol Regulation (2013/0091(COD)) enters into force, under which the procedure for concluding agreements with third States and organisations, as well as the relevant provisions and safeguards for the protection of personal data, are significantly modified;
Amendment 7 #
2015/0809(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 9 #
2015/0809(CNS)
Amendment 34 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The purpose of the EFSI should be to help resolve the difficulties in financing and implementing productive investments in the Union for boosting of sustainable economy and quality job creation and to ensure increased access to financing. It is intended that increased access to financing should be of particular benefit to small and medium enterprises. It is also appropriate to extend the benefit of such increased access to financing to mid- cap companies, which are companies having up to 3000 employees. Overcoming Europe's current investment difficulties should contribute to strengthening the Union's economic, social and territorial cohesion.
Amendment 42 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The EFSI should support strategic investments with high societal and economic value added contributing to achieving Union policy objectives.
Amendment 44 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) The EFSI should target projects delivering high societal and economicEuropean added value. In particular, the EFSI should target projects that promote job creation, long- term growth and competitiveness and contribute to achieving the targets of the Union strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The EFSI should support a wide range of financial products, including equity, debt or guarantees, to best accommodate the needs of the individual project. This wide range of products should allow the EFSI to adapt to market needs whilst encouraging private investment in the projects. The EFSI should not be a substitute for private market finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most effective and strategic use of public money. The requirement for consistency with State aid principles should contribute to such effective and strategic use.
Amendment 52 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The EFSI should target projects with a higher risk-return profile than existing EIB and Union instruments to ensure additionality over existing operations. The EFSI should finance projects across the Union, including particular in the countries most affected by the financial crisis with high levels of unemployment. The EFSI should only be used where financing is not available from other sources on reasonable terms.
Amendment 55 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The EFSI should target investments that are expected to be economically and technically viable, which may entail a degree of appropriate risk, whilst still meeting the particular requirements for EFSI financing. It is therefore necessary to lay down clear principles, criteria and conditions for the use of EFSI support.
Amendment 57 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Decisions on the use of the EFSI support for infrastructure and large mid- cap projects should be made by an Investment Committee. The Investment Committee should be composed of independent experts who are knowledgeable and experienced in the areas of investment projects. The Investment Committee should organise a partnership with competent national, regional and local authorities, economic and social partners and relevant bodies representing civil society. The purpose of such a partnership is to ensure respect for the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality and to ensure the ownership of planned operations by stakeholders. The Investment Committee should be accountable to a Steering Board of the EFSI, who should supervise the fulfilment of the EFSI's objectives. To effectively benefit from the experience of the EIF, the EFSI should support funding to the EIF to allow the EIF to undertake individual projects in the areas of small and medium enterprises and small mid-cap companies.
Amendment 78 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) Member States have also begun work at national leveland their national, regional and local authorities should work on establishing and promoting project pipelines for projects of nationalEuropean significance. The information prepared by the Commission and the EIB should provide links to the accompanying national project pipelines.
Amendment 83 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35 a (new)
Recital 35 a (new)
(35 a) In order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this Regulation, implementing powers should be conferred to the Commission in respect of the model to be used when submitting information on investment projects and their contribution to achieving EU policy objectives. Those powers should be exercised in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
Amendment 85 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
1. The Commission shall conclude an agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) on the establishment of a European Fund for Strategic Investments ('EFSI'). The agreement shall be transmitted to the European Parliament and the Council and shall be made public.
Amendment 94 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point d a (new)
(d a) the methodology for determining geographic quota taking into account the levels of unemployment in order to adequately address the investment needs in those regions most affected by the financial crisis;
Amendment 100 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
To meet that objective, the EIAH shall use the expertise of the EIB, the Commission, national promotional banks and the managing authorities and monitoring committees of the European Structural and Investment Funds.
Amendment 102 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2 a (new)
Amendment 104 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. The EFSI Agreement shall provide that the EFSI shall be governed by a Steering Board, which shall, in accordance with Article 2a, determine the strategic orientation, the strategic asset allocation and operating policies and procedures, including the investment policy of projects that EFSI can support and the risk profile of the EFSI, in conformity with the objectives under Article 5(2). The Steering Board shall elect one of its members to be Chairperson.
Amendment 106 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
2. The EFSI Agreement shall provide that the EFSI shall have an Investment Committee, which shall be responsible for examining potential operations in line with the EFSI investment policies and approving the support of the EU guarantee for operations in line with Article 5, irrespective of their geographic location.
Amendment 115 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
The Investment Committee shall organise a partnership with competent national, regional and local authorities, economic and social partners and relevant bodies representing civil society making use of existing structures where appropriate. These partners shall be involved in examining and approving operations for support of the EU guarantee.
Amendment 126 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point d
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point d
(d) infrastructure projects in the environmental, natural resources, urban development and, social fields and public services;
Amendment 132 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
The EU guarantee shall not be granted for support of: a) the decommissioning or the construction of nuclear power stations; b) fossil fuel infrastructure; c) airport infrastructure.
Amendment 134 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 b (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 b (new)
Support from the EU guarantee shall not replace private market finance and public expenditure by a Member State for objectives referred to in points (a) to (e) of the first sub-paragraph.
Amendment 141 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
An operation may receive support from the EU guarantee and from other Union instruments, provided that an expenditure item does not receive support from more than one source.
Amendment 146 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission and the EIB, with support from the Member States and their national, regional and local authorities, shall promote the creation of a transparent pipeline of current and potential future investment projects in the Union. The pipeline is without prejudice to the final projects selected for support according to Article 3(5).
Amendment 149 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission and the EIB shall develop, update and disseminate, on a regular and structured basis, all information available on current and future investments which significantly contribute to achieving EU policy objectives.
Amendment 151 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3
Article 9 – paragraph 3
3. Member States and their national, regional and local authorities shall develop, update and disseminate, on a regular and structured basis, information on current and future investment projects in their territory.
Amendment 154 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. The Commission shall, in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this Article, adopt implementing acts establishing the model to be used when submitting information on investment projects and their contribution to achieving EU policy objectives to the Commission and the EIB. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 17a(2).
Amendment 159 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
(a a) an assessment on the European added-value and the contribution to achieving EU policy targets, in particular to the Union strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth;
Amendment 160 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) an assessment of the quality of EIB financing and investment operations and results achieved;
Amendment 166 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 a (new)
Article 17 a (new)
Article 17 a Committee procedure 1. In application of this Regulation, the Commission shall be assisted by a committee within the meaning of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Article 4 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 shall apply.
Amendment 5 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers the European Citizens’' Initiative (ECI) to be the first direct democratic instrument to enable citizens to become actively involved in the framing of European policies and legislation; and to connect them directly with EU institutions to discuss key issues at European level; Underlines that the ECI complements citizens' right to submit petitions to the European Parliament and their right of appeal to the European Ombudsman;
Amendment 21 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the Citizens' Initiative is an exceptional opportunity for citizens to identify and articulate their aspirations and to ask for EU action, and that it must be encouraged, improved and supported; further stresseconsiders that the use of one's mother tongue is a civic right, and that all activities connected with an ECI may therefore be undertaken in one's mother tongueregional and minority languages, as defined by the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages, is a civic right; further stresses that the possibility to use one's mother tongue encourages citizen participation; calls for the inclusion of the use of regional and minority languages in all the activities linked to an ECI;
Amendment 28 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Further stresses that youth civic engagement is fundamental for the future of all democracies and proposes to lower the minimum age threshold for being entitled to support an ECI to 16 years;
Amendment 29 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Points out the importance of public awareness of the ECI in order to be an effective tool of democratic participation; regrets the low knowledge of this tool among European citizens; invites the Commission to run a media campaign to address this situation;
Amendment 31 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Expresses its concern about the low percentage of successful initiatives and the dramatic decrease in the number of new initiatives; stresses that the European institutions and the Member States must take all necessary steps to promote the ECI and to foster citizens’ confidence in this tool; believes that the instrument still has the potential to engage the public and to promote dialogue among citizens and between citizens and EU institutions; proposes to increase the time span for collection of signatures to 18 months; welcomes the fact that some ECIs have managed to have an impact at local level;
Amendment 34 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to provide as much guidance as possible – especially of a legal nature – to organisers of ECIs via the Europe Direct Contact Centre, so that they are aware of the possibilities open to them and will not fail by proposing an ECI that is outside the Commission's powersdoes not comply with the legal admissibility criteria, or else to assign the task of giving advice to another independent company or body so as to avoid a possible conflict of interest within the Commission itself; notes, however, that under the Treaty of Lisbon the issues raised by ECIs may not correspond entirely to the Commission's jurisdiction; takes the view, furthermore, that the Commission should consider setting up a dedicated ECI office in each Member State;
Amendment 34 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Considers that the use of regional and minority languages, as defined by the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages, is a civic right; further stresses that the possibility to use one's mother tongue encourages citizen participation; calls for the inclusion of the use of regional and minority languages in all the activities linked to an ECI;
Amendment 40 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets the lack of clear information on the ECI instrument at the early stages, which led to a general misconception about its nature and generated some frustration when the first ECIs were rejected by the Commission; recalls that the instrument should be simple, clear and user-friendly; expresses its concerns with the potential conflict of interests within the fact that the Commission itself has the exclusive responsibility to carry out the initial legal check and asks for this situation to be addressed properly in the future;
Amendment 45 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Expresses its concerns with the potential conflict of interests within the fact that the Commission itself has the exclusive responsibility to carry out the initial legal check and asks for this situation to be addressed properly in the future;
Amendment 47 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Regrets the reluctance of the Commission to declare admissible proposed citizens' initiatives where citizens manifest their opposition to the negotiation of an international agreement that will be the basis for a later legal act; encourages the Commission to assess whether less restrictive judgements on the legal admissibility of an ECI might be possible;
Amendment 48 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Calls on the Commission to allow ECIs that require treaty amendments according to Article 48 TFEU and to explicitly include this possibility in its proposal to revise Regulation 211/2011;
Amendment 49 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for enhanced inter-institutional cooperation when dealing with ECIs in providing information and support to ECI organisers; calls for the future establishment of a physical and online ‘one-stop shop’ providing information, legal advice, translation services and funding, which could use the resources of the point of contact based in the Europe Direct Contact Centre and the Commission’s representations and Parliament’s information offices in the Member States; considers that such a set- up would bring the ECI project closer to citizens; requests the Commission to adopt the necessary regulatory provisions in order to provide citizens' committees with a European legal entity;
Amendment 60 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to improve the user-friendly character of its software for the online collection of signatures, to make it accessible to people with disabilities and to offer its servers for the storage of online signatures for free on a permanent basis;
Amendment 60 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to ensure transparency in the decision-making process and clarify the procedure for legal admissibility; invites the Commission to respregrets the reluctance to declare admissible proposed citizens' initiatives where citizens manifest their oppositiond to successful ECIs with more concrete actionsthe negotiation of international agreements that will become directly or indirectly the basis for a later legal act;
Amendment 63 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Points out the importance of technology as a tool to encourage citizens' participation; stresses that the collection of email addresses would permit ECI organisers to keep signatories informed of the progress of the ECI they sign; calls on the Commission, therefore, to modify the online collection system to allow the collection of email addresses and share this information with the organizers if citizens give their consent;
Amendment 70 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Deems it too complicated for organisers to provide different personal data in support of ECIs in the 28 Member States, as laid down in Regulation 211/2011 on the basis of the various national provisions, and; invites the Commission, therefore, to encourage Member States to reduce data requirements and to remove identification number requirements except for Member States that absolutely need them to verify signatures; further suggests that consideration be given to establishing an EU digital citizenship; calls on the Commission, therefore, to explore this issue in its digital agenda;
Amendment 70 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Urges the Commission to respond to each successful ECI with a legislative proposal within 12 months after the submission of the ECI; in case the Commission fails to provide a legislative proposal within this period, the competent committee of the European Parliament will initiate a legislative-initiative report for which the selected rapporteur shall consult the ECI organisers in another hearing; calls on the European Parliament to modify its rules of procedure accordingly;
Amendment 73 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Commission to improve the online collection system (OCS) software and make it accessible to persons with disabilities, allow for electronic signatures and for the collection of e-mail addresses, and include the most up-to-date online campaigning features, following the example of other successful online campaigning platforms; calls on the Commission to provide the citizens' committees of admissible ECI's access to a permanent free server allowing for the storage the online signatures in compliance with EU data protection standards; encourages the Commission to support the creation of a public ECI application for mobile devices;
Amendment 80 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Acknowledges the delicate problem of organisers' personal liability with regard to data protection when collecting signatories' personal data, and proposes that the range of data required be reduced, or liability extended to volunteer campaigners, and that the wording of Article 13 of Regulation 211/2011, on liability, be changed to make it clear that personal liability is not unlimited; proposes, to this end, that inspiration be drawn from Article 3 of Directive 2008/99/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on the protection of the environment through criminal law, with a view to establishing that organisers are responsible for acts which are ‘unlawful and committed intentionally or with at least serious negligence' and the creation of a European legal status for the citizens' committee;
Amendment 81 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. IConsiders that the requirement to provide with the ID number to support a Citizens' Initiative should be eliminated as it generates differences in treatment of citizens depending on the Member State; invites the Commission to examine proposals relating to the creation of a European identity card, which should also meet the requirements of the regulation on the citizens’ initiative for gathering signatures;
Amendment 84 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Point 10
Point 10
10. Calls on the Commission to come forward with proposals concerning the establishment of a complete electoral list of its citizens; proposes to lower the minimum age threshold for being entitled to support an ECI to 16 years;
Amendment 85 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 85 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Point 10 a (new)
Point 10 a (new)
10a. Considers it crucial for a proper use of this participative democracy tool by citizens and in order to prevent its possible abuse by other sort of private interests, to increase the transparency and the quality of checks on the funding and sponsorship of ECIs;
Amendment 91 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Point 12
Point 12
12. Recalls that hearings concerning successful ECIStresses the importance in terms of participative democracy of having properly organised hearings in the European Parliament concerning successful ECIs; recalls that the hearings are currently organised by the competent committee, according to the subject of the ECI, with the Committee on Petitions associated; proposes that the Committee on Petitions should take over the role of organising hearings, as a neutral forum with the greatest experience in dealing with citizens., in order to ensure consistency and a fair and equal treatment across hearings of different ECIs;
Amendment 94 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the Commission to revise the wording of Article 10(c) of Regulation 211/2011 to allow proper follow-up to a successful ECI, including a parliamentary debate in plenary followed by a vote; urges the Commission to start preparing a legal act on successful ECIs within 12 months onf the ECI; urges the Commission to start preparing a legal act on successful ECIs within 12 mir submission; in case the Commission fails to provide a legislative proposal within this period, the competent committee of the European Parliament will initiate a legislative-initiative report for which the selected rapporteur shall consult the ECI organisers in another hearing; calls on ths of their acceptancee European Parliament to modify its rules of procedure accordingly;
Amendment 110 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Considers it crucial for a proper use of this participative democracy tool by citizens and in order to prevent its possible abuse by other sort of private interests, to increase the transparency and the quality of checks on the funding and sponsorship of ECIs;
Amendment 124 #
2014/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Welcomes the Commission's report of 1 April 2015 on the ECI and calls on it to ensure that, in its revision of this instrument, all the appropriate legal measures are implemented in order to provide a proper follow up when an ECI is deemed to have been completed successfully;
Amendment 2 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that it is necessary to strengthen the protection and full development of fundamental rights in compliance with the Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and, more specifically, to ensure that the values of the European Union set out in Article 2 and other relevant articles of the EU Treaty are respected and promoted by the EU, its institutions and the Member States; stresses that the European institutions should be at the forefront of this endeavour;
Amendment 17 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Points out that the purpose of security and justice policies must be to protect freedom and fundamental rights; stresses that legislation and policy making in the field of security and justice must be in line with the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 20 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Stresses that the European Union should be a model in terms of not only respect for fundamental rights but also active measures for their full development; takes the view that the new interinstitutional agreement on better law- making should be based on those principles;
Amendment 24 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the importance of ensuring, in all Member States, effective and coherent protection of the rule of law and prevention of infringements of fundamental rights; recallnotes that Article 7 of the EU Treaty contains a mechanism for responding to any serious, persistent breach of the fundamental rights by a Member State;the mechanisms provided for under Article 7 of the EU Treaty have not been used effectively to prevent or penalise persistent infringements; urges the EU institutions and the Member States to introduce an additional mechanism for the effective monitoring of respect for fundamental rights and the rule of law in Member States; without prejudice to existing mechanisms already applicable in the event of serious and persistent infringements, the proposed alternative should:
Amendment 29 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 – point a (new)
Paragraph 4 – point a (new)
(a) widen the mandate of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency to include the monitoring of fundamental rights and the rule of law in all Member States, both within and beyond the application of European Union law;
Amendment 30 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 – point b (new)
Paragraph 4 – point b (new)
(b) enable the Commission, on the basis of the findings of the reports generated by the Fundamental Rights Agency, to initiate infringement procedures under Article 2 TEU;
Amendment 37 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the importance of cooperation between EU institutions and national parliaments, as well as between such bodies and the Council of Europe and other organisations; stresses that the protection of minority rights is a basic principle of democracy and deplores all forms of discrimination against minority communities, including national and linguistic minorities;
Amendment 51 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 – Indent 2
Paragraph 6 – Indent 2
– bring forward a revision of the European Citizens’ Initiative Regulation (Regulation (EU) No 211/2011) in order to improve its functioning and prevent the exercise of this citizens' prerogative under the Treaties being hampered; urges the Commission also to include in its proposal provisions necessary to stop certain groups of citizens, such as those who are blind or living abroad, from being prevented from exercising their right to support citizens’ initiatives, as such exclusion limits equality among citizens;
Amendment 139 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas article 22 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union obliges the Union to "respect cultural, religious and linguistic diversity",
Amendment 148 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
Gb. whereas fundamental freedoms, human rights and equal opportunities shall be provided for all citizens of the European Union including persons belonging to national and linguistic minorities;
Amendment 402 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Deplores the fact that even today people belonging to minorities are still victims of discrimination; calls for more consistency of the European Union in the field of minority protection; strongly believes that all Member States as well as candidate countries shall be bound by the same principles and criteria in order to avoid the application of double standards; Calls therefore, as a part of resolving the so- called Copenhagen dilemma, for the establishment of an effective mechanism to monitor and ensure fundamental and acquired rights of national and linguistic minorities both in candidate countries and in countries already admitted to the European Union;
Amendment 12 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the introduction of the EU Pilot mechanism which, via its online platform, facilitates communication between the Commission and Member States so as to avoid infringement proceedings being initiated wherever possible, but reminds the Commission that this system must not in any way undermine the rights of EU citizens under the rule of law or serve to justify direct or indirect discrimination within the meaning of Article 9 TEU, and calls on the Commission to itself inform citizens in an appropriate and timely manner on the follow-up given to their reports of potential non-compliance;
Amendment 14 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Points out that EU Pilot is a working tool that has no legal status and that allows a discretionary power to the Commission that does not comply with the proper standards of transparency and accountability; considers that these shortcomings can be addressed through the adoption of a legally binding act that should clarify the legal rights and obligations of individual complainants and the Commission;
Amendment 17 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Recalls that the European Parliament, in its resolutions, called on the Commission to propose binding rules in the form of a regulation; deplores that no follow-up has been made to these resolutions and calls, therefore, once again on the Commission to propose a legal act in the form of a regulation under the legal basis of Article 298 TFEU, so as to ensure full respect for citizens’ right to good administration as set out in Article 41 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 25 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Recalls that, in the revised Framework Agreement on relations with Parliament, the Commission undertakes to ‘make available to Parliament summary information concerning all infringement procedures from the letter of formal notice, included, if so requested, on the issues to which the infringement procedure relates’, and expects this clause to be applied in good faith in practice;
Amendment 815 #
2014/0100(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 1
Article 21 – paragraph 1
1. For the purposes of this Regulation, a product shall be regarded as bearing terms referring to organic production where, in the labelling, advertising material or commercial documents, such a product, its ingredients or feed materials are described in terms suggesting to the purchaser that the product, its ingredients or feed materials have been obtained in accordance with this Regulation. In particular, the terms listed in Annex IV, or their equivalents in other languages that, while not being official languages of the Union, their status is officially recognised by the constitution of a Member State; their derivatives or diminutives, such as ‘'bio' and 'eco', alone or combined, may be used throughout the Union [and in any language listed in that Annex] for the labelling and advertising of products referred to in Article 2(1) which comply with this Regulation.
Amendment 3 #
2013/0091(COD)
Council position
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point m
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point m
(m) support Member States’' actions in preventing and combating forms of crime listed in Annex I1 which are facilitated, promoted or committed using the internet, including, in cooperation with Member States, the making of referrals of internet content, by which such forms of crime are facilitated, promoted or committed, to the online service providers concerned for their voluntary consideration of the compatibility of the referred internet content with their own terms and conditions. In this context, the Internet Referral Unit shall be reflected in a separate legal proposal.